Sakai National Park Kujukushima Zoo & Botanical Garden, 長崎県佐世保市にある動物園・植物園
Sakai National Park Kujukushima Zoo & Botanical Garden, also known as Mori Kirara, is a zoo and botanical garden in Sasebo located on a hillside of Ishidake mountain with views toward the Kujukushima islands. It houses over 300 animal species and more than 20,000 different plants, including giraffes, penguins in a large pool, and themed garden areas with seasonal flowers.
The site began in 1958 as part of Japanese naval facilities and opened to the public as a botanical garden in 1961, gaining popularity across the region. It received its official designation as Sakai National Park Kujukushima Zoo & Botanical Garden in 2011 and was renamed Mori Kirara in 2012.
The park received the name Mori Kirara in 2012, which means 'forest sparkle,' chosen through public competition to give the place a warm and friendly identity. This naming reflects how the site has become a gathering place where families and nature lovers experience plants and animals together.
The park is situated on a hillside with well-maintained paths and walkways that are easy to navigate for visitors of all ages. Free parking is available directly across from the entrance, and facilities include restrooms and diaper-changing areas, making it family-friendly and accessible.
The penguin pool opened in 2014 with one of Japan's largest outdoor tanks at 4 meters (13 feet) deep, allowing visitors to watch penguins swimming and walking from close range. The park has also successfully bred the rare Amur leopard cat, contributing to the protection of this hard-to-find species.
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