Japan Monkey Park Inuyama

Inuyama’s Japan Monkey Park does two things at once: it runs an amusement park of family friendly rides, and next to it operates one of the world’s most comprehensive primate zoos, home to dozens of species from tiny marmosets to great apes. The combination makes it a full day for families visiting the Nagoya region.

The primates

The Monkey Centre side is internationally respected, keeping one of the widest ranges of primate species anywhere and contributing seriously to research and conservation. Walkthrough exhibits bring you close to lemurs and squirrel monkeys, while the winter spectacle of Yakushima macaques huddling around fires has become a famous seasonal image. Signage and keeper talks reveal how distinct each species’ personality is; an hour in, most visitors have picked a favourite.

The rides

The amusement side pitches young: gentle coasters, carousels, seasonal water play and character events, with sightlines over the Inuyama hills from the higher rides. Nothing here intimidates, which makes it one of the region’s most relaxed parks for younger children, and queues stay humane outside major holidays.

Getting there

Take the Meitetsu line from Nagoya Station to Inuyama Station, around thirty minutes by express, then a short bus or taxi ride to the park gates. Inuyama’s original wooden castle, one of Japan’s oldest, sits in the same town and pairs naturally with a park visit.

We may earn a commission when you book through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. Details and inclusions can change, so always check the booking page for the latest.