When you visit Hiroshima, Japan, make time to explore the Hiroshima City Asa Zoological Park. Located in Asakita-ku, this expansive 49.6-hectare zoo first opened its doors on September 1, 1971, as Japan's 62nd animal park. It offers a wonderful destination for travelers seeking to experience local wildlife displays and engaging educational opportunities. Across the park's generous grounds, you will discover roughly 170 different species of animals.
Keep an eye out for impressive creatures such as African forest elephants, giraffes, lions, and black rhinoceroses. You can also spot delightful red pandas, brush-tailed bettongs, macaws, and fascinating Japanese giant salamanders. To enhance your stroll through the habitats, friendly local citizen volunteers are recruited throughout the zoo to explain details about the residents with plenty of humor and insight. If you are traveling with children, you will appreciate the dedicated animal contact area designed specifically for young visitors, which was added in 2001.
Depending on the season of your trip, you might even experience the zoo after dark through its seasonal Night Safari, a summer tradition that has operated every year since 2003. Whether you love animals or simply want a relaxing day outdoors in Hiroshima, this park provides an unforgettable outing.
What to see at Hiroshima City Asa Zoological Park
- Home to roughly 170 animal species, including black rhinoceroses, giraffes, and lions
- Features unique species like African forest elephants, red pandas, and Japanese giant salamanders
- Interactive animal contact area created specifically for kids
- Engaging citizen volunteers who share detailed and humorous stories about the wildlife
- Annual summer Night Safari events running continuously since 2003
Visiting tips
Look out for local citizen volunteers throughout the park to enjoy humorous and detailed explanations about the animals.
How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Summer evenings
How to get there & what’s nearby
Hiroshima City Asa Zoological Park is easy to reach on Hiroshima’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Hiroshima Castle and Children's Peace Monument. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Hiroshima travel guide.
See the full Hiroshima travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.