Ueno Zoo opened its "Children's Zoo" on April 10, 1948, just three years after the end of the war. It was the first facility in Japan where children could get up close to animals, providing entertainment for children who had few options during the chaotic postwar period. It was located near the Japanese bird enclosure.


Children's Zoo opened in 1948 (Showa 23).
The originator of the idea, director Tadamichi Koga, stated in a magazine, "When you entrust children with gentle animals, two completely contradictory behaviors emerge. These are genuine affection for the animals and taking pleasure in mistreating them. (omitted) However, we believe that we should suppress the tendency to mistreat animals as much as possible among children's behaviors and cultivate their capacity for affection."

He also wrote, "I believe that running a children's zoo is extremely difficult. (omitted) In particular, excellent instructors who know animals well and understand children are necessary. Or rather, whether or not there are suitable instructors will be the deciding factor in whether or not this children's zoo will succeed."



On July 11th of this year (2017), 69 years after the opening of Japan's first children's zoo, Ueno Zoo reopened its children's zoo as "Children's Zoo STEP." The name "Step" reflects the desire to create a place where young children can encounter animals for the first time and take their first steps in learning about animals and nature.

Targeted at children up to 3 years old "First-timer room"		Learn about familiar creatures "Shinobasu Lab"		"Wakuwaku Base," an experiential program using small animals.

While continuing the philosophy we have held since the park's opening—to convey the warmth of animals to children—this renovation will feature a variety of exhibits and hands-on programs tailored to children's ages, aiming to foster a love for animals and a curiosity for science. To this end, staff members will act as intermediaries between children and animals, facilitating interaction between them.

We hope that many children will have the opportunity to interact with animals and feel their warmth at our new children's zoo. Through their experiences and learning at the children's zoo, we hope they will develop an interest in the creatures around them and take a new step towards cherishing nature and living things.

There are certain expectations we have for the children who visit the children's zoo.

One suggestion is to "broaden your perspective to encompass the entire globe." Ueno Zoo houses and exhibits wild animals from all over the world. Please let your imagination run wild and think about distant countries and their habitats.

Another important point is that "dreams have happy endings." There is much that humans can do for wild animals. Just by slightly reconsidering our lifestyles, the future of both wild animals and humans can change dramatically. I hope that we can open up a brighter future.

And finally, "create memorable and enjoyable memories." Make lots of fun memories that will stay with you even when you grow up.

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[Toyo Fukuda, director Ueno Zoological Gardens]

(August 6, 2017)