About Zoorasia
Zoorasia (Yokohama Zoo Zoorasia) is one of the largest zoos in Japan, located in Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, and its major attraction is its natural environment where visitors can see animals living in a relaxed and spontaneous manner. The zoo is very large, and is divided into seven zones that reproduce the natural environment of various regions of the world, such as the tropical forests of Asia, subarctic forests, and the savannas of Africa. The ecology and environment of the animals exhibited in each of these areas differs, making it possible to observe the animals as if one were traveling around the world.
Zoorasia is particularly notable for its “nature-based exhibits. Instead of enclosing the animals in fences or cages, glass, waterways, and plants are used to allow visitors to enjoy the animals up close. The exhibits are designed to be easy to observe while respecting the ecology of the animals, so visitors can get a good sense of the animals' true nature and behavior.
Animals that are particularly popular include rare species that are not easily seen in other zoos, such as the okapi, Sumatran tiger, and Indian lion. The okapi is the symbol of Zoorasia, a unique animal with a horse-like appearance and zebra-like legs. Their adorable appearance and rarity make them a favorite stop for many visitors to Zoorasia. In the African savanna area, visitors can observe cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and other dynamic animals up close, along with grassland scenery.
In addition to animal observation, Zoorasia also has a large walking area and playground area where visitors can relax in nature. The large playground called “Wonder House” is especially popular as a place where children can move around and play to their heart's content, allowing parents and children to enjoy themselves in between animal observations. In addition, the park has a spacious lawn area and benches, so visitors can enjoy a picnic and relax all day long. Families, couples, and friends can enjoy the zoo at their own pace, making it a popular destination for many people.
One of the zoo's highlights is the “petting zoo,” where visitors can directly interact with the animals. Events are held on a regular basis that allow visitors to touch and feed the small animals, and the experience of getting up close and personal with the animals will be a special memory for children. In addition, the park offers guided tours and talk shows by zookeepers, where visitors can learn more about the ecology and characteristics of the animals. The opportunity to listen to the zookeepers' specialized knowledge and behind-the-scenes stories about their interactions with the animals is recommended for a deeper enjoyment of the zoo.
Zoorasia is also committed to the natural environment and is active in creating a more comfortable environment for the animals and in species preservation activities. Therefore, the zoo's exhibits are not only entertaining but also educational, allowing visitors to enjoy themselves while learning about the relationship between animals and the environment.
One of the attractions of Zoorasia is that events are held seasonally. In summer, the park opens at night for a special event called “Night Zoo,” where visitors can observe the animals at night, which is not usually possible. Seeing the animals in a different atmosphere than during the day is a fresh and special experience. The zoo and nature park are combined in a variety of ways, such as cherry blossom viewing during the cherry blossom season, when flowers bloom in the park each season.
Zoorasia is attractive for its size, the variety of animals, and exhibits that make the most of nature, providing visitors with a rich natural environment and animal interaction. In addition to animal observation, visitors can enjoy a variety of leisure activities, nature walks, and hands-on events with their families, making this a spot where visitors can fully enjoy themselves all day long. Enjoy the special experience of being away from the hustle and bustle of the city, spending time in a relaxed atmosphere, and coming into contact with the vividness of the animals.