From Eve
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Nojima Zoo.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
Nojima Zoo: A Cozy Animal Encounter
A charming small-scale zoo on Awaji Island, featuring friendly animals and unique experiences within the renovated Nojima Scuola complex.
Nestled within the Nojima Scuola complex, Nojima Zoo offers a charming, small-scale animal experience on Awaji Island. Perfect for families, it features alpacas, goats, rabbits, and more, providing close encounters with fuzzy friends in a relaxed setting.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Nojima Zoo
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Monday
11 am-4 pm
Tuesday
11 am-4 pm
Wednesday
11 am-4 pm
Thursday
11 am-4 pm
Friday
11 am-4 pm
Saturday
10 am-4 pm
Sunday
10 am-4 pm
Discover more about Nojima Zoo
Nojima Zoo, located on Awaji Island within the Nojima Scuola complex, provides an intimate and engaging animal experience. Housed in a renovated former elementary school, the zoo is home to a variety of friendly creatures, including alpacas, sheep, guinea pigs, mini pigs, rabbits, and goats. Raoul, the 'kissing alpaca,' is a star attraction, known for his affectionate pecks, especially towards ladies. Joe, the brown-haired alpaca, has a quieter personality. The zoo also features a unique Goat Air Walk, where goats can be seen strolling on a high roof. Animal lovers can enjoy monthly animal festivals with activities like photo opportunities, birthday parties for the animals, and even guinea pig races. Nojima Zoo offers a refreshing and accessible way to connect with animals in a cozy, community-focused environment.
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Getting There
Public Transport
From Awaji Island, several bus companies provide transport. Use the Awaji Island Public Transportation Timetable Search Service ('busmo') to find the most suitable route and bus stop. Depending on the starting point, take a bus to a stop near Nojima Scuola. From there, it's a short walk to Nojima Zoo. Bus fares vary depending on the distance.
Car
If driving, navigate to Nojima Scuola using GPS. Nojima Zoo is located within the complex. Parking is available, but it can be limited during peak seasons. Parking costs are approximately ¥500 per day. Note that a toll of ¥2,300 is charged for using the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge to access Awaji Island.
Free Shuttle
Take the Awaji Island West Coast Free Shuttle Bus to Nojima Scuola. Check the timetable for the free shuttle bus. The bus stops at Iwaya Port, Awaji I.C., and other key locations. From the Nojima Scuola bus stop, the zoo is a short walk away. This service is free.
A brief summary to Nojima Zoo
Use Nojima Zoo as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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More about Awaji
Discover the tranquil beauty of Awaji Island, where lush landscapes, architectural wonders, and rich cultural heritage await you in the heart of Japan's Seto Inland Sea.
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