🗺️ Wakayama Castle Park Zoo

The zoo located within Wakayama Castle Park has been loved by the residents of Wakayama for over 100 years since its opening during the Taisho era in Japan. Currently, the zoo houses 20 species of mammals with a total of 75 individuals, 26 species of birds with 71 individuals, and 5 species of reptiles with 9 individuals. This small zoo, with its retro charm, has received praise for its warm and peaceful atmosphere. On holidays, many visitors stop by after touring Wakayama Castle. One of the attractions of the zoo is that anyone can enter for free. The most popular resident of Wakayama Castle Park Zoo is the Asian black bear, Benny. Benny became well-known in Wakayama Prefecture after being elected as the zoo's director in July 2015 during a director election, where he performed exceptionally well. Benny is estimated to be 28 years old, which is roughly equivalent to 80 years in human age, and his relaxed demeanor is adored by many. The Kishu Inu sisters, Satsuki and Ayame, are also quite popular, impressing visitors with their beautiful white fur. Additionally, activities that allow close interaction with small animals such as feeding deer, alpacas, goats, sheep, and horses are very well-received. *Please note that interactions with animals may be temporarily suspended depending on their health and weather conditions.

The zoo, with a history of over 100 years, offers free admission. It houses friendly animals such as the Asian black bear and the Kishu dog. Experience activities like feeding small animals are very popular.