A harmony of the view of Kagoshima and animals
“Hirakawa Zoo” is a home to about 900 animals of approximately 130 species, including koalas and red pandas, living in a large compound. The elaborate displays, including a walk-through exhibition room and cages for animals to pass over the head of the viewing passage, allow visitors to see the animals in action and every hair detail.
One of the secrets of the park’s popularity among men and women of all ages is that visitors can take a leisurely stroll in the park, which takes about two hours and a full lap from the main gate, while enjoying the natural scenery of Kagoshima and the spectacular view of Sakurajima. Adults and children alike will enjoy this dynamic and nature-filled Hirakawa Zoo.
Kagoshima’s Prefectural bird Lidth’s Jay, National Special Natural Monument Amami Rabbit, dignified and yet adorable Eastern Timber Wolf, King Vulture, which is the only one of the species reared in Japan, and charming koalas… it is only Hirakawa Zoological Park that you can see these animals in Kyushu!
Located in two zones, the ‘African Savannah Zone’ and the ‘Indian Forest Zone’, the “foot bath” corner is unique to the hot spring kingdom of Kagoshima. Soak in a warm footbath while watching the animals at ease, soothing your mind and body.
African Savannah zone is located ahead of the main gate with a rainbow. With Sakurajima and Kinko Bay at the back, animals such as giraffes, zebras, and rhinoceroses spend their time by herd. Seeing a large animal up close is intensely exciting.
The giraffes that live in Hirakawa Zoo are of “Masai giraffe” variety. Unlike reticulated giraffes, which are seen in many zoos in Japan, Masai giraffes can be found in only three zoos.
Koalas that arrived in Japan for the first time came to Hirakawa Zoo along with Tama Zoo and Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens in 1984. With their cuddle-like loveliness and charm, koalas make viewers of all ages fall in love with them. The walk-through exhibition of koalas’ living space through which you can go is the first in Japan!
Try out the animal motif buses when going around the park. The bus can ride 15 people and can store a wheelchair or stroller. Spend a better time by utilizing the bus.
Hirakawa Zoological Park
099-261-2326
Address：5669-1 Hirakawa-cho, Kagoshima City
Access：Get off at “Hirakawa Zoological Park” bus stop from Tenmonkan by Kagoshima Kotsu Bus
Business hour：9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (Entrance until 4:30 p.m.)
Entrance fee：High school students and above 500yen, Elementary and Junior high school students 100yen.（Preschool children can enter for free）
Closing dates : December 29 ～ January 1
WEBSITE : https://hirakawazoo.jp/