Hello travelers! It’s Ayu-mama, your Sarukuma writer!

Following on from our last article, today we’re heading back to Kumamoto City Zoo & Botanical Gardens in Kengun, Higashi-ku, Kumamoto City.

Last time, we explored the Animal Area. This time, let me take you through the Rides & Playground Area — a paradise for kids and families!

《Admission Fees》
Adults: 500 yen
Elementary & Junior High Students: 100 yen
Preschoolers: Free
(Elementary and junior high students living in Kumamoto City enter free with a name tag or student ID)

Parking: 200 yen per car on weekends and holidays (free on weekdays)

Such great value! ‼️

The Rides Area sits right in the center of the park.

First up, the ever-popular Chain Tower!
Even the seats are adorable — each one features a cute animal illustration, true to the zoo’s theme.
It’s hard to choose which animal seat to ride on!
The monorail loops around the entire park!
While riding, you can spot the animals from above — a totally unique perspective!

The animal merry-go-round!

Each ride is just 200 yen — wonderfully affordable! (Charged for ages 2 and up)
With pricing this gentle, you can let the kids ride to their heart’s content without breaking the bank.

You’ll find vending machines too — including a delightful Anpanman bread vending machine just for little ones!

And then there’s the game arcade!

Step inside and prepare for a delightful surprise!
It’s like stepping into a Showa-era time capsule — rows of beautifully retro game machines line the room!

And here’s the best part — they all still work!
Even better, it’s just 20 yen per play! An unbelievable bargain — that’s not a typo!

There’s also a free athletic playground to enjoy,

Plus open spaces and benches where you can enjoy a picnic lunch or just relax for a while.
While there are no thrilling rides like roller coasters, there’s plenty for younger children to enjoy!

Watch the animals, ride the rides — this is a zoo where the whole family can spend a full, joyful day together!

Our Top Recommendation

Don’t miss the Shinkansen ride!

This little Shinkansen circles around the chimpanzee enclosure, and here’s a secret —
there’s an animal you can ONLY see from this train!
And here they are — the gorgeous pink-feathered flamingos!

This is an insider tip from Ayu-mama, a true zoo regular who visits nearly every weekend!
Hop on the Shinkansen and go find those beautiful flamingos for yourself!

Check out the full summary article here↓

[Updated December 16!] Zoo and Botanical Garden Enthusiast Ayu-mama Shares All the Charms of the Zoo!

Facility Information

Frequently Asked Questions

※Information accurate at the time of reporting. Prices and hours are subject to change. Please confirm before visiting.