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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Oji Zoo is a municipal zoo located in Kobe's Chuo Ward, and is an urban green facility integrated with the surrounding Oji Park. It opened shortly after the war and has been popular with locals and tourists for many years. Although compact, the zoo houses a wide variety of animal species, and is known for its displays of particularly popular animals such as giant pandas, koalas, and red pandas (the animals on display and their availability change depending on the season, so please check the official website for the latest information before visiting). Oji Park, adjacent to the zoo, also has a rose garden and plaza, making it an attractive spot to enjoy a stroll.
Highlights
- Giant Panda Exhibit: This is one of the most popular exhibits at zoos in Japan. It tends to get crowded, so we recommend visiting early in the day.
- Popular small animals such as red pandas and koalas: Their adorable behavior makes for great photos. You can also learn about their ecology and conservation through the exhibit commentary.
- Interaction and explanation events: If you follow the schedule, you can hear explanations from the zookeepers, such as animal explanations and feeding introductions (please check whether these are available).
- Nature and scenery within the park: The park is well-maintained with trees, open spaces, and seasonal flowers (especially in the spring flowers and rose season), making it a great place to take a leisurely stroll and observe the animals.
- Family-friendly facilities: There are areas that are easy to move around in with strollers or wheelchairs, and there are also play equipment and rest areas for children scattered around (see the official guide for detailed facility information).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: A few minutes' walk from Ojikoen Station on the Hankyu Kobe Line. Also within walking distance (about 10 minutes' walk) of Nada Station on the JR Kobe Line.
- Bus: You can access the park from city and private bus stops. The bus route varies depending on the departure point, so please check the transfer information.
- Private car: There are parking lots in the area, but they can get crowded on weekends and during peak seasons, so we recommend using public transportation. Please check the number of parking spaces and fees in advance.
- Bicycles and walking: If you live nearby or are sightseeing, it is convenient to access the area by bicycle or on foot.
- *For the latest access information (such as temporary closures or traffic restrictions due to events), please check the official website or transportation information.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- If you want to see the main exhibits in a short time: 1 to 1.5 hours
- If you take your time to observe, take part in explanations, and participate in events: Approximately 2-3 hours
- For families and those who enjoy photography: Allow about half a day (3-4 hours)
Nearby spots
- Oji Park: A large park adjacent to the zoo. It has a rose garden, a plaza, and sports facilities, making it ideal for strolling and picnics.
- Nearby cafes and restaurants: There are cafes and snack bars scattered around Oji Park and near Hankyu Oji Koen Station, making them convenient for a short break.
- Kobe city center (Sannomiya): A few minutes to 10 minutes by train. A convenient base for sightseeing, dining, shopping, and touring tourist spots.
- Rokko area, Nunobiki Herb Garden, etc.: If you go a little further, you can also access natural spots and night view spots on the mountain side.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: It gets especially crowded on weekends, public holidays, Golden Week, and during the summer holidays. Popular exhibits (such as pandas) can have long lines, so it's usually quieter right after opening in the morning.
- Manners: For the safety of the animals, please follow the rules such as not touching the fences or glass, not feeding them, and refraining from using flash photography. In most cases, pets are not allowed.
- Health management and clothing: The park is mostly outdoors, so please prepare appropriate clothing for the weather (hat, sunscreen, rain gear, etc.). Take precautions against heatstroke in summer and cold weather in winter.
- Breastfeeding, diaper changing, toilet: There are facilities for families, but some areas can get crowded, so it's a good idea to check the location on the park map in advance.
- Check for the latest information: Opening hours, closing days, special exhibits and events, admission fees, changes to animal exhibits, etc. may change without notice. Please check the official website and social media for the latest information before visiting.
