Intro
Japan is one of those countries that seems to be perfectly designed for tourists, especially when it comes to unique and fascinating attractions such as robot cafes or cat islands. However, there is one place in Japan that seems to take the cake for cuteness and inimitability. Located north of Tokyo in the mountainous Miyagi region, the Zao Fox Village is exactly what it sounds like—a tourist-friendly sanctuary for more than a hundred foxes. This adorable haven for different kinds of foxes was founded in 1990 and has since become a must-see attraction for people who love these small, endearing (yet wily) animals.
How to get there
Since the village is at a lofty height, you should plan your travel accordingly, depending on how much time you have and how much money you’re willing to spend. From Tokyo, you can use the high-speed railway network, the bus or a car. Once you get to the station close to the village, you can take a taxi, a shuttle or a local bus. The entry fee for the fox village is 1000 yen, with no cost for children under 12. The timings are from 9 am to 4 pm.
Purpose/Tradition
Why foxes, you might ask? Foxes have a significance in Japan due to their association with magic and intelligence in Japanese folklore. Due to their traditional value, the modern-day foxes are special in their own way. Plus, having a fox village is surely great for tourism!
Design
At the entrance of the village, you can have the option of buying food for the foxes when you buy your ticket. The food is for 100 yen. The fox sanctuary is basically divided into two parts. The first one is a sort of petting zoo where you can indulge yourself by petting the foxes, which are either in cages or in leashes. This is for both their safety and yours. You can also pet the bunnies and goats that are present, along with a miniature horse. You probably want to take a few selfies at this point. The second part is more like a sanctuary, with a wide open space where foxes can roam freely. You can get a more natural experience here as there are trees and shrubs to make the foxes feel at home. You can get closer to the foxes and feed them, as long as you’re being careful.
Variety of animals
The refuge is home to six different species of foxes, which is why you’ll see creatures of different kinds and colours. In addition to the traditional Japanese Red Fox, there are also black foxes, platinum foxes and arctic foxes.
Attractions
Zao Fox Village also has little houses and hideaways for the foxes, where you can see them sleeping or running around. Keeping in mind the traditional value of foxes in folklore, there is also a ‘shrine’ with statues. There is also a “feeding station” in the center of the forest area, where tourists can stand on raised platforms and feed the eager little foxes queuing up below. This must be an adorable sight, as the furry animals get a chance to interact with their visitors. When you’re leaving, you get to exit through the themed gift shop, where you can grab a fox-shaped keychain or any other fox-y novelty items.