Noboribetsu Bear Park (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Noboribetsu Bear Park?
Kids can hand-feed bears, cheer duck races and meet cubs; stroller rental and toilets aid parents, yet steep winter paths and mainly Japanese safety signs demand close adult supervision.
Positives:
- Interactive animal experiences: Kids can feed bears safely with affordable snack packs.
- Easy access via ropeway: The gondola offers instant panoramic views and direct entry.
- Family-friendly facilities: Free stroller rental and benches make exploring easier.
Challenges:
- Steep and icy paths: In winter, trails can become slippery; bring boots with good grip.
- Limited English signage: Some exhibits are only in Japanese; download a guide or ask staff.
- No on-site diaper supplies: Bring your own diapers and wipes; none are sold at the park.
What is so special about Noboribetsu Bear Park for with kids?
- Scenic cable-car ride to the summit station
- Interactive bear feeding with snack packs
- Live bear athletic shows and cub viewing
- Exciting duck races with fun prizes
- Free stroller rental and picnic benches
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for the ropeway ride, feeding, shows and a break without rushing young children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Noboribetsu Bear Park
Ropeway gondola ride:
Take the 7-minute cable car up to the summit station for park entry.
Tip: Arrive before 10 AM to avoid long waits at the ticket counter.
Bear athletic show:
Watch trained bears climb logs, swing and play on the all-weather stage.
Tip: Check the posted show schedule and arrive 5 minutes early for good seats.
Bear feeding:
Buy snack packs (¥100) to hand-feed bears under supervision.
Tip: Purchase packs near the enclosure entrance to skip lines later.
Duck race:
Bet ¥200 on racing ducks and win small prizes like towels or toys.
Tip: Place bets 10 minutes before each race; races start every hour.
Cub kindergarten:
See baby bears play and nap in a secure area (May–Dec only).
Tip: Visit around show times on the schedule board for best viewing spots.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 adult ropeway+admission | JPY 6,000 |
| 2 child ropeway+admission | JPY 3,000 |
| 2 bear feeding packs | JPY 200 |
| 2 duck race bets | JPY 400 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 9,600 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
When is the best time to visit Noboribetsu Bear Park?
From May–Dec, watch the playful cub kindergarten shows. In winter, wear warm boots and watch for icy paths. Summers get busy, so arrive before 10 AM.
How to Maximize Your Visit to Noboribetsu Bear Park
- Buy feeding packs early: Purchase bear snacks near the enclosure to avoid lines later.
- Plan around show times: Group your walking route by athletic show and cub schedule.
- Use stroller lending: Pick up free strollers at the summit station for your youngest.
- Pack snacks and water: Bring light snacks since the café can be busy at lunch.
Map of Noboribetsu Bear Park
Address: 224 Noboribetsuonsenchō, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido 059-0551, Japan
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Reviews of Noboribetsu Bear Park
Andy Rupp
A lot of people dont like this place but I actually enjoyed it. It was a unique experience being able to feed bears. The views from the bear park was also amazing, perfect view of one of the many crater lakes in the area and the sea.
Annie M.
Gondola ride was the only positive experience. The bears looked very miserable & were being freely feed dried nuggets by tourists, who were trying to elicit reactions from the poor animals as entertainment. There are not any conditions in which any animals should be held… quite the sad sight. Smell was deathly - had me googling ways to try to break these animals out of their enclosures. Gondola wa...
Peng Wan Choo
Unique attraction nestled on a mountaintop in Hokkaido, accessible by ropeway with scenic views along the way. The park houses many Ezo brown bears and you can observe them up close in a safe environment. Watching them catch snacks thrown by visitors is both entertaining and adorable. There's also a small museum and a traditional Ainu cultural exhibit. While the facilities are a bit dated, it’s st...
Christine H
Bear watching is great and the surrounding natural scenery is also nice. Duck races are also a little fun. It has a unique Japanese atmosphere.
Luke L'sk
I came in town to Noboribetsu for a brief visit. Didn't have so much plan on what to do but with an extra day of time so I've decided to visit the bear park. I got the ticket online. Upon entry, they simply scanned my QR code and gave me a bag of bear snack and a ticket to ride the gondola to get up the mountain. As soon as I got off the ride, it seemed like there was a blizzard going on. So I bu...
About Noboribetsu Bear Park
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+81 143-84-2225Explore Popular Things to Do
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