Hirakawa Zoological Park
鹿児島市平川動物公園
A municipal zoo on the southern hills of Kagoshima with views of Sakurajima and Kinko Bay. It houses about 140 species, including some of the largest koala populations in Japan.
Hirakawa Zoological Park lies in the hills of southern Kagoshima and is home to about 140 species and 1,000 animals. It was one of the first zoos in Japan to bring in koalas, which can be observed up close in the koala house. Other highlights include white tigers, giraffes, and an African zone, and some areas offer views of Sakurajima and Kinko Bay in the distance. The zoo has a small amusement park, making it a good choice for families. Adult admission is about 500 yen. Open 9:00–17:00. From Goinoda Station on JR, it's about 8 minutes by bus. From the city center, it's about 30 minutes by car, and it can be visited on the way to Chiran or Ibusuki.
Opening hours
09:00–17:00 (closed Dec 29–Jan 1)
Nearby sights
- Chiran Samurai Residences
- Chiran Peace Museum for Kamikaze Pilots
- Museum of the Meiji Restoration
- Tenmonkan
- Terukuni Shrine
- Shiroyama Observatory
- Statue of Saigo Takamori
- Tsurumaru Castle Ruins & Reimeikan