Hirakawa Zoological Park

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Hirakawa Zoological Park

Meet a wide variety of animals, including koalas, at this fulfilling leisure destination.

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A zoological park where visitors can encounter a wide variety of animals in a natural setting surrounded by Sakurajima and Kinko Bay. It is the only zoo in Kyushu that keeps koalas and is also known for allowing visitors to see them without glass in between. Beyond simply viewing the animals, visitors can appreciate the importance of coexistence between nature and wildlife.

The park is home to more than 120 animal species. In the African Savanna Zone, giraffes, zebras, and ostriches roam leisurely through scenery reminiscent of the African savanna. Other popular attractions include an area where visitors can interact with rabbits, guinea pigs, goats, and sheep while learning about their behavior, as well as a footbath where they can relax while looking out at the animals and Sakurajima.

QR codes are also installed throughout the park. Scanning them with a smartphone gives visitors access to exclusive videos available in four languages. These informative programs provide clear visual introductions to the animals' characteristics and appeal, offering an engaging way to learn while exploring the park.

The park also offers a wide variety of attractions, including the Night Zoo, held only in summer and offering a chance to observe the animals behaving differently than they do during the day; an amusement park with a Ferris wheel, carousel, and go-karts; and a souvenir shop selling original merchandise. Spend a fulfilling day at this diverse leisure destination.

Highlights

  • See rare koalas, as well as giraffes, zebras, and other animals living in a savanna-like exhibit.
  • Set against the backdrop of Kinko Bay and Sakurajima, the park also features a footbath where visitors can relax and take in the scenery.
  • Watch exclusive videos available in four languages that clearly explain animal behavior and ecology.
  • Beyond the animals, the park offers plenty of other attractions, including an amusement park with a Ferris wheel and carousel.

Photos

  • The African Savanna Zone evokes the scenery of the African savanna

    The African Savanna Zone evokes the scenery of the African savanna

  • The only zoo in Kyushu that keeps koalas

    The only zoo in Kyushu that keeps koalas

  • An area where visitors can interact with small animals

    An area where visitors can interact with small animals

  • The Night Zoo, held only in summer

    The Night Zoo, held only in summer

  • An amusement park with a variety of attractions

    An amusement park with a variety of attractions

  • A footbath overlooking the animals and Sakurajima

    A footbath overlooking the animals and Sakurajima

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Is free Wi-Fi available in the park?

A

It is available in certain areas of the park.

Q

Are coin-operated lockers available?

A

They are located near the main gate.

Q

Is reentry permitted?

A

As a general rule, reentry is not permitted. However, if you only need to retrieve something from the parking lot, you may be allowed to reenter after speaking with a staff member.

Q

Are there designated smoking areas?

A

There are two inside the park and one outside the main gate.

Q

Are there any tourist attractions nearby?

A

Kinko Bay Park is nearby.

Reviews

Details

Name in Japanese
鹿児島市平川動物公園
Postal Code
891-0133
Address
5669-1 Hirakawa-cho, Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture
Phone
099-261-2326
Closed on
December 29–January 1
Hours
9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (admission until 4:30 p.m.)
Admission
Adults and high school students: ¥1,000; elementary and junior high school students: ¥200
Access
1) A 20-minute walk from Goino Station on the JR Ibusuki-Makurazaki Line
2) A 1-minute walk from the Hirakawa Zoological Park bus stop on the Kagoshima Kotsu bus route
Credit Cards
Accepted
Official website
Official website (Japanese)
Hokkaido Tohoku Kanto Chubu Hokuriku Kansai Chugoku Shikoku Kyushu Okinawa