Tennoji Zoo

At Osaka’s only zoo you’ll find some of the most fascinating creatures in the world swinging between trees, rolling in mud and swimming in the warm water of their recreated natural habitats. See animals from the tropics of Asia to the African savannah at Tennoji Zoo.

The animal park has been a fixture of Osaka since 1915 and is the third-oldest zoo in the country. Today, the historic zoo plays host to approximately 230 species of animal in an 11-hectare (27-acre) central location.

Walk from Tennoji Park and you’ll see the zoo’s iconic Snow White Clock Tower rising up from behind the gates. There are plenty of places to buy a snack or drink while you’re at the zoo. Pick up a map from the entrance to ensure you don’t miss anything.

Travel north through the zoo to see snakes wrapping themselves around logs in the reptile house. Located within the African Savannah exhibit, the reptile house is adjacent to the innovative hippopotamus enclosure. See the majestic hippos playing in the water. Admire the gentle nature of zebras and rhinoceros as they graze just metres from the ferocious hyena, lions and tigers next door. Bring your camera to capture the animals at play.

Continue your journey through the zoo to reach the tropical rain forests of Asia. Watch as monkeys swing from trees, sleepy koalas chew on leaves and the only Kiwi bird in Japan goes about its day. See the slow-moving elephants in their huge enclosure, surrounded by the flora of their homeland.

Time your visit to coincide with one of the daily feeding sessions to watch your favourite animals being fed by handlers.

Tennoji Zoo is closed Mondays. There is a small admission fee. A map of the zoo can be found online so you can plan your day in advance.