Guida
Showa Sinzan Bear Ranch is an experiential leisure facility where you can observe the ecology of brown bears up close. Within the spacious grounds, you can watch different groups of bears as they spend time together. One of the most captivating moments is when a bear realizes a human is holding food in their hand and stands up to beckon you—a unique sense of communication that you can only experience here. Its proximity to Lake Toya makes it 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 setup is designed to let visitors feel the vitality of nature by observing the animals in both relaxed and active states. Various areas are established within the facility to match the natural behaviors of the bears, allowing you to feel their daily lives up close.
The greatest appeal is the proximity to the bears. In the wide-open areas, you can watch bears lying down, playing together, or even engaging in wrestling matches. Furthermore, in the area known as the "Human Cage" (Special Observation Room), visitors can enter a protected space to get incredibly close to the bears. Because the feeding vents are open, you can hear the bears' breathing and roars directly, which is an overwhelming and powerful experience. Additionally, there is an area where you can observe raccoons enjoying their favorite treats, like cookies, providing a diverse range of animal expressions to enjoy.
The facility is open year-round, but the experience changes with the seasons. For example, around Golden Week in May, you might encounter newborn "bear cubs." Watching the tiny cubs practice climbing trees or playing in the water is incredibly adorable and attracts many visitors. From autumn through March, there is also a limited-time opportunity to participate in "apple feeding" experiences. We recommend visiting while paying attention to these seasonal changes in the animals' lives.
Deepen your connection with the animals through feeding experiences. By purchasing "Bear Cookies" at the entrance, you can experience the thrill of feeding the bears. Seeing a bear stand up right in front of you to ask for food is a truly precious memory. Additionally, the apple feeding is a seasonal delight; if you visit during the harvest season, you may witness even more dynamic feeding scenes.
Showa Sinzan Bear Ranch is located just about a 3-minute drive from the Lake Toya Onsen area. The Lake Toya region is a beautiful destination rich in scenic lakeside views, hot springs, and famous landmarks like Showa Sinzan. It is an ideal base for your travels, allowing you to combine a scenic drive or cycling trip with a fascinating visit to the bear ranch.
To ensure a comfortable visit, please note the following information: