Yokohama Zoological Gardens Zoorasia: A Must-Visit Attraction for Animal Lovers

Yokohama Zoological Gardens Zoorasia: A Must-Visit Attraction for Animal Lovers

Yokohama Zoological Gardens Zoorasia, one of Japan's largest and most renowned zoos, offers an immersive experience for animal enthusiasts and families alike. Located in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, Zoorasia is a haven for wildlife lovers, featuring diverse animal species in meticulously designed habitats.

Location and Access

Zoorasia is conveniently located outside central Yokohama and can be easily accessed via public transportation. The most common route is by taking the Sotetsu Railway from Yokohama Station to Tsurugamine Station, followed by a short bus ride to the zoo. Alternatively, visitors can take a bus from Nakayama Station along the JR Yokohama Line, which also offers frequent departures.

For those driving, the zoo is accessible from several major highways, including the Tomei Expressway, Hodogaya Bypass, and Daisan Keihin.

Themed Areas and Animal Exhibitions

Zoorasia is divided into eight distinct ecological zones, each designed to replicate the natural habitats of various regions around the world. These zones include:

• Asian Tropical Forest: Home to Indian elephants, Sumatran tigers, and orangutans.
• Subarctic Forest: Features penguins, seals, polar bears, and a large walk-in aviary.
• Oceanian Grassland: Showcases kangaroos and emus.
• Central Asian Highland: Houses monkeys and other Central Asian wildlife.
• Japanese Countryside: Includes tanuki, black bears, and foxes.
• Amazon Jungle: Features capybara and ocelot.
• African Tropical Rainforest: Home to okapi, chimpanzees, and porcupines.
• African Savannah: Highlights giraffes, zebras, lions, and a variety of other African species.

Each zone is meticulously designed to provide animals with spacious areas that closely resemble their natural habitats, allowing visitors to observe them in a more naturalistic setting.

Facilities and Amenities

Zoorasia offers a range of facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit for all. These include:

• Restaurants and Cafes: Two restaurants, one in the African Savannah area and the other in the Oceania Grassland area, along with a cafe and an ice-cream shop.
• Zoo Bus: A convenient bus service that circulates around the zoo, ideal for families with young children or those who prefer not to walk extensively. Tickets are available for a single ride or as a day pass.
• Nature Trails and Recreation Areas: Wide, landscaped paths and numerous seating areas, shade spots, and picnic tables make the zoo a relaxing place to spend the day.
• Children’s Playgrounds: Several playgrounds are scattered throughout the zoo, providing entertainment for younger visitors.

Special Events and Night Visits

Zoorasia occasionally hosts special events, such as the "Night ZOORASIA" event, which allows visitors to enjoy the zoo in the evening. During these events, the zoo stays open until 8:00 PM, offering additional attractions like a beer garden, illuminations, and a night bird show.

Admission and Hours

Visitors can enter the zoo by purchasing tickets in advance, which is currently required due to capacity management. The admission fees are as follows:

• Adults: 800 yen
• High School Students: 300 yen
• Elementary and Junior High School Students: 200 yen
• Children under elementary school age: Free.

The zoo is open from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM, with admission closing at 4:00 PM. It is closed on Tuesdays, except for public holidays when it will close the following day.

Parking and Additional Information

For those driving, paid parking is available on site, with fees of 1,000 yen per visit for general cars and 1 yen per visit for group buses. The zoo's official website and contact information are available for any further inquiries or to plan your visit in detail.