All animal museums to visit in Japan

Delve into the diverse world of animals at 11 animal museums in Japan. These museums showcase a variety of species, habitats, and the role of animals in our ecosystem.

Are you an animal lover looking to explore the best animal museums in Japan? Here are your best options:

  1. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan1

    Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

     Osaka Prefecture
    The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is a large public aquarium located in Osaka, Japan. It is not just one aquarium but a series of aquariums built around one massive water tank. This unique design allows visitors to experience a variety of marine life in different environments, all within the same facility.
  2. Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama2

    Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama

     Kyoto
    Iwatayama Monkey Park is a commercial park situated in Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan. The park is located on Mount Arashiyama, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to interact with nature and wildlife in a serene setting. The park's location offers a panoramic view of the city, making it a popular destination for tourists.
  3. Ueno Zoo3

    Ueno Zoo

     Tokyo
    The Ueno Zoo, located in Taitō, Tokyo, Japan, is a 14.3-hectare zoo managed by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. As Japan's oldest zoo, it has a rich history dating back to its opening on March 20, 1882.
  4. Marine World Uminonakamichi4

    Marine World Uminonakamichi

     Fukuoka Prefecture
    Opened in 1989, this marine world features 70 aquariums full of marine animals and plants. Be sure to check the schedule and see one of its famous shows, such as Dolphin and Sea Lion show and Sea Otter feedings.
  5. Maruyama zoo5

    Maruyama zoo

     Sapporo
    The Sapporo-Maruyama Zoo is situated in Chūō-ku, a district of Sapporo, which is the capital city of the Japanese prefecture Hokkaidō. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city or the region.
  6. Tennoji Zoo6

    Tennoji Zoo

     Osaka Prefecture
    The Tennoji Zoo, located in the Tennoji district of Osaka, Japan, holds a significant place in history as it is the third oldest zoo in the country. It was officially opened to the public on January 1, 1915. This historical significance adds to the charm and appeal of the zoo, making it a notable destination for tourists visiting Osaka.
  7. Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens7

    Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens

     Nagoya
    The Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a unique combination of a botanical garden, a zoo, and an amusement park. It is located in Chikusa-ku, a district of Nagoya, the capital of central Japan's Aichi. This makes it a versatile destination for tourists, offering a variety of experiences in one location.
  8. Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium8

    Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium

     Nagoya
    The Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium, located in Minato-ku, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, is recognized for its impressive size. It boasts the largest tank capacity and total area among all public aquariums in Japan, making it a significant destination for those interested in marine life.
  9. Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium9

    Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium

     Nagasaki
    A lovely aquarium, that provides home to some 180 penguins of 9 different species - both cold-water and temperate.
  10. Sapporo Salmon Museum10

    Sapporo Salmon Museum

     Sapporo
    Learn about the salmon life cycle in this nice museum located right in the heart of the park.
  11. Nogeyama Zoological Gardens11

    Nogeyama Zoological Gardens

     Yokohama
    Nogeyama Zoological Gardens is a free zoo that is situated in Nogeyama Park, in the Nishi-ku district of Yokohama, Japan. This location offers visitors the opportunity to explore a variety of wildlife without any admission fee. The zoo's location within a park also provides a serene and natural environment that enhances the overall visitor experience.