Hirakawa Zoological Park Kagoshima
Affordable zoo with diverse animals, amusement rides, and scenic views of Sakurajima. Great for families and budget travelers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Hirakawa Zoological Park Kagoshima
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Affordable zoo with diverse animals, amusement rides, and scenic views of Sakurajima. Great for families and budget travelers.
"Inexpensive, able to see Sakurajima on a non-cloudy day. Highly recommended!"
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo is large and hilly; expect to walk 3km. Good footwear is essential for enjoying the day!
💰 Cheap Rides!
Amusement rides are only 100 yen each – a great deal for kids!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Koala & White Tiger Encounters
Animal Exhibits
See adorable koalas and majestic white tigers, popular attractions for visitors of all ages.
Petting Zoo Fun
Petting Area
Interact with friendly guinea pigs, rabbits, and goats in a hands-on experience for kids.
Amusement Rides
Amusement Area
Enjoy cheap rides for just 100 yen each, perfect for entertaining younger visitors.
Sakurajima Views
Various viewpoints
On clear days, catch stunning views of the iconic Sakurajima volcano from the zoo grounds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Budget-Friendly Fun
Prepare for a Walk
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo is large and hilly; expect to walk 3km. Good footwear is essential for enjoying the day!
💰 Cheap Rides!
Amusement rides are only 100 yen each – a great deal for kids!
☀️ Check the Weather
A sunny day offers the best chance to see Sakurajima and enjoy the outdoor exhibits.
💖 Support the Zoo
Consider donating if you can; some areas show signs of wear, and the zoo relies on visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo is large and hilly; expect to walk 3km. Good footwear is essential for enjoying the day!
💰 Cheap Rides!
Amusement rides are only 100 yen each – a great deal for kids!
☀️ Check the Weather
A sunny day offers the best chance to see Sakurajima and enjoy the outdoor exhibits.
💖 Support the Zoo
Consider donating if you can; some areas show signs of wear, and the zoo relies on visitors.
🚶♀️ Pace Yourself
It's a big park. Allow 3 hours to see everything comfortably, especially with children.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Hirakawa Zoological Park for its exceptional affordability and family-friendly atmosphere, with many highlighting the low cost of entry and rides. While the hilly terrain requires a good amount of walking, the spacious animal enclosures and the chance to see popular animals like koalas and white tigers are significant draws. Some note areas could use improvement, suggesting support for the zoo's conservation efforts.
"Inexpensive, entrance ticket was only ¥500 per adult! Able to see sakurajima on a non-cloudy day. We walked the full 3km route and took around 3hours to admire the animals. The petting area (guinea pigs, rabbits and goats) was fun. Highly recommended. Many locals enjoying the zoo with their family members and few tourists."
Jolene Chua
"Nice place of recreation, either for young couples or for families with kids. You have to walk a few kilometers through the zoological garden, which makes you a good exercise. It's educational, as you may learn about many rare animals such as Koalas, Urautan, Penguins etc. It's relaxing as you quit from daily mundane human world and meet the nature of animal world."
Oku Tain
"We went there for the Koalas and White Tiger. The rides are cheap, 1 ride is only for 100 yen. I highly recommend this for little kiddos, they'll surely love it!"
Chodelynn Tion
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a bus from Kagoshima Chuo Station to Hirakawa Zoological Park. The journey typically takes around 40-50 minutes. Look for buses heading towards Hirakawa Zoo.
Yes, there is parking available at Hirakawa Zoological Park. It's convenient if you're traveling by car, especially if you plan to explore other areas of Kagoshima.
Buses are a common and efficient way to reach the zoo from central Kagoshima. Taxis are also an option, though more expensive.
The closest train station is Hirakawa Station on the Kagoshima City Tram Line, but it still requires a walk or short bus ride to the zoo entrance.
Yes, taxis are readily available in Kagoshima and can take you directly to the zoo. This is a convenient option if you prefer not to navigate public transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is very affordable, typically around ¥500 per adult. This makes it an excellent value for a full day of family fun.
While specific discount details can vary, the general admission is already very low, making it accessible for most visitors. It's always a good idea to check the official website for the most current pricing.
Information on online ticket purchasing is not widely available. It's generally recommended to purchase tickets upon arrival at the zoo's entrance.
Opening hours can vary seasonally, but the zoo is typically open from morning until late afternoon. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Weekends and holidays can be busier as many local families visit. Weekday mornings are generally less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the popular koalas and the striking white tigers. The petting zoo with goats, rabbits, and guinea pigs is also a highlight, especially for kids.
Absolutely! The petting zoo and the inexpensive amusement rides (100 yen each) are big hits with little ones. The spacious grounds also allow them to explore.
Most visitors spend around 3 hours to walk the full 3km route and see the animals. Wear comfortable shoes as there are many slopes. +1
Yes, there are usually food options available within the zoo, including a gift shop that might sell snacks. However, bringing your own snacks or a picnic is also a good idea.
On clear, non-cloudy days, you can get good views of Sakurajima volcano from various points within the zoo grounds.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for opportunities with the koalas, white tigers, and the scenic views of Sakurajima on a clear day. The petting zoo also offers cute photo ops.
The animals are generally kept in spacious enclosures, which can make for good photos. Early morning or late afternoon light can be ideal for animal photography.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be mindful of any posted signs or staff instructions, especially near sensitive exhibits.
A standard zoom lens is versatile for capturing animals and landscapes. If you want close-ups, a telephoto lens can be useful, but not strictly necessary for casual photos.
Always be respectful of other visitors' privacy. Avoid taking intrusive photos of individuals or groups without their consent.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for a lot of walking, as the zoo is spread out on a hilly terrain. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, though there are facilities available. It’s a great place for children to learn about animals in a fun and engaging environment.
💰 Budget Travelers
Beyond the cheap entry, the 100-yen amusement rides are a major plus. You can easily spend hours here enjoying the animals and the scenery without spending a fortune. It's a highly recommended activity for those looking to experience Kagoshima affordably.
🚶♀️ Active Explorers
Wear your most comfortable shoes and allow at least 3 hours to fully appreciate the spacious enclosures and varied animal collection. The rewarding views and the sense of accomplishment after navigating the park make it a great experience for active visitors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Zoo's Layout and Terrain
Despite the physical demands, the zoo's design offers rewarding views and a sense of discovery as you navigate its paths. The opportunity to see animals like koalas, urautans, and penguins in environments that mimic their natural habitats is a significant draw. The zoo's commitment to providing ample space for its animals is evident, contributing to their well-being and offering visitors a more engaging viewing experience.
For those who enjoy a good walk and appreciate a zoo that prioritizes animal welfare through spacious enclosures, Hirakawa Zoological Park is a fantastic destination. Just remember to wear your most comfortable walking shoes and be ready for an active day out.
Family Fun and Budget-Friendly Attractions
A major draw for younger visitors is the dedicated petting zoo, where they can interact with gentle animals like guinea pigs, rabbits, and goats. This hands-on experience is often a highlight for kids. Furthermore, the zoo features an amusement area with rides that cost an astonishingly low 100 yen per ride. This makes it easy for parents to let their children enjoy a few spins on the attractions without significant expense.
Beyond the specific kid-focused areas, the zoo's overall atmosphere is family-friendly, with many local families seen enjoying their time. The combination of educational animal encounters, fun rides, and the beautiful natural setting makes it a perfect destination for a day out with the kids.
Conservation and Community Support
This sentiment highlights the delicate balance many public zoos face in terms of funding. The low entrance fees, while making the zoo accessible to everyone, mean that revenue might be limited. Visitors who appreciate the zoo's role in conservation and education are encouraged to support it through their visits and any available donation options.
By visiting and enjoying the park, you contribute directly to its operational costs and the care of its diverse animal inhabitants. The zoo is a valuable community resource, and your patronage helps ensure its continued success and ability to provide a safe and enriching environment for its animals.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit