Kushiro City Zoo

Kushiro City Zoo, opened in 1975, is Hokkaido's largest zoo, spanning an impressive 47.8 hectares.

The zoo is home to nearly 50 species, from large animals like lions, tigers, giraffes, and polar bears to smaller creatures like red pandas, otters, and rabbits. It also houses the Tancho (red-crowned crane) Conservation and Breeding Center and Japan’s only Blakiston’s Fish Owl Conservation Center, emphasizing the zoo's role in breeding and preserving endangered species.

One of the highlights is the Hokkaido Zone, which captures the essence of the famous local spot, Kushiro Marsh. Visitors can observe local wildlife like red-crowned cranes, Ezo flying squirrels, white-tailed eagles, and Steller’s sea eagles. A boardwalk leads through the zone, allowing guests to explore the flora and fauna, giving the impression of visiting the actual marshlands.

The zoo also offers fun activities for families and friends, including an amusement park with a Ferris wheel and a cycle monorail. There’s also a designated BBQ area, available by reservation.

With summer temperatures averaging a pleasant 20°C in the Kushiro area, the zoo provides a cool, comfortable environment to catch all the animal friends.