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Higashi Tsukuba Utopia
Mountains, breeze, and animals. Step into a peaceful paradise that helps you forget everyday life.
Opened in 1975, this zoo sits near the summit of Minejiyama, a 379.6-meter mountain. The grounds preserve the natural environment, where a lively range of animals can be seen, from herbivores such as goats and miniature horses to popular favorites like Japanese macaques and raccoons.
Some animals here were rescued for various reasons, and visitors can also observe wild boars living freely on the vast ranch, as well as Asian black bears and masked palm civets.
You can also enjoy walking with the friendly dogs around the park and spending time with affectionate cats at Catpia, the on-site cat cafe. Depending on the season, monkey shows are also held.
Unlike a typical zoo where animals are simply observed, this spot also shows an active commitment to rehabilitating and supporting rescued animals. Through walks and hands-on experiences, visitors can deepen their understanding of the current situation facing animals that have lost their habitats and the importance of ecosystems.
Highlights
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A zoo near the summit of Minejiyama, home to a wide variety of animals including goats and miniature horses.
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It also takes in rescued animals, giving visitors a chance to learn about the value of life and ecosystems.
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Popular close-up animal experiences include walks with dogs, a cat cafe, and seasonal monkey shows.
Photos
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A beloved spot for 50 years since opening
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Meet cats at Catpia
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Wild boars living energetically on the vast ranch
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Monkey shows are also held depending on the season
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?
A
Available only around the reception area.
Q
Are there coin lockers?
A
No.
Q
Is parking available?
A
Yes, free parking is available. (Capacity: 100 vehicles)
Q
Is re-entry allowed?
A
Yes, with no restrictions on the same day.
Q
Are there smoking areas?
A
Yes, they are provided throughout the park.
Q
Are there sightseeing spots nearby?
A
Right next to the zoo is Minejiyama Saikoin, known as the Kiyomizu-dera of the Kanto region.
Nearby attractions also include Mount Tsukuba, Amabiki Kannon, Ibaraki Flower Park, and Tsukuba Wanwan Land.
Reviews
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 東筑波ユートピア
- Postal Code
- 315-0156
- Address
- 2729-1 Yoshiu, Ishioka, Ibaraki 315-0156
- Phone
- 0299-43-6656
- Closed on
- Thursdays (except national holidays)
- Hours
- 10:00am–4:00pm
- Admission
- Adults (junior high school students and older) ¥1,200, children (ages 3 and up) ¥720
- Access
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1) Approx. 30 minutes by car from Ishioka Station on the JR Joban Line
2) Approx. 25 minutes by car from the Sakuragawa Chikusei IC or Kasama Nishi IC on the Kita-Kanto Expressway
3) Approx. 30 minutes by car from the Tsuchiura Kita IC on the Joban Expressway - Credit Cards
- Accepted, various QR code payment methods also available
- Official website
- Official website (Japanese)
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