If you’re planning a trip to Sapporo, Hokkaido, and were looking forward to visiting North Safari Sapporo, you might need to rethink your itinerary. The controversial wildlife park, often dubbed “Japan’s most dangerous zoo,” has been ordered to shut down by city authorities after 20 years of operation without proper permission.
Why Is North Safari Sapporo Closing?
Sapporo city officials have issued a closure order due to the facility operating without the required permits in a restricted area. Despite its popularity among thrill-seeking tourists, the zoo faced mounting criticism for safety concerns, lack of regulation, and questionable animal welfare practices. Authorities have determined that the facility does not meet legal requirements, forcing it to cease operations.
What Made This Zoo So Controversial?
North Safari Sapporo was known for its unique and extreme hands-on experiences, allowing visitors to interact closely with exotic and sometimes dangerous animals. Guests could feed lions through cage openings, handle large reptiles, and even walk among animals that would typically be kept behind barriers in regulated zoos. While these experiences attracted adventure-seeking tourists, they also raised significant concerns:
- Safety Risks: Minimal barriers and direct contact with dangerous animals increased the likelihood of accidents.
- Animal Welfare Issues: Reports suggested that the conditions in which the animals were kept were not in line with ethical zoo standards.
- Legal Violations: The facility had been operating without proper permits for two decades in an area where such establishments were not allowed.
If you were planning to visit North Safari Sapporo, don’t worry—Sapporo still has plenty of ethical and well-regulated animal experiences that you can enjoy. Here are a few alternative destinations for responsible wildlife encounters:
- Maruyama Zoo – A reputable and well-maintained zoo in Sapporo, focusing on conservation and education.
- Asahiyama Zoo (Asahikawa) – One of Japan’s best zoos, offering immersive enclosures that allow visitors to observe animals in naturalistic settings.
- Noboribetsu Bear Park – A sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of Hokkaido’s native bears.
While unique experiences can be tempting, it’s important for tourists to choose ethical and safe animal encounters. Always research wildlife attractions before visiting to ensure they prioritize animal welfare and follow proper regulations.
North Safari Sapporo’s closure serves as a reminder that regulatory oversight is essential to protect both visitors and the animals involved. If you’re traveling to Sapporo, there are still many amazing wildlife experiences to explore—just make sure they align with ethical and legal standards.
Stay informed and travel responsibly!
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