🗺️ Takasakiyama Natural Zoo, Oita City大分市高崎山自然動物園

Located at the foot of Takasaki Mountain, which stands at an elevation of 628 meters, is a zoo adjacent to the "Umi no Tamago Aquarium." Opened in 1953, it is approaching its 70th anniversary. The zoo is popular among visitors for its natural setting where wild monkeys can be observed in their natural state. Within the park, there are two groups of Japanese macaques, Group B and Group C, present in the monkey activity area. The curious little monkeys often approach visitors for physical interaction, while mother monkeys groom their young. In winter, the monkeys cuddle closely to keep warm, and the different activities throughout the seasons keep visitors endlessly entertained. Surprisingly, the staff at the zoo can not only recognize the face of every Japanese macaque in the activity area but have also named most of the monkeys. They introduce each monkey's characteristics to visitors using a microphone. While observing the adorable monkeys, it can also be fun to see which staff member provides the most entertaining commentary. From the entrance to the monkey activity area, visitors can enjoy a pleasant walk along a tree-lined path while climbing uphill, or they can take the "Monkey Train," a monorail that leads directly to the monkey activity area.

Since its opening in 1953, it has become one of the representative tourist attractions in Oita City, loved by many visitors. Wild Japanese macaques gather from the mountains, allowing for close observation of their daily lives within the park. Feeding activities are held in the monkey activity area, with wheat feed provided every 30 minutes and sweet potatoes twice a day (once for each group, B and C). In a challenge activity held once a day, visitors can witness the monkeys' learning abilities and intelligence.