North Safari Sapporo, located in Sapporo's Minami Ward, has announced its decision to close by the end of September 2025, primarily due to legal issues surrounding its operations. This closure marks the end of nearly 20 years of activities during which the zoo operated without the necessary permits required for such establishments within the urbanization control area, as stipulated by the City Planning Act.
On March 10, 2025, the operating company, Sakusesu Kanko, made the announcement via its homepage, citing their serious consideration of legal issues as the motivating factor for shutting down the zoo. Over the years, North Safari Sapporo had built its facilities without obtaining proper authorization from city officials, which resulted in substantial legal complications.
Since its opening, North Safari Sapporo has been under scrutiny from the city of Sapporo, which has issued 17 formal warnings between 2004 and the last year, calling attention to the various violations. Despite these warnings, the zoo expanded its scale, currently housing more than 150 species of animals and culminating with the construction of 156 illegal buildings, including non-compliant lodging facilities.
"We have taken the legal issues seriously and made this difficult decision to close down the park," stated the zoo's managing company on their website. Along with the closure announcement, they expressed regret for the suddenness of the announcement, extending apologies to patrons and animal lovers alike.
Kazuo Hoshino, the representative director of Sakusesu Kanko, has resigned. The current director will now assume responsibility for overseeing the relocation of the zoo's animals and the eventual demolition of its facilities. The relocation of larger animals may take time as they require appropriate preparation for their new environments.
This scenario sheds light on the broader struggles faced by local animal-related attractions and the importance of adhering to regulatory frameworks. The city of Sapporo, which designated the area as one where construction and development are limited, has highlighted concerns about animal welfare as well as public safety issues arising from unregulated animal exhibits.
During its years of operation, North Safari Sapporo became popular among visitors due to its unique concept of closely interacting with exotic animals. Nevertheless, the underlying legal troubles have overshadowed its successes.
Controversy surrounding the zoo doesn't end here, as numerous internal reports reveal mounting frustrations from management about city interventions. An internal document indicates the zoo's leadership labeled the city's guidance as “business interference,” which raises questions about the future of similar establishments operating under questionable authorization.
This closure also serves as a cautionary tale for future wildlife parks and zoos. The importance of securing all necessary permits and complying with local regulations cannot be overstated, as exemplified by North Safari Sapporo’s path over the past two decades. The repercussions of ignoring such legal frameworks can be severe, leading to not only closures but also heightened scrutiny from both the public and regulatory bodies.
Recently, the city took additional measures by proposing recommendations aimed at ensuring compliance from local businesses involved with animals. Activists and concerned residents have increasingly highlighted the necessity for stricter regulations and oversight of facilities housing wildlife, advocating for animal rights and protections.
While North Safari Sapporo’s future may have darkened due to its extensive violations, the impact on the local community and the animals housed therein continues to be felt significantly. Local animal welfare organizations are stepping forward to offer assistance to help facilitate the proper relocation and care of the animals to new environments where they will be adequately taken care of.
Now, as the clock ticks down to the scheduled closing date at the end of September 2025, the focus remains on how effectively the zoo can manage the logistical challenges presented by animal relocations and facility demolitions. The current administration has indicated they will prioritize animal welfare during this transitional phase, ensuring the animals' well-being and safety.
North Safari Sapporo's closing sets the stage for continued dialogue about wildlife regulations and ethical treatment within private zoos, underscoring the need for conscientious oversight to maintain both public safety and animal welfare.