The giraffe is one of more than 1,000 animals available for park goers to observe at the Okinawa Kids Discovery Kingdom. (Photo by Lance Cpl. Abigail M. Wharton).

Located just off Route 330 and west of Route 20, not far from Kadena's Gate 2, this convenient hideaway has all the ingredients for an enjoyable family outing.

From the interactive Wonder Museum and Children's Center to the amusement rides and fishing pond, the Okinawa Kids Discovery Kingdom guarantees a good time to any adventurer. In addition, to satisfy the wilder side of park goers, a zoo housing more than 140 different species of mammals, birds, fish, reptiles and amphibians is sure to spark some interest.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the zoo's many animal exhibits ranging from the bird and bat house to baboons and Bengal tigers. With more than 1,000 animals on display, it's hard not to find an animal to catch your eye.

For a more personal experience with the animals, the park has a petting zoo where patrons can pet and hold chicks, turtles, guinea pigs, rabbits and can even interact with an iguana.

When the Okinawa sun becomes a bit too much, the Wonder Museum provides an indoor hands-on experience with all its exhibits.

The interactive displays awaiting park goers include the Equilibrium Point exhibit which uses sound waves to make liquids bounce and boogie and the Recollections IV exhibit, which casts indoor rainbow-colored shadows of patrons.

The Okinawa Kids Discovery Kingdom offers enough attractions to consume an entire day. The attractions cover a wide area, so good walking shoes are a must. For the all day adventurer, a restaurant and multiple snack bars provide meal opportunities if hunger strikes.

Entrance to the park is ｴ500 for adults, ｴ200 for junior high and high school students, and ｴ100 for elementary age children. Children ages 4 and under enter free. Extra yen is recommended for food and additional attraction fees, such as the fishing pond and rental boats.

For directions and additional information about the Okinawa Kids Discovery Kingdom check out http://www.kodomo.city.okinawa.okinawa.jp/.