Osaka Zoo Ticket Price USD

Tennoji Zoo is one of Japan's oldest zoos, located in southern Osaka! Here's what you need to know:

Overview

Basic Information

• Opened in 1915 (over 100 years old)
• Located in Tennoji Park area
• About 11 hectares (27 acres)
• Home to around 1,000 animals of 200+ species
• More compact than modern zoos but full of character

Location & Access

• Tennoji/Tennoji-koen area (southern Osaka)
• Multiple stations nearby:
  • Tennoji Station (JR, Osaka Metro Midosuji/Tanimachi Lines)
  • Dobutsuen-mae Station (Midosuji/Sakaisuji Lines) - closest
• 5-10 minute walk from stations

Main Animals & Exhibits

Popular Animals

• Lions
• Polar bears
• African elephants
• Giraffes
• Hippopotamuses
• Asian elephants
• Red pandas
• Penguins
• Various primates (chimpanzees, gorillas)
• Reptiles and birds

Exhibit Areas

African Savanna Zone

• Lions, zebras, giraffes
• Open-style habitat design
• One of the zoo's highlights

Asian Tropical Rainforest Zone

• Elephants and tropical animals
• Lush vegetation

Polar Bear & Arctic Animals

• Viewing from multiple angles including underwater

Reptile House

• Snakes, lizards, turtles
• Indoor climate-controlled

Bird Paradise

• Various bird species
• Walk-through aviary sections

Special Features

Historical Charm

• Classic old-school zoo atmosphere
• Some vintage architecture
• Less commercialized than newer zoos

Seasonal Events

• Night zoo (summer) - extended evening hours
• Special feeding times
• Educational programs

Petting Zoo Area

• Small animals children can interact with
• Sheep, goats, guinea pigs

Practical Information

Hours:

• Usually 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (last entry 4:00 PM)
• Closed Mondays (or next day if Monday is holiday)
• Open every day during peak seasons

Admission:

• Adults: ¥500
• Elementary/middle school: ¥200
• Children under 6: Free
• Very affordable!

Time Needed:

• 2-3 hours for a leisurely visit
• Can be done in 1.5 hours if rushed

Facilities:

• Restaurants and snack stands
• Gift shop
• Coin lockers
• Stroller rentals available
• Rest areas

Tips for Visiting

Best Time:

• Weekday mornings less crowded
• Animals more active in cooler weather/morning
• Avoid extreme summer heat (July-August midday)
• Summer night zoo is special experience

What to Bring:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) in summer
• Water bottle
• Camera

Pros:

• Very affordable
• Convenient location in city
• Good variety of animals
• Historical significance
• Easy to combine with other Tennoji attractions

Cons:

• Older facilities (not as modern as some zoos)
• Some enclosures smaller by current standards
• Can be hot in summer with limited shade
• More compact than suburban zoos

Nearby Attractions (Tennoji Area)

Easy to combine with:

• Tennoji Park (surrounding the zoo)
• Abeno Harukas (tallest building in Japan, observation deck)
• Shitennoji Temple (one of Japan's oldest temples)
• Tsutenkaku Tower (iconic Osaka landmark)
• Shinsekai (retro entertainment district)
• Shopping at Tennoji/Abeno stations

Family-Friendly Features

• Stroller accessible (mostly)
• Nursing rooms available
• Children's play areas
• Educational signage (mostly Japanese)
• Reasonable size - won't exhaust young children

Comparison to Other Zoos

vs. Kyoto City Zoo:

• Similar age and style
• Tennoji is slightly larger
• Both good for half-day visits

vs. Modern Suburban Zoos:

• More compact and urban
• Older but charming character
• Much cheaper admission
• Better location for tourists

Good For:

✅ Families with children ✅ Budget-conscious travelers ✅ Those staying in Tennoji/Namba area ✅ Zoo enthusiasts interested in historical zoos ✅ Combining with other Tennoji sightseeing

❌ Not ideal if expecting modern, spacious zoo designs ❌ Skip if very hot summer day (limited air-conditioned areas)

Tennoji Zoo offers good value and convenience for a few hours of animal viewing, especially if you're already exploring the Tennoji area. It's a nice break from temples and shopping, particularly for families!