Ultimate Guide to Enjoying Tobu Zoo: Must-See Highlights & How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Located just 35 minutes from Tokyo's iconic TOKYO SKYTREE® via express train, Tobu Zoo is an all-in-one destination that combines a zoo, amusement park, and botanical garden, attracting visitors from both Japan and abroad.
This article offers a comprehensive guide to the highlights and ways to enjoy Tobu Zoo.
Whether you're looking for a new place to visit on your next day off or want to make the most of your trip to Tobu Zoo, this guide is for you.
What is Tobu Zoo?
Tobu Zoo is a hybrid leisure park that blends a zoo, amusement park, and botanical area.
In the zoo area, you can meet around 1,200 animals of approximately 120 species, including majestic white tigers, adorable capybaras, alpacas, powerful lions, and brown bears.
The amusement park area features over 30 unique attractions, such as a wooden roller coaster and a water merry-go-round, offering experiences you won't find anywhere else.
In the botanical area, you can enjoy a picnic amidst seasonal flowers blooming beautifully, making it a perfect spot for both adults and children to enjoy a day full of fun and relaxation.
How to Access Tobu Zoo
The nearest station to Tobu Zoo is Tobu-dobutsu-koen Station on the TOBU SKYTREE Line and Isesaki Line.
You can reach Tobu Zoo in about 35 minutes from TOKYO SKYTREE Station on the TOBU SKYTREE Line via express train or in approximately 80 minutes directly from Shibuya Station on the Hanzomon Line, with no need to transfer, making it easily accessible from various tourist destinations.
1. By Train: From Tobu-dobutsu-koen Station, it's a 12-minute walk to the zoo. Alternatively, you can take the shuttle bus (for a fee) from the west exit, which takes about 5 minutes to reach the park. You can either enjoy a leisurely walk or take the bus for a quick and comfortable ride.
2. By Car: The park is conveniently located about 20 minutes from the Tohoku Expressway Kuki IC or Ken-O Expressway Satte IC.
Top 4 Highlights of Tobu Zoo
The main attraction of Tobu Zoo is the opportunity to observe approximately 120 species of animals up close.
Some animals can be fed, and there are special areas accessible only during feeding times, allowing for an even closer encounter with certain species.
Every Sunday, visitors can enjoy the popular "Animal Parade," where animals march through the park, making it a favorite among guests.
Here are the top highlights of the zoo area you won't want to miss:
1. The Impressive Cat World
Cat World is home to white tigers and Amur leopards, allowing you to experience the wild allure of these majestic animals up close.
Among the stars of Cat World are the adorable white tiger cubs born in November 2024.
You’ll be charmed by their every move as they toddle after their mother, sometimes stumbling clumsily but always capturing the hearts of onlookers.
Seeing the White Tiger family up close is an experience unique to Tobu Zoo.
2. AKAGE365 (Rhesus Monkey): Natural Encounters with Monkeys
At AKAGE365, a monkey mountain with two large hills, you can observe Japanese macaques living in their natural state.
Watch them play on ropes, groom each other, or simply huddle together for warmth.
The playful antics of baby monkeys are also a delightful sight.
3. Meet Manpuku the Hippo from Ehime
Manpuku the hippo hails from Tobe Zoo in Ehime.
Known for his glossy skin and laid-back demeanor, Manpuku has fans who travel all the way from Ehime just to see him.
The name "Manpuku," meaning "full belly," reflects the hope that he will grow strong and healthy by eating plenty.
As of January 2025, Manpuku is three years old.
Let's hope he continues to eat heartily and thrive, living up to his name!
4. Daily Animal Performances
At the sea lion pool, daily performances titled "Animal Performance: Friends of the Sea and Sky" take place at 11:00 AM and 2:30 PM.
Seals, sea lions, and birds team up with trainers to deliver a synchronized performance.
One of the highlights is the unique interaction between trainers and animals.
The secret to their bond? Trainers say it’s all about genuinely enjoying themselves alongside the animals, creating a show that clearly reflects their shared joy.
Top 3 Hands-On Experiences at Tobu Zoo
One of the highlights of Tobu Zoo is the close interactions visitors can have with animals.
At Petting Zoo, you can touch and feed 20 different species, including sheep, alpacas, and ponies.
1. Step Inside the Enclosure and Play with Ring-Tailed Lemurs
At Wow Wow Garden, you can step inside the enclosure where ring-tailed lemurs freely roam, offering a rare opportunity to observe their natural behaviors up close.
By the way, the "Wao" in their Japanese name (Wao-kitsunezaru) is derived from 輪尾 (wao), meaning "ringed tail."
Learning fun facts like this is another enjoyable aspect of visiting Tobu Zoo.
2. Feed Fluffy Sheep at Sheep Deck
At the centrally located Sheep Deck in Petting Zoo, visitors can experience feeding sheep.
As soon as you approach with food, the sheep, which were resting peacefully, slowly rise and trot over to you.
In addition to sheep, goats and ponies are also available for feeding.
Other animals have limited-time feeding and interaction sessions, so if you have a favorite animal, be sure to check the official website for the event schedule.
(Feeding times vary by season. From mid-November to early March, sheep can be fed from 10:00 AM to 2:50 PM, goats from 10:00 AM to 3:20 PM, and pony feeding ends when supplies run out.)
3. Exciting and Fun Pony Riding Experience
After the feeding session, head over to Pony Ride for a horseback riding experience.
There are two different course lengths available, and parents and children can even ride together.
The thrilling yet relaxing pony ride is popular not only with children but also with adults.
From atop a pony, the view feels completely different from the ground, and as you sway gently with each step, you’ll experience a unique sense of unity with nature.
Top 4 Must-Try Attractions at Tobu Zoo
While Tobu Zoo is known for its animals, it also offers exciting amusement park attractions.
The amusement park area is divided into three zones: Liberty Land, Pleasure Land, and Heartful Land, each featuring unique rides and interactive experiences.
Here are four of the most popular attractions:
1. Thrilling Wooden Roller Coaster "Regina II(Due)"
The Regina II wooden coaster is a thrilling ride where everything except the rails is made of wood, giving it a distinctive creaking and rattling sensation.
In 2023, the coaster cars were renewed, maintaining the same level of excitement while offering a smoother and more comfortable ride.
With its retro charm, unique wooden track experience, and exhilarating speed, Regina II is a favorite among roller coaster enthusiasts.
2. Enjoy a Water Stroll on "Carousel Water Lily"
A beloved attraction since the park's opening, Carousel Water Lily features a charming, classic atmosphere.
The gentle spinning motion, combined with the shimmering reflections of the water, creates the illusion of taking a peaceful horseback ride over a lake.
3. Soar 10 Meters High on the Viking "Golden Ship -Revive-"
Golden Ship -Revive-: Revive is a pirate ship-style ride that swings dramatically from side to side.
Reaching a peak height of 10 meters, the sensation of suddenly dropping from the highest point is even more thrilling than it looks.
If you're afraid of heights, sit in the center, but if you’re looking for maximum excitement, the best seats are at the far ends.
4. Take in the Full View of Tobu Zoo from "Emma’s Cheese Ferris Wheel"
Located at the center of Tobu Zoo, Emma’s Cheese Ferris Wheel is a uniquely themed Ferris wheel inspired by cheese.
From a height of 50 meters, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the amusement park, zoo, and the beautiful seasonal scenery of Tobu Zoo.
Enjoy Tobu Zoo in Every Season
In spring, cherry blossoms bloom throughout the park, while summer brings the opening of the water park. Autumn transforms the landscape with vibrant foliage, and in winter, the park is illuminated with enchanting lights.
With its ever-changing seasonal beauty, simply strolling through the park is a delight.
The botanical area, which features colorful flowers in every season, turns into a magical Field of Lights in winter, ensuring visitors are captivated all year round.
Spring: Cherry Blossoms and Attractions in Full Bloom
From late March to early April, over 1,000 cherry trees, including Somei Yoshino and Yaezakura varieties, bloom in full glory.
The combination of attractions and cherry blossoms creates a uniquely picturesque springtime atmosphere at Tobu Zoo.
Winter: Limited-Time Illuminations
The Winter Illumination event for this season runs from November 2, 2024, to February 24, 2025.
During this period, visitors can enjoy attractions beautifully lit up at night and experience the Night Zoo, where animals showcase behaviors different from daytime.
Summer: The Thrills of Tobu Super Pool
In the summer months, Tobu Super Pool opens for a limited time.
This vast water park features a lazy river, a wave pool, and shallow pools designed for children, making it the perfect spot for families to cool off.
Multiple thrilling water slides add to the excitement, ensuring plenty of adrenaline-pumping fun.
With its spacious pools and resort-like atmosphere, Tobu Super Pool is the ultimate destination for enjoying a hot summer day to the fullest.
Top 3 Must-Try Food & Souvenirs at Tobu Zoo
Tobu Zoo is home to exclusive treats and souvenirs that make for the perfect keepsakes.
1. "White Tiger-yaki" – A Perfect Snack
This fun snack features the face of a white tiger and comes in two flavors: Okonomiyaki (savory pancake) and Custard.
The Custard version has a chewy outer layer filled with smooth, creamy custard, making it an ideal afternoon treat.
2. "White Tiger Bun" – So Cute, You Won’t Want to Eat It!
Available only in winter, the White Tiger Bun is modeled after the beloved white tigers of Tobu Zoo.
This fluffy steamed bun is filled with juicy meat, making it a satisfying snack.
Each bun has a slightly different facial expression, adding to its charm.
It almost feels too adorable to eat!
3. Take Home Memories with "White Tiger Goods"
The souvenir shop is packed with a wide variety of White Tiger goods, including plush toys, stationery, and sweets.
For those feeling lucky, a 1,200yen lucky draw guarantees a prize, with winners receiving a white tiger plush toy ranging from first to fourth prize sizes.
Find your favorite item and bring home a lasting memory of your time at Tobu Zoo!
Wrap-up
Tobu Zoo is a dream destination filled with diverse experiences—from close animal encounters to thrilling attractions and stunning seasonal landscapes.
No matter the season, every time you visit, there’s always something new to discover at Tobu Zoo.
Why not spend a special day here, enjoying the charm of the animals and the unforgettable moments that await?