One of Japan's oldest zoos, established in 1915, housing over 1,000 animals across 11 hectares adjacent to Tennoji Park. Home to hippopotamuses, giraffes, Japanese black bears, and polar bears.
Tennoji Zoo, established in 1915, is one of Japan's oldest zoos and occupies about 11 hectares directly adjacent to Tennoji Park in Tennoji Ward. The zoo houses roughly 180 species and over 1,000 individual animals, organized loosely by habitat, with notable exhibits including hippopotamuses, giraffes and other African savanna species, Japanese black bears, polar bears, and a large aviary section. Because the zoo predates most modern Japanese zoos, several enclosures retain older architectural styles alongside newer naturalistic habitats added in recent renovations. A visit at a relaxed pace covering the main animal areas takes two to three hours. The zoo connects directly to Tennoji Park and is within walking distance of Shitennoji Temple, making it easy to combine into a fuller day around the Tennoji district. Weekday mornings shortly after the 9:30 AM opening are quietest, before school groups and families arrive later in the day; the zoo is closed on Mondays, so visitors should plan around that closure.
Good to know
- Hours
- 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (closed Mondays)
- Best time
- morning
- Best for
- families, children, budget travelers
Location
1-108 Chausuyama-cho, Tennoji-ku, Osaka 543-0063
34.6517, 135.5166 View on map
Highlights
- Over 1,000 animals across roughly 180 species on 11 hectares
- Hippopotamus, giraffe, and African savanna exhibits
- Japanese black bear and polar bear enclosures
- Direct adjacency to Tennoji Park for a combined visit
- One of Japan's oldest zoos, established in 1915
Tips for visiting
- Combine with Tennoji Park for a full day out
- Very affordable — great value family attraction
When to visit
Weekday mornings shortly after opening are quietest; the zoo is closed on Mondays, so visitors should plan visits around that closure.
Accessibility
The zoo's main pathways are paved and largely flat, making most exhibit areas accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, though a few older sections have uneven or sloped ground.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to Tennoji Zoo take?
Most visitors spend two to three hours walking the main exhibit areas at a relaxed pace.
Is Tennoji Zoo worth it for kids?
Yes, the zoo is a popular family destination in Osaka, valued for its affordable admission and manageable size for young children.
Is photography allowed at Tennoji Zoo?
Photography without flash is allowed throughout the zoo, though flash photography is discouraged near certain animal enclosures to avoid disturbing the animals.