If you want to interact with cats, your first thought might be a cat cafe. However, there are actually many places in zoos where you can also interact with cats.
With a more casual atmosphere than a cat cafe, zoos offer a relaxing environment for interactions. In this article, we will introduce zoos where you can interact with cats and provide tips for a smooth experience.
Please check each zoo's official website for information such as opening hours, admission fees, and participation in interaction corners.
Table of Contents
1. Zoos Where You Can Interact with Cats [East Japan Edition]
∟1-1. World Cat Goods Museum (Cat2 Paradise) (Chiba Prefecture)
∟1-2. Tsukuba Wan Wan Land (Ibaraki Prefecture)
∟1-3. Fuji Safari Park (Shizuoka Prefecture)
∟1-4. Izu Kogen Cat Museum (Shizuoka Prefecture)
2. Zoos Where You Can Interact with Cats [West Japan Edition]
∟2-1. World Ranch (Osaka Prefecture)
∟2-2. Kobe Animal Kingdom (Hyogo Prefecture)
∟2-3. Shirotori Zoo (Kagawa Prefecture)
∟2-4. Nagasaki Biopark (Nagasaki Prefecture)
3. Points to Note When Interacting with Cats at Zoos
∟3-1. Wash your hands before and after touching the cats
∟3-2. Do not bring items or clothes you don't want to be damaged by cats
∟3-3. Handle cats gently
1. Zoos Where You Can Interact with Cats [East Japan Edition]
First, let's introduce zoos (museums) where you can interact with cats in East Japan.
1-1. World Cat Goods Museum (Cat2 Paradise) (Chiba Prefecture)
Cat2 Paradise (Nyan Nyan Paradise) is a cat protection shelter attached to the "World Cat Goods Museum" operated by the NPO Cat22. Cats that have been abandoned and unable to find adoptive parents live here.
With no time limit and the option to temporarily leave, you can leisurely enjoy time with friendly cats, petting them or letting them sit on your lap to your heart's content.
Admission fees and merchandise sales at the museum are used for the welfare of the protected cats, making it a charming place where you can contribute to cat protection while playing with them.
If you feel a connection with a cat, you can even volunteer to become its adoptive parent. Meeting and interacting with the protected cats to find mutual happiness is a wonderful experience.
※Official Website: World Cat Goods Museum
1-2. Tsukuba Wan Wan Land (Ibaraki Prefecture)
Tsukuba Wan Wan Land is a dog-themed amusement park where you can interact with over 90 different dog breeds. In addition to experiencing walking with dogs and interactions, there is also a play equipment area called "Dakkun Hiroba" where children can play, making it an ideal place for family leisure.
The "Neko House" in the park is a place where cute cats relax freely, resembling a "cat paradise." You can also encounter rare types of cats such as Sphinx and LaPerm.
Official Website: Tsukuba Wan Wan Land
1-3. Fuji Safari Park (Shizuoka Prefecture)
Fuji Safari Park is a safari-type zoo where you can see lions, elephants, and giraffes living leisurely in nature by riding your own car or the park's jungle bus.
In the interaction zone "Cat House," you can see rare cats like the Serval and Chartreux playing or relaxing. Since May 18, 2023, the triplet cheetahs born in August of the previous year have been on display. Enjoy watching the triplet cheetahs playing and cuddling with their mother.
Official Website: Fuji Safari Park
1-4. Izu Kogen Cat Museum (Shizuoka Prefecture)
The Izu Kogen Cat Museum is a nature-rich park where you can interact with various animals. In the "Animal Square," cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs live in a large area surrounded by nature.
At the "Cat Plaza," you can enjoy time with about 20 cats of various breeds. There are also rare cat breeds, so it's a great place for cat lovers. The cats in the Cat Plaza are very friendly and may approach you, so you can enjoy interacting with them casually.
Official Website: Izu Kogen Cat Museum
2. Zoos Where You Can Interact with Cats [West Japan Edition]
Next, let's introduce zoos (museums) where you can interact with cats in West Japan.
2-1. World Ranch (Osaka Prefecture)
World Ranch is an experiential theme park where you can enjoy activities related to animals, nature, and agriculture. In the "Animal Forest," you can interact with animals such as capybaras, rabbits, and horses. The park is filled with nature, creating a relaxing atmosphere.
The "Cat House" in the park is a place where you can spend time with cute cats. The friendly cats are waiting for you to pet them. The Cat House is located in the area where you can freely interact with various animals, so you can enjoy a diverse range of experiences.
Official Website: World Ranch
2-2. Kobe Animal Kingdom (Hyogo Prefecture)
Kobe Animal Kingdom is a large-scale botanical garden where you can interact with various animals. In the "Fureai Zone," you can interact with animals such as birds, mammals, reptiles, and more.
The "Cat Paradise" in the Fureai Zone is a place where you can meet and interact with adorable cats. With a warm and comfortable space, you can spend time leisurely playing with the cats. The Cat Paradise is a must-visit spot for cat lovers.
Official Website: Kobe Animal Kingdom
2-3. Shirotori Zoo (Kagawa Prefecture)
Shirotori Zoo is a zoo with a long history located in Kagawa Prefecture. The zoo is home to various animals, and in the "Petting Corner," you can interact with small animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs.
In the "Cat Village," you can spend time with adorable cats. The Cat Village has a charming atmosphere, and the cats are friendly and welcoming. It's a perfect place to relax and enjoy the company of cats.
Official Website: Shirotori Zoo
2-4. Nagasaki Biopark (Nagasaki Prefecture)
Nagasaki Biopark is a zoo where you can observe animals in a natural environment. In the "Kodomono Mori" (Children's Forest) area, you can interact with small animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs. The zoo has a spacious layout, allowing animals to live comfortably.
The "Cat Forest" in the zoo is a space dedicated to cats, and you can enjoy spending time with them. The Cat Forest is designed to resemble a natural forest environment, providing a unique experience for visitors.
Official Website: Nagasaki Biopark
3. Points to Note When Interacting with Cats at Zoos
When interacting with cats at zoos, there are some important points to keep in mind for the safety and well-being of both visitors and animals.
3-1. Wash your hands before and after touching the cats
Before and after interacting with cats, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. This helps prevent the spread of germs and ensures a hygienic environment for both visitors and cats.
3-2. Do not bring items or clothes you don't want to be damaged by cats
Cats may be curious and playful, and they may scratch or nibble on items within their reach. Avoid bringing valuable items or wearing clothes that you don't want to be damaged during interactions with cats.
3-3. Handle cats gently
When interacting with cats, handle them gently and with care. Avoid making sudden movements or loud noises that may startle the cats. Respect their comfort and boundaries for a positive experience.
