TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Japan Monkey Park (Inuyama City, Aichi Prefecture) is a leisure facility that exhibits a wide variety of primates, mainly monkeys, while also offering family-friendly attractions and events. A historic facility dating back to the Showa period, it is notable for its focus not only on breeding and exhibiting, but also on education, conservation activities, and research. The park offers exhibits where you can observe monkey behavior up close, seasonal events, and a wide range of play equipment and mini attractions for children, making it popular with a wide range of people, from animal lovers to families.
Highlights
- A diverse display of monkeys: Including Japanese macaques, animals are kept and exhibited by species, allowing you to observe group behavior and parent-child interactions.
- Interaction and observation area: You can learn about the ecology of the monkeys through explanations by zookeepers at designated times and observations from the observation corridors (interactions are limited).
- Shows and commentary events: There are programs that introduce the habits of animals in an easy-to-understand way, such as behavioral demonstrations and feeding explanations by zookeepers (please check the dates).
- Family Attractions: There are a variety of play equipment for children to enjoy, including a small roller coaster and merry-go-round.
- Seasonal Events: There are many events held there, such as during the spring cherry blossom viewing season, summer vacation, and Halloween, and you can enjoy special exhibitions and stamp rallies.
- Photo Spots and Shops: There are spots where you can take photos of the cute monkeys and souvenir shops, making it a convenient place to create memories.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Access by train: Accessible from Inuyama-Yuen Station or Inuyama Station on the Meitetsu Inuyama Line. From Nagoya, it takes about 30 minutes by Meitetsu train (ride time depends on the starting point). From the station, it is convenient to walk or use the local bus or shuttle bus. The estimated walking time from the station is about 10 minutes.
- Access by car: Approximately 30-60 minutes by car from central Nagoya (depending on road conditions). Paid parking is available at the facility, but it may be full during peak hours, so we recommend using public transportation.
- Nearby transportation: Extra buses and shuttles may operate during peak tourist seasons and on weekends. Please check the official website and transportation information before visiting.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Standard tour: 1.5 to 2 hours (main exhibits and light attractions)
- Full experience: 3-4 hours (including shows, multiple attractions, and breaks)
- Relaxing with the family: Half a day to a full day (including lunch and event participation with children)
Nearby spots
- Inuyama Castle: This national treasure castle allows you to enjoy historical walks and the view from the castle tower (about 10 minutes by car, and easily accessible by public transport).
- Meiji Village (Meiji Village Museum): An outdoor museum displaying relocated buildings from the Meiji period. Approximately 10-20 minutes by car.
- Little World: An open-air museum where you can experience the cultures of different cultures around the world. A great place for the whole family to spend the day.
- Historical gardens such as Urakuen and Joan (former school grounds): You can visit the teahouse and Japanese garden (around Inuyama Castle).
- Inuyama Onsen and surrounding gourmet food: There are hot springs where you can relax after sightseeing and local gourmet restaurants scattered around the area.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: The park tends to be crowded on weekends, public holidays, and during spring and summer breaks. On event days, there may be long waits to enter the park and parking congestion. If you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend visiting on weekday mornings.
- Animal Manners: Please follow the signs and instructions of staff, such as not putting your hands or face inside the fences or partitions, and feeding is prohibited (only allowed in designated places and at designated times). It is important not to cause unnecessary stress to the animals.
- Safety: Monkeys can be unpredictable, so please keep an eye on them, especially children.
- Seasonal precautions: Take precautions against heatstroke in summer (wear a hat and stay hydrated), and take precautions against the cold in winter. As many of the exhibits are outdoors, the ease of viewing them will depend on the weather.
- Pets: Pets are often not allowed on the premises, so please check in advance whether pets are allowed.
- Advance confirmation: Opening hours, closing days, event dates, and availability of experience programs may change, so please check the official website or call the park for the latest information before visiting.
For a smoother experience, check the official website for opening hours, event information, and access details before your visit. Enjoy the seasonal charms of the zoo as a place for family leisure and learning about animal observation.
