Discover the Charm of Shabani, the Handsome Gorilla in Nagoya

Meet Shabani, the most handsome gorilla in history, captivating fans at the Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens in Nagoya, Japan. With his muscular build and charming looks, Shabani has become a sensation among Japanese women, often compared to the George Clooney of the animal kingdom. Major media outlets like BBC, CNN, and BuzzFeed have covered this unique story. Shabani was born in the Netherlands and lived at the Taronga Zoo until moving to Japan in 2007. His popularity has soared, with his image featured on promotional posters for Nagoya's Perco department store, and a photo book published by Fusosha in Tokyo. Even Japanese soccer star Yoshito Okubo has humorously admitted defeat to Shabani's star power on social media. Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a popular destination, second only to Tokyo's Ueno Zoo. It features a zoo, botanical garden, and children's amusement park. Besides Shabani, visitors can enjoy a variety of animals and plants, especially during the cherry blossom season at the Sakura Corridor. The Spring Festival is another highlight. The park offers Western and Japanese cuisine for lunch, and a nearby supermarket provides snacks and fresh sashimi. Address: 〒464-0804 Aichi Prefecture, Nagoya, Chikusa Ward, Higashiyama Motomachi 3-70 Opening Hours: Open year-round, 09:00—16:30 (Tuesday to Sunday), closed on Mondays. Fees: * Admission: 500 yen/person, Nagoya residents and seniors over 65: 100 yen/person. * Observation Tower Pass: 640 yen/person, Nagoya residents and seniors over 65: 160 yen/person. Transportation: Japan's public transportation is convenient. Take the Higashiyama Line subway to "Higashiyama Koen Station" and walk about 3 minutes from Exit 3; or get off at "Hoshigaoka Station" and walk about 7 minutes from Exit 6. Tips: * The aerial tram at the entrance offers a panoramic view of the zoo. * Due to its size, plan to spend a full day at the attraction. * Do not feed or tease the animals, and avoid using flash or making noise with items like flashlights, laser pointers, speakers, whistles, or musical instruments. * Only strollers and wheelchairs are allowed; no skateboards, roller skates, or children's rides. * Pets are not allowed in the park. * Some animals may not be visible after 4 PM due to isolation. * Flash photography is prohibited in certain areas, such as animal houses. * Commercial photography or filming requires prior official permission. #Nagoya #HigashiyamaZoo #Shabani