Hello, travelers! This is Ayu-mama, writer for Sarukuma.

Today I’m thrilled to introduce one of Kumamoto’s most beloved family destinations:
Kumamoto City Zoo & Botanical Gardens, located in Higashi Ward, Kumamoto City!

Zoos are a classic family outing the world over, and Kumamoto City Zoo & Botanical Gardens is no exception.

Admission Fees
Adults: 500 yen
Elementary & junior high students: 100 yen
Preschoolers: Free
(Elementary and junior high students residing in Kumamoto City enter free with a name tag or student ID.)

Parking costs 200 yen per vehicle on weekends and holidays (free on weekdays).
If you’re traveling by Kumamoto City Tram, hop off at the Dōshokubutsuen-mae stop right at the entrance.
There are several large parking lots, plus restrooms and vending machines scattered throughout the park.

The grounds are vast and include a botanical garden too, so a stroller is essential if you’re traveling with little ones.

Recommended Highlights

Of course, the animals are the main attraction at any zoo, but as a self-confessed Kumamoto City Zoo super-fan, I have way too many favorite spots to fit into a single article!
That’s why I’m splitting this into a multi-part “Kumamoto City Zoo & Botanical Gardens series.”

First up: the Animal Zone!
Here’s an absolute kid favorite — the African elephant.
Most zoos in Japan keep Indian elephants, so getting up close to an African elephant is a rare treat. Definitely a must-see!
Throughout the park, you’ll find informative panels documenting how the zoo coped during the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake. It’s a moving look at how staff and animals overcame disaster together — well worth a pause.Meet the chimpanzees — an endangered species.
Their enclosure is thoughtfully designed with enrichment features so they can live as comfortably and naturally as possible. The habitat itself is part of the experience!
Looking totally chilled out (lol)!
The chimpanzee house even has elevators and accessible restrooms — super reassuring when you’re visiting with a baby in tow!

If you time your visit right, you might even spot newborn animals!
These little cuties are baby capybaras — triplets, no less! How adorable!!! Also on the lineup: the king of the jungle — the lion!
Friendly goats you can usually pet (note: petting is currently suspended)
Stately Masai giraffes
And charming Humboldt penguins!

There are far too many wonderful creatures to mention here, and you’ll be able to see them all up close.
If you’re lucky, you might even catch one of the feeding sessions!
Stay tuned for the next installment of our Kumamoto City Zoo & Botanical Gardens series — we’ve got plenty more to share!

Check out our full summary article here ↓

[Updated December 16!] Zoo enthusiast Ayu-mama presents the complete charm guide to Kumamoto’s Zoo & Botanical Gardens ☆

Facility Information

Frequently Asked Questions

※Information is accurate as of the time of reporting. Prices and hours are subject to change. Please confirm before your visit.