Kobe Animal Kingdom

The basics

Kobe Animal Kingdom encompasses several themed zones such as the African Wetland, Tropical Forest, Asian Forest, and Rocky Valley, each occupied by creatures native to the habitat, from pygmy hippos to red pandas. Scheduled activities throughout the day include educational zookeeper talks, small animal-feeding, and working dog demonstrations. A small petting area allows contact with domestic animals, including dogs, cats, and rabbits. Horse and camel rides are also available at an additional cost.

Things to know before you go

• Kobe Animal Kingdom is wheelchair accessible and has wheelchairs available at no cost.
• Admission is discounted for visitors under 13 and over 65.
• You can bring your own food and eat it on the lawn.
• There are coin-operated lockers close to the entrance.
• You cannot leave and re-enter without buying another ticket.

How to get there

You can easily access Kobe Animal Kingdom using public transportation. From Shin-Kobe Station take the Seishin-Yamate subway line to Sannomiya Station, transfer to the Port Liner in the direction of the airport, and get off at Keisan Kagaku Center Station, which is a 3-minute walk away. If you are driving, you’ll find paid parking at the park.

When to get there

Kobe Animal Kingdom is open from mid-morning until early evening all year round. It is closed on Thursdays but remains open on public holidays, which are typically peak visitor days—skip weekends and holidays (especially Golden Week) if you want to avoid crowds. If you are interested in attending the park’s events, such as demonstrations or zookeeper talks, you can check the website or call ahead of your visit to get the schedule.

Eat and shop

The park has several places to eat, including a restaurant serving international dishes, an udon noodle restaurant, and a café selling light meals and snacks. Various themed souvenirs are available at the park’s shop, such as stuffed toy birds and animals, as well as animal-shaped cookies.