Zaō Fox Village, Dewa Travel Guide

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Meet over 100 free-roaming foxes at this unique village in the Zao mountains, a haven for animal lovers and photographers alike.

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Zaō Fox Village

Zaō Fox Village, nestled in the mountains of Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, is a unique zoo where over 100 foxes roam freely. Visitors can observe and interact with six different fox species, as well as other animals like rabbits and goats, in a semi-natural environment. It's a popular destination for animal lovers and those seeking a unique cultural experience.

A brief summary to Zaō Fox Village

福岡八宮川原子１１−３, Shiroishi, Kawarago Fukuokayatsumiya, Miyagi, 989-0733, JP
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Monday 9 am-4 pm
Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
Thursday 9 am-4 pm
Friday 9 am-4 pm
Saturday 9 am-4 pm
Sunday 9 am-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Zaō Fox Village.

Check the bus schedule in advance, as it operates infrequently, especially during certain times of the year.
Keep your belongings secure, as foxes are curious and may try to snatch loose items.
Visit during the winter months for extra fluffy foxes in their winter coats, but dress warmly.
Purchase fox food at the entrance to feed the foxes in the designated feeding area.
Be aware that the village is closed on Wednesdays.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Explore Zaō Fox Village on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Zaō Fox Village, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Tokyo, take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen to Shiroishi-Zao Station. From Sendai, take the bullet train or local JR train to Shiroishi Station. From Shiroishi Station, a bus operates on Tuesdays and Fridays, departing at 7:58 AM and costing ¥200. Alternatively, from Shiroishi-Zao Station, a direct bus run by the fox village departs at 10:00 AM and from Shiroishi Station at 10:10 AM, with a return trip at 12:30 PM. Sign up on the Zao Fox Village website in advance. The bus won't depart with fewer than five people, and the maximum boarding is eight.
Taxi

From either Shiroishi Station or Shiroishi-Zao Station, a taxi to Zaō Fox Village costs approximately ¥4,000 - ¥5,000 each way and takes about 20-30 minutes. If arriving at Shiroishi-Zao Station and taxis are unavailable, the tourist information center can call one. The Zao Fox Village staff can also call a taxi for the return trip.

Discover more about Zaō Fox Village

Zaō Fox Village, or Kitsune Mura, offers a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with foxes in a serene, natural setting. Established in the 1990s, initially as a sanctuary to study parasites affecting canines, it has evolved into a popular destination for fox enthusiasts worldwide. The village is home to over 100 foxes from six different species, including the Ezo red fox, silver fox, arctic fox, platinum fox, shadow fox and cross fox. Visitors can wander through the open enclosure where foxes roam freely, observing their behavior and interactions. For a small fee, you can purchase fox food and feed them from a designated elevated area. Be mindful, as the foxes can get competitive when food is involved. While direct contact is generally discouraged, there are designated times where visitors can cuddle with a fox under the supervision of the staff. The foxes are generally checked for diseases and the staff carry out regular prevention and sterilization in the facility so visitors can enjoy interacting with foxes safely.Beyond foxes, the village also houses other animals such as rabbits, goats and miniature ponies. There is also a small shrine dedicated to Inari Okami, the Japanese god of agriculture, commerce, and foxes. The on-site gift shop offers a variety of fox-themed souvenirs. Remember to follow the park's rules and guidelines to ensure your safety and the well-being of the animals.