Tama Zoological Park

Tama Zoological Park opened in May 1958 as Tokyo's second major zoo, designed to address overcrowding at Ueno Zoo. Located in Hino City in western Tokyo, the facility spans approximately 60 hectares of forested hillside, making it one of Japan's most spacious zoological gardens. The park was established with a revolutionary concept for its time: creating large, naturalistic enclosures that allow animals to live in environments closely resembling their native habitats rather than traditional caged exhibits.

The zoo holds significant importance in wildlife conservation, particularly for its successful breeding programs. It achieved international recognition for breeding several endangered species and was the first zoo in Japan to successfully breed African elephants in captivity. The facility also maintains Japan's only successful breeding colony of Tasmanian devils outside Australia. Its commitment to conservation education and naturalistic animal welfare has influenced zoo design throughout Asia.

Visitors experience the park through several distinct geographical zones representing different ecosystems. The African savanna section features lions, giraffes, zebras, and rhinoceros roaming in expansive shared spaces separated by moats rather than fences. The Asian Garden showcases elephants, Asiatic wild horses, and various primate species.

The Australian Garden houses kangaroos, koalas, and the aforementioned Tasmanian devils. A particularly popular feature is the Lion Bus, a cage-on-wheels that allows visitors to observe lions up close from within a protected vehicle. The Insectarium contains one of Asia's largest butterfly enclosures, while sky bridges and walkways provide elevated viewing perspectives throughout the hilly terrain.

Tama Zoological Park is accessible via the Keio Line or Tama Toshi Monorail, both stopping at Tama-Dobutsukoen Station, approximately 40 minutes from Shinjuku Station. The park entrance sits directly adjacent to the station. General admission costs 600 yen for adults, 200 yen for ages 13-15, and free for children 12 and under. Tokyo residents aged 65 and over enter free. Annual passes are available for 2,400 yen. The park closes on Wednesdays and during the New Year holiday period. Due to the hilly terrain, comfortable walking shoes are essential, and visitors should expect considerable walking across the expansive grounds.