Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Atagawa Banana and Crocodile Garden is a unique facility that combines a tourist botanical garden and a reptile facility in Higashiizu Town, Kamo District, Shizuoka Prefecture. As the name suggests, it houses a greenhouse where tropical bananas and various tropical plants are cultivated and displayed, as well as an area where many types of crocodiles (including crocodiles and alligators) and other reptiles are raised and displayed, making it a great place to enjoy both plants and animals all year round.
The tropical plant exhibits, which take advantage of the warm climate, give you a tropical feel even in winter, and the crocodile exhibits are popular with children and adults alike as they can be observed up close. Through educational commentary and ingenious animal husbandry techniques, the zoo also serves as a place to raise interest in conservation and ecology (please see the official website for detailed history, background, and event information).
Highlights
- Crocodile exhibit area: Several species of crocodiles and alligators are kept here. You can observe their impressive appearances up close. There are often feeding times and explanations, so if you time it right, you can enjoy the observation even more (please check the schedule).
- Banana Greenhouse and Tropical Plants: A greenhouse where bananas and other tropical plants are all gathered together. Observing seasonal flowers and fruits, and taking photos inside the greenhouse are also popular.
- Reptile and amphibian exhibits: In addition to crocodiles, you can also see snakes and turtles, and comparative exhibits and ecological explanations will help you learn more.
- Zoo guide and explanatory displays: Children can gain knowledge through explanations from the zookeepers and panels introducing the ecology of the animals, making this a great place for independent research.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Atagawa Station on the Izu Kyuko Line. It's about a 10-15 minute walk from the station (depending on your physical strength and walking speed). You can also get there more easily by taking a taxi or local bus.
- By train: From Tokyo, the most common way to get there is to take the Odoriko express train or the Shinkansen to Atami, then transfer to the JR or Izukyu line. The travel time varies depending on the departure point, so please check the train timetable.
- Directions by car: Accessible from the Tomei Expressway or Odawara via the national highway and Izu Jukan Expressway. There is a parking lot at the park (fees may apply), but due to limited parking, it can get crowded during peak seasons.
- Other: It is also convenient to rent a car or use a sightseeing bus to visit nearby tourist attractions. Please check the official website or local guide for the latest information on transportation access and parking.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Standard viewing: Approximately 1-2 hours (approximate time to see all the crocodiles and greenhouses).
- For a leisurely tour/with family: 2-3 hours (including watching the feedings and explanations, taking photos, and taking breaks within the park).
- If you combine it with sightseeing in the surrounding area: It's easy to create a half-day to full-day sightseeing plan (a full-day course can be made if you include a bath at Atagawa Onsen and a tour of nearby spots).
Nearby spots
- Atagawa Onsen Town: Close to the Banana Crocodile Garden, you can enjoy the hot springs for a day trip or overnight stay.
- Jogasaki Coast: A scenic spot with cliffs and suspension bridges. Enjoy the ocean views and it's also a popular driving course.
- Izukogen area (Izu Shaboten Park, Granpal Park, etc.): There are several leisure facilities within driving distance, making it ideal for family trips.
- Other tourist spots: You can also enjoy sightseeing in the Ito and Atami areas, driving along the coast, and local seafood cuisine.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The number of visitors increases on weekends, holidays, summer vacation, and peak tourist seasons, and parking lots and the museum may become congested. If you want to avoid crowds, consider visiting on a weekday or right after opening.
- Greenhouse heat and humidity: The greenhouse recreates a tropical environment, so it can be very hot and humid, especially in the summer. Bringing drinks, a towel to wipe away sweat, and breathable clothing will keep you comfortable.
- Manners: Please follow the instructions of the zookeepers when touching or feeding the animals. Please refrain from banging on the glass windows or shouting, as this will cause stress to the animals.
- Safety and child supervision: There are dangerous animals such as crocodiles, so if you have small children with you, please keep an eye on them.
- Wheelchairs and Barrier-Free: There may be steps and pathways within the park. We recommend checking in advance whether the park is barrier-free and whether wheelchairs are available for rental.
- Check for the latest information: Opening hours, closing days, admission fees, and event information such as feeding demonstrations are subject to change. Please check the official website or call us before visiting for the latest information.
This is the basic introduction to Atagawa Banana Crocodile Park. For specific opening hours, fees, and event information, please check the official website or local guide for the latest information before visiting.
