Parrots perched on your hand and holding baby penguins—this aviary and flower park offers uniquely Instagrammable experiences.

▲%Spine-tingling??Belly button??Can become a story??Also offers a rare penguin-holding experience.

Reported and photographed by Peng Huaiyu / Shizuoka, Japan

The flower and bird theme park in Kakegawa City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, is an amusement park centered around flowers and birds. It houses a wide variety of animals including owls, penguins, black-faced spoonbills, white peacocks, parrots, and even the rare African “shoebill stork.” With about 110 species and over 930 animals in total, visitors can buy feed to experience colorful parrots landing on them and competing for food from their hands. There’s also the rare opportunity to hold a penguin—an experience that’s perfect for families.

▲%Spine-tingling??Belly button??There are over 30 types of birds arranged across various themed zones.

The Kakegawa Flower and Bird Park covers an indoor area of 7,000 square meters (excluding outdoor sections), divided into various themed zones. Before entering the bird area, be prepared for an onslaught of surprise—countless birds of all kinds fly and roam freely. Mischievous parrots may occasionally hop onto your head or shoulders to snatch food, making for a fun and interactive experience.

▲ Toucans look almost like toys, almost too unreal to be real.

One highlight worth mentioning is the grand finale at the back of the bird zone. According to HiroYuki Yagi, head of the operations department, it’s the extremely popular “shoebill stork.” Native to Africa, this bird is named “Shoebill” in English due to its long, boot-like beak. Its lazy demeanor and still poses make for a comical and adorable sight.

▲ The highly popular “shoebill stork” is a must-see highlight of the park.

In addition to the bird zone, flowers are another highlight of the Kakegawa Flower and Bird Park. The lotus pond is home to tropical water lilies that bloom year-round, while the greenhouse area features a range of flowers, primarily impatiens, which hang from the ceiling and create a cascade of color—perfect for photo opportunities. You can also enjoy a buffet meal here, surrounded by floral beauty for a romantic dining experience.

▲%Spine-tingling??Belly button??The park plants colorful impatiens as the main flower, where you can take photos freely, enjoying bursts of vibrant colors.

Yagi noted that infectious diseases such as avian flu are often transmitted by stepping on bird droppings. The park takes this risk very seriously, spraying disinfectant on carpets in each zone and providing handwashing stations to ensure the safety and peace of mind of both adults and children.

▲ The park has multiple photo-friendly installations.

Kakegawa Flower and Bird Park
Address: 1517 Nishigo, Kakegawa City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan
Phone: 0537-62-6363
Ticket Prices: Adult admission ¥1,080; 6 feed coupons for ¥500; penguin holding experience ¥500
Official Website Link