Overview
Kanazawa Zoo is a municipal zoo run by the city of Yokohama, set within Kanazawa Natural Park on the hills of Kamariya-higashi in Kanazawa-ku. Spread over roughly 12.8 hectares, it is known for focusing on rare herbivores from around the world, letting visitors meet the animals in a green, forested setting close to the city. The grounds are divided into regional zones covering Asia, Oceania, the Americas and Africa, and the gentle slopes and groves make it an easygoing, all-day destination popular with families.
Highlights
- ●A distinctive focus on rare herbivores from around the world
- ●Roughly 12.8 hectares spread across green, wooded hills
- ●A walking-style visit through regionally themed zones
- ●A location shared with the adjoining Kanazawa Natural Park
History
Development began in 1982, and the zoo opened on 1 April 1988. As a municipal zoo operated by Yokohama, it has placed particular emphasis on keeping and displaying herbivores such as koalas and elephants. Because it was planned as part of Kanazawa Natural Park, the site was designed so that the zoo and nature walks blend together as one recreational area.
Access
The zoo sits in Kamariya-higashi, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa (around 35.35°N, 139.60°E). As it forms part of Kanazawa Natural Park, arriving via the park car park is convenient. If you come by train and bus, a local bus from the nearest station is the usual route, but please check official information for current services and timetables.
Best season
Since this is an outdoor zoo you explore on foot, the mild seasons of spring and autumn are especially pleasant. Spring brings flowers and fresh greenery in the zoo and adjoining Kanazawa Natural Park, while autumn adds coloured leaves. In summer, choose the shadier paths; in winter, aim for the warmer midday hours for a comfortable visit.
Map
35.3501, 139.5994 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Enter the zoo from the Kanazawa Natural Park car park
- 2Tour the zones, centred on the herbivore exhibits
- 3Walk the paths to enjoy the hillside nature and views
- 4Finish with a picnic or stroll in Kanazawa Natural Park
Did you know?
💡 Because the zoo and Kanazawa Natural Park share the same grounds, you can watch the animals and then move straight on to a nature walk or a picnic, a charm unique to Kanazawa Zoo. The paths follow the hilly terrain with plenty of ups and downs, giving your visit a touch of light hiking.
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