Winter break for the animals.

Sapporo Maruyama Zoo (Winter)

Making the most of being a cold-climate zoo, it houses plenty of animals naturally suited to the cold — polar bears, snow leopards, red pandas, and more — species that really show their true colors in winter. While a family of three polar bears might be seen roughhousing and moving about together, a pack of gray wolves huddles together for a nap in the snow. Animals that struggle with the cold, like hippos, Masai giraffes, and the king of beasts himself, the lion, take it easy indoors in the warmth, visible through fences or glass.

Close to the Maruyama primeval forest, the grounds sit on a gentle slope, so warm clothing and sturdy footwear are essential. Still, if you start to feel chilled, head to one of the rest areas or cafes on the grounds — some facilities even let you warm up while observing the animals. Hand-drawn signs and posters are scattered throughout the zoo, and their charming illustrations are bound to bring a smile. Following the explanatory signs, it might be fun to imagine what these animals' lives look like back in their home habitats. That sense of being watched right back, unpredictable movements — it's a world that captivates adults and children alike.