North Safari Sapporo, which closed in 2025, was operating by constructing buildings without permission. The Sapporo Ward Prosecutors’ Office summarily indicted the operating company and its former president for violating the City Planning Act.

Summarily indicted for violations of the City Planning Act were “Success Tourism,” which operated North Safari Sapporo in Minami-ku, Sapporo, and former president Kazuo Hoshino.

According to the indictment, Success Tourism and former President Hoshino constructed two buildings in an urbanization control area where land development is restricted, without obtaining city permission.

Meanwhile, regarding some of the charges, including violations of the Animal Protection Law that were also referred to the prosecutors, the Sapporo District Public Prosecutors Office decided not to indict, considering the purpose of the relevant laws, the severity of the case, and the nature of the crime.

North Safari Sapporo

North Safari Sapporo is a unique wildlife park in Hokkaido, Japan, where visitors can drive through expansive habitats to observe animals like bears, lions, and deer in a semi-wild setting. Originally opening as the “Sapporo Bear Ranch” in 1959, it evolved into a full safari park in the 1970s, offering both drive-through and walk-through experiences. The park emphasizes conservation and education, allowing close encounters with wildlife while showcasing the natural beauty of northern Japan.