Nagoya Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden (Aichi Prefecture) Complete Guide: A premier integrated facility featuring approximately 450 species of animals and 7,000 species of plants
Nagoya Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden is one of Japan’s largest integrated zoos and botanical gardens, located in Chikusa Ward, Higashiyama, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture. Since its opening in 1937 (Showa 12), it has been cherished by many people as a place of relaxation for the region, as well as a hub for education and research. Spanning approximately 60 hectares (equivalent to about 13 Tokyo Domes), this facility encompasses four major areas: a zoo, botanical garden, amusement park, and Higashiyama Sky Tower, offering an abundance of attractions that cannot be fully explored in just one day.
The zoo houses approximately 450 species of animals, boasting the highest number of species kept in Japan. From small fish like medaka to large Asian elephants, visitors can observe a diverse array of creatures in near-natural environments. The botanical garden displays approximately 7,000 plant species, showcasing their seasonal beauty throughout the year. The greenhouses, corridors, and specialized gardens provide delightful experiences for all visitors.
History and Overview of Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden
Establishment and Historical Development
The history of Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden dates back to the early Showa period. The botanical garden opened on March 3, 1937, and the zoo opened on March 24 of the same year. Taking advantage of the location in a hilly area in the east of Nagoya, the garden’s design makes use of the natural terrain.
In 1968 (Showa 43), the zoo and botanical garden were integrated, forming the current “Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden” as a paid public facility. Since then, facility expansion and improvements have continued, and since the 2000s, large-scale renovations have been undertaken based on the “Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden Revitalization Plan.”
“The Forest Where You Meet Life on Earth” – Abundant Nature in the Urban Environment
Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden adopts the concept of “The Forest Where You Meet Life on Earth.” While located in an urban area, the facility aims to conserve a rich natural environment and create a space where visitors can directly experience the sanctity of life and the diversity of plants and animals.
Despite being just about 20 minutes from downtown Nagoya by subway, upon entering the garden, visitors are greeted with a lush forest, ponds, and streams of natural landscape that make them forget the urban hustle and bustle. This natural environment is not only suitable for plant and animal growth but also serves as a valuable spot where visitors can refresh both body and mind.
Highlights of the Zoo Area and Popular Animals
The Gorilla and Chimpanzee House – Famous for the Handsome Gorilla “Shabani”
The Gorilla and Chimpanzee House is one of the most popular facilities at Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden. In particular, the Western lowland gorilla “Shabani” has become famous nationwide due to his handsome appearance. Arriving from Australia in 2007, Shabani captivates many fans with his striking features and dignified demeanor.
At the gorilla house, visitors can observe the social life of gorillas, including Shabani and others. It is a valuable opportunity to learn about gorilla ecology by observing relationships within the group and child-rearing behaviors up close. The exhibition facilities are designed with consideration for the animals’ natural behaviors, creating an environment where gorillas can live without stress.
“Zojium” – Japan’s Largest Asian Elephant House
Zojium opened in 2019 and is Japan’s largest Asian elephant house. The name combines “Zoo” and “Museum,” and true to its name, it is designed not just as a place to observe animals but to learn about them.
The indoor viewing area introduces the history, ecology, and habitats of Asian elephants through abundant exhibition panels and videos. Visitors can also learn about environmental issues facing Asian elephants and conservation activities, making it an educationally valuable facility.
The outdoor enclosure spans approximately 5,000 square meters, allowing visitors to observe elephants living in a near-natural environment. Various environmental elements such as pools, sandboxes, and shaded areas have been arranged with consideration for elephant behavior, enabling observation of diverse elephant activities.
Koala House and Other Popular Animals
The Koala House is another popular spot at Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden. Native to Australia, koalas are beloved by visitors of all ages due to their adorable appearance. Since koalas spend most of their day sleeping, seeing them active is a rare opportunity. Visiting during feeding times increases the likelihood of observing koalas eating eucalyptus leaves.
Other animals popular with children include lions, tigers, giraffes, zebras, hippopotamuses, penguins, and polar bears. Each animal house is designed with consideration for the animals’ ecology and behavior, allowing observation of natural animal conduct.
Composition and Characteristics of the Main Garden and North Garden
The zoo area of Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden is divided into two sections: the Main Garden and the North Garden.
The Main Garden concentrates popular animals such as giraffes, lions, elephants, koalas, and gorillas. Being easily accessible from the main gate, most visitors first explore the Main Garden. Restaurants and gift shops are also concentrated in this area, providing high convenience.
The North Garden displays animals in environments closer to nature. It includes animals from cold climates such as polar bears and penguins, as well as the fish house. The North Garden has a more tranquil atmosphere compared to the Main Garden, making it recommended for those who wish to observe animals at leisure.
Both areas are connected by garden pathways, allowing visitors to walk between them. Given the vast grounds, it is recommended to check which animals you wish to see beforehand and plan your route for efficient touring.
Conservation Efforts for Endangered Species and Breeding Programs
Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden actively engages in ex-situ conservation, maintaining over 100 endangered species each of animals and plants. This involves protecting and breeding species whose wild habitats have become inhospitable within zoos and botanical gardens.
The facility has achieved successful breeding of animals requiring international protection, such as Asian elephants, Sumatran tigers, and Western lowland gorillas, contributing to species preservation. It also collaborates with zoos and research institutions domestically and internationally to maintain genetic diversity while advancing breeding efforts.
The facility provides exhibitions and explanations for visitors to learn about these conservation activities, offering opportunities to consider the importance of biological diversity and the necessity of environmental protection.
Attractions of the Botanical Garden Area
Four Seasons of Scenery Woven by Approximately 7,000 Plant Species
The botanical garden area at Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden contains approximately 7,000 plant species, making it one of Japan’s premier botanical gardens. Cherry blossoms in spring, roses in early summer, autumn foliage, and camellia in winter offer beautiful seasonal scenery that delights visitors throughout the year.
The botanical garden functions not merely as a plant exhibition facility but also as an educational institution where visitors can learn about plant evolution, classification, and ecological roles. Explanatory plaques are installed in each area, allowing visitors to learn about plant characteristics, origins, and uses.
Tropical and Subtropical Plants in the Greenhouse and Corridor
One of the highlights of the botanical garden is the large greenhouse. The interior of the greenhouse recreates tropical and subtropical environments, allowing year-round observation of plants not found naturally in Japan.
The greenhouse is divided into multiple zones, each displaying plants from different climates. Visitors can experience a diverse plant world featuring brightly colored tropical flowers, plants with giant leaves, and carnivorous plants.
The corridor connects the greenhouse and outdoor exhibitions, designed as a bright glass-enclosed space. It is designed to allow comfortable plant viewing even on rainy days, with seasonal and special exhibitions occasionally held within.
Highlights of Specialized Gardens: Rose Garden, Camellia Garden, and More
The botanical garden contains several specialized gardens focusing on particular plants.
The Rose Garden features plantings of approximately 100 varieties and 1,000 rose plants, with roses blooming in profusion during spring and autumn seasons. Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of roses from old roses to the latest varieties. Strolling through the rose garden enveloped in the fragrance of roses provides visitors with a moment of healing.
The Camellia Garden primarily showcases camellias, a traditional Japanese flower tree. Since camellias bloom from winter through spring, this valuable area provides color even during the cold season. Various camellia varieties are planted, allowing visitors to compare and appreciate differences in flower shapes and colors.
Other thematic exhibition areas include a Japanese garden, cherry blossom corridor, flower meadow, and medicinal herb garden, offering visitors an opportunity to appreciate the diversity and beauty of plants.
Experience and Learning Programs at the Botanical Garden
The botanical garden hosts various experiential events and learning programs each season. Plant observation sessions, gardening classes, and nature craft experiences are available for participants ranging from children to adults.
Regular guided tours are also conducted by specialized staff and volunteer guides, allowing visitors to hear detailed explanations from guides with expert botanical knowledge while touring the garden. Learning about plant characteristics and interesting stories not typically noticed enriches the botanical garden experience.
Amusement Park and Higashiyama Sky Tower
Retro-Atmosphere Amusement Park
Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden also features an amusement park with a charming retro atmosphere. While not a large-scale amusement park, it offers rides that children enjoy, including a Ferris wheel, carousel, and roller coaster.
Separate admission is required for the amusement park, but the pricing is relatively reasonable, allowing visitors to enjoy a full day when combined with viewing the zoo and botanical garden. It is particularly popular with families with small children as a way to refresh mood after viewing animals and plants.
The observation wheel offers views of the entire garden and the Nagoya cityscape. On clear days, distant mountains can be seen from the wheel, offering exceptional views.
Spectacular Views from Higashiyama Sky Tower
Higashiyama Sky Tower stands 134 meters tall on a hill in Higashiyama Park and offers 360-degree views of Nagoya from its observation deck 100 meters above ground.
On clear days, visitors can see Nagoya Castle, high-rise buildings around Nagoya Station, and even the Ise Bay and Suzuka Mountains in the distance. The time from dusk to evening is particularly popular for its beautiful city lights, making it a favored date spot.
The tower contains a restaurant and café where visitors can dine while enjoying the view. Various seasonal events and special exhibitions are also held, offering fresh discoveries with each visit.
Higashiyama Sky Tower requires separate admission, though combination tickets with the zoo are available, making it economical to visit both.
Access Methods and Parking Information
Access by Public Transportation
Access to Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden is convenient by public transportation. The nearest station is Higashiyama Park Station on the Nagoya Municipal Subway Higashiyama Line, just a 3-minute walk from the main gate via Exit 3. From Nagoya Station to Higashiyama Park Station takes approximately 20 minutes without transfers.
Hososhigasane Station on the Higashiyama Line is also about a 7-minute walk to the Hoshigaoka Gate. The area around Hososhigasane Station has many commercial facilities, allowing visitors to enjoy shopping on the way home.
Multiple bus routes pass through the area around Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden, with the “Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden” bus stop providing easy access to the main gate.
Parking Information
Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden has dedicated parking, but it becomes quite crowded on weekends, during major holidays, and during special events. During peak periods such as cherry blossom season in spring, Golden Week, and summer vacation, the parking lots often fill up early in the morning, requiring caution.
The parking area is divided among multiple locations with a total capacity of approximately 1,600 vehicles. The parking fee is 800 yen per day for regular cars.
On expected busy days, traffic congestion for parking may occur. For smooth entry, it is recommended to arrive before 9 a.m. when the garden opens or to use public transportation. Adjacent coin parking also tends to fill during peak times, so allowing time margin in your plans is important.
Admission Fees and Operating Hours
Admission Fees and Annual Passes
Admission fees to Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden are very reasonably priced.
- Adults (High school students and above): 500 yen
- Middle school students and below: Free
- Nagoya residents aged 65 and above: 100 yen (with senior citizen booklet)
Being able to visit both the zoo and botanical garden for this price reflects the appeal of a municipal facility.
Annual passes are sold for 2,000 yen and are economical for those visiting five or more times yearly. With an annual pass, visitors can enjoy the changing appearance of plants and animals through different seasons.
Higashiyama Sky Tower requires separate admission (300 yen for adults), though combination tickets with the zoo (640 yen for adults) are also available.
Tickets can be purchased at the gate on the day of visit, though during peak times, purchasing may take longer. Advance online ticket purchase is also available for smooth entry.
Operating Hours and Closure Days
The operating hours and closure days for Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden are as follows:
Operating Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:50 p.m. (admission until 4:30 p.m.)
Closure Days: Every Monday (or the following weekday if Monday is a holiday), New Year’s holidays (December 29 – January 1)
However, it may be open on Mondays during spring break, summer vacation, and autumn leisure season. It is recommended to check the official website’s opening calendar before your visit.
Operating hours may be extended during special events. During periods such as summer night opening “Night ZOO,” visitors can enjoy a different atmosphere of the zoo than during daytime hours.
Efficient Routes and Required Time
Half-Day and Full-Day Courses
Given the vast size of Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden, one day is insufficient to thoroughly view everything. Here are efficient routes depending on your available visiting time.
Half-Day Course (3-4 hours)
This course focuses on popular animals. After entering through the main gate, visit the Gorilla and Chimpanzee House, Zojium, Koala House, and Lion House, primarily exploring the main garden area. This efficiently covers the highlights of the zoo within the time frame and is recommended for families with small children or first-time visitors.
Full-Day Course (6-8 hours)
This course enjoys not only the zoo but also the botanical garden and amusement park. A typical plan involves touring the zoo in the morning, strolling through the botanical garden after lunch, and spending the afternoon at the amusement park. During seasons when seasonal flowers are in bloom, allocating more time to the botanical garden is advisable.
Recommended Seasons
Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden can be enjoyed throughout the year, with different charms in each season.
Spring (March-May): The cherry blossom blooming season enhances the garden’s beauty. Approximately 100 cherry trees blossom, and the area is popular as a cherry blossom viewing spot. The spring roses in the Rose Garden also come into season. The mild climate makes this ideal for strolling.
Summer (June-August): The summer vacation period sees increased congestion, but the “Night ZOO” event may be held. This provides a valuable opportunity to observe nocturnal animals in their active state. Remember sun protection and hydration.
Autumn (September-November): Autumn foliage beautifies this season, making the botanical garden stroll particularly recommended. Autumn roses also come into season, and the cool climate allows leisurely garden exploration.
Winter (December-February): Fewer visitors allow unhurried animal observation. The Camellia Garden comes into season, and the warm greenhouse allows enjoyment of tropical plants. Dress warmly for your visit.
Family-Friendly Enjoyment
Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden is very popular with families with children. Nursing rooms and diaper-changing stations are located at multiple spots throughout the garden, providing peace of mind for families with small children.
Baby carriage rental services are available (for a fee), making travel through the large garden convenient. However, some hilly and stair areas may be difficult for strollers, so carrying a baby sling is reassuring.
Rest spots with benches and rest areas are positioned throughout each section, providing places for tired children to rest. Bringing a picnic lunch and eating at designated dining areas offers a picnic-like experience. The garden also contains restaurants and gift shops for purchasing light meals and beverages.
The “Interaction Area” offers opportunities for touching experience with small animals such as guinea pigs and goats. This valuable experience of directly interacting with animals is very popular with children.
Events and Special Programs
Year-Round Experience Events
Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden hosts various events and experience programs throughout the year.
Animal Guides and Keeper Talks
Regularly held explanations by keepers about animals. Visitors can hear directly from keepers information about animal ecology and behind-the-scenes breeding stories not typically available. Popular animal talks attract large crowds, so reserving a spot before the start time is recommended.
Feeding Experience
Feeding experience events for certain animals are occasionally held. Some may require advance registration or are first-come-first-served; check the official website for the latest information.
Night ZOO (Summer Only)
A limited nighttime opening event held during summer months. Visitors can observe the active behavior of nocturnal animals, and the illuminated garden’s magical atmosphere can be enjoyed. This popular event reveals a completely different charm of the zoo from daytime visits.
Educational Programs and Learning Opportunities
Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden emphasizes its role as an educational facility, offering programs for school groups and general learning opportunities.
School Programs
Programs are available for school groups visiting for field trips or educational outings. Depending on grade level and learning objectives, choose from various programs including animal observation learning, environmental education, and biological diversity studies.
Summer and Winter Schools
Special programs for children may be held during long vacation periods. Valuable experiences not typically available include deep learning about animal ecology and breeding experience opportunities.
In-Garden Facilities and Services
Restaurants and Gift Shops
Multiple restaurants and gift shops within the garden offer dining and rest options.
Restaurants offer standard menu items such as curry, ramen, and rice bowls, as well as cute animal-themed dishes. Children’s set meals are also popular.
Gift Shops sell Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden original merchandise, animal plushies, and snacks. Shabani merchandise is particularly popular as a souvenir of the visit.
During busy times, restaurants may reach capacity; avoiding peak hours (noon to 1 p.m.) or bringing a picnic lunch offers alternatives. Designated dining areas throughout the garden allow outdoor picnic-style meals on nice weather days.
Accessibility and Services
Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden prioritizes accessibility for all visitors.
Wheelchair rental (free) is available at the main gate and Hoshigaoka Gate. Major pathways are barrier-free accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, though some older facilities and viewpoints have stairs making access difficult.
Multi-purpose restrooms are located throughout the garden, with facilities for ostomates.
Service animals (guide dogs, assistance dogs, hearing dogs) are permitted.
For deaf visitors, some facilities provide subtitled videos and communication via writing. For blind visitors, some facilities offer tactile displays and audio guides.
Surrounding Tourist Spots and Nagoya Tourism
Attractions in the Higashiyama Park Area
The Higashiyama Park area where Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden is located is the cultural and leisure center of eastern Nagoya. Beyond the zoo and botanical garden, appealing spots exist.
Heiwa Park is adjacent to Higashiyama Park and known as a cherry blossom viewing spot. During spring, approximately 1,500 cherry trees bloom profusely, attracting many visitors.
Higashiyama Comprehensive Park as a whole features sports facilities, tennis courts, and walking paths, offering outdoor activities in natural surroundings.
Tourist Spots in Nagoya
When visiting Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden, combining visits to other Nagoya attractions is recommended.
Nagoya Castle is Nagoya’s representative tourist destination, famous for its golden ornamental roof tiles (shachihoko). It is accessible from Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden via subway in about 30 minutes.
Nagoya Port Aquarium is one of Japan’s largest aquariums, popular for dolphin shows and whale shark displays.
Atsuta Shrine is a formal shrine believed to house the Grass-Cutting Sword (Kusanagi no Tsurugi), one of the Three Imperial Regalia.
Osu Shopping District is a Nagoya downtown shopping area offering food and shopping experiences.
Nagoya specialty foods (miso cutlet, eel over rice, chicken wings, thick noodles) can be sampled at various restaurants throughout the city.
Points to Know Before Your Visit
Tips for Avoiding Crowds
To comfortably enjoy Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden, avoiding crowds is important.
Weekday visits are least crowded, allowing leisurely animal observation. Tuesday through Thursday are particularly uncrowded.
When visiting on weekends, the period from 9 to 10 a.m. shortly after opening or after 3 p.m. tends to be less crowded. The period from late morning to 2 p.m. represents peak hours.
Periods to avoid include Golden Week, summer vacation (especially Obon period), Silver Week, and spring cherry blossom season. During these periods, parking fills early in the morning.
Packing and Clothing Advice
Packing and clothing recommendations for comfortable garden touring:
Clothing: The garden is vast, requiring considerable walking, so comfortable shoes and ease-of-movement clothing are essential. Summer sun is strong, so a hat or parasol is convenient. Winter requires thorough cold-weather preparation due to extensive outdoor displays.
Packing: Beverages (though vending machines exist, they may be sold out during peak times), towels, rain gear, sunscreen, insect repellent spray (summer), and other items provide assurance.
Camera: Those wishing to photograph animals should bring a camera with telephoto lens. Flash photography is prohibited to avoid stressing animals.
Picnic blanket: Bringing a picnic blanket is convenient when bringing packed lunch.
Pet Accompaniment
Pets (dogs, cats, etc.) are generally prohibited at Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden. This prevents disease transmission to captive animals and reduces stress on wildlife.
Service animals (guide dogs, assistance dogs, hearing dogs) are permitted.
When bringing pets, arrange for pet care facilities outside the garden or have family members take turns entering.
Conclusion: Enjoy Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden to the Fullest
Nagoya Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden is a premier integrated facility housing approximately 450 animal species and approximately 7,000 plant species. Since its opening in 1937, it has been loved by local residents and is now Nagoya’s representative tourist attraction, welcoming over 2 million visitors annually.
Encounters with charming animals such as the handsome gorilla Shabani, Japan’s largest Asian elephant facility Zojium, and adorable koalas await. The botanical garden showcases beautiful flowers and rare tropical plants through changing seasons, and with an amusement park and Higashiyama Sky Tower also available, visitors can spend an entire day without boredom.
With affordable 500-yen (adult) admission, excellent access by subway from central Nagoya in about 20 minutes, and extensive educational programs with conservation efforts, Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden has numerous attractions. Whether visiting as a family, couple, friends, or solo, everyone can enjoy the facility.
When visiting Nagoya, be sure to visit Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden to experience the special encounter with life in “The Forest Where You Meet Life on Earth.” Check the official website beforehand for latest information and events to plan a fulfilling day.
Basic Information
Facility Name: Nagoya Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden (Nagoya-shi Higashiyama Doushokubutsuen)
Address: 3-70 Higashiyama Motomachi, Chikusa Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 464-0804
Phone: 052-782-2111
Operating Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:50 p.m. (admission until 4:30 p.m.)
Closure Days: Every Monday (or following weekday if Monday is a holiday), New Year’s holidays
Admission:
- Adults (High school students and above) 500 yen
- Middle school students and below Free
- Annual Pass 2,000 yen
Access:
- 3-minute walk from Exit 3 of Higashiyama Park Station on Nagoya Municipal Subway Higashiyama Line
- 7-minute walk from Exit 6 of Hososhigasane Station on Nagoya Municipal Subway Higashiyama Line
Parking: Approximately 1,600 spaces (800 yen per day for regular vehicles)
Official Website: https://www.higashiyama.city.nagoya.jp/
