Takasakiyama Natural Zoological Garden, on a forested mountain overlooking the sea between Beppu and Oita city, is home to large troops of wild Japanese macaques (snow monkeys) that roam free on the mountain. Numbering well over a thousand across two main troops, the monkeys come down to a feeding area where visitors can watch them at close range as they eat, groom, play and interact, revealing the fascinating social hierarchy and family life of the group. Unlike a zoo, these are genuinely wild animals free to come and go, and knowledgeable staff explain their behaviour and the troop’s ‘boss’ system. The monkeys wander right among visitors on the paths (with rules to follow), making for an entertaining and educational wildlife encounter, especially popular with families. It’s often combined with the neighbouring Umitamago aquarium on the same coastal site.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Between Beppu & Oita city |
| Hours | ~9:00–17:00 |
| Admission | Paid (low) |
| Time needed | 1–1.5 hours |
| Best time | Year-round |
What to See
- Over a thousand wild Japanese macaques roaming free.
- Close-up feeding, grooming and play.
- The troop’s fascinating social hierarchy and ‘boss’ system.
- Monkeys wandering among visitors on the paths.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with the Umitamago aquarium next door.
- Pair with Beppu Tower in town.
- Read our Oita overview .
Getting There
- By bus: from Beppu or Oita to the Takasakiyama stop.
- By car: on the coast between Beppu and Oita city.
Tips
Follow the rules for interacting with the wild monkeys — don’t stare into their eyes, touch them or show food — as they are genuinely wild animals. Listen to the staff talks to understand the troop’s social order, time your visit around feeding for the most activity, and combine it with the neighbouring Umitamago aquarium for a family day.
