Kosupa Travel

While Sapporo is known for its urban attractions, it’s also a city where you can experience remarkable encounters with wildlife. Among its many tourist spots and beautiful parks, opportunities to see wild animals are surprisingly common. Recently, foxes have become increasingly visible within the city limits. This guide will show you the best spots to see foxes in Sapporo with high probability.

Foxes in Sapporo: An Overview

Fox sightings within Sapporo city have become increasingly common. Their presence in urban areas can be attributed to habitat changes and abundant food sources. However, foxes aren’t found everywhere. While rare in the busy downtown areas and residential centers, they can often be spotted in the city’s natural areas and riverbanks, particularly in southern Sapporo and the suburbs.

Best Fox Spotting Location: A Local’s Perspective

In my experience, there’s one location where fox sightings are guaranteed: the Toyohira River. Specifically, the right bank between Kita-13-jo Bridge and Kanjokita Bridge is an exceptional fox-watching spot. This area, with its natural riverside environment, consistently hosts one of the city’s largest fox populations.

The Toyohira River’s rich vegetation and wide riverbanks create an ideal habitat for foxes. They’re particularly active during dawn and dusk – visit during these times for the highest chance of encounters (I personally have a 100% success rate for fox sightings here).

In this area, it’s not uncommon to see groups of 4-5 foxes at once, suggesting the presence of fox dens nearby. Foxes typically live in family groups in burrows, often hidden in riverside undergrowth or beneath embankments.

Observing the Foxes

Foxes captivate observers with their charming appearance and behavior. Their large ears, bushy tails, and keen eyes are distinctive features. Up close, they often appear leaner than expected, reflecting the challenges of urban wildlife survival.

Interestingly, foxes typically appear thinner in summer than winter, primarily due to their seasonal coat changes. While winter foxes sport thick, fluffy fur, summer foxes have a sleeker, more athletic appearance that’s equally fascinating.

Tips for Fox Observation

To maximize your chances of seeing foxes, consider these key factors:

Timing is crucial. While foxes are generally nocturnal, urban foxes may adapt their schedules. The best viewing times are typically during dusk and early morning. During warmer months from spring through autumn, foxes tend to be active for longer periods, increasing your chances of sightings even during early evening or late morning hours.

Foxes are naturally curious but quite timid. Quiet observation is essential – minimize noise and movement. Avoid approaching them directly; instead, remain still and let curious foxes approach on their own terms. Any sudden movements will likely cause them to flee.

Important Safety Considerations

Echinococcus Risk

Foxes can carry Echinococcus, a parasitic tapeworm that can infect humans and cause serious illness. Never touch foxes or areas where they’ve been active. Always wash your hands thoroughly after visiting areas where foxes are present.

Feeding Restrictions

Never feed the foxes. Feeding wildlife is strictly prohibited by Sapporo city ordinances for several important reasons:

• It disrupts natural foraging behaviors
• Can negatively impact their health
• Creates dangerous dependencies on human food
• Increases risks of human-wildlife conflict
• Violates local wildlife protection laws

These regulations exist to protect both wildlife health and public safety. Respecting these rules helps maintain the delicate balance between urban life and wildlife.

Conclusion

The Toyohira River area offers excellent opportunities for fox watching in Sapporo. You can observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat while enjoying the city’s unique blend of urban and natural environments. Remember to follow safety guidelines regarding Echinococcus awareness and feeding restrictions, and maintain a respectful distance from the foxes. This allows everyone to safely enjoy Sapporo’s remarkable urban wildlife.[Continue with next section?]