TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Gunma Safari Park is a drive-through zoo and safari facility located in Tomioka City, Gunma Prefecture. Its main feature is the ability to observe zebras, giraffes, lions, tigers, leopards, and other animals at relatively close range within its spacious grounds. A major attraction is the opportunity to watch the animals' natural behavior from inside your vehicle. The park also offers dedicated safari buses, feeding experiences, and walking zones, making it an interactive facility enjoyable for both children and adults.
Highlights
- Drive-Thru SafariYou can get close to herds of animals while feeding them from your own car or the park's dedicated bus. The thrill of having herbivores come right up to your car is something you can only experience here.
- Safari bus (with guide)This bus tour allows you to safely observe the carnivorous animal zone up close. You can learn about the animals' ecology and conservation while listening to explanations from the zookeepers.
- Feeding and interaction experienceThere are areas where you can buy food to feed animals like giraffes and Genghis Khan (a type of grilled lamb), and areas where you can interact with small animals (the content of the experience varies depending on the season and availability).
- Animal ecology observation and photography spotsYou can see the animals living freely in their spacious enclosures, and also observe their behavioral exhibits (such as feeding shows), making it ideal for photography.
- Seasonal Events: During Golden Week, summer holidays, and winter events, they sometimes hold limited-time exhibitions and night safaris (this varies from year to year).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
Public transportation access is often limited, so coming by car is more convenient. The following are some common access examples.
- car:From the Kan-etsu/Joshin-etsu areas, most people use the Tomioka Interchange on the Joshin-etsu Expressway or the route from the Joshin-etsu/Northern Kanto area, and there is parking available on the premises. From the Tokyo metropolitan area, the estimated travel time is about 1.5 to 2 hours, although this depends on traffic conditions.
- Train + Bus:The nearest major stations are Takasaki Station and stations towards Joshu-Tomioka. You can access the area by local bus or taxi from the station, but please check the timetable in advance as services may be infrequent.
- School pick-up/drop-off and tours:Day trips and shuttle buses may be offered by travel agencies or the park itself. It is recommended to check the official website for the latest information.
*Please check the official website or the latest information from the transportation company for accurate route, timetable, and parking information.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- If you mainly use drive-thrus: 1.5 to 2 hours
- If you want to thoroughly enjoy the safari bus ride, feeding, and walking zones: 2.5 to 4 hours
- If including events, meals, and breaks: Half a day (4 hours or more) to a full day
Nearby spots
- Tomioka Silk Mill (World Heritage Site)This is a representative tourist spot in Tomioka City. It is accessible by car from Gunma Safari Park, and many people visit it in conjunction with historical sightseeing.
- Mount Myogi (Myogi Park)This is a hiking spot where you can enjoy the natural scenery. You can also travel by car and fully enjoy nature and history.
- Hot spring resorts (nearby day-trip hot springs)There are many facilities scattered around where you can relax in a hot spring after sightseeing. It's easy to combine with a road trip.
- Tourist attractions in Takasaki and MaebashiThere are also urban attractions nearby, such as a Kannon statue, art museums, and shopping areas.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion:The park tends to get crowded during Golden Week, summer holidays, and long weekends, and you may experience waiting times at the parking lot and safari entrance. We recommend arriving early during peak times.
- Manners inside the car:Please follow staff instructions when using the drive-thru, such as not putting your hands or body out the window and not feeding animals outside of designated areas. Strict adherence is necessary to ensure the safety of the animals and visitors.
- Feeding precautions:Feeding animals in the carnivore area is prohibited or strictly restricted. Please follow the instructions of the zookeepers and adhere to safety measures.
- Climate/Season:In summer, take precautions against heatstroke (drinking water and using air conditioning), and in winter, take precautions against the cold. Animal exhibits, activity times, and the presence or absence of night events vary depending on the season, so it is important to check in advance.
- For those with small children:Please keep a close eye on your children to prevent them from leaning out the windows, and take all necessary precautions to ensure their safety inside the vehicle.
- photo shoot:Please follow the signs around you, as flash photography is prohibited in some areas and certain actions can be stressful for animals.
- Check for the latest information:Please note that closing days, opening hours, and the availability of experiential programs may change depending on the season. Please check the official website or call ahead for the latest information before visiting.
(Note) The information on this page is general information. For detailed access information, fees, event information, etc., please check the latest information on the Gunma Safari Park official website or official social media.
