Photo courtesy of Tobe Zoo, Ehime Prefecture
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Tobe Zoo, Ehime Prefecture
A zoo where you can meet animals spending their time freely in spacious grounds designed to make use of the natural terrain.
One of the largest zoos in western Japan, it displays 642 animals from 146 species (as of the end of January 2026), arranged based on geography, taxonomy, and behavioral science. There are plenty of highlights, including Peace, the polar bear raised by zookeepers through artificial rearing, and a family of African elephants. The zoo is divided into 10 zones by habitat and animal species, and its “behavioral exhibits” are designed so visitors can observe the natural traits and abilities of animals such as lions, giraffes, and chimpanzees, offering a chance to see new sides of them.
A must-see highlight is Peace, the first polar bear in Japan to be successfully raised through artificial rearing. With a fluffy white appearance, Peace has long been loved by visitors for cute moments like playing in the pool and gazing through the glass. Don’t miss Penguin Plaza, where you can watch penguins swimming freely underwater from different angles, or the orangutan behavioral exhibit, where they skillfully cross a 66-foot rope stretched 36 feet high.
Events are also held regularly, including guinea pig petting time, African elephant feeding experiences, and volunteer guides.
Highlights
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One of the largest zoos in western Japan, home to 642 animals from 146 species.
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Peace, the polar bear that was the first in Japan to be successfully raised through artificial rearing, is the zoo’s star attraction.
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A variety of events are held, including guinea pig interactions and African elephant feeding experiences.
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The Snake House keeps many kinds of reptiles, including crocodiles, snakes, and turtles.
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Joint research is also conducted with universities.
Photos
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One of the largest zoos in western Japan, where you can watch lively animals (Photo courtesy of Tobe Zoo, Ehime Prefecture)
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Peace the polar bear, one of Tobe Zoo’s most popular animals (Photo courtesy of Tobe Zoo, Ehime Prefecture)
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Various events, including interactive experiences, are also popular (Photo courtesy of Tobe Zoo, Ehime Prefecture)
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?
A
Ehime Free Wi-Fi is available.
Q
Are there coin lockers?
A
There are coin lockers at the main gate for 100 yen (small) and 200 yen (large).
Q
Is re-entry allowed?
A
No, it is not.
Q
Are there smoking areas?
A
There are two smoking areas, one at the main gate and one behind the observation restaurant. During Night Zoo events, smoking is not allowed inside the zoo for safety management reasons. Please smoke only in designated areas.
Q
Are there any sightseeing spots nearby?
A
The neighboring facility, Ehime Children's Castle, is connected by zipline. There are also many shops selling Tobe ware.
Q
What other frequently asked questions are there?
A
Please check the official website below.
Tobe Zoo, Ehime Prefecture
Reviews
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 愛媛県立とべ動物園
- Postal Code
- 791-2191
- Address
- 240 Kamiharamachi, Tobe, Iyo District, Ehime
- Phone
- 089-962-6000
- Closed on
- Mondays (or the following weekday if Monday is a national holiday), New Year holidays
- Hours
- 9:00 am–5:00 pm (Last admission at 4:30 pm)
- Admission
- Ages 18 and over (excluding high school students): 600 yen, high school students: 200 yen, elementary and junior high school students: 100 yen, under 6: free, ages 65 and over: 300 yen
- Access
- Approx. 41 minutes from Matsuyamashi Station on the Iyotetsu Bus Tobe Line bound for Oiwabashi, then Approx. 15 minutes on foot from the Sogo Undo Koen-guchi bus stop
- Credit Cards
- Accepted
- Official website
- Official website (Japanese)
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