10 Places To Visit In Japan For Animal Lovers

OT Staff

Jigokudani Monkey Park (Nagano Prefecture)

Observe Japanese macaques, known as snow monkeys, bathing in natural hot springs during winter months. This rare behaviour is a significant draw for wildlife photographers.

A look inside the Jigokudani Monkey Park | japantravelcom/instagram

Nara Park (Nara)

Home to over 1,000 free-roaming deer considered sacred in Shinto beliefs. Visitors can purchase special crackers to feed these friendly creatures.

A view of the Nara Park | danielkordan/instagram

Okunoshima Island (Hiroshima Prefecture)

Also known as Rabbit Island, it hosts hundreds of wild rabbits that freely interact with visitors, making it a charming destination for animal lovers.

A bunny at the Okunoshima Island | japanreisen/instagram

Zao Fox Village (Miyagi Prefecture)

This sanctuary houses over 100 foxes of various species. Guests can observe and, in designated areas, feed these animals in a semi-natural environment.

A look at the Zao Fox Village | Wikimedia Commons

Tashirojima Island (Miyagi Prefecture)

Dubbed Cat Island, it boasts a feline population that outnumbers humans. Cats are revered here, and the island features cat-shaped lodgings for visitors.

A view of the Tashirojima Island | adejaponoficial/instagram

Nagasaki Bio Park (Nagasaki Prefecture)

An interactive zoo where animals roam freely in naturalistic habitats. Visitors can engage closely with capybaras, squirrel monkeys, and other species.

Inside Nagasaki Bio Park | ___yoake.__/instagram

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium (Okinawa)

One of the world's largest aquariums, it showcases diverse marine life, including whale sharks and manta rays, offering insights into ocean ecosystems.

A look inside Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium | kaiyohaku_churaumi/instagram

Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama (Kyoto)

Home to over 120 Japanese macaques. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto while observing monkeys in their natural habitat.

Baby monkeys inside Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama | osaru_toruman/instagram

Ueno Zoological Gardens (Tokyo)

Established in 1882, it's Japan's oldest zoo, housing over 400 species, including giant pandas, making it a significant centre for animal conservation and education.

A look inside the Ueno Zoological Gardens | redpanda_page/instagram

Aquarium Kaiyukan (Osaka)

One of Japan's premier aquariums, featuring diverse marine habitats. Highlights include a massive tank with a whale shark and interactive exhibits for educational experiences.

Inside Aquarium Kaiyukan | treintaycincogrullas/instagram

8 Of The Most Iconic Japanese Street Food To Have In Ōsaka

Soft serve ice creams in front of Ōsaka Castle | Shutterstock
Read More