Aquariums & zoos
Inokashira Park Zoo
井の頭自然文化園
Kichijoji · near Kichijoji / Inokashira-koen
A leafy zoo occupying part of Inokashira Park with 170+ animal types and a beloved guinea-pig petting corner (home to well over 100 guinea pigs). A relaxed, green, half-day outing paired naturally with the surrounding park and pond.
Why children love it: Holding and stroking guinea pigs in the dedicated petting house.
Honest drawbacks: The guinea-pig interaction is suspended in high summer (approx. 1 July–mid-September) as heat protection; mostly outdoors, so weather-dependent.
Inokashira Park Zoo
- Best for
- Toddlers (2–4), Primary (5–11), Teens (12–17), Adults
- Time to allow
- 2.5h
- Booking
- Usually walk-in
- English
- ★★★☆☆
- Indoor / weather
- outdoor
- Confidence
- Verified
Getting there: Area: Kichijoji / Musashino.
Animal welfare: Public metropolitan zoo with supervised, welfare-led petting that is paused during heat to protect the animals — a genuinely ethical, family-friendly choice.