Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Neo Park Okinawa is a nature-based zoo and botanical park located in Nago City in the northern part of Okinawa's main island. Small animals and birds live in free-range or semi-free-range conditions within the spacious park, and one of its great features is that visitors can observe them relatively closely, feed them, and enjoy interacting with them. Visitors can come into contact with a wide variety of creatures while walking along paths lined with tropical trees and flowers, making it popular with families, animal lovers, and those looking to observe nature.
Highlights
- Interaction Corner: A space where you can feed small animals and interact with them directly. There are many experiences that children will enjoy.
- Bird Area: Take a walk-through to observe the area where various birds are kept free. Enjoy the colors of their feathers and the sounds they make up close.
- Themed exhibits: Reptiles and small mammals are exhibited according to their characteristics, and explanations are provided to help you learn about their ecology and habits.
- Walking trails and plants: A walking trail where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll while admiring the subtropical plants and seasonal flowers. Also suitable for bird watching.
- Experience events: Depending on the season and day of the week, events such as feeding times and guided tours are held (please check).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
Neo Park Okinawa is more easily accessible by car or bus than by public transportation. Because it is located in the northern part of Okinawa's main island, the monorail (Yui Rail) does not run to Nago, so the most common ways to get there from Naha are as follows:
- By car: Approximately 1 to 1.5 hours by car from Naha Airport (varies depending on road and traffic conditions). The most common route is to take the Okinawa Expressway (toll road) and exit at Kyoda IC or Nago. There is parking available on-site (please check the number of spaces and fees in advance).
- Bus: Take an express bus or local bus between Naha and Nago to Nago city, then transfer to a local bus or taxi. There are few direct public transportation options, so be sure to check transfers and the number of buses in advance.
- Taxi/rental car: It is convenient to take a taxi from the center of Nago City, or combine it with sightseeing in the surrounding area by renting a car.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Standard: 1.5 to 2.5 hours (if you take your time to look around the park, feed the animals and take photos)
- Family/Interaction-oriented: 2 to 3 hours (enjoying the experience with children)
- Combine with the surrounding area: It's easy to plan a trip to Neo Park in the morning or half an afternoon, and then spend the rest of the day sightseeing in the surrounding area.
Nearby spots
- Nago Pineapple Park: A tourist facility where you can enjoy tours, tastings, and souvenirs. A short drive away.
- Churaumi Aquarium (Motobu Town): Okinawa's largest aquarium. Along with Neo Park, it is a standard tourist destination in the northern part of the prefecture.
- Nakijin Castle Ruins (Nakijin Village): A World Heritage Site, this castle ruin is perfect for a historical stroll.
- Kouri Island and Kouri Bridge: A popular scenic spot for driving, with beautiful ocean views.
- Nago Castle Park: A park in the center of Nago City, known as a great spot for strolling and cherry blossom viewing (depending on the season).
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The park tends to be crowded with families on weekends, public holidays, during the summer holidays, Golden Week, etc. The number of visitors also increases during experience events, so it's best to plan your visit with plenty of time to spare.
- How to interact with animals: Follow the instructions of the zoo and staff, and observe basic etiquette such as not feeding anything other than designated food, not chasing animals, not shouting, etc. In order to reduce stress for the animals, there may be restrictions on the range and methods of interaction.
- Hygiene: Wash and disinfect your hands after interacting with animals. Pay attention to hygiene measures after small children have come into contact with animals.
- What to wear and bring: You will be walking a lot in the park, so comfortable shoes are recommended. In the summer, the sun can be strong and hot, so it is best to bring a hat, drink, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
- Weather: As the park is primarily outdoors, some areas and events may be canceled in the event of bad weather. Please check the official website or call the park for the latest information before visiting.
- Parking and Transportation: Public transportation is not convenient, so it is best to visit by rental car. We recommend checking the number of parking spaces and whether there is a fee or free option in advance.
(Note) Admission fees, opening hours, closing days, and ongoing experience events may change depending on the season, so please check the official website or call the facility before visiting for the latest information.
