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Kobe Oji Zoo

A nature-rich zoo at the foot of Mt. Rokko. Houses about 120 species and 700 animals, and was once famous as Japan's only zoo where you could see both pandas and koalas. Features the nationally designated Important Cultural Property 'Former Hunter Residence' and an amusement park, also renowned as a cherry blossom viewing spot in spring.

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Why Visit

A historic zoo established in 1951 at the foot of Mt. Rokko, home to about 120 species and 700 animals in a nature-rich environment. Giant Panda 'Tan Tan', kept until March 2024, lived to 28 years and was beloved by many visitors. The park features the relocated 'Former Hunter Residence' (National Important Cultural Property) from the Meiji era, making it a unique spot combining zoo and historical architecture. In spring, about 350 cherry trees bloom, with special night viewing events.

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Koalas & Popular Animals

About 120 species including koalas, giraffes, elephants, and polar bears. Petting area with goats and sheep

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Former Hunter Residence (Cultural Property)

Built in 1889, Kobe's largest Western-style residence. Historic building showcasing Meiji-era architecture. Beautiful with cherry blossoms in spring

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Cherry Blossom Spot & Night Viewing

One of Kobe's best cherry blossom spots with 350 trees. Annual night viewing event in early April (free admission)

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Photography Guide

✨ Best Shots

• Former Hunter Residence with cherry blossoms (spring)
• Koala feeding time (around 13:00)
• Dynamic scenes of large animals like elephants and giraffes
• Animal interaction at petting area
• Ferris wheel and zoo combination shots

🌅 Best Timing

• Early morning after opening is less crowded
• Feeding times: Elephants (11:30), Koalas (13:00)
• Cherry blossom season (late March-early April) is most beautiful
• Night cherry viewing: 3 days in early April (18:00-20:30)

💡 Photography allowed. Minimize flash for animals. Night cherry viewing is free but animals not viewable.

Essentials

Opening Hours: March-October: 9:00-17:00, November-February: 9:00-16:30 (Entry 30 min before closing) / Closed: Wednesdays (open on holidays), New Year holidays
cost: Adults (high school+): ¥600, Junior high and under: Free, Kobe high school students: Free, Hyogo residents 65+: Free
Best Time: Enjoyable year-round, especially during cherry blossom season (late March-early April). Duration: 1.5-2.5 hours. Visit during feeding times for more enjoyment.
Suggested Duration: About 2 hours
Access: 3 min walk west from Hankyu Ojikoen Station, 5 min walk north from JR Nada Station, 10 min walk north from Hanshin Iwaya Station. Kobe City Bus 92 to Oji Zoo stop.
Accessibility: Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Stroller rental available. Nursing room and diaper changing facilities. Free for junior high students and under.

Check Official Info

Please check official site for hours, fees, etc.

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Nearby Spots

We present captivating tourist attractions in the surrounding area.

🎨Art🏙️Modern

Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art

Opened in 2002 as a symbol of cultural recovery from the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, this is one of Western Japan's largest art museums. Designed by world-renowned architect Tadao Ando, the building features distinctive spaces using exposed concrete and natural light. The museum houses over 10,000 works, focusing on modern sculpture, prints, and works by Hyogo-related artists.

Distance: 1.2km

Walk: About 18 min

⛰️Nature

Nunobiki Falls

A mystical waterfall just 15 minutes walk from Shin-Kobe Station. Selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls, it has been beloved by poets since the Heian period.

Distance: 1.9km

Walk: About 29 min

⛰️Nature📸Photography

Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens & Ropeway

Japan's largest herb garden at 400m elevation, 5 min walk from Shin-Kobe Station and 10 min ropeway ride. Features about 200 species and 75,000 plants blooming seasonally across 12 themed gardens. Observatory plaza offers panoramic views of Kobe city and sea, with fantastic illuminated night views. A garden resort experience.

Distance: 2.0km

Walk: About 30 min

🏛️History📸Photography

Kitano Ijinkan District

Historic district lined with exotic Western-style houses

Distance: 2.5km

Walk: About 37 min

🏛️History📚Culture

Ikuta Shrine

A historic shrine that gave Kobe its name. Known for matchmaking blessings, its lush grounds provide a peaceful retreat in the city center. The beautiful vermillion gate makes it Kobe's premier power spot.

Distance: 2.8km

Walk: About 42 min