The Banana Crocodile Park

One of the main tourist attractions of Atagawa, apart from the hot springs, is the Banana and Crocodile Park. (Banana-Wani-en.)

Unfortunately the crocodiles don't have much space.

The park houses various kinds of crocodiles and caimans from all over the world, lesser pandas, a manatee, giant tortoises, flamingos and numerous hothouses containing various tropical plants and of course, bananas.

The park is divided into three separate locations, with the third zone accessible by a free shuttle bus. There are a few small refreshment stalls in the park with limited menus. The park is a minute walk from Izu Atagawa station and entry costs 1500 yen. Before you go, try to find the park's brochure at information centers for the 100 yen off ticket inside.

The pandas and the crocodiles will entertain the kids, but the hot houses will probably bore them. Worth a visit if you have time on your hands. You could easily spend an hour or even two strolling around the park, especially if you start talking to the chatty parrot, Obatan.