A zoo employee’s shocking confession—he disposed of his wife’s body in the zoo’s incinerator—has led to a nationwide investigation and the indefinite closure of Asahiyama Zoo. This popular facility in Hokkaido, known for its behavioral exhibits, had already been closed for seasonal renovations.
The employee, a man in his 30s, was arrested on suspicion of illegally dumping his wife’s body. She had been reported missing since late March 2026. The investigation has raised serious questions about domestic violence, as well as the circumstances surrounding her disappearance.
Asahiyama Zoo usually attracts over one million visitors annually; in 2025 alone, it welcomed 1.33 million guests. Now, with its doors shut until at least May 2026, the local economy faces significant challenges. The estimated revenue loss is around 150 million JPY, which could impact not just the zoo but also local businesses that depend on tourist traffic.
The mayor of Asahikawa expressed regret over the inconvenience caused to visitors during the upcoming Golden Week holidays—a peak travel time in Japan. “A zoo exists to be seen by visitors,” he remarked, highlighting the community’s loss.
The forensic investigation is ongoing, with teams currently sifting through ash and bone fragments from the incinerator as they search for evidence. This incident has exposed a dark undercurrent of workplace isolation and domestic tragedy in northern Japan.
As authorities continue their work, officials have not shared a timeline for reopening or further details regarding the investigation. The community watches closely as this tragic case unfolds.