Takasakiyama Monkey Park in Oita City is one of the best places in Japan to safely observe wild Japanese macaques up close.
I visited with my 2-year-old, and although he was scared at first because there are no cages, he quickly became fascinated and kept watching the monkeys for a long time while I held him.
In this guide, you’ll find family-focused tips, access, what to expect, safety points, and recommended nearby spots—all based on real experiences.
🐵 1. What Is Takasakiyama? (From a Parent’s Perspective)
Unlike a zoo, Takasakiyama is a natural mountain where the monkeys roam freely.
This means you can see them walking right in front of you—sometimes closer than expected.
▼ How my 2-year-old reacted
- At first, he froze and looked frightened when a monkey passed right in front of him.
- When I held him in my arms and kept some distance, he became calm.
- After that, he was completely absorbed and kept watching the monkeys without getting bored.
Meanwhile, other children of the same age seemed excited and cheerful.
Reactions really vary depending on the child’s personality.
🎤 2. Highly Recommended: The Staff’s Guided Talk
If possible, I strongly recommend listening to the staff’s live commentary in the feeding area
(Japanese only).
They explain
- the monkeys’ names
- their personalities
- their relationships and roles within the troop
It’s surprisingly detailed and makes the experience much more fun for both adults and children.
💰 3. Admission & Fees (as of 2025)
- Adults: 500 yen
- High school students: 250 yen
- Children under elementary school age: free
- Monkey-drawn Monorail: 160 yen (adult), 80 yen (student)
💡Money-Saving Tip: If you plan to visit the aquarium next door, buy a “Zoonet Ticket” (Combined ticket for Takasakiyama & Umitamago). It is much cheaper than buying individual tickets for both facilities.
Please check the official website for the latest information.
🧭 4. Access (Easy from Both Oita City and Beppu)
Takasakiyama is located between Oita and Beppu, making it convenient for travelers staying in either area.
▼ By Car
- 15–20 minutes from Oita Station
- 10–15 minutes from Beppu Station
- Paid parking available
▼ By Bus
- About 25 minutes from Oita Station
- Bus stop is very close to the entrance
▼ Strollers
- Stroller-friendly
- Take the monorail to the top
- Minimal stairs, easy for families with toddlers
⭐ 5. Highlights
- See wild monkeys at an extremely close distance
- Feeding time is powerful and exciting
- The area is compact and can be enjoyed in about 1 hour
- The monorail feels like a small attraction for kids
⚠️ 6. Safety Tips for Families
Since these are wild monkeys, please teach your child the basic rules:
- Do not make eye contact
- Do not touch the monkeys
- Do not open food or snacks
- Do not carry plastic bags (monkeys approach them)
- Hold your child if they feel scared
My 2-year-old felt much more secure once I carried him in my arms.
📌 7. Nearby Spots (Internal Links)
Takasakiyama is perfect for a short visit, so combining it with other attractions makes a great family itinerary.
▼ Within walking distance
- Umitamago Aquarium（post coming soon）
▼ Oita City
- OPAM – Oita Prefectural Art Museum
A family-friendly museum with a spacious atrium where kids can relax.
👉 https://oyakotrip.com/opam/
▼ For planning your trip
- Oita Airport Guide (Family-Friendly Facilities)
Useful for travelers flying into Oita.
👉 https://oyakotrip.com/oita-airport/
📝 8. Summary
Takasakiyama Monkey Park is a great choice for families because:
- It’s easy to reach from both Oita and Beppu
- Toddlers can enjoy it without walking long distances
- The staff’s commentary is fun and educational
- The visit only takes about an hour
- Even children who are shy or scared at first can enjoy it with a little distance
It’s a perfect spot to add to your Oita travel itinerary.
