Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens?
What makes it 86% Solo-Friendly: The 550 animal species, botanical walks, and caretaker talks keep a solo visitor engaged all day, and the 500-yen entry and easy subway access make it a hassle-free outing.
Positives:
- Expert-Led Learning: Weekly keeper talks deepen understanding of animal care.
- Free Wi-Fi Zones: Connect at resting areas to plan your route or share photos instantly.
Challenges:
- Hilly Terrain: The grounds are spread across slopes; wear sturdy shoes.
- Weekend Crowds: Popular exhibits like koalas get busy; expect lines.
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 solo trip?
- Engage with animal experts at free keeper talks
- Stroll historic greenhouses with 7,100 plant species
- Catch panoramic city views from the Sky Tower
- Save time using the Sky View Train between sections
- Experience seasonal highlights like Night Zoo and cherry blossoms
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Solo travelers can cover key exhibits and gardens at a relaxed pace.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens
Attend Animal Explanation Sessions:
Listen to zookeepers explain species behavior up close.
Tip: Check the weekend schedule at the info boards and arrive 5 minutes early to secure a front spot.
Explore the Greenhouses:
Walk through tropical and cactus houses featuring 7,100 plant species.
Tip: Head to the historic central greenhouse first before it gets busy.
Ride the Higashiyama Sky Tower:
Take in 360° views of Nagoya from the observation deck.
Tip: Buy the Zoo + Sky Tower combo ticket at the main gate to save 100 yen.
Join a Guided Walk with the Director:
Get insider access to off-the-beaten paths with expert commentary.
Tip: Reserve your spot online before the Spring Festival weekends.
Take the Sky View Train:
Save energy traveling between the zoo and botanical gardens.
Tip: Confirm the fare at the station; it runs every 15 minutes.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens
- Start Early: Arrive at opening time to see active animals in cooler morning hours.
- Use the Monorail: Skip long walks by taking the Sky View Train between major sections.
- Pack a Bento: Bring your own lunch to avoid queues at the café during peak lunch hours.
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)?
From mid-August, explore the Night Zoo until 20:30; in spring (mid-March to mid-April), walk the cherry blossom tunnel before 10:00 AM for quieter paths.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult admission | JPY 500 |
| Sky Tower combo ticket | JPY 640 |
| Snacks and drinks | JPY 300 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 1,440 |
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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