We will begin practicing bringing the baby Pygmy Hippopotamus out into the exhibit area (※Open to the public from June 2nd).

news
April 3, 2026 (updated June 1, 2026)

Added on June 1, 2026: It will be "released" from Tuesday, June 2nd.

Since the release training for the baby Pygmy Hippopotamus (born December 25, 2025) has progressed smoothly, we will be opening it to the public from Tuesday, June 2, 2026, as follows.

Released

From Tuesday, June 2, 2026

Exhibition location

West Garden Pygmy Hippopotamus Enclosure

Exhibition time and method

Exhibition Hours

Exhibition method

Morning (9:30 AM - 12:00 PM)

Outdoor release

Afternoon (12:00 - 15:00)

Free access to the living area (door to the sleeping area is left open)

*With free-roaming enclosures, animals may enter their sleeping areas and become out of sight.
*Indoor exhibits will not be open after 3:00 PM.
*Please note that the event may be changed or canceled due to the animals' condition, bad weather, etc.
*When it gets crowded, please refrain from staying in the same spot for extended periods of time taking photos, and please be considerate of others while viewing the exhibits.

Starting Tuesday, April 7, 2026, we will begin irregularly releasing the Pygmy Hippopotamus calf, born on December 25, 2025, into the exhibit area for practice. Please observe quietly as we are getting the calf accustomed to the exhibit environment and moving between indoor and outdoor areas.

Please note that we are unable to answer questions regarding whether or not release training sessions are being conducted or their schedules. Thank you for your understanding.

Pygmy Hippopotamus mother and baby (photographed March 16, 2026)
Pygmy Hippopotamus mother and baby (photographed March 16, 2026)

(April 3, 2026)