Wanpaku Animal Zoo is a small, welcoming animal park set amid the natural beauty of Yamazoe Village, Yamabe District, Nara Prefecture. Visitors can get close to a variety of friendly animals, including goats, ducks, and rabbits, making it an enjoyable destination for families and animal lovers. A bakery café is located on the same premises, adding to the appeal of this peaceful countryside attraction. The zoo is especially popular with families on weekends and holidays, and its gentle, relaxed atmosphere makes it a pleasant place for even the youngest visitors.
One of the zoo’s most distinctive features is the Goat Tower, its signature landmark. The brick tower stands approximately 9 meters tall and has a spiral staircase running around its exterior. Visitors can watch goats casually making their way up and down the stairs. Small rooms are built into the different levels, and goats can often be seen peeking out through the openings. This unusual design is said to be unique in Japan and has become a popular spot for photographs. Watching the goats explore their tower is an entertaining experience for visitors of all ages.
In addition to goats, Wanpaku Animal Zoo is home to a variety of other animals. Ducks and other waterfowl swim together in the pond or wander freely around the grounds. Rabbit lovers can meet several varieties, including lop-eared rabbits with their characteristic drooping ears. Small, adorable guinea pigs are also among the animals visitors can observe up close. The opportunity to watch these animals at close range and interact with them makes the zoo a delightful destination for children and adults alike.
The bakery café on the premises sells freshly baked bread, fragrant straight from the oven, as well as cakes carefully prepared by a pastry chef and a selection of drinks. Visitors can also browse fresh vegetables and processed foods from Yamazoe Village, along with original zoo merchandise. These local products and souvenirs make excellent reminders of a visit to the area. Outdoor terrace seating provides a relaxing place to enjoy a drink or a snack while feeling the gentle countryside breeze. After spending time with the animals, it is an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy a leisurely café break.
Wanpaku Animal Zoo offers free admission, making it easy for visitors to drop in without worrying about entrance fees. Animal feed is available for ¥100, allowing guests to enjoy an even closer interaction with the animals. Surrounded by the changing scenery of the seasons, the zoo offers a simple but memorable countryside experience. It is an inviting place to spend a peaceful moment with animals and enjoy a refreshing break from everyday life.
From Yamazoe Interchange on the Meihan National Highway, drive approximately 7 km toward Nara.
Take a bus bound for the Yamazoe area from JR Nara Station or Kintetsu-Nara Station. Get off at the Ohashi bus stop, then walk approximately 250 meters to the zoo.
With its charming animals, distinctive Goat Tower, and welcoming bakery café, Wanpaku Animal Zoo is a lovely place to enjoy the natural surroundings of Yamazoe Village. Whether you are visiting with young children, looking for a relaxing stop during a countryside drive, or simply enjoy spending time with animals, this small zoo offers a warm and memorable experience.