Fuji Safari Park: One of Japan Largest Safari-Style Zoos at the Foot of Mt. Fuji

Fuji Safari Park in Susono City, Shizuoka, is one of Japan largest safari-style zoos, set in a location overlooking majestic Mt. Fuji. On a vast highland site on the southern foothills of Mt. Fuji, animals from around the world such as lions, tigers, cheetahs, bears, elephants, and giraffes live in conditions kept as close to natural as possible. The greatest appeal is observing the animals up close rather than through cage bars. It is a popular leisure spot enjoyed by families and visitors of all ages.

The Powerful Safari Zone Toured by Vehicle

The highlight of Fuji Safari Park is the Safari Zone, where you tour the carnivore and herbivore areas while staying inside your own car or a special bus. In the predator area you are overwhelmed by lions and tigers walking nearby, and in the herbivore area giraffes and zebras walk close to the vehicle. Special buses offer feeding programs that let you sense the animals large mouths and breathing up close, for an unforgettable experience. Program contents and fees can change, so check the official website.

Areas for Animal Encounters

After touring the Safari Zone, you can also enjoy walk-through areas for hands-on animal encounters. Kangaroos, rabbits, dogs, cats, and other animals can be met and spent time with up close, which is especially popular with children. Depending on the season, a Night Safari with evening opening is held, where you can watch animals more active than during the day. The operating period varies by season.

Practical Travel Notes

• You can choose among several ways to tour. Besides driving in your own car, there are animal-themed jungle buses with feeding experiences and small-group tour options. Popular programs may require reservations.
• The elevation is high and temperatures run cooler than the lowlands. A light layer is useful even in summer, and check for winter-ready gear against road icing.
• Mt. Fuji appears clearly on days with clean air, and visibility changes with the weather.
• Admission, opening hours, and Night Safari dates vary by season and year. Check the official website before visiting.

Access and Basics

• Location: Susono City, Shizuoka Prefecture.
• Car: about 15 minutes from Susono Interchange on the Tomei Expressway. Parking is available on site.
• Train and bus: from the Fujisan-guchi exit of JR Gotemba Line Gotemba Station, take the local bus bound for Juriki via Fuji Safari Park, about 35 minutes, and get off right at the Fuji Safari Park stop. Bus frequency is limited, so check the timetable in advance.
• Opening hours: vary by season, generally opening in the morning. Confirm current hours on the official website.

One Piece of Advice

If you tour the Safari Zone in your own car, keep windows closed in the predator area as a rule. To fully enjoy feeding and hands-on encounters, using a special bus or a hands-on program is recommended. Entry can take time on busy days, so arriving early is reassuring. Take a full day and enjoy the views of Mt. Fuji as well.

📚 Sources

This article is based on information published by Susono City and the local tourism association, and guidance for the Fuji Safari Park's safari zone, petting area, and night safari. Admission fees, business hours, night safari dates, and the content, fees, and reservation requirements of each program may change, so please check official sources before you set out.

Visitor Checklist

• Estimated time: Half a day to a full day for the safari zone and petting area
• Access: About 15 minutes from the Tomei Susono interchange, or about 35 minutes by bus from JR Gotemba Station
• Choosing a tour: Your own car, the Jungle Bus with feeding, or a small-group tour
• What to bring: A layer even in summer, as the elevation is high and temperatures lower
• Good to check: Popular programs may require reservations
• Safety notes: In the carnivore zone, viewing with windows closed is the rule