Guide
Kakegawa Kachoen, located in Kakegawa City, Shizuoka Prefecture, is a unique theme park where birds are the stars. Unlike standard zoos where animals are often kept behind bars, this facility features a design where many birds live in a much more open environment. The expansive grounds include a large-scale glasshouse and outdoor areas where birds live in a state of near-freedom. This allows visitors to observe bird behavior up close and even experience feeding them directly from their hands. As a botanical garden as well, the park offers a stunning landscape of colorful flowers blooming throughout the year.
The facility is operated with the theme of the coexistence of birds and plants, creating a space where visitors can feel a close connection to the rhythms of nature. It is recognized as one of the few facilities in Japan where birds take center stage, focusing on communication with animals rather than mere display. The variety of bird species and their habitats are the result of many years of dedicated research and management.
The park is divided into several engaging zones. Near the entrance, you can find the 'World Owl Exhibit,' while the 'Penguin Pool' and the 'Waterfront of Toucans and Ibises' offer visually diverse aquatic environments. The 'Parrot Water Lily Pool' is a favorite, where colorful parrots flutter about. In the outdoor areas, you can encounter larger species such as pelicans, cranes, swans, and emus. There are also dedicated spaces like the 'Wanpaku Plaza' and a water play area for children, making it a perfect spot for families to enjoy the outdoors. The seamless integration of lush tropical plants and free-roaming birds within the glasshouse is a signature view of the park.
Because the facility features a large, climate-controlled glasshouse, it is a perfect destination regardless of the season. Even during the hot summer months or cold winter days, you can observe the birds and flowers in a comfortable, temperature-controlled environment. For the best experience, we recommend visiting in the morning when bird activity is typically high, or during specific times when the exhibits change. The botanical scenery also shifts beautifully with the seasons, offering a different look every time you visit.
The defining feature of Kakegawa Kachoen is the 'hands-on' interaction. In many areas, you can participate in feeding experiences. For example, feeding small birds like parrots directly from your hand provides an incredibly close and memorable connection with nature. Other spots, such as the Emu Ranch and the outdoor plazas, allow you to feel the presence of animals in a more casual, approachable way. This makes the park a truly interactive destination rather than just a place for observation.
The area around Kakegawa City is rich in history, with nearby landmarks such as Kakegawa Castle. The park is easily accessible from Kakegawa Station, making it a convenient stop for travelers using the Shinkansen or local trains who wish to combine nature-based sightseeing with historical tours.
We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and shoes. Since the park consists of both indoor glasshouses and outdoor areas, it is wise to dress in layers to accommodate temperature changes. Regarding payments, the facility accepts major credit cards (VISA, MasterCard, JCB, AMEX, Diners Club) as well as electronic money (QUICPay, and various transport/IC cards like nanaco, WAON, and Rakuten Edy). Please note that pets of any kind, including service animals, are strictly prohibited. While photography is allowed, please be mindful of the birds' well-being. The facility is fully accessible, with wheelchair-friendly parking, entrances, and restrooms available.