Asahikawa zoo in Hokkaido, known to be very cold in the winter, is now one of the most famous zoos in Japan.
It had been just a very small zoo, and nothing particularly special.
But its exhibits were changed to present the animals in as natural a setting as possible.
Since then, the number of visitors has sky-rocketed.
It is popular not only with Japanese but also foreign visitors and is now a visitor hot spot.
One of the most unique events is the "Penguin Walk", held in the winter.
Also called the penguin parade, the penguins waddle down a snowy passage.
This was originally held to exercise the penguins during the winter.
But those cute penguins caught people's hearts and many visit the zoo in winter just to see the penguins
The penguins walk twice a day from December to March, when the zoo is covered with snow.
Lots of people are ready with cameras along the passageway, and those proud penguins walk by just like Hollywood stars on the red carpet.
A playground is provided for the penguins, where you can watch the penguins up close playing on the snow slide.
The zoo also exhibits huge polar bears and seals that are active during the winter.
As it’s extremely cold, you’ll need to dress warm with a hat and gloves while walking around the zoo, but you’ll have much more fun than in summer.
Information
Asahikawa Zoo
Web: http://www5.city.asahikawa.hokkaido.jp/asahiyamazoo/
Hours: 10:30~15:30 (Winter: November 11 – April 7)
Check the web site for hours.
Open everyday
Fee: 820 yen (High school students or older)
Free (Chidren)
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