Takasakiyama Monkey Park

Takasakiyama Monkey Park, located in Oita Prefecture near Beppu, is home to over 1,000 wild Japanese macaques. These playful and intelligent monkeys live freely in the forested hills of Mount Takasaki, offering visitors a rare opportunity to observe them up close in a semi-natural environment. Unlike typical zoos, the monkeys roam the mountain at their own pace, coming down to the feeding areas several times a day. This setup allows guests to enjoy authentic, unscripted interactions and behaviors—whether it’s grooming, playful chasing, or the alpha males asserting dominance. It’s a truly immersive wildlife experience perfect for families, animal lovers, and photographers.

Takasakiyama isn’t just about fun monkey encounters—it’s also a hub for education and conservation. The park provides information on the macaques’ social structure, diet, and seasonal habits. Interpretation signs and occasional staff-led talks make it easy to learn while exploring. Plus, the park is easily accessible from popular tourist spots in Beppu and can be combined with nearby attractions like Umitamago Aquarium and the hot spring hells (“Jigoku Meguri”). A scenic monorail ride takes you up the hill to the main viewing areas, making the experience enjoyable for visitors of all ages. It’s an ideal nature-based detour during your Kyushu itinerary.

When you join our Southern Japan Tour, we take care of all logistics—from transportation to ticketing—so you can relax and focus on the experience. Our expert guides provide rich cultural insights and fun facts about the monkey troops, enhancing your visit. We also time our stop to maximize your chance of seeing the largest number of monkeys in action. As part of our carefully curated itinerary, Takasakiyama Monkey Park becomes more than just a stop—it becomes a highlight.