Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens?
What makes it 95% Kids-Friendly: 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 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 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.
How to Make the Most of 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.
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 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.
Explore These Activities
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.
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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