Is Himeji City Zoo worth visiting?

Himeji City Zoo

ZooTourist Attraction

3.6

(1.9k)

Himeji City Zoo is a compact city zoo with a retro feel, located near Himeji Castle. It features a variety of animals and also has a small amusement park with classic rides. The entrance fee is very affordable.

Address

68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0012, Japan

Website

http://www.city.himeji.lg.jp/dobutuen/

Opening Hours

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Thu)

Phone

+81 79-284-3636

Explore nearby

Worth it?

Worth it if you're looking for a very cheap, quick activity with young kids and enjoy a retro amusement park feel

Skip if animal welfare is a primary concern

The entrance fee is incredibly affordable.2 mentions

It's a convenient stop for families with young children, especially when visiting Himeji Castle.2 mentions

Many animal enclosures are extremely small, particularly for large animals like bears, lions, and hippos.4 mentions

Some animals appear distressed, exhibiting repetitive behaviors or staring into corners.3 mentions

The cages can look tired and dirty, with concrete floors and a lack of natural environment.3 mentions

Location

68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0012, Japan

Nearby places

Sannomaru Square

Shiromidai Park

Ri no Ichi

Main Keep of Himeji Castle

3 min walk

Highlights

The zoo offers old-fashioned amusement rides that children tend to enjoy.

You can sometimes observe animals getting excited during late afternoon feeding times.

Who it's for

Good for kids

Family with kids

Wheelchair entrance

Accessible parking

No dogs

Families with small children might enjoy the nostalgic rides and the chance to see animals, especially if they are already visiting Himeji Castle.

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Stays Places Eats

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Places

Nearby stays

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3-Star hotel

KOKO HOTEL Himeji Castle - formerly Hotel Wing International Himeji

7 min walk

7.8(2.6k)

4-Star hotel

Daiwa Roynet Hotel Himeji

11 min walk

8.5(2.7k)

4-Star hotel

Hotel Monterey Himeji

14 min walk

8.7(4.9k)

3-Star hotel

Himeji Ekimae Universal Hotel Minamiguchi

17 min walk

7(2.8k)

Nearby stays

Reviews

3.6

Average

5 Reviews

Reviewers note the zoo's incredibly cheap entry and the presence of various animals and nostalgic rides, which kids often enjoy. However, a significant number of visitors express distress over the extremely small and often dirty animal enclosures, with many animals appearing to be in poor condition.