Tobu Zoo
Tobu Zoo is a unique combination of a zoo and an amusement park situated in Miyashiro, Saitama Prefecture, Japan, under the ownership of Tobu Railway. It gained international attention for its Humboldt penguin, Grape-kun, who developed a notable attachment to a cardboard cutout.
Key Facts
- ›Combines a zoo and an amusement park.
- ›Owned by Tobu Railway.
- ›Located in Miyashiro, Saitama Prefecture, Japan.
- ›Accessible via Tōbu-Dōbutsu-Kōen Station.
- ›Featured a famous Humboldt penguin named Grape-kun.
Grape-Kun
About Tobu Zoo
Tobu Zoo, officially known as Tōbu dōbutsu kōen, is a distinctive facility that integrates a zoo with an amusement park. Located in Miyashiro, Saitama Prefecture, Japan, it operates under the ownership of Tobu Railway. The park offers a dual experience, providing both wildlife viewing opportunities and recreational rides.
Notable Inhabitants and Events
One of Tobu Zoo's most internationally recognized residents was Grape-kun, a Humboldt penguin. At 21 years old, Grape-kun garnered significant attention for his unusual attachment to a cardboard cutout of a character from the popular anime series Kemono Friends. This unique bond brought the zoo widespread media coverage. Tragically, the zoo announced Grape-kun's passing on October 12, 2017.
In a different promotional effort, the zoo featured a white tiger known as Rocky-kun. For the 2018 movie Bungo Stray Dogs: Dead Apple, images of Rocky-kun were displayed alongside the weretiger character Atsushi Nakajima. This collaboration included announcements made by Atsushi's voice actor, Yūto Uemura, during a promotional period in early 2018.
Attractions
Beyond its animal inhabitants, Tobu Zoo boasts a range of amusement park attractions. These include several roller coasters such as Kawasemi, Regina II, Tentomushi, and Diggy & Daggy's Tram Coaster, offering visitors entertainment alongside the zoological exhibits.
Access
The zoo is conveniently situated a short distance from Tōbu-Dōbutsu-Kōen Station. Visitors can reach the park via a 10-minute walk or a 5-minute shuttle bus ride from this station, which serves as a junction for the Tobu Skytree, Tobu Isesaki, and Tobu Nikko Lines.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tobu Zoo?
Tobu Zoo is a facility that combines a zoo with an amusement park. It is located in Miyashiro, Saitama Prefecture, Japan, and is owned by Tobu Railway.
What is Tobu Zoo known for?
Tobu Zoo gained international fame for Grape-kun, a Humboldt penguin who became attached to a cardboard cutout of a character from the anime series Kemono Friends. The zoo also features amusement park attractions like roller coasters.
How can I get to Tobu Zoo?
Tobu Zoo is accessible by a 10-minute walk or a 5-minute shuttle bus ride from Tōbu-Dōbutsu-Kōen Station. This station is a junction for the Tobu Skytree, Tobu Isesaki, and Tobu Nikko Lines.
When did Grape-kun the penguin die?
The zoo announced the death of Grape-kun, a 21-year-old Humboldt penguin, on October 12, 2017.
What roller coasters are at Tobu Zoo?
Tobu Zoo features several roller coasters, including Kawasemi, Regina II, Tentomushi, and Diggy & Daggy's Tram Coaster.
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