Zoos in Tokyo Japan: Your Ultimate Guide to Tokyo’s Best Wildlife Experiences

Overview of Zoos in Tokyo

Tokyo offers a surprising variety of zoos, from historic parks in the heart of the city to sprawling green havens on its outskirts. Our selection criteria include popularity among international visitors, family‐friendly atmosphere, ease of access, and budget considerations. Whether you’re an animal lover wanting up–close encounters or traveling with kids, these top zoos deliver unforgettable wildlife experiences.

Top Zoos in Tokyo

Ueno Zoo

The oldest zoo in Japan, Ueno Zoo spans 14.3 hectares and is famous for its giant pandas, Asian elephants, and historic buildings.

• Iconic giant pandas
• English signage and audio guides
• Wheelchair-friendly paths

Entry Fee	Adults ¥600; Children ¥200
Average Visit Time	2–3 hours
Nearest Station	JR Ueno Station (5-min walk)
Language Support	English brochures available

Tama Zoological Park

Tama Zoo features wide open enclosures for roaming herd animals, a large children’s petting area, and a unique monorail ride over the grounds.

• Expansive “African Savanna” zone
• Petting zoo & playground
• Monorail ride with park views

Entry Fee	Adults ¥500; Children ¥200
Average Visit Time	3–4 hours
Nearest Station	Seibu-Tachikawa Station (Seibu Line), then bus
Family Atmosphere	High

Inokashira Park Zoo

Set inside Inokashira Park, this small zoo is perfect for families, offering a petting corner, birdhouse, and fun boat rentals.

• Petting area with goats & sheep
• Birdhouse exhibits
• Rowboat rentals on pond

Entry Fee	Adults ¥400; Children ¥100
Average Visit Time	1–2 hours
Nearest Station	JR Kichijoji Station (7-min walk)
Dress Code	Comfortable shoes recommended

Sunshine City Zoo

Located atop the Sunshine City building in Ikebukuro, this urban zoo offers rooftop enclosures, small mammals, and a fun “Sky Circus” observation deck nearby.

• Urban rooftop setting
• Otters, meerkats, and small mammals
• Combine with aquarium and observatory

Entry Fee	Adults ¥800; Children ¥300
Average Visit Time	1–2 hours
Nearest Station	Ikebukuro Station (5-min walk)
Language Support	Basic English signage

Comparison Table

Zoo	Entry Fee (Adult)	Size (ha)	Nearest Station
Ueno Zoo	¥600	14.3	Ueno
Tama Zoo	¥500	52.3	Seibu-Tachikawa
Inokashira Park Zoo	¥400	6.2	Kichijoji
Sunshine City Zoo	¥800	0.6	Ikebukuro

Budget & Cultural Tips

• Purchase a Tokyo Zoo Pass for unlimited visits: Adult ¥2,000/month.
• Bring cash: some ticket counters are cash only.
• Weekdays are less crowded; mornings are best for pandas at Ueno Zoo.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I bring food into Tokyo zoos?

A: Yes—picnic areas are available at Ueno and Tama Zoos, but no alcohol.

Q2: Are stroller rentals available?

A: Ueno Zoo and Tama Zoo offer baby-stroller rentals for ¥300/day.

Q3: Do I need to book in advance?

A: No advance booking required for zoos, but special panda shows may need reservations.