Hamamatsu Zoological Gardens

Hamamatsu Zoological Gardens is a facility in Nishi-ku spread across rolling terrain that recreates various natural habitats for animals. The grounds house approximately 400 animals representing roughly 120 species within these designed environments.

The facility was established in 1950 as the first zoo in Shizuoka Prefecture. Since then it has grown into a leading research and conservation center focused on primates.

The gardens reflect Japanese landscape design and serve as a place where visitors can engage with information about animal protection and habitat conservation. This educational mission shapes how the zoo presents itself to the public each day.

The zoo is accessible by bus from Hamamatsu Station in approximately 40 minutes and welcomes visitors on most days. Comfortable shoes are recommended since the ground is uneven and exploring all areas takes time to complete.

The zoo is the only place in Japan where visitors can see golden lion tamarins, rare small monkeys with bright orange fur. This species originates from Brazilian rainforests and is found in few locations worldwide.