Kobe Oji Zoo is located in Oji Park in Nada Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. This historic zoo was once famous as the only place in Japan where visitors could see giant pandas and koalas at the same time. In addition to its diverse animal exhibits, the zoo is also renowned as a popular cherry blossom viewing destination, attracting large numbers of visitors in spring.
The zoo’s predecessor, Suwayama Zoo, opened in Suwayama Park in Kobe in 1928. Although it closed in 1946, the zoo was reestablished at its present location on March 21, 1951, using the former site of the Japan International Trade and Industrial Exposition, also known as the Kobe Expo, held that year.
Covering a total area of 80,618 square meters, Kobe Oji Zoo houses and exhibits 778 animals representing 138 species. Among its most notable residents have been rare and endangered animals, including giant pandas, koalas, Amur tigers, Amur leopards, and snow leopards.
The zoo offers much more than animal exhibits. Visitors can also explore an animal science museum, an amusement park, and a display featuring a steam locomotive, making it an enjoyable destination for families and visitors of all ages.
The Animal and Children’s Kingdom is a family-friendly area featuring a koala house, a red panda house, a squirrel and small bird forest, and an animal interaction area. These attractions provide children with opportunities to observe animals up close and learn about wildlife in an engaging environment.
The zoo features facilities where visitors can observe sea lions and polar bears underwater, offering a fascinating perspective on how these animals move and behave in the water.
Another notable facility is the Sun Animal House, known for successfully raising Amur tiger cubs through natural maternal care for the first time in Japan. The amusement park also features a Ferris wheel and restaurants, allowing families to enjoy a full day of activities.
The Panda Pavilion was once one of the zoo’s most popular attractions. Until the death of its last giant panda, Tantan, on March 31, 2024, Kobe Oji Zoo was the only zoo in Japan where visitors could see giant pandas and koalas together.
Kobe Oji Zoo is widely known for its beautiful cherry blossoms. With support from the Kobe City Park and Greenery Association, the trees are carefully maintained to preserve the zoo’s seasonal beauty.
In spring, the zoo sometimes hosts a special nighttime event known as the Yozakura Torinuke, or Nighttime Cherry Blossom Viewing. During this event, visitors can stroll through the grounds and admire the illuminated cherry blossoms free of charge.
Since 2002, several Somei Yoshino cherry trees within the zoo have also been designated as official reference trees for determining the flowering and full-bloom dates of cherry blossoms in Kobe.
Another attraction within the zoo grounds is the Former Hunter Residence, a historic Western-style house originally built for a foreign resident in Japan. The building has been relocated to the zoo and is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
It is generally opened to the public in April, August, and October each year. With its distinctive architecture and historical significance, the residence offers visitors an opportunity to discover another aspect of Kobe’s cultural heritage beyond its wildlife attractions.
In 2021, Kobe City announced plans to redevelop Oji Zoo as a modern urban zoo. Under the proposal, part of the wider Oji Park grounds is expected to be converted for sports facilities. At the same time, certain existing facilities, including the swimming pool, are planned for removal, allowing the land to be incorporated into the zoo and helping maintain the overall size of its animal areas.
The redevelopment plan also calls for improvements to the way animals are displayed, with the aim of creating a more contemporary zoo environment. However, the proposals have attracted opposition from some members of the public. Plans involving the potential expansion of Kwansei Gakuin University have also contributed to wider discussions about the future redevelopment of Oji Park.
Throughout its long history, Kobe Oji Zoo has achieved numerous milestones in animal care and breeding. These include the birth of Japan’s first Indian elephant calf and successful breeding of black rhinoceroses.
Looking ahead, the zoo is expected to continue improving its facilities and advancing animal welfare and conservation efforts, while providing a safe and welcoming environment for both animals and visitors.
As plans to transform the zoo into a modern urban attraction move forward, Kobe Oji Zoo remains an important part of the city’s recreational and cultural landscape. Its future development will shape how this historic institution continues to connect urban life with wildlife conservation and education.