The park gained international attention for the long lifespan of its polar bear, Peace, who became a symbol of the zoo's animal welfare efforts.
The zoo is designed with 'geological zoning,' where animals are grouped based on the continents of their natural origins.
The 'Predator Zone' utilizes hidden moats and high-strength glass to provide uninterrupted sightlines between visitors and lions.
It is one of the few zoos in Japan that successfully maintains a multi-generational group of chimpanzees, allowing for complex social observation.
The facility is built on undulating terrain, which was utilized to create natural drainage and multi-level viewing perspectives for animal habitats.
Tobe Zoological Park is a sprawling facility in Ehime Prefecture that houses approximately 150 species, with a focus on immersive naturalistic enclosures for big cats and primates. The park is famously home to 'Peace,' a polar bear born and raised in captivity that lived to age 33, a notable feat for the species. The layout is divided into distinct geographic zones, including African and Asian sections, designed to simulate native habitats. It features a prominent predator zone where lions and tigers are exhibited with minimal visual barriers using structural engineering. A dedicated petting area and educational center provide interactive experiences for children. The park utilizes hilly terrain to offer elevated viewing platforms, allowing visitors to look down upon the enclosures. Significant space is dedicated to the care and conservation of endangered species, including the white rhinoceros and orangutans. It operates as both a zoological garden and a research center for regional wildlife.
The elevated observation deck overlooking the African savanna enclosure.
Wear comfortable, supportive walking shoes as the park is built on significant inclines and requires substantial walking.
Bring a hat and sunscreen, as many of the animal viewing areas are in open, unshaded parts of the hilly terrain.
Check the daily event board near the entrance upon arrival to coordinate your visit with scheduled animal feeding times.
Avoid visiting during the peak heat of summer afternoons, as many animals seek refuge in indoor, hidden areas to escape the sun.
Closed on Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a national holiday); closed during the year-end and New Year holidays.
Do not feed the animals, tap on glass enclosures, or use camera flashes, as these actions disturb animal behavior and stress the inhabitants.
