Kyushu Natural Animal Park African Safari Day Tour

Fukuoka , Japan

Kyushu Natural Animal Park African Safari Day Tour

Active

8h - 10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

conic Attractions in One Day

Experience the Kyushu Natural Animal Park (hand-feed lions & bears on the Jungle Bus), explore the fairy-tale town of Yufuin (misty Kinrin Lake & Yunotsubo art/shopping street), and visit Beppu's stunning "Umi Jigoku" (98°C cobalt-blue hot spring)

Bilingual Guides: Professional English guides provide insightful commentary, overcoming language barriers and deepening your understanding of the cultural and natural wonders.
Efficient & Hassle-Free: Private chartered car eliminates transfer stress. Compact itinerary includes Fukuoka city pick-up/drop-off (e.g., Hakata Station), offering a seamless one-day solution to explore Kyushu's countryside

Available options

Kyushu Natural Animal Park African Safari Day Tour

What's included

Round-trip transport from LAWSON Hakata

Multilingual guide (English/Japanese/Chinese)

Detailed itinerary

Kyushu Natural Animal Park African Safari is Japan's largest safari-style zoo, located in Usa City, Oita Prefecture. It covers an area of approximately 1.15 million square meters and is home to around 70 species and more than 1,400 animals. Visitors can explore the “Animal Zone” by driving their own vehicles or taking the “Jungle Bus” to observe wild animals, and can also interact closely with small animals such as kangaroos and guinea pigs in the “Contact Zone.”

Yufu-dake is a beautiful twin-peaked mountain located in Yufu City, Oita Prefecture, with an elevation of 1,583 meters. It is also known as “Bungo Fuji.” Revered as a sacred mountain since ancient times, this famous peak appears in historical texts and literary works, offering rich natural scenery throughout the seasons and breathtaking 360-degree views. In spring, visitors can admire the blooming of the Miyama Kirishima azaleas, in autumn the vibrant autumn foliage, and in winter the stunning rime ice formations. From the summit, one can overlook the town of Yufuin, Beppu Bay, and the Kuju Mountain Range, and also experience mystical phenomena such as the “Brocken specter.”

Yufuin (also known as Yufu-in) is a renowned hot spring resort in Oita Prefecture, Kyushu, Japan, often referred to as “Karuizawa in the east, Yufuin in the west.” It is celebrated for its elegant ambiance, abundant hot spring resources, stunning natural scenery, and numerous charming inns, craft shops, and cafés scattered throughout the area. Its main attractions include the iconic Yufu Mountain, the Yufuin Hot Spring, often referred to as “Japan's second-largest hot spring,” and the mystical Kinryu Lake, which is shrouded in mist year-round during the autumn and winter seasons. The “Yunotsubo Street” in the Yufuin Hot Spring town is a must-visit destination, where visitors can enjoy hot spring therapy and leisurely strolls through the countryside.

Umi Jigoku is a nationally designated scenic hot spring facility located in Beppu City, Oita Prefecture. It is a hot spring formed approximately 1,200 years ago by the eruption of Mt. Tsurumi. With a spring temperature of approximately 98 degrees Celsius and a high iron sulfate content, its most distinctive feature is its beautiful cobalt blue surface. It is one of the most representative spots on the Beppu Jigoku Tour. Within the park, visitors can enjoy the cultivation of giant lotus flowers using geothermal heat, foot baths, and steamed pudding made using geothermal steam, which is also popular.

What's not included

Lunch

Umi Jigoku tickets

Zoo entrance

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN JA EN

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

If fewer than 14 people sign up on the day, no guide service will be provided

African Safari require the purchase of tickets(purchase on your own)

Umi Jigoku require the purchase of tickets (optional)

Meeting point

Hakata Station Chikushi Exit (Lawson convenience store)

Important notes

For meeting point option : We send gathering info a day before your trip, please turn on your phone and check your inbox to keep in touch with the tour operator. Your guide will be carrying blue flag at gathering point for easy recognition.

About Fukuoka

Fukuoka is a vibrant coastal city in southern Japan known for its rich history, delicious cuisine, and warm climate. As the largest city in Kyushu, it offers a perfect blend of traditional culture and modern urban living, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Japanese experience.

Top Attractions

Ohori Park

A large, beautiful park featuring a lake, gardens, and historic sites. It's a perfect spot for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (some attractions may have fees)

Fukuoka Castle Ruins

The ruins of a historic castle that played a significant role in Japanese history. The site offers beautiful views and a glimpse into the past.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Kushida Shrine

A historic Shinto shrine known for its vibrant festivals and beautiful architecture. It's a significant cultural and religious site.

Religious 30-60 minutes Free

Canal City Hakata

A large shopping and entertainment complex featuring a canal, theaters, and a wide variety of shops and restaurants.

Shopping/Entertainment 1-3 hours Free to enter (costs vary for shops and restaurants)

Fukuoka Tower

A iconic tower offering panoramic views of the city and the sea. It's a great spot for photography and sightseeing.

Architecture 1-2 hours Moderate (entry fee for observation deck and restaurant)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hakata Ramen

A type of ramen featuring a rich, creamy tonkotsu (pork bone) broth, thin noodles, and toppings like chashu (braised pork) and green onions.

Dinner Contains pork, gluten (noodles and broth)

Mentaiko

Spicy cod roe, often served as a topping for rice or noodles, or as a side dish.

Snack/Dinner Contains fish, gluten (if served with rice or noodles)

Motsunabe

A hot pot dish featuring offal, typically beef or pork, cooked in a savory broth with vegetables and tofu.

Dinner Contains meat, gluten (if served with noodles or dipping sauce)

Yaki Toro

Grilled chicken skewers, often seasoned with salt or soy sauce, and served with a side of grated daikon radish.

Dinner Contains chicken, gluten (if seasoned with soy sauce)

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby mountains and parks Water sports at nearby beaches and waterways Onsen (hot spring) bathing Strolling through parks and gardens Visiting temples, shrines, and historic sites Attending local festivals and events Boat rides on the canals of Yanagawa Swimming and water sports at nearby beaches

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings beautiful cherry blossoms, while autumn features vibrant fall foliage.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited), Chinese (limited), Korean (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (UTC+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Fukuoka is generally a very safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis and tour guides
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid sharing your PIN

Getting there

By air

Fukuoka Airport • 4.5 km from city center

By train

Hakata Station, Fukuoka Station

By bus

Hakata Bus Terminal, Tenjin Bus Center

Getting around

Public transport

The subway system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It consists of three lines: Kūkō Line, Hakozaki Line, and Nanakuma Line.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Tenjin Nakasu Hakata Dazaifu

Day trips

Dazaifu

10 km from Fukuoka • Half day to full day

A historic town known for its temples, shrines, and beautiful gardens. It offers a peaceful and culturally rich experience.

Yanagawa

30 km from Fukuoka • Full day

A picturesque town known as the 'City of Waterways' for its network of canals. It offers a unique and charming experience with its historic houses, boat rides, and local specialties.

Beppu

120 km from Fukuoka • Full day to overnight

A popular hot spring resort town known for its numerous hot springs, or 'hells' (jigoku), and scenic beauty. It offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Festivals

Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival • July 1-15 (main events on July 15) Hakata Dontaku Festival • Early May (typically the first Sunday and the following day) Fukuoka Hakata Matsuri • October 15-18

Pro tips

Use an IC card, such as Suica or Icoca, for convenient and discounted public transportation
Try local specialties, such as Hakata ramen, mentsuyaki, and yakitori, at yatai (food stalls) or local restaurants
Visit popular attractions, such as Ohori Park and Fukuoka Castle Ruins, during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
Explore the city's vibrant neighborhoods, such as Tenjin, Nakasu, and Hakata, for shopping, dining, and entertainment options
Attend local festivals and events, such as the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival and the Hakata Dontaku Festival, for a unique and memorable experience