Guide
Takao Fukuyama Zoo (formerly known as Fukuyama City Zoo) is a beautiful public zoo located in Fukuyama City, Hiroshima Prefecture. Starting in 2026, the facility will evolve under its new name, "Takao Fukuyama Zoo." The zoo's most significant attraction is that it is the only place in Japan where you can see the rare Borneo elephant. In addition to Asian elephants, the zoo offers a wide variety of animals, including carnivores, birds, and reptiles, providing an excellent environment for educational observation.
The zoo features a vast grounds where visitors can experience the changing seasons. The exhibits are designed to allow animals to live in a way that mimics their natural habitats, fostering a deeper understanding of wildlife. Rather than just being a place to "see" animals, the zoo serves as a center for social education, encouraging visitors to think about nature conservation and the relationship between humans and animals.
The history of the zoo dates back to 1978, originally starting as a private leisure facility called "Tomiya Leisure Land." Over the years, it transitioned into a public facility managed by Fukuyama City. Since 1995, the zoo has undergone various renovations to improve the visitor experience. A notable upgrade was the 2011 renovation of the carnivore area, now known as "Hunter's Castle," which significantly enhanced the animal habitats. Today, it serves as a vital green space for the local community and a hub for teaching animal welfare to future generations.
The zoo is divided into several themed zones. In the thrilling "Hunter's Castle," you can observe the powerful presence of carnivores such as lions, Amur tigers, Amur leopards, pumas, servals, and caracals. The "Monkey Zone" offers a lively view of macaques, squirrel monkeys, and lemurs.
The "Savanna Zone" provides a sense of the African plains, featuring animals like Hartmann's zebra and reticulated giraffes. For bird lovers, the "Flying Cage" allows for a dynamic view of avian movements, while the Penguin Zone features Humboldt and Gentoo penguins. The presence of the Asian elephant and the incredibly rare Borneo elephant remains a top highlight for all visitors.
The zoo offers a different atmosphere throughout the year. Spring brings vibrant greenery and active animals, while summer is a popular time for families seeking a refreshing outdoor experience. Autumn offers a more serene atmosphere with colorful foliage. We recommend visiting in the morning when animals are most active. Some seasons also feature special events like animal lectures or workshops, which can be booked in advance for a deeper learning experience.
Beyond simple observation, the zoo offers various educational programs. Twice a year, the zoo holds special sessions including animal lectures and craft workshops. Members of the "Zoo Friends Association" can even access specialized information through the quarterly publication "Saezuri," which covers animal care and veterinary insights, helping visitors build a deeper bond with the animals.
The area surrounding the zoo is rich in nature, including the tranquil scenery of Tomiya Pond. Fukuyama City also boasts many historical landmarks and local gourmet spots, making it easy to combine a trip to the zoo with a broader exploration of eastern Hiroshima. The area is easily accessible by car, making it a perfect destination for a day trip.
Because the zoo grounds are quite extensive, we strongly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Please dress appropriately for the weather and seasonal temperature changes.
We recommend bringing cash for admission fees.
While many signs and some exhibits include English, detailed explanations from staff may be limited to Japanese.