Guida
Tama Zoological Park is a large-scale zoo located in the Tama Hills of Hino City, Tokyo. The park features diverse exhibition areas themed around different regions such as Asia, Africa, and Australia. The exhibits are thoughtfully designed to allow animals to live in environments that closely mimic their natural habitats, providing a unique opportunity to observe wildlife in a more natural state. Key attractions include the Lion Bus, which allows you to see animals up close, and the Orangutan Skywalk, where you can observe primates moving through the canopy.
Founded not only for animal breeding but also for education, research, and environmental conservation, Tama Zoological Park has a rich history. Notably, in 1964, it pioneered the safari-style viewing method with the introduction of the 'Lion Bus,' setting a precedent for zoo exhibition techniques in Japan. The park's design utilizes the natural hilly topography to accommodate the physical and cognitive needs of the animals, making it a beloved destination for many visitors over the decades.
The park boasts the world-class 'Orangutan Skywalk,' a structure consisting of 9 towers and wire ropes spanning approximately 154 meters, allowing visitors to watch orangutans move through the air. Another highlight is the 'Flying Bird Cage,' where white-tailed eagles and bald eagles can be seen soaring freely within a massive semi-circular enclosure. In the Africa section, the 'Lion Bus' offers a safari-style experience where you can observe giraffes, pelicans, and lions from a moving vehicle. The Asia section is equally impressive, featuring areas that replicate Asian natural environments for species like the snow leopard, red panda, and Malayan tapir.
Activities at Tama Zoological Park change with the seasons. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for strolling through the park, and animal activity tends to be quite high during these periods. Because animal behavior changes based on temperature and seasonal shifts, the experience of observing them varies depending on when you visit. While animals are generally most active during the daytime, you can also observe their more relaxed, resting behaviors toward the late afternoon.
The park offers various educational programs, including guided tours by staff and volunteers. The 'Animal Guide' program allows you to learn about animal ecology from professional staff, while 'Spot Guides' involve volunteers in interactive sessions like quizzes and observations. These programs provide a much deeper understanding of wildlife beyond just visual observation. Additionally, the Lion Bus provides a thrilling safari-style viewing experience.
Located in the nature-rich Tama Hills, the area surrounding the zoo is perfect for nature lovers. There are many beautiful parks and hiking trails nearby, allowing you to combine a zoo visit with a refreshing walk in nature. Its accessibility from central Tokyo makes it an ideal destination for a day trip or leisure outing.
Since the park is built on hilly terrain, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Please dress appropriately for the season and weather. For payment information and accessibility details, please check the official website. To ensure the safety and well-being of the animals, please follow all posted rules. Regarding photography, please be aware that some areas may have restrictions. For information on barrier-free access, please refer to the official website.