A Historic Zoo with Free Admission
Development of the zoo began in 1915, making it one of the older zoos in Japan. When it first opened, it began as a facility for keeping deer, monkeys, and waterfowl. Over the years, the facilities and animal collection developed along with changing times.
The zoo was temporarily closed during World War II but reopened after the war. In 1970, it was renovated into its current basic layout, consisting of the Fairy Tale Garden and the Waterfowl Garden.
One of its most attractive features is that admission has remained free since the zoo opened. Visitors can therefore easily stop by without purchasing a separate ticket, making it an especially convenient addition to a sightseeing trip around Wakayama Castle.
Two Distinct Areas to Explore
Fairy Tale Garden
The Fairy Tale Garden features a variety of approachable and fascinating animals, including mammals and birds. Visitors can see charming animals such as lop-eared rabbits, miniature pigs, and Shetland ponies, as well as less commonly seen species such as American beavers and ruffed lemurs.
The animals offer plenty of enjoyable moments for both children and adults. Their behavior and appearance provide an opportunity to observe wildlife at relatively close range while taking a relaxing break from exploring the castle grounds.
Waterfowl Garden
The Waterfowl Garden is home primarily to birds that live in and around water. Depending on the collection, visitors may encounter flamingos, pink-backed pelicans, swans, and mandarin ducks.
The birds can often be seen quietly resting or swimming around the ponds. Surrounded by greenery and water, this area offers a peaceful atmosphere where visitors can momentarily escape the bustle of the city.
A Diverse Collection of Animals
As of 2025, the zoo is home to approximately 138 individual animals representing 49 species. The collection includes mammals, birds, reptiles, and other creatures, allowing visitors to observe a variety of animals in one compact location.
The zoo also has educational value, making it a suitable destination for families and school visits. Observing animals at close range can help children develop an interest in wildlife, ecosystems, and the natural world.
The zoo also keeps the Kishu Ken, a traditional Japanese dog breed native to the Kii Peninsula. If you visit at the right time, you may have the opportunity to see one of these distinctive dogs being walked around the grounds.
Animal interaction experiences may also be available, providing visitors with an opportunity to get even closer to some of the animals. These experiences are particularly appealing to families traveling with children.
Remembering Benny, the Beloved Black Bear
One of the most memorable animals in the zoo’s history was Benny, a Japanese black bear. Benny arrived at the zoo in 1994 and quickly became a favorite among visitors.
In 2015, Benny was appointed the zoo’s symbolic “zoo director”, further strengthening the bear’s special connection with the local community and visitors.
Benny was particularly well known for the seasonal behavior of winter dormancy. When winter arrived, visitors became fascinated by the sight of Benny settling down to sleep in the bear’s indoor sleeping area.
Benny passed away in 2024, bringing an end to a life that had been cherished by generations of visitors. Even today, memories of Benny remain an important part of the zoo’s history and continue to be remembered fondly by those who knew the bear.
A Perfect Addition to a Wakayama Castle Visit
Wakayama Castle Park Zoo is more than simply a place to see animals. Its greatest appeal is that it can be enjoyed as part of a visit to Wakayama Castle, allowing travelers to combine history, nature, and wildlife in one sightseeing experience.
After exploring the castle grounds, visitors can take a relaxing walk through the zoo and meet its animals without having to purchase an additional admission ticket. This makes it an easy stop for travelers who want to experience something different while exploring the historic center of Wakayama City.
The zoo is relatively compact, so visitors can enjoy it even when they have limited time. Its manageable size makes it particularly convenient for families and travelers who want to combine several attractions in the castle area during a single day.
Visitor Information
Opening Hours
Opening hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Closed: Tuesdays, although the schedule may vary depending on the season.
Admission: Free
Getting There
From JR Wakayama Station, take a Wakayama Bus and get off at the Wakayama-jo-mae bus stop. The zoo is approximately a six-minute walk from the bus stop.
It is also accessible from Nankai Wakayamashi Station. From there, visitors can take a bus to the Kencho-mae bus stop, followed by a walk of approximately seven minutes.
Because the zoo is located in the center of Wakayama City, it is particularly convenient to reach by public transportation. It can easily be incorporated into an itinerary that includes Wakayama Castle and other attractions in the city center.
A Unique Castle-Side Attraction in Wakayama
Wakayama Castle Park Zoo offers a rare opportunity to encounter animals within the grounds of a historic Japanese castle. Its long history, free admission, approachable animal collection, and peaceful setting make it an enjoyable attraction for travelers of all ages.
For visitors exploring Wakayama Castle, the zoo is an easy and rewarding place to add to the itinerary. Take a leisurely walk through the castle park, discover the area’s history, and then meet the animals at this charming free zoo—a simple experience that adds a different perspective to a visit to Wakayama.