Minoh Park Insectarium

Minoh Park Insectarium (箕面公園昆虫館) is tucked within the greenery of Meiji no Mori Minoh Quasi-National Park, surrounded by forested walking trails and fresh mountain air. Established in 1953, the insectarium is about a 15-minute stroll from Hankyu Minoh Station along the scenic path that leads toward the waterfall. Inside, visitors can view an extensive collection of insect specimens, including delicate beetles, colorful butterflies, and rare species from Japan’s southern islands such as Okinawa. A highlight is the Butterfly Garden, where butterflies glide freely through a warm, greenhouse-like space.

The insectarium also hosts hands-on programs on Sundays and holidays, making it enjoyable for families and curious travelers. After exploring the exhibits, continue along the same trail for a relaxing 30-minute walk deeper into the valley. The route leads through quiet forest scenery to Minoh Falls, where seasonal landscapes shift from vivid green in summer to brilliant red maples in autumn.