Guide
Kyoto City Zoo is a beloved destination located within Okazaki Park in the Sakyo Ward of Kyoto. The zoo features a wide variety of animals, including Asian elephants, and has undergone significant modern updates, such as the completion of the 'Kyoto no Mori' (Kyoto Forest) area in 2015. This area provides a more naturalistic environment for visitors to observe animal behaviors up close.
Originally opened in April 1903 as the 'Kyoto Memorial Zoo' to commemorate the marriage of Crown Prince Yoshihito (later Emperor Taisho), this institution is one of the oldest in Japan, second only to Ueno Zoo in Tokyo. The zoo is situated in a culturally rich area surrounded by historic landmarks like Heian Jingu Shrine and Nanzen-ji Temple.
The zoo offers diverse exhibition areas. You can observe Asian elephants, Cape hyraxes, and Brazilian tapirs. The 'Kyoto no Mori' area allows visitors to experience a more naturalistic, roaming-style environment featuring local Kyoto flora and fauna. Specialized exhibits include amphibians and reptiles (such as Japanese giant salamanders and pythons), bird houses (featuring birds like bluebirds and waterbirds), and dedicated areas for bears and small mammals.
Operating hours vary by season: from March to November, the zoo is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. From December to February, it operates from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Please note that the last entry is 30 minutes before closing. The zoo is closed on Mondays; however, if a Monday is a national holiday, the zoo will close on the following Tuesday instead. It is also closed during the New Year holidays (December 28 – January 1).
Beyond animal viewing, the zoo offers several fun attractions including a Ferris wheel, a miniature train, and pedal boats to enjoy the park's atmosphere. For a more relaxing experience, the Library Cafe offers a selection of approximately 7,000 books related to animals, allowing you to enjoy a beverage while reading. The grounds also feature natural elements like streams, fountains, and terraced landscapes for a pleasant stroll.
The Okazaki area is a hub of culture and art. Within walking distance of the zoo, you can visit Heian Jingu Shrine, Nanzen-ji Temple, Kyoto City Kyocera Museum of Art, ROHM Theatre Kyoto, and the Kyoto Prefectural Library. This makes it easy to plan a comprehensive cultural itinerary.
As the zoo covers a large area, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. The facility includes various management areas such as a wildlife rescue center and an animal hospital. There is also an official shop on-site for souvenirs and shopping.