Obihiro Zoo

Obihiro Zoo is a wildlife facility located in Midorigaoka Park and houses about 60 animal species with roughly 300 individuals, including polar bears and reticulated giraffes. The grounds display a varied collection of creatures from different climatic regions.

The facility was founded in 1963 and marked the beginning of wildlife education and conservation efforts in the Tokachi region. It became an important site for developing educational initiatives about animals in Hokkaido.

The zoo runs educational programs where visitors can observe zookeepers at work and learn how animals are cared for daily. These experiences create a direct connection between people and the work required to maintain the collection.

The zoo is open from April through November with extended hours during summer, and operates only on weekends from December through February. Plan your visit based on the season since opening times vary significantly throughout the year.

The zoo features a special area for interacting with Banba horses, historic draft animals that shaped Hokkaido's agricultural history. This rare opportunity allows visitors to connect directly with horses that hold cultural importance for the region.

Location: Obihiro

Official opening: July 13, 1963

Operator: 帯広市

Phone: +81155242437

Website: http://city.obihiro.hokkaido.jp/zoo

GPS coordinates: 42.90208,143.18464

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:30