Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens?
Kids enjoy goat feeding, a small amusement park and playgrounds, with free admission for under-13s; plentiful stroller rentals, toilets and lockers support an all-day family outing.
Positives:
- Kids Enter Free: Children under junior high visit at no charge, making extra budget for treats.
- Stroller & Wheelchair Rental: Rent a stroller (300 yen) or wheelchair free for tired legs.
- Shaded Paths & Rest Areas: Numerous benches and nursing rooms near exhibits offer rest spots.
Challenges:
- Hilly Terrain: The botanical gardens sit on slopes—expect uphill walks.
- Distance Between Zones: Animal, botanical, and amusement areas are spread out; plan routes.
What is so special about Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens for with kids?
- Meet 550 species including koalas, elephants, and red pandas
- Pet goats and rabbits at the Animal Encounter Plaza
- Enjoy age-friendly rides in the Children’s Amusement Park
- Discover 7,100 plant species in an important cultural greenhouse
- Free entry for children under junior high school
Recommended visit duration: 3–4 hours
Why 3–4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time to see key animal exhibits, the greenhouse, and enjoy rides at a relaxed pace.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens
Koala and Elephant Exhibits:
Watch the koalas snooze and elephants bathe in the morning light.
Tip: Arrive at opening to catch elephants splashing and koalas most active.
Animal Encounter Plaza:
Pet and feed goats, sheep, and rabbits.
Tip: Buy a 100 yen feed bag at the plaza to give a hands-on experience.
Children’s Amusement Park:
Ride the merry-go-round, mini roller coaster, monorail, and Ferris wheel.
Tip: Purchase ride tokens in bundles for a small discount and ride during off-peak hours.
Historic Greenhouse:
Explore 10 glasshouses with tropical and desert plants.
Tip: Head here mid-day when light brings out vibrant colors and fewer crowds.
Picnic on Lawn Near Japanese Garden:
Relax under cherry trees and let kids run.
Tip: Pack a bento or pick up snacks at a park café nearby.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult admission (2×500 yen) | JPY 1,000 |
| Stroller rental (300 yen/day) | JPY 300 |
| Ride tokens (200 yen×4) | JPY 800 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 2,100 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
When is the best time to visit Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens?
Spring brings cherry blossoms along the Japanese Garden (late March–mid April). Summer Night Zoo opens mid-August until 8:30 PM. Autumn foliage peaks in November among maple trees. Winters are mild—look for winter pansies in beds.
How to Maximize Your Visit to Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens
- Start with Popular Exhibits: Visit the koalas and elephants first to avoid midday lines.
- Pack Snacks & Drinks: Picnic areas fill up; bring water and easy snacks for downtime.
- Use Official Map App: Follow the park’s map app to find the quickest walking routes.
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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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...
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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