36 spots

Chubu Zoo Map

Zoos, safari parks and animal encounters across Chubu — 36 of them, ranked and placed on the map.

1AichiHigashiyama Zoo and Botanical GardensJapan’s second most-visited zoo, home to over 500 species and the world-famous "handsome" gorilla.Spanning over 60 hectares, this sprawling complex houses the largest number of species in Japan. Beyond the animal enclosures, visitors can explore a peaceful Japanese garden, ride vintage attractions in the amusement park, or ascend the 80-meter observation tower for panoramic views of the Nagoya skyline.For history buffs, the 1937 conservatory is a must-see; as Japan's oldest large-scale greenhouse, it is designated as an Important Cultural Property for its elegant 'Crystal Palace' architecture. The park also holds a poignant legacy, having famously protected its elephants during WWII when many other Japanese zoos could not, a story now immortalized in local literature. A hidden gem is the 'World Medaka Hall,' which showcases Nagoya’s history as a center for killifish research with rare species from across the globe. Compared to Tokyo’s Ueno Zoo, Higashiyama offers significantly more space and a rugged, hilly terrain that feels like a nature hike. Pro tip: avoid the main gate crowds by starting at the botanical garden entrance, which leads you through serene forest paths toward the animal zones. In autumn, the garden stays open late for stunning maple leaf illuminations, offering a romantic atmosphere that contrasts with the energetic daytime crowds. Expect to walk a lot, so wear comfortable shoes to navigate the elevation changes between the zoo and the botanical slopes.View on Traveldoko
2ShizuokaFuji Safari ParkJapan’s largest and most famous safari park, situated against the backdrop of Mount Fuji.Drive through expansive zones where lions, tigers, and bears roam freely in a natural environment. You can use your own car or board a "Jungle Bus" to feed large predators through wire mesh, providing a safe but thrilling encounter with the world's most powerful carnivores.Beyond the vehicle-based safari, the Walking Safari allows you to trek through forest trails along the perimeter of the enclosures for a unique ground-level perspective. For a different atmosphere altogether, visit during the Night Safari to witness nocturnal hunting behaviors rarely visible during the day. Families with young children should head to the Fureai Zone, where you can pet capybaras and red pandas or enjoy a pony ride. A key visitor hack: the iconic Jungle Buses are extremely popular and operate on a first-come, first-served basis; arrive as early as possible on weekends to secure a seat, as they often sell out by noon. Unlike standard city zoos, the park’s massive scale mimics a savanna, and on clear days, the sight of giraffes or cheetahs wandering with the snow-capped peak of Fuji towering behind them creates world-class photo opportunities found nowhere else. If you are driving a rental car, be aware that while rare, curious animals may occasionally touch the vehicle; taking the park's specialized bus is the safest way to protect your paint job while getting the best views.View on Traveldoko
3ShizuokaIzu Shaboten ZooAn interactive animal park famous as the birthplace of Japan’s capybara hot spring baths.Beyond the mammals, this botanical sanctuary houses over 1,500 species of cacti and succulents inside uniquely shaped greenhouses. Visitors can walk among free-roaming wildlife, getting up close to curious squirrel monkeys, roaming peacocks, and kangaroos in an environment without traditional cages.Situated at the scenic foot of Mount Omuro, the facility opened in 1959 with a distinct mid-century architectural charm. One of the best-kept secrets here is the Animal Boat Tour, the first of its kind in Japan. You navigate a sprawling central pond guided by a captain, observing and feeding ring-tailed lemurs that inhabit the miniature islands. For a truly unique souvenir, head to the Cactus Hunting workshop. Armed with specialized chopsticks, you can personally harvest various small succulents straight from the soil and arrange them into a custom, one-of-a-kind potted masterpiece. Foodies shouldn't miss the themed restaurants offering whimsical items like cactus-flavored ice cream and green burgers resembling prickly plants. Savvy travelers often bundle their ticket with the nearby Omuro Chairlift for a full-day itinerary. To avoid the midday rush, arriving right at opening time guarantees quieter interactions at the feeding stations before the tour buses arrive from Tokyo.View on Traveldoko

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Image credits

2. Fuji Safari Park — しんのすけさん https://photozou.jp/photo/show/1057511/168411950 (フォト蔵) / CC BY 2.1 jp
5. Izu Animal Kingdom — ユライさん http://photozou.jp/photo/show/231268/149332262 (フォト蔵) / CC BY-SA 2.1 jp
6. Nihondaira Zoo — Halowand / CC BY-SA 4.0
7. Nishiyama Zoo — Tomomori / CC BY-SA 3.0
8. Toyohashi Zoo and Botanical Park — Kiyok / CC BY-SA 3.0
9. Experience Zoo iZoo — Syced / CC0
10. Hamamatsu City Zoo — Mikkabie / CC BY-SA 4.0