When talking about cute animals everyone probably thinks of cats, dogs, penguins, fish, otters, pandas, bears, and so on, right? In this feature, we introduce Zao Fox Village in Miyagi Prefecture, a spot where you can spend time with cute foxes. It is the only Fox Village in Japan and there are about six different species of foxes here.
The Fox Village is easily accessible. You can take bullet or regular trains up to JR Shiroishizao Station. From here, hop on to a bus right in front of the station that takes you to the village entrance.
For other access routes, please check the official website.
The Fox Village is divided into three parts.
1. Entrance & store for souvenirs
2. Viewing point for small animals and event yard
3. Fox Village
Even though the foxes are not violent, they are after all wild animals. And therefore, you must follow certain rules as precaution when being around foxes. Don’t get too close and do not bring your camera too close to their faces as they may bite.
If you want take photos up close of fox pups, an event is organized at regular intervals wherein the staff hold the pups. You can leave your camera or phone in the box and the appointed staff will take close-up pictures on your behalf.
Within the Fox Village area, you will see several foxes scattered in the woods. You can also feed foxes here.
The feed costs about 200 yen. Here, you are free to throw the feed towards the foxes. Make sure to return the plastic bag to the staff.
Foxes dig a hole and curl up in the snow to keep warm. They love the snow and sure enough, this fellow here looks comfortable.
Just looking at the foxes in different poses will help you relax. But also note that you might hear horrible screams that can be startling. Although this is nothing to worry about, just foxes being foxes.
The opportunities for photos is endless. How cute are these younglings waiting for some food?
Many foxes will be sleeping and no matter the angle, these furry animals look unbelievably cute.
Sometimes you might see a couple of them fighting playfully!
There is also a rare breed of fox in this village called the Arctic Fox, it looks like a baby polar bear.
Winter is a great time to visit this village as the fluffy furballs look unbelievably adorable on a bed of snow. There is also a fox shrine up the forest path.
You can also buy souvenirs featuring foxes.
If you plan to visit the northern part of Japan, make sure to add the Fox Village to your list.
Zao Fox Village
Opening hours: Subject to change based on weather conditions and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Official website: http://zao-fox-village.com
Google Map
**Even though the foxes are well taken care of, you might want to reconsider your visit if you are concerned about animal cruelty.**
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