As I stepped into Kobe Oji Zoo on a bright sunny morning, the scene was instantly captivating: an interesting mix of old-world charm, the buzzing energy of children, and the serene allure of nature. This zoo, nestled in the heart of Kobe City, is more than just a popular tourist attraction; it’s a microcosm of the joy and struggles faced by zoos worldwide.
In This Post
A Morning with Wildlife
Kobe Oji Zoo is one of Japan’s oldest zoos and was established in 1928. Originally, Suwayama Zoo, this zoo closed in 1946 and in 1951 was renamed and relocated to the current location. Despite its age and a dwindling number of animals, the zoo holds a certain enchantment. As I strolled through the exhibits in the morning, I found the grounds quieter than I had imagined, bearing the marks of time and change.
As I walked from the flamingos, up past the elephants, through sea lions enclosure and beyond, I started to realise there were lots of witches hats and closed off areas with many animals missing.
A Charming Lunch Scene
By the time lunch rolled around, the scene within the zoo grounds shifted dramatically. Groups of children were spread out on leisure sheets, munching on their bento boxes with enthusiasm. This sight, coupled with the zoo’s policy of allowing outside food, created an environment that was more akin to a large picnic area than a traditional zoo.
There are plenty of spots to eat and a few food trucks and places to buy food scattered throughout the facility. So if you didn’t bring your bento box you have some options.
Favourite Attractions
The highlight of the day for many, especially the younger visitors, was the Children and Animal Land (petting zoo area). Here, children had the chance to touch and interact with smaller animals like rabbits and guinea pigs. It was a delight to see their faces light up as they petted the animals, providing a tangible connection to the world of wildlife.
A noteworthy addition to Kobe Oji Zoo is the Zoological Science Center, which offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the wonders of the animal kingdom. The centre provides an enriching experience through its various exhibition zones and additional amenities.
In addition to its animal exhibits and educational facilities, there is also an old amusement park that evokes a sense of nostalgia and whimsy. The presence of attractions such as a Ferris wheel and merry-go-round adds an extra layer of charm to the overall zoo experience.
The Reality Behind the Scenes
However, not all was light-hearted and cheerful. The reality of a zoo’s struggles became apparent with the absence of some animals, including the giant panda, a usual crowd favourite. Some animals had passed away and hadn’t been replaced, while others, like the panda, were noticeably absent due to health concerns. These realities provided a poignant reminder of the challenges zoos are grappling with, both in terms of animal care and maintaining visitor interest.
Struggles and Solutions
These experiences reflect the larger issues zoos across the world are facing. Shrinking budgets, evolving attitudes towards animal captivity, and a need for upgraded facilities make it a challenging balancing act. Zoos serve as crucial centres for conservation, education, and animal welfare, but meeting these diverse needs requires substantial resources and innovative strategies.
Admission and Access
The zoo is accessible from three train lines, just a 3 minute walk from Hankyu Oji Koen station. 5 minutes from JR Nada Station and roughly 10 minutes from Hanshin Iwaya station. More details here.
Admission is just ¥600 for adults and free for Junior High School students and under.
Final Thoughts
Leaving the zoo just after lunch, I felt a mix of emotions. The vibrant energy of the children, the tranquillity of the setting, and seeing some unique animals up close was undeniably delightful. Yet, the visible challenges and absences were a stark reminder of the zoo’s struggles and the urgent need for change.
Visiting Kobe Oji Zoo was a beautiful, eye-opening experience that gave me insights into our shared responsibility. As our attitudes towards wildlife conservation evolve, it’s imperative that we find the best balance to protect and cherish our planet’s biodiversity, while educating and providing unique opportunities for children to see first hand some of the Earth’s most amazing species.