A zoo employee at Asahiyama Zoo has allegedly confessed to disposing of his wife’s body in the facility’s incinerator. This shocking revelation has triggered a nationwide investigation and led to the indefinite closure of one of Japan’s most popular zoos.
The employee, a man in his 30s, has been arrested on suspicion of illegally dumping his wife’s body. The woman had been reported missing since late March 2026.
The zoo had originally closed for renovations on April 8 and was set to reopen during the busy Golden Week holidays in May. However, due to this incident, it will remain closed until May 2026.
Asahiyama Zoo is known for its behavioral exhibits and typically welcomes over 1.33 million visitors annually. The current investigation includes searching both the zoo’s incinerator and the employee’s home.
Forensic teams are now sifting through ash and bone fragments from the incinerator as they work to confirm details surrounding the case. Local officials have expressed concerns about the potential economic impact on the city, estimating a revenue loss of approximately 150 million JPY due to the zoo’s closure.
Hirosuke Imazu, an official from Asahikawa, stated that postponing the reopening was a “painful” decision. He added, “A zoo exists to be seen by visitors.” Meanwhile, a public voice noted, “We want things to return to normal as soon as possible.”
This incident has exposed a dark undercurrent of workplace isolation and domestic tragedy in northern Japan. The mayor of Asahikawa has expressed regret over the inconvenience caused during what would have been a peak tourist season.