Kusatsu Tropical Wonderland

Opened in 1970 as “Japan’s top reptile park.” Centered around a 49-foot-tall, three-level jungle dome that recreates a subtropical environment using geothermal heat from the hot springs, the park is home to animals from subtropical and tropical regions.

The park is home to a wide variety of animals living in spacious surroundings, including crocodiles, capybaras, and ring-tailed lemurs. In addition to extensive reptile and amphibian exhibits, there is also an outdoor monkey mountain where you can enjoy watching monkeys relax in the hot springs. There are also many hands-on experiences for visitors, such as feeding capybaras and trying hand and foot baths with beauty fish. However, visitors should be careful not to put their hands or feet near the animal enclosures, and feeding is allowed only in areas clearly marked as permitted.

Because the park maintains a comfortable temperature year-round using hot spring heat, one of its biggest draws is that you can enjoy a tropical atmosphere even in winter. It is within walking distance of the Kusatsu Onsen hot spring district, making it an easy stop between sightseeing. This is a uniquely Kusatsu spot where a hot spring resort and a zoo come together.