10 Places to Meet Adorable Furry Friends in Hokkaido
Hokkaido is rich in fauna, with some rare species and many attractive ones. But it can be a mission impossible to encounter them on your own. But do not despair! There are sanctuaries and farms where you can hang with some of the amazing creatures. Here are 10 of the best places in Hokkaido to enjoy a precious experience.
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1. Noboribetsu Bear Park [Noboribetsu]
He is not simply waving at you, he wants a treat! Many Ussuri brown bears live in Hokkaido, but they can be dangerous if you encounter them in the wild. You can observe their adorable antics up close without risking your dear life in this park, you can feed them some snacks, and enjoy a bear show.
HP: www.bearpark.jp (Japanese Only)
Address: 224 Noboribetsu Onsen-cho, Noboribetsu-shi, Hokkaido (Google Map)
2. Outrider [Monbetsu]
If you are in Hokkaido during the winter, you must try dog sledding! The dogs revel in running through the deep snow, and are happy to guide you through the winter wonderland. You will be at the helm on a single rider sled, but not to worry! They will give you full instructions and let you bond with the dogs, so you will be fully confident by the time you embark on the 20km journey. It’s an experience of a life time!
HP: www.outrider.co.jp (Japanese Only)
Address: 235 Shirakata Kamishiyubetsu, Engaru-cho, Monbetsu-gun, Hokkaido (Google Map)
3. Horse Garden MURANAKA [Chitose]
Dosanko is a special breed of horse of Hokkaido. They are known for their mild, easy-going temperament and resistance to the cold climate of their homeland. At Muranaka Horse Garden you can enjoy horseback riding with Dosanko horses throughout the year. Riding in the snow covered pasture is something magical; if you are lucky, you might catch a glimpse of wildlife playing in their natural habitat.
HP: dosanko.ouchi.to (Japanese Only)
Address: 152 Makiba, Eniwa-shi, Hokkaido (Google Map)
4. Farm Inn: Anima no Sato [Abashiri]
For a totally unique experience, why not a stay at a lodging in a farm house? Anima no Sato offers horseback riding with their Dosanko horses, bird watching, and cross country trekking. A memorable sojourn which an ordinary hotel can never offer, the price is right for all that this enchanting little world has to offer. So what are you waiting for?
HP: animanosato.jp (Japanese Only)
Address: 47 Omagari, Omagari-aza, Abashiri-shi, Hokkaido (Google Map)
5. North Fox Land [Kitami]
Hokkaido northern foxes are majestic creatures. They are extremely shy and wary, so it is not easy to spot them in the wild. But the residents of this fox park are accustomed to the human visitors, you can observe these beautiful animals frolic in their elements. Petting and feeding them are not allowed, but you can see how adorable they are, up close and personal.
HP: kitakitsune-farm.com/abouts/ (Japanese Only)
Address: 52-1 Hanaoka, Rubeshibe-cho, Kitami,Hokkaido (Google Map)
6. Okhotsk Chipmunk Park [Abashiri]
The residents of this chipmunk park are of a special species which is found only in Sakhalin Island and Hokkaido. Purchase a chipmunk snack at the entrance, they will hurry over and climb up on you to get the munchies. Seeing them stuff their cheeks right by your side is just too cute to resist! Note that the park is closed from mid-October to late April while they go into hibernation.
Address: 352 Yobito, Abashiri-shi, Hokkaido (Google Map)
7. Horonobe Reindeer Ranch [Horonobe]
Reindeer in this ranch came from Finland. They are very friendly and they come to greet you when you offer a snack, which you can purchase for 200 yen. It is not often that you come in contact with real reindeer! You may be able to meet adorable newborn calves in May, and during the winter you can go for a sleigh ride drawn by the reindeer. Admission is free!
HP: tonakai-farm.com (Japanese Only)
Address: 398 Hokushin, Horonobe-cho, Tenshio-gun, Hokkaido (Google Map)
8. Sapporo Sightseeing Covered Wagon [Sapporo]
While you are visiting Sapporo, the biggest city of Hokkaido, how about exploring the city center on a horse drawn carriage? From the two-story wagon, you can explore some of the famous landmarks, such as the clock tower and the red brick structure of the old government building. At some points the carriage is a stark contrast to the modern surrounding. At the end of the journey, you can also take a photo with the horse to commemorate the occasion.
HP: www.asahi-net.or.jp/~yv8k-wtnb/sapporo_kanko_horobasha/horobasya/ (Japanese Only)
9. Momo Cafe [Atsuma]
Lodged amidst the forest, this quaint little cafè receives many adorable furry visitors, such as squirrels, raccoon dogs and foxes. You may be lucky enough to have a glimpse of a little shadow peeking in! Some of the squirrels are even known to knock on the window. This charming cafè serves delicious cakes and cookies, a lovely oasis for a gentle soul. Well worth a visit!
Address: 495-4 Toyosawa, Atsuma-cho, Yufutsu-gun, Hokkaido (Google Map)
10. Asahiyama Zoo [Asahikawa]
This is one of the most popular zoos in Japan. Asahiyama Zoo strives to maintain an environment as natural as possible for the residents. As a result, the visitors can observe the animals happier and more active, you may witness a polar bear diving into the pool, or penguins walking across above your head, the fun is endless. The zoo is located on a hilly terrain, so be sure to put on a pair of good walking shoes!
HP: www.city.asahikawa.hokkaido.jp/asahiyamazoo/ (Japanese Only: English and Chinese automatic translation available)
Address: Kuranuma, Higashi Asahikawa-cho, Asahikawa-shi, Hokkaido (Google Map)
The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.
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