Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens?
What makes it 81% Couple-Friendly: Couples can wander cherry-blossom tunnels, picnic by ponds and ascend the Sky Tower at sunset, yet outside summer the park closes by 4:50 PM, limiting evening ambience.
Positives:
- Historic greenhouse: The 1937 glasshouse is a national important cultural property perfect for couples who love architecture.
- Quiet picnic spots: Lawn near the Gassho-zukuri house offers private seating under trees.
Challenges:
- Large walking area: The zoo and gardens cover hilly terrain; wear comfortable shoes.
- Extra costs: Amusement rides and feed bags are not included in admission.
What is Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens?
- A zoological and botanical complex in Nagoya’s Higashiyama Park, inaugurated in 1937.
- A zoo that houses approximately 550 animal species—including koalas, giraffes, and elephants—and features specialized venues such as a nocturnal animal museum and the World Killifish Museum.
- A botanical garden presenting over 7,100 plant species across Western and Japanese garden designs, historic greenhouse pavilions designated as national important cultural properties, and complementary attractions including an amusement park and observation tower.
What is so special about Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens for couple trip?
- Historic glass greenhouse built in 1937
- Morning activity times at koala and red panda enclosures
- 360° city views from Higashiyama Sky Tower
- Evening Night Zoo events in summer
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Couples can explore the zoo, greenhouse and sky tower at a relaxed pace without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens
Stroll the Japanese Garden:
Walk winding paths under moss-covered stone lanterns and koi ponds.
Tip: Visit after 9:00 AM to enjoy calm and softer light for photos.
See koalas and red pandas:
Observe these animals at their most active in the morning.
Tip: Arrive by 10:00 AM when feeding ends and they become more playful.
Climb Higashiyama Sky Tower:
Take in 360° views of Nagoya from 100 m above the park.
Tip: Buy the combo ticket at the zoo gate to save time and money.
Evening Night Zoo (summer):
Explore select animal areas after dark under floodlights.
Tip: Come between 7:00–8:00 PM for cooler temps and fewer crowds.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens
- Start at North Gate: Begin your route here to hit the Japanese garden first and avoid the morning crowd.
- Use free maps: Grab a park map at the entrance to plan a circular route and save steps.
Reviews of Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens
Ken Huang
Wonderful zoo worth spending about a half day. With amazing animals and well planned out enclosures. The ticket and souvenir prices were also really affordable. But I do find the ticket prices for the zoo monorail a bit of a scam.
Charley LEUNG
🌡️🥵🫠On a scorching day of 33°C, I had the incredible chance to see a polar bear at the zoo! It was fascinating to watch as this majestic creature jumped into the pool, playing toys, and splashing around 🐻. Super cute!!💛 Hopefully, people and caretakers always remember how important it is to consider wildlife well-being in environments that don't reflect their natural habitats, and care more ...
TammÈ
It’s a really large place, and you'll have to do a lot of walking, so I recommend wearing comfortable shoes and clothing for the best experience! There are many people on weekends, so you might not find a seat in the resting area or dining area. I suggest bringing a picnic mat to enjoy sitting outside, but only if the weather isn’t too hot! 😂
La Folia “Devlet” Rihavein
I had a fantastic experience visiting Higashiyama Zoo! Compared to zoos around the Tokyo area, the entrance fee here is really affordable — only 640 yen for a combined ticket to the zoo and the Higashiyama Sky Tower. It’s a great deal for everything you get to see and do. One thing that really impressed me was how close you can get to the animals. You get a much more personal view compared to man...
Jermain Allen (J. Allen)
This is unbeatable during hanami season. After leaving Mexico City's free zoo and botanical gardens I figured I wouldn't be able to give out anymore 5 star reviews for paid experiences. I was wrong... This combo pack makes the San Diego Zoo feel like even more of a confusing experience for the price paid. Maybe it's an exchange rate thing, maybe it's about the number of animals, in the end I just...
When is the best time to visit Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens (Nagoya, Japan)?
Spring brings 1,000 cherry trees in bloom. Summer offers Night Zoo in mid-August. Autumn highlights are maple and ginkgo displays in the Japanese garden.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Zoo admission for 2 | JPY 1,000 |
| Sky Tower combo tickets for 2 | JPY 1,280 |
| Lunch bento | JPY 2,000 |
| Souvenir | JPY 500 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 4,780 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens
Address: Japan, 〒464-0804 愛知県名古屋市千種区東山元町３丁目７０
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About Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens
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 52-782-2111Explore Popular Things to Do
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