Guida
Tobu Zoo is a vast, multi-purpose leisure facility spanning Miyashiro Town and Hatoyama in Saitama Prefecture, combining a zoo and an amusement park. Since its opening in 1981, it has been known as a "Hybrid Leisure Land," offering both intimate animal encounters and thrilling amusement rides. The 54-hectare grounds are home to 1,200 animals across 120 species, including the iconic white tiger, presented within a landscape that emphasizes natural habitats. The amusement park area features over 30 types of attractions, ranging from family-friendly rides to high-adrenaline roller coasters, and includes a massive seasonal pool during the summer months.
The facility was conceived as a major project to celebrate the 80th anniversary of Tobu Railway. At its inception, the zoo established its unique identity by welcoming Toshio Nishiyama, a famous keeper known as the "Hippo Uncle" from Ueno Zoo, as its director. The park also serves as a cultural hub, with the "Tobu Zoo Song" being used as the departure melody for local trains, deeply embedding the park into the regional identity. The landscape is harmoniously designed around natural elements, such as the Himiya Ochikawa stream and ponds that reflect the area's historical natural environment.
The park is divided into three main zones: the Amusement Park, the Zoo, and the Pool/Equestrian area. In the Zoo area, you can observe the symbol of the park, the white tiger, or watch capybaras and primates behaving naturally. The Amusement Park offers diverse experiences, from the immersive "VR HEAD ROCK" to water-based wooden coasters. Interactive animal experiences are also a major draw; visitors can interact with rabbits, guinea pigs, and chicks. A truly unique highlight is the "Rhino Touch" event held every Saturday, a rare opportunity to experience close contact with a rhinoceros.
Each season offers a different way to enjoy the park. From spring to autumn, the lush greenery and active animal movements are particularly beautiful. During the summer, the "Tobu Super Pool" opens, making it a premier destination for cooling off. We recommend visiting the zoo in the cooler morning hours to see the animals active, and spending the afternoon enjoying the amusement park rides or the pool. Please note that certain seasonal events, such as crayfish fishing, are time-limited and should be checked in advance.
Beyond simple observation, the park offers many hands-on activities. You can participate in animal feeding or visit the specialized "Dog House" and "Cat House" for unique interactions. The famous Saturday