Akita Omoriyama Zoo
秋田市大森山動物園
Animals shown in enclosures designed around their natural behaviour.
What this place is
The Akita Omoriyama Zoo (秋田市大森山動物園, Akitashi Omoriyama dōbutsuen), also known as “Milve”, is a municipal zoo opened in July 1967 in the city of Akita, Akita Prefecture, Japan. Opened in 1972, the zoo covers 15 hectares, with 114 species on display. It is accredited by the Japanese Association of Zoos and Aquariums (JAZA). The zoo is modeled after Asahiyama Zoo in Hokkaido with holding areas designed to mimic the animal’s natural habitat, and incorporating “action exhibits” where animal activity is encouraged, particularly during feeding time.
Background text from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA)
Why it is worth the trip
- Exhibits built so animals move, climb and swim above or around visitors rather than sitting still.
- Species suited to the local climate, including cold-weather animals rarely seen elsewhere.
- Keeper talks that explain individual animals by name, personality and history.
What you can do here
- Follow the keeper-talk timetable — it is the difference between seeing animals and understanding them.
- Visit the popular enclosures right at opening, when the animals are most active.
- Try the feeding or petting experiences if they are offered that day.
- Take the loop bus or shuttle in larger parks; the sites can be surprisingly hilly.
Photos
Photos from Wikimedia Commons — click any image for the photographer and licence.
Getting there by public transport
Good to know before you go
- Midday in summer is the worst time — most animals sleep and shade is limited.
- Closed Mondays as a rule; winter hours are shorter than summer.
- Strollers are usually rentable at the gate for a small fee.
Traveler reviews
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