
Sasebo Zoological and Botanical Garden Morikirara
A charming blend of zoo and botanical garden, offering over 300 animals and 20,000 plants in a clean, affordable setting.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Sasebo Zoological and Botanical Garden Morikirara
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming blend of zoo and botanical garden, offering over 300 animals and 20,000 plants in a clean, affordable setting.
"A clean and affordable zoo with beautiful gardens, perfect for a family outing."

🎯 Annual Pass Value
Consider an annual pass if you plan multiple visits; it's a great deal for frequent family outings. :ticket:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see both the zoo and gardens. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Penguin Exhibit
Penguin Exhibit Building
An engaging penguin display with thoughtful setup, offering a delightful viewing experience for all ages.

Botanical Gardens
Throughout the park
Beautiful seasonal flowers and plants add charm, making it a delightful bonus alongside the animal encounters.

Giraffe Feeding Area
Near the entrance
An opportunity to get up close with giraffes, though some visitors mention limited activities on certain days.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Animal Welfare Concerns
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Annual Pass Value
Consider an annual pass if you plan multiple visits; it's a great deal for frequent family outings. :ticket:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see both the zoo and gardens. :athletic_shoe:
🅿️ Free Parking Available
Convenient free parking is located directly across the street from the zoo entrance. :car:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, bring plenty of water as it can get hot and muggy. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Annual Pass Value
Consider an annual pass if you plan multiple visits; it's a great deal for frequent family outings. :ticket:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see both the zoo and gardens. :athletic_shoe:
🅿️ Free Parking Available
Convenient free parking is located directly across the street from the zoo entrance. :car:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, bring plenty of water as it can get hot and muggy. :droplet:
📸 Capture the Blooms
Don't forget your camera for the beautiful seasonal flowers and plants in the botanical gardens. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Sasebo Zoological and Botanical Garden Morikirara to be a clean and affordable place with a good variety of plants and animals, especially for young children. However, some guests express concern over the size and condition of animal enclosures, finding them to be small and lacking enrichment. Despite this, the botanical gardens are often praised for their beauty.
"Beautiful place to visit, the staff were nice, it a great place to stretch your legs in. There's enough plants and animals to see"
Adebisi Kasim
"I’ve lived here over 4 years and this is the first time I’ve actually visited for leisure. The first time I came I only went as far as the giraffes near the front for a volunteer event.
This is a pretty decently sized zoo to visit especially with little ones. I love the way their penguin exhibit is set up and apparently there’s a sort of cafe or seating area that we missed. For 2 adults with a military discount it was literally around ¥1200! For an annual pass it’s ¥2100! For our son’s first visit to a zoo this was the perfect size and as soon as we were done he fell right asleep. Parking is free and just right across the street.
There is a diaper changing room in the penguin exhibit building as well as a men’s and women’s restroom. The bathroom was very clean."
Cathrine Mae Ruble
"I’ve been visiting our neighborhood zoo since my daughter was six months old, and now that she’s two, she loves it even more! The zoo is within walking distance for us, making it a perfect place for frequent visits. The staff are incredibly helpful and kind, always enhancing our experience.
We have an annual pass and this zoo is a fantastic spot to spend one to two hours with family, enjoying a diverse range of animals. The garden is a delightful bonus, with beautiful seasonal flowers and plants that add to the charm of the place. We always leave with smiles and look forward to our next visit!"
Needhee Rathore
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The zoo is accessible by car with free parking available across the street. Public transportation options may also be available, though specific routes and times should be checked locally. :bus:
Yes, there is convenient and free parking located directly across the street from the zoo entrance. :car:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is affordable, with options for adults and children. Military discounts are available, and an annual pass offers great value for frequent visitors. :ticket:
Information on advance ticket purchases is not widely available, but on-site purchase is generally straightforward. It's always a good idea to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current information. :computer:
Yes, discounts are offered, including for military personnel. An annual pass is also a cost-effective option for those planning multiple visits. :moneywithwings:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The zoo houses over 300 animals, including popular species like giraffes and penguins. Visitors can also explore the extensive botanical gardens. :paw_prints:
While specific dining options aren't always highlighted, there are mentions of a cafe or seating area. It's advisable to bring your own snacks or check for available facilities upon arrival. :sandwich:
Yes, it's considered a perfect size for young children's first zoo visits, offering a manageable experience for toddlers and preschoolers. :baby:
Restrooms are available, including diaper changing rooms, particularly noted in the penguin exhibit building. The facilities are generally reported as clean. :toilet:
Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking extensively. Weekday mornings offer a more relaxed pace to enjoy both the animals and the diverse plant life. :walking:
📸 📸 Photography
The penguin exhibit and the various seasonal flowers in the botanical gardens offer great photo opportunities. Capture the animals in their enclosures and the vibrant plant life. :camerawithflash:
Photography is generally allowed for personal use. Be mindful of any specific signage regarding flash photography or restricted areas. :iphone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
While some concerns exist about animal enclosure sizes, the overall atmosphere is generally positive for families. The affordable admission and the opportunity to see a variety of animals and beautiful plants make it an enjoyable outing. Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid larger crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience for your family.
🚶 Budget Travelers
An annual pass is a particularly good deal if you plan on visiting more than once, making it an economical choice for repeat enjoyment. While dining options might be limited, bringing your own snacks can help keep expenses down. This makes it an accessible and affordable destination for a day out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Botanical Gardens
While the zoo enclosures have faced some criticism regarding size and enrichment, the botanical aspect of the garden is consistently viewed positively. It offers a serene escape and a chance to see a wide array of flora, complementing the animal exhibits. For those who appreciate horticulture, this section of the park is a must-see.
Remember to check the best times for seasonal blooms to maximize your enjoyment of the gardens. The combination of animals and a well-maintained botanical collection makes Morikirara a unique destination for nature lovers.
Visitor Perspectives on Animal Enclosures
Conversely, other reviews highlight specific exhibits, like the penguin display, as being well-designed and engaging. The zoo is generally described as clean, and staff are often noted as being kind and helpful. However, the concerns about enclosure size are significant enough that potential visitors should be aware of this aspect of the experience.
For those planning a visit, it's worth considering these varied perspectives. While the zoo offers an affordable and accessible outing, the welfare of the animals in their enclosures is a point of contention for some.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit