ジャイアントパンダ
1 / 10

Oji Zoo Kobe

4.3
·9k reviews·Kobe, Japan

A charming, affordable zoo with diverse animals and a nostalgic mini-amusement park, perfect for family fun.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring (Sakura Season)

Beautiful cherry blossoms

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
ジャイアントパンダ

Oji Zoo Kobe

Best Time

Spring (Sakura Season)

Beautiful cherry blossoms

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming, affordable zoo with diverse animals and a nostalgic mini-amusement park, perfect for family fun.

4.3
(9k reviews)

"It is very cheap so for a day with my kids I feel like it is a good deal."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Affordable Entry

Enjoy a budget-friendly day out with very reasonable ticket prices.

🐼 Panda Exhibit Gone

Sadly, the pandas are no longer at the zoo as of March 2024.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Diverse Animal Exhibits

Diverse Animal Exhibits

Throughout the zoo

Explore a variety of animals, from big cats to primates and birds. A great place to see different species up close.

InstagramReddit
Nostalgic Mini-Amusement Park

Nostalgic Mini-Amusement Park

Amusement park area

Enjoy classic rides and a retro arcade, offering a fun, throwback experience for all ages.

InstagramReddit
Polar Bear Encounter

Polar Bear Encounter

Polar bear exhibit

Witness the majestic polar bear, a highlight for many visitors, though some note its enclosure could be improved.

InstagramReddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Panda Farewell & Zoo Charm

Kobe Oji Zoo was famous for its pandas, but sadly, the last one passed away in March 2024. While this is a loss, the zoo remains a charming and affordable destination, especially for families looking for a nostalgic experience with a variety of animals and a mini-amusement park. Instagram+1

Affordable Family Fun

With a low admission fee, Oji Zoo offers a budget-friendly outing for families. While some enclosures are dated, the overall experience is positive, with friendly staff and a good selection of animals to see. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Spring (Sakura Season)
Why
Beautiful cherry blossoms
Crowd
Medium
When
Mornings (9 AM - 11 AM)
Why
Beat the heat & crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Must see spot for Animal Lovers in Japan! - Kobe Animal Kingdom - Better than an animal cafe I’d say! Its a paradise for those who would like to see animals super close up without any cages or nets! Family friendly and great for young kids as it’s weather friendly with an indoor area and lots of fun feeding activities everywhere. Add it to your next Japan trip itinerary if you love animals! You ca...
@bilingualmiki
35.4K likes • 389.8K views

🎟️ Affordable Entry

Enjoy a budget-friendly day out with very reasonable ticket prices. InstagramReddit

🐼 Panda Exhibit Gone

Sadly, the pandas are no longer at the zoo as of March 2024. Instagram+1

【神戸市立王子動物園 Kobe Oji Zoo】 パンダが売りだった王子動物園、2024年3月に最後のパンダが亡くなってしまったそうで、パンダエリアは空っぽでした🥲それでも、大人600円でこの大きさの動物園を楽しめるのは子連れにとって凄く嬉しいです🤩何個か動物のサイズに比べて小さ過ぎる檻があって少し悲しく感じましたが、たくさんの動物を見ることができて息子は大喜びでした🥲🙏🏼❤️ This zoo was well known for pandas, but unfortunately their last panda passed away last year,l🥲 Nonetheless, it's a great place to visit with kids, especially it's only ¥600 per adult! There were a few cages...
odekake_in_the_world
8 likes • 2K views
Kobe Oji Zoo #kobe_pra #kobecity #japan #bekobe #zoo #animals #familytime #kids #japantravel #kobetrip #lovekobe #bucketlist #travel #animal #zooanimals #flamingo #ojizoo #oji #myJapan @japantravelcom #chakmainjapan #kobe @kobe_pra
chakmainjapan
81 likes • 2.2K views

☀️ Hot Weather Warning

Visit early on hot days; some animals may be less active in the heat. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring. Instagram

Oji Zoo 神戸王子動物園 고베 오지동물원 思ったより色んな動物を見られるし、遊園地もあって、小さい子供達と楽しめるところだと思います。 생각보다는 다양한 동물들을 볼 수 있었고, 놀이동산이 있어서 아이들과 즐기기 좋은 곳이라고 생각합니다 #japan #japanzoo #animal #japananimal #kobe #ojizoo #動物園 #王子動物園 #神戸 #動物 #일본동물원 #일본동물 #고베동물원 #오지동물원 #동물원 #동물
kyotonam
37 likes • 441 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Affordable Entry

Enjoy a budget-friendly day out with very reasonable ticket prices. InstagramReddit

🐼 Panda Exhibit Gone

Sadly, the pandas are no longer at the zoo as of March 2024. Instagram+1

☀️ Hot Weather Warning

Visit early on hot days; some animals may be less active in the heat. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring. Instagram

📸 Photo Opportunities

Capture memories of the animals and the charming, retro park atmosphere. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.3
(9k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Kobe Oji Zoo is a beloved, affordable destination offering a mix of animal encounters and nostalgic amusement park fun. While some facilities are dated, visitors appreciate the value, friendly staff, and the charming retro atmosphere. The absence of pandas is noted, but the diverse animal collection and family-friendly rides make it a worthwhile visit. InstagramReddit+1

"(2025/08/28)
I wake up very early when I'm in Japan, so I usually need to go somewhere to kill time until 10am-11am. This zoo was fortunately open at 9am. I had a great time here, which I didn't expect as an adult in a very kid-themed park.
- The mini-amusement park was fun.
- The post-showa 90s arcade was to walk through and feel the nostalgia. They even have some chonky Pikachus from the gen1 days that have games inside them.
- There is a gift shop, which surprised me.
- The zoo has good diversity of animals: decent enough to keep me engaged while walking around.
- The pandas are no longer around :(
- The polar bear exhibit is kind of sad & the bear looks unnaturally thin (since it doesn't need as much far for Japan's hot and humid weather).
- A lot of the exhibits would be better if they were larger and more reflective of the animals' natural environments. The park being stuck in the past does make it more fun, but this would be the 1 change I would make (even if it means less animals)."

Jonathan Chiou

"Oji zoo is what I refer to as the sad zoo. It is quite old and many of the animal accommodations and amusement rides could use an update. Not to mention the gorillas, chimpanzees, and pandas are gone. On the other hand it is very cheap so for a day with my kids I feel like it is a good deal. The staff are nice and it is a convenient way to see animals."

Kevin

"The best zoo I have ever been to! Animals are so clean and beautiful 😍 I can't be happier. Good ticket price, amazing atmosphere, kind staff. Thank you all for taking care of these beautiful animals! ありがとうございます!"

Bashar Kellawi

What People Like

Affordable admission
Nostalgic amusement park
Diverse animal collection

What People Dislike

Dated enclosures
Pandas no longer present
Small animal habitats

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Oji Zoo is easily accessible by public transport. Take the JR Kobe Line to 'Hyogo Station' or the Hankyu Kobe Line to 'Kobe-Sannomiya Station' and then transfer to a local bus or subway. Instagram

Yes, Oji Zoo is located in a central part of Kobe, making it convenient to combine with visits to other city attractions like the Kobe Port Tower or Meriken Park. Instagram

While public transport is recommended, there are parking facilities available near the zoo, though they can fill up quickly on busy days. Instagram

The JR Kobe Line to Hyogo Station is covered by the Japan Rail Pass, making it a convenient option for pass holders. Instagram

Google Maps or other navigation apps are very helpful for public transport routes and timings within Kobe. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Oji Zoo is known for its affordability, with a very low admission fee, making it a great value for families and budget travelers. InstagramReddit

While the base price is already very low, check the official Oji Zoo website for any potential group discounts or special offers. Instagram

The zoo typically opens around 9 AM and closes in the late afternoon. It's best to check the official website for the most current hours, as they can vary seasonally. Reddit

Tickets are usually available for purchase at the entrance. Advance booking is generally not required due to the low cost and ample capacity. Instagram

The zoo is generally accessible, but some older areas might have limited accessibility. It's advisable to check with the zoo directly for specific needs. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Oji Zoo houses a diverse range of animals including lions, tigers, elephants, various primates, birds, and more. While pandas are no longer present, there are still many fascinating creatures to observe. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, Oji Zoo features a small, nostalgic amusement park with rides suitable for children, adding an extra layer of fun to the visit. InstagramReddit

While not as extensive as some other zoos, there might be opportunities for animal feeding depending on the season and specific animal schedules. Check onsite information. TikTok

Some visitors note that many enclosures are older and could benefit from updates to better reflect natural habitats, though the animals are generally well-cared for. Reddit+1

Yes, with its diverse animals and charming retro atmosphere, Oji Zoo offers many opportunities for great photos, especially if you catch animals in active moments. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are usually food stalls and a cafe within the zoo premises offering snacks and light meals. Reddit

Picnics are generally allowed in designated areas, which can be a great way to save money and enjoy a meal amidst the zoo's atmosphere. Reddit

Expect typical zoo fare like hot dogs, ice cream, and other quick snacks. There are also vending machines for drinks. Reddit

Options might be limited, so it's advisable to check with the food vendors directly or bring your own food if you have specific dietary needs. Reddit

The zoo primarily offers snack bars and cafes rather than full-service restaurants. For a wider selection, consider dining outside the zoo. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The animal enclosures, especially for more active animals like primates and birds, offer great photo opportunities. The amusement park area also provides a nostalgic backdrop. Instagram+1

Yes, photography is generally permitted for personal use. However, flash photography might be restricted in some areas to avoid disturbing the animals. Instagram

A versatile zoom lens is useful for capturing animals from a distance. A wide-angle lens can be good for the park's overall atmosphere and amusement rides. Instagram

Always be mindful of signs regarding photography, especially near sensitive exhibits or during special events. Instagram

Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer lighting and potentially more active animals, leading to better photographic opportunities. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Oji Zoo is a fantastic choice for families. The affordable admission makes it easy on the wallet, and the combination of animal exhibits and a mini-amusement park ensures kids stay entertained. InstagramReddit The nostalgic rides and arcade offer a unique fun factor, while the variety of animals provides educational opportunities. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for little ones as there's a lot of ground to cover. Instagram+1

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Oji Zoo is a gem. The low entrance fee is a major draw, offering a full day of entertainment without breaking the bank. InstagramReddit You can also save money by packing your own snacks and drinks for a picnic. It's a great way to experience a local attraction affordably. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find Oji Zoo offers a good mix of subjects. Capture the diverse animals in their enclosures, paying attention to lighting for the best shots. Instagram The retro amusement park also provides a unique, nostalgic backdrop for creative photography. Consider a zoom lens to get close-ups of the animals. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Look at the Animals at Oji Zoo

Kobe Oji Zoo is home to a diverse array of animals, offering visitors a chance to see species from around the globe. While the zoo was once famous for its pandas, the last panda, Tan Tan, passed away in March 2024, marking the end of an era. Instagram+1 Despite this, the zoo continues to house a variety of mammals, birds, and reptiles. Visitors can expect to see animals like lions, tigers, elephants, various primates, and a range of colorful birds. Instagram The polar bear exhibit is a notable attraction, though some reviews mention the bear appearing thin, possibly due to the climate. InstagramReddit

While the zoo provides a good overview of different species, some visitors have pointed out that certain enclosures, particularly for monkeys and birds, are small and could be improved to better reflect the animals' natural habitats. Reddit+1 The elephant enclosures are also noted as being on the smaller side. Despite these observations, the animals are generally perceived as well-cared for, and the zoo's affordability makes it an accessible way to experience wildlife. Reddit

For those interested in specific animals, it's always a good idea to check the zoo's official map or website upon arrival to plan your route and ensure you don't miss any of your favorites. The variety ensures there's something to capture the interest of most visitors, from young children to adults. Instagram

The Nostalgic Amusement Park

Beyond its animal exhibits, Kobe Oji Zoo boasts a charming, retro amusement park that adds a unique dimension to the visitor experience. This mini-amusement park features classic rides that evoke a sense of nostalgia, making it a hit with families and those who appreciate a throwback atmosphere. InstagramReddit Visitors can enjoy rides that are reminiscent of older amusement parks, offering a fun and lighthearted break from exploring the zoo. The park's vintage feel is a significant part of its appeal, providing a different kind of entertainment that complements the animal encounters. Reddit

Adding to the retro charm is a post-Showa era arcade, complete with nostalgic games. This area is a delightful surprise for many, offering a chance to play classic arcade machines and relive memories. Reddit The combination of animal viewing and amusement park fun makes Oji Zoo a well-rounded destination, particularly for families with children who appreciate a variety of activities. The affordability of the zoo extends to the amusement park, making it an accessible option for a full day of entertainment. InstagramReddit

Visitor Experience and Value

Kobe Oji Zoo is consistently praised for its excellent value, with a very low admission fee that makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers and families. InstagramReddit This affordability allows visitors to enjoy a full day of exploration without significant expense. The staff are frequently mentioned as being kind and helpful, contributing to a positive overall atmosphere. Reddit

While the zoo's older facilities and some enclosures have been noted as areas for improvement, the general sentiment is that the zoo offers a decent and enjoyable experience. Reddit+1 The convenience of its location within Kobe and its opening hours, often starting early, make it a practical choice for filling time or planning a day's itinerary. Reddit Many visitors, even adults, find themselves pleasantly surprised by how engaging the zoo can be, appreciating the diversity of animals and the nostalgic charm of the park. InstagramReddit

You may also like

1 of 2