Located in the city of Nago, in the north of Okinawa’s main island, Neo Park is a zoological and botanical park that captivates with its tropical atmosphere and closeness to birds. Unlike classic zoos, the visitor is not only a spectator; they move freely in vast enclosures where birds, exotic animals, and tropical plants thrive.
Natural Zoo Neo Park: close to the animals
From the entrance, the experience is surprising. Large semi-open spaces allow visitors to approach many species without apparent barriers. Flamingos, ibises, and pelicans move freely, creating a lively and colorful atmosphere. There are also mammals from South America or Africa, living in recreated environments.
The botanical richness of zoological park
Neo Park is also a showcase of Okinawa’s subtropical flora. Visitors discover giant palm trees, towering bamboo, local orchids, and plants from around the world. The walk takes on the appearance of a jungle where dense and varied vegetation plays an essential role in the atmosphere.
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Activities and experiences for young and old
This zoological park emphasizes family discoveries. Several areas are accessible to feed or pet some tamed animals. Children especially enjoy these moments of direct contact. There is also a small steam train that goes through the site and offers a panoramic view of the tropical landscapes.
Practical information about the zoological park
Neo Park is located about an hour’s drive from Naha via the highway. The site has parking, dining points, and shaded areas for rest. The visit can last two to three hours depending on the pace.
What you can see on site:
- Exotic birds in freedom
- Mammals and reptiles in open spaces
- Tropical greenhouses with rare plants
- Tourist train to tour the park
- Interactive areas to feed the animals
Freedom of the birds and reality on the ground
One of the assets of Neo Park is the freedom given to the birds. While walking along the paths, it is not uncommon to come across peacocks, scarlet ibises, or other exotic species moving without constraint. Observing these animals living freely brings a real sense of closeness to nature. However, this immersion also has its limits. Visitors sensitive to cleanliness must keep in mind that some areas may be marked by droppings, sometimes abundant and odorous. This is the downside of a choice assumed by the park: favoring the well-being of the birds and their freedom of movement rather than a perfectly sanitized environment for the visitor.
Freedom for some and enclosures for others
While many birds move freely in the park, some animals remain housed in enclosures. As in any zoo, this reality can be surprising, especially after having admired scarlet ibises, peacocks, or other birds flying quietly in the open air. It is therefore important to keep in mind that Neo Park remains above all a zoo, with the constraints that this implies.
This zoological park remains spacious, and the animals are not crowded next to each other. Their living spaces are integrated into a natural environment that leaves an impression of tranquility. To observe them, the small tourist train offers a circuit that runs along these habitats. It slows briefly in front of each area, but sometimes some residents remain discreet. In this case, the walk on foot follows the same route and allows you to venture into small paths to discover the less visible animals.
Is Neo Park a must-see?
For travelers with little time in Okinawa, Neo Park is probably not a priority. If you stay only one week on the island, it is better to prioritize emblematic places such as the Churaumi Aquarium, Murasaki Mura, or the Southeast Botanical Gardens. From the United States, France, Spain, or Germany, such a trip deserves focusing the visit on the major sites.
On the other hand, for a longer stay of two weeks or more, or in the context of a second trip, Neo Park can find its place in the itinerary. Its combination of botany, animals, and family experiences makes it a pleasant outing, complementary to the island’s major must-sees.
It should be noted, however, that if you are a birdwatching enthusiast, you might reconsider this opinion. The great variety of semi-free birds makes Neo Park a particularly interesting visit for enthusiasts.
Official site (non-affiliated): Neo Park Zoo
Discover Neo Park in video
To get a more precise idea of the atmosphere and landscapes, a non-subtitled video is available on my YouTube channel. It shows the park, its paths, and its surroundings. Enjoy watching and thank you for your interest in Okinawa. Do not hesitate to subscribe to the channel to follow our next discoveries.
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