Takasaki Mountain Nature Zoo (高崎山自然動物園)

Flow of the course

About this spot

A nature zoo located on the lush slopes of Takasaki Mountain, just across the road from Umitamago. The animals here are not captive but wild Japanese monkeys living on the mountain. As the feeding time arrives, the groups descend from the mountain to the feeding grounds, allowing you to observe parent-child pairs grooming and young monkeys chasing each other at a distance without fences or glass barriers. A gentle uphill path leads from the entrance to the feeding grounds, and a small monorail called "Sarukko Rail" (さるっこレール) makes the ride feel like an attraction. The staff's humorous commentary about the monkeys is also famous, drawing you into the drama of their human-like group dynamics.

Tips

Do not get too close to the monkeys or stare directly into their eyes. Never carry food or plastic bags while walking. The walk to the feeding grounds takes about 10 minutes uphill, so families with small children may prefer using the Sarukko Rail (fee applies). The timing when monkeys gather at the feeding grounds varies by day, so confirm upon arrival.

Best time to visit

Approximately 1.5 hours. Arriving at the feeding grounds during feeding time when the group is most active offers the best experience.

Access & map

〒870-0802 3098-1 Kanizaki, Oita City, Oita Prefecture (大分県大分市神崎３０９８−１)