About Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a popular tourist attraction located in Nagoya, Japan. It is a combination of a zoo and botanical gardens, covering a total area of 200 acres. The zoo is home to over 125 species of animals, including elephants, tigers, lions, gorillas, and pandas, while the botanical gardens feature over 7,000 species of plants, including a large collection of orchids, roses, and Japanese cherry trees.

The zoo was opened in 1937 as a municipal zoo, and it has since undergone several expansions and improvements. The most recent addition to the zoo is the Higashiyama Giant Panda Pavilion, which houses a pair of giant pandas on loan from China. The zoo also features several unique exhibits, including a Night Safari exhibit that allows visitors to see nocturnal animals in their natural habitats, and a Forest of Asian Primates exhibit featuring a variety of primates from Asia.

In addition to the animal exhibits, the botanical gardens offer visitors the chance to see a wide variety of plants from around the world, including a Japanese garden, a rose garden, and a greenhouse filled with tropical plants. The gardens also feature a large pond with a waterfall, providing a peaceful setting for visitors to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.

Overall, Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a popular destination for families and nature enthusiasts in Nagoya, providing a unique opportunity to see a variety of animals and plants from around the world in one location.

History timeline of Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a popular tourist attraction located in Nagoya, Japan. Here is a timeline of its history:

  • 1937: The Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens opened as a municipal zoo on a 57-hectare site in Higashiyama, Nagoya.
  • 1944: During World War II, the zoo was closed due to air raids and was used as a farm to grow crops.
  • 1949: The zoo reopened after the war, and its botanical gardens were expanded.
  • 1959: The zoo added a new animal exhibit called “The Forest of Chimpanzees.”
  • 1965: The Higashiyama Sky Tower was built, offering visitors panoramic views of Nagoya and the surrounding area.
  • 1973: The zoo opened a new area called “African Savannah,” which featured animals such as giraffes and zebras.
  • 1980: The zoo introduced a “Night Safari” exhibit, allowing visitors to see nocturnal animals in their natural habitats.
  • 1981: The botanical gardens were expanded again to include a new Japanese garden.
  • 1996: A new reptile house was opened, featuring a wide variety of snakes, lizards, and turtles.
  • 2000: The zoo added a new exhibit called “The Forest of Asian Elephants,” which featured a large outdoor enclosure for elephants.
  • 2008: The Higashiyama Giant Panda Pavilion was opened, housing a pair of giant pandas on loan from China.
  • 2014: A new exhibit called “The Forest of Asian Tropical Rainforest” was opened, showcasing animals and plants from Southeast Asia.
  • 2018: The zoo celebrated its 80th anniversary, and a new exhibit called “The Forest of Asian Primates” was opened, featuring a variety of primates from Asia.

Throughout its history, the Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens has remained a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering visitors the chance to see a wide variety of animals and plants from around the world.

How to reach Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens is located in Nagoya, Japan, and it is easily accessible by public transportation.

Here are some of the ways you can reach the zoo:

  1. Subway: Take the Higashiyama Line and get off at Higashiyama Koen Station (Exit 3). The zoo is a 5-minute walk from the station.
  2. Bus: Take the city bus to Higashiyama Dobutsuen-mae Bus Stop. The zoo is a short walk from the bus stop.
  3. Taxi or Car: You can also take a taxi or drive to the zoo. There is a large parking lot available for visitors who come by car.

If you are coming from Nagoya Station, you can take the Higashiyama Line subway to Higashiyama Koen Station, which takes around 15 minutes.

It is important to note that the zoo is quite large, so you should plan to spend several hours there to fully explore all the exhibits and gardens. It is also a good idea to check the zoo’s website for opening hours, admission prices, and any special events or exhibits that may be taking place during your visit.

Do's and Dont's at Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens:

Do’s:

  • Follow the zoo’s rules and guidelines to ensure your safety and the safety of the animals and plants.
  • Keep the park clean by disposing of trash in designated bins.
  • Stay on designated paths and areas to avoid disturbing the animals and damaging the plants.
  • Take photos, but do not use flash photography near the animals.
  • Respect the animals by keeping a safe distance and avoiding loud noises and sudden movements.
  • Take advantage of the various educational exhibits and shows to learn more about the animals and plants.

Don’ts:

  • Do not feed the animals, as this can be harmful to their health and disrupt their natural diet.
  • Do not bring pets into the park.
  • Do not touch or disturb the animals, even if they appear friendly or approachable.
  • Do not pick or damage any plants, as this can harm the ecosystem of the park.
  • Do not smoke or drink alcohol in the park.
  • Do not run or make loud noises, as this can disturb the animals and other visitors.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for yourself and other visitors, as well as protect the well-being of the animals and plants at Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens.

Highlights of Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a large park that features a wide variety of animal exhibits and botanical gardens. Here are some of the highlights of the park:

  1. Giant Panda Pavilion: The Higashiyama Zoo is home to a pair of giant pandas on loan from China. Visitors can observe the pandas up close in a state-of-the-art pavilion designed to simulate their natural environment.
  2. Night Safari: The Night Safari exhibit allows visitors to experience the nocturnal behavior of animals such as lions, tigers, and leopards. The exhibit is designed to simulate a night-time African savanna environment.
  3. Forest of Asian Primates: This exhibit features a variety of primates from Asia, including Japanese macaques, gibbons, and orangutans. Visitors can observe the primates in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior and conservation.
  4. Bird World: This exhibit features a wide variety of bird species from around the world, including parrots, penguins, and flamingos. Visitors can observe the birds up close and learn about their unique adaptations and behaviors.
  5. Botanical Gardens: The park also features a large botanical garden with over 7,000 species of plants from around the world. Highlights include the Japanese garden, rose garden, and greenhouse filled with tropical plants.
  6. Children’s Zoo: The Children’s Zoo is a popular attraction for families with young children. It features a petting zoo, pony rides, and a variety of interactive exhibits that allow children to learn about animals in a fun and engaging way.

Overall, Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens offers a unique opportunity to experience a variety of animals and plants from around the world in one location. It is a great place for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone interested in learning about wildlife conservation and environmental education.

Attractions in Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens in Nagoya, Japan, has a variety of attractions that appeal to visitors of all ages. Here are some of the popular attractions in the park:

  1. Giant Panda Pavilion: The Higashiyama Zoo is home to a pair of giant pandas on loan from China. The panda pavilion is a state-of-the-art facility designed to simulate their natural environment, and visitors can observe the pandas up close.
  2. African Savanna: The African Savanna exhibit features a variety of animals from the African plains, including lions, zebras, and giraffes. Visitors can observe the animals up close from a safari bus or elevated walkway.
  3. Forest of Asian Primates: This exhibit features a variety of primates from Asia, including Japanese macaques, gibbons, and orangutans. Visitors can observe the primates in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior and conservation.
  4. Amazon Jungle: The Amazon Jungle exhibit is an immersive experience that allows visitors to explore the lush rainforest environment of South America. It features a variety of animals and plants, including jaguars, anacondas, and giant otters.
  5. Bird World: This exhibit features a wide variety of bird species from around the world, including parrots, penguins, and flamingos. Visitors can observe the birds up close and learn about their unique adaptations and behaviors.
  6. Children’s Zoo: The Children’s Zoo is a popular attraction for families with young children. It features a petting zoo, pony rides, and a variety of interactive exhibits that allow children to learn about animals in a fun and engaging way.
  7. Botanical Gardens: The park also features a large botanical garden with over 7,000 species of plants from around the world. Highlights include the Japanese garden, rose garden, and greenhouse filled with tropical plants.

In addition to these attractions, the park also offers a variety of shows and events throughout the year, including animal feeding demonstrations and seasonal flower displays. Overall, Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens offers a unique opportunity to experience a wide variety of animals and plants in a beautiful natural setting.

frequently asked questions about Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens ?

What are operating hours of Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens ?
Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens is open every day from 9:00 am to 4:50 pm, with the last admission at 4:00 pm. However, the hours may vary during special events and holidays.
How much does it cost to enter the park?
The entrance fee for Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens is 500 yen for adults (15 years old and over), 200 yen for children (elementary and junior high school students), and free for children under elementary school age. However, some attractions within the park may have additional fees.
Is it possible to see the entire park in one day?
It is possible to see most of the park in one day, but it may depend on your pace and which attractions you choose to visit. It's a good idea to plan your route in advance and prioritize the attractions you are most interested in seeing.
Are there any restaurants or food options within the park?
Yes, there are several restaurants and food stands located throughout the park, serving a variety of Japanese and international cuisine.
Is it possible to bring pets into the park?
No, pets are not allowed within the park, with the exception of service animals.
Are there any special events or seasonal displays?
Yes, Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens hosts a variety of special events and seasonal displays throughout the year. These may include flower exhibitions, animal shows, and seasonal light displays.
Is the park accessible for wheelchair users and strollers?
Yes, the park is generally accessible for wheelchair users and strollers. There are designated paths and ramps throughout the park, and rental wheelchairs and strollers are available at the entrance.