Guide
Located within Minami Park in Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City, the Fukuoka City Zoological and Botanical Gardens is a unique facility that integrates a zoo and a botanical garden. The facility is divided into two distinct zones: the Zoo area and the Botanical Garden area, each offering a unique way to experience nature. It is one of Fukuoka's premier leisure destinations, where you can witness the charm of adorable animals and the seasonal beauty of diverse plant life simultaneously.
The history of this facility is deeply tied to the development of Fukuoka. Originally, the zoo was located at the site of the current Fukuoka City Mukaichi Elementary School. After the war, the zoo was rebuilt in Minami Park, south of the city center, evolving into its current form. The botanical garden was also developed using the site of the former Hirao Water Purification Plant. Today, the facility maintains a rich natural environment, hosting approximately 110 species of animals and about 2,600 species of plants.
In the Zoo area, you can observe a wide variety of animals in a lively setting. Meanwhile, the Botanical Garden area allows you to enjoy the changing colors of the seasons. A standout feature is the greenhouse, which houses approximately 1,200 species of plants across eight different environmental zones. Additionally, the observation deck offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, showcasing a beautiful fusion of nature and the urban cityscape.
Because the scenery changes with the seasons, there is always something new to discover. You can enjoy blooming flowers in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant autumn foliage, and the serene, quiet beauty of plants in winter. April and May are particularly wonderful months to visit, as the botanical displays are at their peak. Visiting during the bright daylight hours is best for spotting active animals, while the late afternoon is perfect for a relaxing stroll through the peaceful botanical gardens.
The park offers various ways to connect with nature. In the botanical garden, you can observe seasonal plant cycles and learn about different ecosystems. For families with children, the park also features attractions such as a Ferris wheel, a merry-go-round, and smaller playground equipment, ensuring a full day of entertainment. It is a wonderful place to spend quality time in a natural setting.
The facility is located in the lush Minami Park area, which is easily accessible from central Fukuoka. Near the botanical garden, you can also find the 'Botanical Life Square,' a center for urban greening and lifestyle suggestions, making the surrounding area a great place for a relaxing walk.
Since the grounds are quite extensive, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. If visiting in summer, bringing insect repellent is a good idea. In the botanical garden's lawn area, you may use leisure sheets or simple tents for resting, but please note that pegging (securing tents with stakes) is strictly prohibited. To protect the animals and plants, flash photography in the zoo and feeding the animals is strictly forbidden. Please also ensure you take all your trash home with you to keep the environment clean.