Kyoto City Zoo

Kyoto City Zoo is a zoo located inside Okazaki Park in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City. It opened in 1903 to commemorate the marriage of the future Taisho Emperor, making it the second zoo to open in Japan. Built with substantial donations from Kyoto citizens, it can be described as Japan’s first zoo created by the hands of local residents. The approximately 4-hectare grounds are divided into themed areas, including "Mojyu World" with lions, Amur tigers, and jaguars; "African Grassland" with giraffes, hippos, and flamingos; "Fairyland" where you can interact with sheep, goats, turtles, and rabbits; the "Light, Water, and Green Animal House" featuring bats, parrots, turtles, and more; as well as "Monkey World" and "Elephant Forest." The zoo also hosts events such as one-day zookeeper experiences, night openings, and lectures. A Wildlife Rescue Center is attached as well, where animals injured in Kyoto City are rescued, treated, and supported with the aim of returning them to the wild. It is located very close to Heian Shrine and the museum district, and it is about a 5-minute walk from Keage Subway Station.