Guide
Showa Sinzan Bear Park is an interactive leisure facility where you can observe the ecology of Brown Bears from a very close distance. Within the spacious grounds, you can watch different groups of bears as they spend their time in various ways. One of the most captivating moments is the sense of communication with the animals—for instance, when a bear notices a human holding food and stands up to beckon them. Located near Lake Toya (Toyako), it is an easy and perfect addition to your Hokkaido sightseeing itinerary.
The facility is operated as a place to learn about the ecology of bears within a rich, natural environment. Rather than just a simple exhibition, the park is designed to showcase the vitality of nature by allowing visitors to see both the bears in their relaxed states and during their more active moments. Various areas within the park are specifically designed to suit the natural behaviors of the bears, ensuring that visitors can feel the rhythm of their daily lives up close.
The biggest draw is the proximity to the bears. In the wide-open areas, you can observe bears lounging, playing together, or even engaging in mock wrestling. A highlight is the "Human Cage" (Special Observation Room), an area where humans can enter a space to get extremely close to the bears. Because there are ventilation openings for feeding, you can hear the bears' breathing and vocalizations directly, providing an overwhelming and powerful sensory experience. Additionally, you can enjoy watching the charming behaviors of raccoons, who are known to love cookies, adding more variety to your wildlife experience.
The facility is open year-round, but the experience changes with the seasons. For example, around the Golden Week holidays in May, you may encounter