Takasakiyama Natural Zoological Garden

If you really like monkeys, it’s a crazy experience because they walk right next to your legs. They are not mean and it looks like they are being held in really good conditions. There are no cages. It looks like it’s their home. The monorail is really cheap, but you can take the stairs

Takasakiyama allows the monkeys to roam freely within the park. You'll see them playing, grooming each other and relaxing. The park rangers hold feedings at scheduled times (we saw it at 1:30pm), which is a lively spectacle. You'll witness monkeys eagerly chasing after snacks like sweet potatoes. The monkeys will grab your belongings including your kids.

If you are in the area, I wholeheartedly recommend checking this place out. It was such a joy to visit and I found myself grinning ear to ear the entire time I was there. Entry is 520¥ for adults. And it is worth every penny (or yen? I guess?). If you have ever been to Nara prefecture, imagine that, but with monkeys instead of deer. If is almost the opposite of a zoo, where the places you, the human, can go is limited, but the monkeys are free to roam wherever they please. The only downside is that you are not allowed to touch them, which I understand, but was still saddened by. 11/10 would recommend.

Great if you want to see the monkeys! Visited in early April and saw lots of baby monkeys. Adorable.

Really great experience to see the monkeys up close. Most of the monkeys continued with their normal daily activities, but a few were curious and would come up close to the individuals in the area. There were signs that said to not make Eye contact. While in close proximity, you can see that some of the bigger monkeys could be a little aggressive.