This is a good family day out. It's also cheap as adults are 700 yen and children (including up to high school students) are free. It's easy to get there by public transit - the Chiba City Monorail stops right there - and there is plenty of parking.

There are a lot of older exhibits that are too small for the animals and the poor elephant isn't doing well, but they've been improving sections gradually over the last few years with more modern enclosers and more domestic animals. There are several petting zoo type exhibits that give children a chance to interact (and clean up after) sheep, goats and other farm animals. Some of these are free, but others cost money.

In addition to looking at animals in cages, there are a variety of educational events and non-zoo activities such as bouncy castles, art projects, small children's rides and several other things.

Two recommendations. First go early. Many of the animal are much more active in the morning. It's the best time to see the lions and many of the other large animals awake. In adition to that, bring a picnic lunch. They have a few food options, but they're expensive and not great. However there is a lot of space to set up and eat a nice picnic.