Yokohama Zoo ''Zoorasia''

Animal highlights at Zoorasia include Indian elephants, polar bears, penguins, and red pandas. In addition to the animal exhibits, the zoo offers nature trails, play areas for kids, and programming such as bird shows, animal-feeding sessions, and special exhibits. The zoo’s research facility engages in science related to endangered species; while this facility is not generally open to the public, the research feeds into the overall quality and experience of the zoo. Most travelers visit independently; tickets can be purchased in advance to save time waiting in line.

• There is an entry fee to Zoorasia, but children below school age are free.

• Visitors can purchase combined tickets for the zoo and the Enoshima Aquarium.

• Snacks and meals can be bought at a couple of on-site dining facilities.

• The zoo is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible. Wheelchairs can be borrowed free of charge, and strollers can be rented.

• Allow three to four hours to tour the whole zoo.

Located in northern Yokohama, Zoorasia is most easily reached by train. Take the JR Yokohama line or the Yokohama Municipal Subway Green line to Nakayama station, or take the Sotetsu line to Tsurugamine station. Zoorasia can be easily reached on a day trip from Tokyo, north of Yokohama.

Zoorasia is open every day of the week except Tuesday, unless a public holiday happens to fall on a Tuesday, in which case the zoo will close the following day instead. The zoo closes in the late afternoon, so time your visit for the morning or early afternoon to allow enough time to see everything.

Animal and nature lovers will want to purchase a combination ticket to Zoorasia and the Enoshima Aquarium. Near the sea south of Yokohama, the aquarium has views across to little Enoshima Island in Sagami Bay. A highlight is the jellyfish hall, where jellyfish swim around in a large spherical tank—a great photo opportunity.