Atagawa Tropical and Alligator Garden
Explore a unique blend of tropical plants and diverse reptiles, featuring a vast alligator collection and charming red pandas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Atagawa Tropical and Alligator Garden
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a unique blend of tropical plants and diverse reptiles, featuring a vast alligator collection and charming red pandas.
"A unique mix of reptiles and adorable red pandas, with beautiful tropical greenhouses."
🎟️ JAF Membership Discount
Ask about JAF membership discounts for a lower entrance fee.
🐼 Red Panda Special
Check for weekend red panda specials; they are a major highlight!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Massive Alligator Collection
Alligator Zoo
Witness over 200 alligators and crocodiles, some impressively large, in their dedicated habitat.
Adorable Red Pandas
Red Panda Area
Spot the incredibly cute red pandas, a visitor favorite, often seen playing or resting.
Lush Tropical Greenhouses
Botanical Gardens
Explore vibrant greenhouses filled with giant lotuses, orchids, bananas, and pineapples.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Alligator Encounters & Red Panda Cuteness
Ticket Value & Garden Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ JAF Membership Discount
Ask about JAF membership discounts for a lower entrance fee.
🐼 Red Panda Special
Check for weekend red panda specials; they are a major highlight!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking between three garden locations, so wear comfy shoes.
🍌 Banana Ripeness
Visit when bananas are ripe for a potentially greener experience!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ JAF Membership Discount
Ask about JAF membership discounts for a lower entrance fee.
🐼 Red Panda Special
Check for weekend red panda specials; they are a major highlight!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking between three garden locations, so wear comfy shoes.
🍌 Banana Ripeness
Visit when bananas are ripe for a potentially greener experience!
🚌 Shuttle Service
Utilize the shuttle bus connecting the main area to the red panda section.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the sheer number of alligators and the undeniable cuteness of the red pandas. The tropical greenhouses are also a highlight, offering a lush botanical experience. However, some guests express concern over the size and condition of certain animal enclosures, particularly for alligators and manatees, noting they could be more spacious and better maintained.
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Welcome. My people Join us in the beach."
Jamal Kinywa
"If you are westerner used to western zoo standards and animal welfare, this place will make you very sad. Crocodiles and manatee are in cramped enclosures and obviously not healthy.
On the other hand, the greenhouses are truly beautiful, the staff is very friendly, and the snacks served at the café are fun and tasty."
Guillaume A
"I expected an old, tacky zoo and thought the entrance fee of 1,800 yen was really expensive (can get a discount with JAF membership) but to my pleasant surprise, the place was quite big and well-kept. There were lots to see: alligators (a lot of them, some massive), red pandas, giant turtles, manatee, flamingoes, fish, and tropical plants were spread across 3 areas. They provide a shuttle bus service between the main area and the one with the red pandas. It wasn't crowded even on a Sunday so we could take our time to look at everything."
Therese Wong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The garden is accessible by train to Atagawa Station. From there, it's a short walk or a local bus ride. Many visitors arrive by car, as parking is available.
Yes, parking is available for visitors.
It's a bit of a journey from Tokyo, typically around 3-4 hours by train. It's more feasible as part of a longer trip to the Izu Peninsula.
A shuttle bus service connects the main alligator area to the red panda section, making it easy to explore all three locations.
While some areas are accessible, the terrain can be uneven in parts. It's advisable to check with the garden directly for specific accessibility information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Adult tickets are 1,800 yen, and children (4-12 years) are 900 yen. Discounts may be available with a JAF membership.
The garden is typically open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entrance at 4:30 PM.
Tickets are primarily purchased at the main garden location. It's recommended to check their official website for any updates on online ticketing.
Yes, your admission ticket grants access to all three garden locations.
Visitors with a JAF membership can often receive a discount on admission.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
You can see a large number of alligators and crocodiles, red pandas, manatees, giant turtles, flamingos, and various fish species.
Yes, feeding experiences are sometimes offered, particularly for the alligators. Check the schedule upon arrival.
The greenhouses are lush and filled with exotic plants like giant lotuses, orchids, bananas, and pineapples, utilizing the area's hot spring heat.
It's generally not overly crowded, even on Sundays, allowing for a relaxed visit. Weekdays are even quieter.
Some visitors have noted that the alligator and manatee enclosures could be more spacious, while others found the grounds well-kept.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe that serves snacks and refreshments. Visitors have described the snacks as fun and tasty.
Outside food and drinks policies can vary. It's best to check with the garden directly or look for designated picnic areas if available.
The cafe offers snacks and light meals. Specific offerings might change seasonally.
Information on specific dietary options is limited. It's advisable to inquire at the cafe upon arrival.
There are likely local restaurants and cafes in the Atagawa area, especially near the station.
📸 📸 Photography
The red panda enclosures, the massive alligators, and the vibrant tropical greenhouses offer great photo opportunities. 
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout the garden. Be mindful of any specific signage regarding flash photography or restricted areas.
You can get relatively close to many animals, but always maintain a safe distance and respect their space.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in zoos and botanical gardens to avoid disturbing the animals and other visitors.
Morning light can be softer and animals may be more active. Late afternoon can also offer good lighting before closing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider utilizing the shuttle bus to easily navigate between the different garden sections, which is helpful with little ones. The tropical greenhouses offer a visually stimulating environment with large plants. While the snacks at the cafe are described as tasty, bringing some of your own snacks might be a good idea for picky eaters.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Garden Lovers
Beyond the plants, the diverse collection of alligators and crocodiles offers a glimpse into the world of reptiles. The presence of red pandas adds to the biodiversity appeal. While some enclosures may not meet the highest welfare standards for some visitors, the overall variety of life, both plant and animal, is considerable.
📸 Photographers
+2The tropical greenhouses are also a visual treat, with vibrant flowers, lush foliage, and unique plants like giant lotuses. The interplay of light and shadow within the greenhouses can create stunning photographic opportunities. Remember to check for any restrictions on flash photography, especially around the animals.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Alligator Experience
Feeding sessions, when available, offer a unique opportunity to witness the feeding behavior of these predators. It's advisable to check the daily schedule upon arrival for any feeding demonstrations. The slow-moving nature of the alligators means that patient observation is key to appreciating their presence. The garden utilizes the abundant heat from local hot springs to maintain a suitable environment for these cold-blooded creatures.
Red Panda Charm and Conservation
+9These reels often feature hashtags related to red pandas and the garden, indicating their popularity among visitors. The garden also emphasizes that red pandas are an endangered species, subtly highlighting the importance of conservation efforts. While the bananas in the tropical greenhouse might not always be ripe, the red pandas are a consistent source of delight, making their viewing a must-do for many.
Tropical Botanical Gardens
These lush environments provide a stark contrast to the alligator enclosures and offer a serene space for visitors to explore. The use of hot spring heat is a unique aspect that allows for the cultivation of these diverse tropical species in a cooler climate. The botanical gardens contribute to the overall appeal of the attraction, offering a rich sensory experience with vibrant colors and exotic scents.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit