Culture
Guide to Visiting Zao Fox Village
Rebecca DaumZao Fox Village is filled with over 100 animals and 6 different types of foxes in Shiroishi, Miyagi Prefecture.
Zao Fox Village
Zao Fox Village (宮城蔵王キツネ村) is located in the Shiroishi mountains of Zao, a one-hour drive from Sendai and is Japan’s largest fox zoo. This large, open-air facility is home to more than 100 foxes who are regularly inspected for parasites.
Notice
While animal-based travel destinations may offer unique opportunities for interaction and observation, it is considerate to research and choose establishments that uphold high standards of animal welfare, such as proper care, ethical practices, and conservation efforts.
At Zao Fox Village, guests can pay a small fee to feed foxes (100 yen) and even hold infant fox kits (400 yen) once they are old enough to be apart from their parents. The best seasons to visit are usually spring—to enjoy holding a fox kit—or winter—to enjoy the ethereal snowy setting as the foxes play). You’ll also find a wide array of other animals waiting for you at Zao Fox Village, including rabbits, goats, and guinea pigs.
Guests also have the opportunity to get closer to some adult foxes with the help of the friendly staff. While groups of more than 10 are asked to make prior reservations with the preserve. The staff asks that children under elementary school age be accompanied by one adult per child, for safety. Guests should also refrain from wearing loose clothing or shoes with straps or heels. The staff will guide you on other rules of the sanctuary when you enter.
Overview
Address
Kawarago-11-3 Fukuokayatsumiya, Shiroishi, Miyagi 989-0733 (Map) (Directions)Hours
9:00 - 17:00 Closed nowOpening Hours
Monday
9:00 - 17:00
Tuesday
9:00 - 17:00
Wednesday
Closed
Thursday
9:00 - 17:00
Friday
9:00 - 17:00
Saturday
9:00 - 17:00
Sunday
9:00 - 17:00
Holidays
9:00 - 17:00
Price
¥1000
Phone Number
0224-24-8812Website
Highlights
Fox Feeding
For 100 yen, guests can purchase a bag of cut hot dog or cut carrots to feed the foxes. There is a marked feeding area and guests are asked not to feed to fox by hand as they might nip or bite. Please listen to the staff and follow the park rules while engaging with the foxes.
Fox Kit Holding
For 400 yen, during spring, guests can hold a fox kit that has been weaned from its mother. These kits are kept near the entrance in large viewing kennels. Making an appointment beforehand is recommended and the lineup for holding a kit may take considerable time. Please listen to the staff and follow the park rules while engaging with the foxes.
General Amenities
- Shops
Access
Zao Fox Village can be reached by bus (Castle Kun Bus, or Yakushi-no-Yu shuttle bus), or car/taxi (20 min from Shiroishi Station).
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