Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens, Nagoya

The Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens, located in Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, is a prominent attraction known for its dual offerings as both a zoo and a botanical garden. As Japan's second busiest zoo, following Tokyo's Ueno Zoo, Higashiyama houses more than 550 species of animals, ranging from elephants and tigers to rare creatures like skunks and seals. This zoo is not only one of Asia's largest zoological gardens but also a place of historical interest, famously attempting to safeguard its elephants during wartime and introducing koalas to Japan.

Higashiyama Zoo, established in 1937, continually enhances its facilities to improve animal habitats and visitor experiences, featuring unique attractions like the Worldwide Medaka Hall, which showcases varieties of medaka fish that have traveled to space. The zoo is also home to ancient dinosaur statues and interactive children's play areas spread across its vast 60-hectare site.

Adjacent to the zoo, the Higashiyama Botanical Gardens stands as one of Asia’s most comprehensive botanical collections. It boasts over 7,000 plant species and houses Japan's oldest glasshouse, now a designated Important Cultural Property. The gardens also feature a traditional Gassho-Zukuri house from the Shirakawa-Go World Heritage Site, adding a touch of historical architecture amidst the flora.

Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the gardens year-round, with each season offering its unique charm—from spring blossoms and summer shade to vibrant autumn leaves and brisk winter walks. The botanical gardens, with its traditional Japanese Garden, various thematic plantations, and specialty growing areas, remain a beloved destination for both locals and tourists alike.

The combination of diverse animal life and rich plant diversity, coupled with cultural and historical elements, makes the Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens a must-visit destination in Nagoya, reflecting the city's pride in this exceptional attraction.