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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Ichihara Elephant Kingdom is an experiential zoo and theme facility centered around elephants, located in Ichihara City, Chiba Prefecture. Since its founding, the facility has placed importance on raising and protecting elephants and on interacting with people. One of its greatest features is the opportunity for visitors to get up close and personal with elephants through elephant shows, interactive events, feedings, elephant walks, and commemorative photo opportunities. Popular with families and animal lovers, the zoo also has a corner where visitors can interact with small animals other than elephants, as well as exhibits and explanations about elephants.
Highlights
- Elephant Shows and Performances: You can watch shows and performances based on the training of the elephants. This is a popular program that allows you to get a close look at the size and intelligence of the elephants.
- Interacting and feeding experience: There is an experience where you can feed the elephants directly (fee required, limited number of people), and the feeling of receiving food with the elephant's trunk is something you can only get here.
- Elephant walk and photography: There are programs where you can take a walk with the elephants and take commemorative photos next to them (depending on the date and reservation status).
- Baby elephants and exhibition corner: They often have comprehensive exhibits on breeding and conservation activities, as well as explanations that teach about the ecology and history of elephants.
- Seasonal Events and Special Programs: Seasonal events are held, such as summer bathing events and annual events (content changes depending on the time of year).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
The location is in Ichihara City, Chiba Prefecture, but please use the following as a guide when visiting.
- Nearest station: Goi Station on the JR Uchibo Line (main entrance for public transportation).
- Buses and taxis: Local buses and shuttle/special buses that go directly to the facility may operate from Goi Station. However, the number of buses is limited, so we recommend checking the timetable in advance or taking a taxi (travel time may vary depending on road conditions).
- Access by carFrom the Tokyo metropolitan area, it takes approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and a half (depending on traffic conditions) using the Keiyo Road, Bayshore Route, or major roads in the Boso area. There is a parking lot within the park, so it is convenient to come by car.
- Note: Public transportation availability, availability of direct buses, and parking lot congestion may vary depending on the season, so we recommend checking the official website or calling before visiting.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Standard tour only: approximately 1.5-2 hours
- If you experience multiple interactions, feedings, and shows: 2.5 to 4 hours (including waiting times for programs and lunch)
- If you plan to relax or participate in many events: half a day to full day
Nearby spots
- Around Goi Station: There are restaurants and shopping spots, making it convenient for meals and short breaks.
- Tourist attractions on the Boso Peninsula: By car, you can access Boso's attractions, such as Yoro Valley and coastal tourist spots (travel times vary depending on the destination).
- Other leisure facilities in Chiba Prefecture: Mother Farm and large theme parks are within a one-hour drive (travel time varies depending on traffic conditions).
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: Weekends, public holidays, and long school holidays tend to be busy, and tickets for interactive experiences and shows may sell out quickly. Please consider making reservations in advance and arriving early.
- Manners：When touching elephants or other animals, please be sure to follow the instructions of staff and only touch them in designated places and in designated ways. Please also observe basic zoo etiquette, such as not feeding the animals without permission, not crossing the fences, and not shouting.
- safety: As you will be interacting with large animals, if you are bringing children please keep an eye on them and make sure to follow the instructions of the staff.
- What to wear and what to bring: You may get dirty when feeding the animals and participating in other activities. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing that you can move around in and that you don't mind getting dirty, and shoes that are easy to walk in. Also, be sure to take precautions against heatstroke in the summer (a hat and water), and bring rain gear in case of rain.
- Seasonal precautions: Please take precautions against the heat in summer and the cold in winter. Outdoor programs may be canceled in the event of rain or strong winds.
- Check for the latest information: Opening hours, admission fees, event dates and participation methods may change, so be sure to check the official website or call in advance for the latest information.
(Note) The latest detailed information, such as address, opening hours, admission fees, and experience reservation methods, may be subject to change. We strongly recommend that you check the official website or call the park for the latest information before visiting.
