There aren’t a huge number of animal species inside, but you can see them from pretty close up, so both kids and adults can get a really good look.
The zoo is quiet and not crowded. The overall vibe feels a bit like strolling through a park while casually seeing animals, which makes it relaxing and comfortable.
If you’re in the area, it’s a great place to stop by and walk around.
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Kiryu Gaoka Zoo
A free zoo on a green hill where you can casually stop by and enjoy meeting animals.
3.95
1
Set on a gently elevated hill, this zoo stands out for exhibits so impressive it’s hard to believe admission is free. Since opening in 1953, it has been a longtime favorite with visitors, and today it keeps Approx. 108 species and 472 animals.
Popular animals such as reticulated giraffes, eastern grey kangaroos, and Sichuan red pandas can be seen here, and the zoo’s exhibit style makes them feel surprisingly close even across the enclosures, letting you closely observe their expressions and movements. The grounds make full use of the natural hilly terrain, with gently rising and falling paths that make it pleasant to explore at a relaxed pace, almost like taking a walk in nature.
The scenery, colored by seasonal plants such as cherry blossoms, azaleas, and autumn leaves, is also beautiful, making each visit a chance to enjoy a different view. There are also spots overlooking the surrounding town, so the views are another highlight. If you also visit the neighboring Kiryu Gaoka Amusement Park, you can enjoy both animal encounters and rides in a single day.
Highlights
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An impressively well-equipped zoo, home to Approx. 108 species, that’s hard to believe is free to enter.
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Get a close look at popular animals such as reticulated giraffes and red pandas.
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The grounds, designed around the natural hillside terrain, offer a pleasant walk with the feel of a nature stroll.
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Seasonal scenery, including spring cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, is another part of the appeal.
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A leisure spot where animal encounters and fun attractions come together, especially when enjoyed with the neighboring amusement park.
Photos
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You can see the 5-meter-long reticulated giraffe up close
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The capybara house was completed in 2025, and two capybaras joined the zoo!
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There are currently four Sichuan red pandas at the zoo
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?
A
Yes, it is.
Q
Are there coin lockers?
A
No, there are not.
Q
Is there a smoking area?
A
Yes, outside the zoo.
Q
Are there any sightseeing spots nearby?
A
Kiryu Gaoka Amusement Park is nearby.
Q
Are pets allowed?
A
Pets are not allowed in the zoo.
Q
Is there a cafeteria or restaurant?
A
No, there is not.
Reviews
1
Some reviews are AI-translated.
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 桐生が岡動物園
- Postal Code
- 376-0056
- Address
- 3-8-13 Miyamotocho, Kiryu, Gunma 376-0056
- Phone
- 0277-22-4442
- Closed on
- Several days each month (see the official website for details)
- Hours
- 9:00 am–4:30 pm
- Admission
- Free admission
- Access
- Approx. 15 minutes on foot from Nishi-Kiryu Station on the Jomo Electric Railway Jomo Line
- Credit Cards
- Not accepted
- Official website
- Official website (Japanese)
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