Kushiro Zoo

Kushiro Zoo is a facility spread across 47.8 hectares of forestland with designated sections including the Big Cat House and Central Plaza that houses polar bears. The collection is arranged across the wooded grounds with different areas dedicated to various animal groups.

The zoo opened on October 1, 1975 and became an important wildlife center in the Hokkaido region. Its establishment created a place to make the local animal life accessible to the public.

The Hokkaido Zone introduces visitors to regional wildlife such as brown bears, Blakiston's fish owls, and Japanese flying squirrels. This section gives a sense of what the natural animal life of Hokkaido looks like in a park setting.

The zoo maintains different seasonal schedules, opening from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM during summer months and from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM in winter. Visitors should plan to arrive early on weekends when the parking area fills up, so a weekday visit may be easier.

The facility manages a specialized breeding and rehabilitation program for red-crowned cranes, birds that hold an important place in Japanese nature and culture. This program makes a significant contribution to the conservation of this bird species and is a key focus of the scientific work here.

Location: Kushiro

Official opening: October 1, 1975

Phone: 0154562121

Website: https://city.kushiro.lg.jp/zoo

GPS coordinates: 43.08125,144.23653

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:45