Yumemigasaki Zoological Park
A free, charming zoo on a hill in Kawasaki, home to red pandas, penguins, and rescued animals.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Locals' favorite family spot
Yumemigasaki Zoological Park
Best Time
Locals' favorite family spot
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, charming zoo on a hill in Kawasaki, home to red pandas, penguins, and rescued animals.
"It's a free zoo and I would definitely check it out for the flamingos, zebra, penguins and red panda!"
👟 Wear comfy shoes!
The zoo is on a hill, so good walking shoes are essential for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Donate for upkeep
Consider donating at the penguin statue to help with the zoo's maintenance. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Red Pandas
Red Panda Enclosure
These adorable, fluffy creatures are a major draw, often cited as a must-see at the park.
Humboldt Penguins
Penguin Pool
Watch these charming birds waddle and swim in their dedicated area, offering close-up views.
Markhor & Zebras
Various Enclosures
Spot impressive Markhor with their spiraling horns and graceful zebras, adding to the zoo's diverse collection.
Japanese Wildlife
Native Animal Section
Discover local fauna, including the charming raccoon dog, showcasing Japan's native species.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Big Charm
A Walk on the Hill
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear comfy shoes!
The zoo is on a hill, so good walking shoes are essential for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Donate for upkeep
Consider donating at the penguin statue to help with the zoo's maintenance. :moneybag:
📸 Great for photos
Capture cute moments of animals like red pandas and penguins. :camerawithflash:
🧺 Picnic spots available
Enjoy a meal with a view at the picnic tables scattered around the park. :picnic_table:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear comfy shoes!
The zoo is on a hill, so good walking shoes are essential for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Donate for upkeep
Consider donating at the penguin statue to help with the zoo's maintenance. :moneybag:
📸 Great for photos
Capture cute moments of animals like red pandas and penguins. :camerawithflash:
🧺 Picnic spots available
Enjoy a meal with a view at the picnic tables scattered around the park. :picnic_table:
🚶♀️ Easy to explore
The zoo is compact, making it easy to see all the animals in about 30 minutes. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Yumemigasaki Zoological Park is a charming, free zoo appreciated for its variety of animals, including popular red pandas and penguins, and its role in caring for rescued wildlife. While some areas show age, the park's pleasant hill setting, surrounding green spaces, and family-friendly atmosphere make it a worthwhile visit, especially for those seeking an affordable and compassionate animal encounter.
"Yumemigasaki Zoological Park is a small zoo in Kawasaki City.
The zoo is free to enter and you can enjoy a variety of animals. The most popular animals seemed to be the Red Pandas, Markhor, Lemurs and Japanese wild animals.
Overall it takes about 30 minutes or so to walk around. Don’t expect too much.
The zoo is however a little old and rundown. It’s probably in need of a little investment. That said, you can make a donation at the Penguin statue next to the Red Panda enclosure."
Rich Loffman
"It's a little zoological park on top of a small hill. There is no entrance fee w/c is nice.
There are picnic tables and comfort rooms available. It seems to be a popular weekend destination for the locals.
The staff seem to be efficient and treat the animals decently."
Reynaldo Flores
"It's a small zoo on top of a hill, surrounded by playgrounds and small parks. It was better than I thought it would be. Many have special conditions: rescued animals, birds lacking a functioning wing, illegally brought into the country as pets, and could not be released into the wild or sent to a bigger zoo with more funding.
This place is certainly worth a visit especially for those living nearby."
Hal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Yumemigasaki Zoological Park is accessible via public transport. It's a walk from Musashikosugi Station. Some visitors mention it's a pleasant walk, while others suggest checking local bus routes for closer access. :train: :bus:
While specific parking details aren't widely shared, it's a good idea to check for local parking lots near the park or consider public transport as the primary option. :car: :parking:
From Tokyo, you can take a train to Musashikosugi Station, which is a hub for accessing the zoo. The journey time will vary depending on your starting point in Tokyo. :bullettrain: :tokyo:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Yumemigasaki Zoological Park is completely free to enter! This makes it a fantastic budget-friendly option for a day out. :moneywithwings:
Specific opening hours can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours. It's always best to check the official park website or local listings before your visit to confirm. :clock1:
Since the zoo is free, there's no need to book tickets in advance. You can simply show up and enjoy your visit. :ticket:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of animals including red pandas, Humboldt penguins, zebras, markhor, lemurs, and various bird species. They also house rescued animals and those unable to be released into the wild. :zebra: :penguin: :red_panda:
Yes, it's a popular weekend destination for local families. The zoo is compact and has surrounding playgrounds, making it a great outing for kids. :child:
Most visitors find that it takes about 30 minutes to walk around the entire zoo. It's a pleasant, manageable size. :stopwatch:
Yes, the zoo provides comfort rooms (restrooms) and picnic tables, making it convenient for a longer visit or a family outing. :toilet: :picnic_table:
Some reviews mention the zoo is a bit old and could use investment, but the staff are efficient and treat animals well. Many animals are rescues, adding a unique aspect to the park. :heart:
📸 📸 Photography
The Humboldt penguin enclosure offers great opportunities for close-up shots. Red pandas are also very photogenic. Look for open enclosures that allow for clear views. :camera:
Generally, photography is allowed. However, be mindful of the animals' well-being and avoid using flash if it might disturb them. :no_flash:
The zoo is an outdoor park, so natural daylight is your primary light source. Mornings can offer softer light, while midday can be brighter. :sun:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the red pandas and penguins, which are usually big hits with children. The availability of picnic tables makes it easy to pack a lunch and enjoy a full day of fun without spending a fortune. :sandwich: :juice:
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a picnic lunch using the provided tables to save even more on food costs. The zoo's location on a hill also offers pleasant views, making it a scenic and affordable way to spend an afternoon. :hiking_boot: :viewfinder:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Rescued Animals
Visitors often express appreciation for this mission, understanding that the zoo is not just for entertainment but also for the care of animals in need. The dedication of the staff is frequently mentioned, with reviewers noting their efficiency and the decent treatment of the animals. This focus on welfare makes Yumemigasaki a unique and heartwarming destination.
While the park is free, there's an option to donate at the penguin statue near the red panda enclosure. This contribution directly supports the care and upkeep of these special residents, allowing the zoo to continue its important work. :heart: :dove:
Exploring the Park's Layout and Surroundings
Beyond the zoo itself, the park is surrounded by playgrounds and smaller parks, making it a fantastic area for families to spend an entire day. You can combine a visit to the zoo with playtime in the adjacent green spaces. The presence of picnic tables further enhances this, encouraging visitors to bring their own food and enjoy a leisurely outdoor meal.
Many visitors appreciate the natural setting and the integration of the zoo within a larger recreational area. It feels less like a standalone attraction and more like a community park with a delightful animal component. :parkwithtree: :child:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit