Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens 東山動植物園

Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens is one of Nagoya's most popular tourist attractions, boasting the second largest number of visitors of any zoo in Japan, and rich nature, despite being located in the city.

Reach the zoo by train.

From Nagoya Station take the Higashiyama subway line to Higashiyama Koen Station. From there you cannot miss the zoo entrance directly ahead.

The Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens made international headlines thanks to its resident gorilla Shabani, with visitors enthralled with his perceived handsomeness. And while you should certainly join the crowds and see Shabani for yourself, there is much more to take in.

At the zoo, meet popular koalas and elephants, as well as the rare giant anteater, and about 30 varieties of medaka Japanese killifish. Wander the grounds and find lions, giraffes, red pandas, raccoons and many more.

Exploring the surrounding botanical gardens, one of the largest of its kind in Asia, you can see how well the area was planned to make use of the surrounding forest. Discover Japan's oldest public greenhouse, and visit a thatched Gassho-zukuri house relocated from Shirakawa-go, and in spring, enjoy one of Nagoya's best cherry blossom spots.

The gardens are so large you may not be able to cover them in one day. If you want to see everything, head for the top of the Higashiyama Sky Tower. Stand on top of Mt. Higashiyama for a fantastic view of the zoo, gardens and the surrounding area.