Tama Zoological Park

The basics

The zoo is divided into four different zones: the Asiatic Area, the Australian Area, the African Area, and the Insectarium. Designed to take advantage of the topography of the Tama Hills, the park features large, open spaces surrounded by moats, so guests can observe animals roaming around in a more natural state. You can walk among more than 700 species of butterflies at the Insectarium, and visit other zoo highlights including a walk-in aviary and one of the world’s largest skywalks, located in the Asiatic Area.

Things to know before you go

• Tama Zoological Park is ideal for animal lovers and families with kids.

• Wear comfortable shoes, as the zoo is built over several hills.

• A free shuttle bus is available in the Asiatic Area.

• On-site amenities include gift shops, snack bars, and restaurants.

How to get there

The zoo is located in Hino City, about 1 hour from central Tokyo. From Shinjuku Station, take the Keio Line (toward Keiohachioju), then transfer at Takahata-Fudo Station to the Keio Dobutsuen Line, and get off at Tama Dobutsu Koen Station; or from Tachikawa Station, take the Tama Monorail and get off at Tama Dobutsu Koen Station. The zoo does not have a dedicated parking lot, though there are paid lots nearby.

When to get there

The zoo is open daily from from morning to very early evening, with the last entry 1 hour before closing. It's closed on Wednesday (or Thursday, if Wednesday is a public holiday), with holiday closures from December 29 through January 1. Free admission is offered on May 4, May 5, and October 1. The best times to visit, weather-wise, are in the spring and fall.

Wildlife at Tama

Tama Zoological Park features a wide array of animals. See animals native to Japan, such as sika deer, Japanese macaque, red-crowned cranes, and Yezo brown bears. The Australian Area is well represented and features animals such as koalas, kangaroos, emus, and kookaburras. Other popular animals include snow leopards, elephants, lions, and orangutans.