Guide
Toitsu no Mori Park is a municipal zoo located in Kokura Kita Ward, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture. A key feature of the park is its exhibition style, which utilizes the natural terrain and existing trees, allowing visitors to observe animals living in conditions close to their original habitats. The zoo hosts approximately 550 animals across 100 species, ranging from local wildlife to exotic animals from around the world. It also serves as a center for environmental education, providing a space to learn about animal ecology and its connection to the natural world.
The history of the park dates back to 1932, when it opened as "Toitsu Amusement Park" to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Kyushu Electric Tramway. In 1936, the zoo and amusement park merged, becoming a beloved local institution. Although it closed once during the war in 1944, it reopened in 1946. In 2000, management was transferred to Kitakyushu City, and it is now known as "Toitsu no Mori Park," serving as a hub for environmental education for citizens and tourists alike. The park is supported by the local community through programs like the "Animal Supporter" membership, which helps fund animal feed and maintenance.
The park is divided into several distinct zones. The "Local Animal Zone" features water birds like the Black Heron and Oriental White Ibis, as well as forest animals such as owls, tanuki (raccoon dogs), and flying squirrels. The "World Animal Zone" is further subdivided: the "Madagascar World" features lemurs; the "Savanna World" showcases giraffes, lions, and meerkats; the "Forest Floor World" hosts chimpanzees and Amur tigers; and the "Canopy World" features Great Hornbills and gibbons, with exhibits designed to mimic their natural habitats. Additionally, the "Interaction Zoo" offers close-up encounters with animals such as red pandas, raccoons, prairie dogs, donkeys, rabbits, guinea pigs, and various parrots.
You can experience the changing face of nature throughout the seasons. From March to May and October to November, animal activity tends to increase alongside the seasonal shifts in the environment. The park also hosts special seasonal events, such as the "Parrot & Parakeet Day" in June. We recommend visiting during the cooler morning hours when animals are often most active. Please note that the park may be closed on Mondays or Tuesdays, so it is best to check the schedule in advance.
In addition to environmental learning programs that deepen the connection with nature, the park offers a dedicated "Interaction Zoo" area for a hands-on experience with animals. For families with children, the park features various attractions and rides, including a Ferris wheel, mini-monorail, children's train, merry-go-round, cycle monorail, balloon elephant, happy kangaroo, fire fighter, and sky flyer, providing an excellent environment for active play.
The park is located near several public facilities, including Chuo Park, Kitakyushu Municipal General Gymnasium, and the Kyushu Dental University/Hospital. Some nearby attractions, such as the Kaihyokan Aquarium in Shimonoseki, may offer discounts to certain membership holders.
Because the park utilizes natural terrain, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Payments can be made at the park's shops and facilities. To support the zoo's mission, the "Animal Supporter" program is available for those wishing to contribute to animal care. Please check the latest information regarding the availability of certain restroom facilities (such as the Sato no Ikimono-kan) as they may be temporarily unavailable due to maintenance. Please follow all local signage regarding photography restrictions, animal welfare, and accessibility/barrier-free guidelines.