Maruyama Zoo Sapporo
Sapporo's Maruyama Zoo offers a delightful experience with spacious enclosures for polar bears, red pandas, and penguins, plus a charming winter parad...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See animals in snowy wonderland
Maruyama Zoo Sapporo
Best Time
See animals in snowy wonderland
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sapporo's Maruyama Zoo offers a delightful experience with spacious enclosures for polar bears, red pandas, and penguins, plus a charming winter parade.
"This might genuinely have been one of the best zoos I've been to so far. "
🎯 Penguin Parade Timing
Arrive early for the penguin parade to get a good view!
👟 Comfortable Footwear Needed
The zoo is on an incline, so wear comfy shoes for exploring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Penguin Parade
Penguin Exhibit
Witness adorable penguins waddling in a charming parade, a must-see winter spectacle.
Polar Bear Encounter
Polar Bear Exhibit
Marvel at the majestic polar bears in their spacious enclosures, a highlight for many visitors.
Red Panda Charm
Red Panda Exhibit
Get a glimpse of the elusive and charming red pandas in their naturalistic habitat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Penguin Parades
Embrace the Terrain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Penguin Parade Timing
Arrive early for the penguin parade to get a good view!
👟 Comfortable Footwear Needed
The zoo is on an incline, so wear comfy shoes for exploring.
🎟️ Affordable Admission
Great value at 800 yen for adults, free for kids under 15!
🗺️ Explore Beyond the Park
Discover local cafes and shops around Maruyama area.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Penguin Parade Timing
Arrive early for the penguin parade to get a good view!
👟 Comfortable Footwear Needed
The zoo is on an incline, so wear comfy shoes for exploring.
🎟️ Affordable Admission
Great value at 800 yen for adults, free for kids under 15!
🗺️ Explore Beyond the Park
Discover local cafes and shops around Maruyama area.
📱 Check Schedule Online
Verify parade times and zoo hours before your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Maruyama Zoo for its spacious enclosures, diverse animal collection, and family-friendly atmosphere, making it a worthwhile visit. While some note a lack of certain animals or empty stalls, the overall experience is highly positive, especially for its affordable admission and engaging exhibits like the penguin parade.
"One of the best zoos I've ever visited! The zoo grounds is immense and never feel cramped. Most of the animals have large enclosures with indoor and outdoor spaces, so they can roam around during different seasons and not feel trapped. We saw a large assortment of animals here (birds are a bit lackluster but that's ok. There's a different place for that). The polar bear was hiding when we visited and no hippo! Don't know what happened to it.
The zoo restaurant is not bad too!
Overall it's an excellent place to visit!
The zoo is open air and on an incline since this is near the mountain so you have to come prepared for that."
Jeff McD
"I visited Maruyama Zoo in Sapporo recently. The place is clean and well-organized, and there’s a good variety of animals to see. Some enclosures are more spacious than others, but overall the animals seemed well taken care of. It’s a nice spot for families or a quiet afternoon walk. Not too big, so you can see everything in a couple of hours. Worth a visit if you’re nearby, but don’t expect anything too extraordinary."
Mohammed Y (بو جاسم)
"I visited Maruyama Zoo (円山動物園) in Sapporo during the winter, when everything was covered in white snow. The scenery was beautiful and felt like stepping into another world.
Despite the cold weather, all the animals looked healthy and well-cared for, which shows how dedicated the staff are. It was also my first time ever seeing a polar bear, seal, and penguin in real life — such an amazing and memorable experience!
My visit was truly enjoyable and left a strong impression on me. I hope to return again someday, perhaps in the summer or autumn, to see the zoo in a different season.
Definitely worth a visit if you're ever in Sapporo!"
Phan Hanh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Maruyama Zoo is easily accessible via public transport. Take the Tozai Line from Odori Station to Maruyama Koen Station, which is a short walk to the zoo.
No, Maruyama Zoo is conveniently located within Sapporo city. It's a short subway ride from Odori Station, making it a great option for a half-day trip.
Yes, there is parking available at Maruyama Zoo, though it can fill up during peak times.
Many visitors find Maruyama Zoo a worthwhile alternative to the further Asahiyama Zoo, especially if you want to see penguins without a long journey.
During winter, the subway is the most reliable way to reach Maruyama Zoo, as roads can be icy.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission for adults is 800 yen. High school students (16-18) pay 400 yen, and middle school students and younger children (under 15) get in for free. Student ID may be required.
Children under 15 years old receive free admission, making it a very budget-friendly option for families.
The zoo is generally open from 9:30 AM. Closing times vary by season: 4:30 PM from March to October and 4:00 PM from November to February. Last entry is 30 minutes before closing.
Currently, tickets are typically purchased at the entrance. It's always a good idea to check the official website for any updates on online ticketing options.
Crowds can vary. Weekday afternoons tend to be less crowded than weekends or holidays. The penguin parade can draw significant crowds.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Maruyama Zoo houses a diverse range of animals, including polar bears, orangutans, elephants, red pandas, and various Hokkaido native species.
Absolutely! The penguin parade is a unique and charming experience, especially popular during winter months.
Many enclosures are quite spacious, offering both indoor and outdoor areas for animals to roam, contributing to their well-being.
Yes, Maruyama Zoo is very family-friendly with free admission for kids under 15, play areas, and a children's zoo.
The zoo offers several eateries, play areas, and a children's zoo. Restrooms and other amenities are also available throughout the grounds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Maruyama Zoo has a restaurant on-site where you can purchase food and drinks.
The zoo restaurant offers a selection of meals and snacks. Reviews suggest it's 'not bad' and a convenient option.
While not explicitly stated, bringing your own snacks and drinks is generally permissible in many Japanese parks and zoos, but check for any specific regulations.
Information on specific dietary options is limited. It's advisable to inquire at the restaurant upon arrival or consider bringing your own food if you have strict dietary needs.
The area around Maruyama Zoo, particularly Urasando, has many cafes and restaurants to explore if you wish to dine outside the zoo.
📸 📸 Photography
The penguin parade offers dynamic photo opportunities. The spacious enclosures, especially for polar bears and red pandas, also provide great shots.
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. However, always be mindful of signage regarding flash photography or specific animal viewing areas.
Morning light can be beautiful for animal photography. Late afternoon can also offer softer lighting, but check closing times.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in and around zoos and public parks to ensure the safety and well-being of animals and visitors.
Visitors often share photos of the penguins, polar bears, red pandas, and the snowy winter landscapes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The zoo features dedicated play areas and a children's zoo, ensuring little ones stay entertained. The spacious enclosures allow kids to observe animals in more natural settings, making it an educational and engaging experience. Don't miss the penguin parade during winter months – it's a guaranteed hit with children!
💰 Budget Travelers
This allows you to experience a quality zoo without breaking the bank. Consider visiting on a weekday afternoon to potentially avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
🚶 Solo Explorers
If you're looking for a less touristy experience within Sapporo, Maruyama Zoo is a good choice. You can also explore the surrounding Maruyama area, known for its local cafes and shops, after your zoo visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Penguin Parade: A Winter Delight
To ensure you get a good view of this popular event, it's highly recommended to arrive early. Check the zoo's official website for the most current parade schedule, as times can change.
While the parade is a winter highlight, Maruyama Zoo offers year-round attractions. The zoo's commitment to providing spacious enclosures allows animals to exhibit natural behaviors, making any visit memorable.
Navigating Maruyama Zoo's Terrain
Wearing comfortable walking shoes is essential for exploring the zoo efficiently and comfortably. The zoo's layout encourages exploration, with many animals having both indoor and outdoor spaces to roam, adapting to different seasons.
Despite the inclines, the zoo is generally well-maintained and offers a pleasant walking experience. The spacious grounds mean you can take your time and enjoy the various exhibits without feeling rushed.
Maruyama Zoo vs. Asahiyama Zoo: A Traveler's Choice
Maruyama Zoo, on the other hand, is a much more accessible option for those based in Sapporo. It offers a good variety of animals, including popular species like polar bears and penguins, and is easily reachable by subway.
While some might argue Asahiyama is 'slightly better' in terms of exhibits, the travel time and cost make Maruyama Zoo a compelling alternative for many, especially if seeing penguins is a priority. Furthermore, Reddit users suggest that if penguins are your main interest, the AOAO Sapporo aquarium in the Tanukikoji area also features penguin exhibits, providing another convenient option within Sapporo itself.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit