Machida Squirrel Garden
Hundreds of friendly Asian squirrels roam freely, eager to climb on visitors and share a meal. Also features adorable guinea pigs and rabbits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Squirrels are most active and hungry!
Machida Squirrel Garden
Best Time
Squirrels are most active and hungry!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hundreds of friendly Asian squirrels roam freely, eager to climb on visitors and share a meal. Also features adorable guinea pigs and rabbits.
"Prepare for squirrels to crawl all over you – it might be a good idea to wear heavier pants!"
Wear sturdy pants! :athletic_shoe:
Squirrels love to climb! Opt for durable pants you don't mind getting a little dirty.
Buy the feed bag! :moneybag:
For ¥100, you can buy a bag of nuts to feed the squirrels – totally worth it for the interaction!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Squirrel Encounters
Main Garden Area
Hundreds of friendly squirrels eager to climb on you and eat from your hand. A truly interactive animal experience!
Guinea Pigs & Rabbits
Smaller Enclosures
Meet and interact with adorable guinea pigs and rabbits in dedicated areas. A gentler experience for all ages.
Unique Themed Houses
Throughout the Garden
Whimsical, colorful houses designed for the squirrels, many with their names on them. Adds a charming touch to the park.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Squirrels (and Wear the Right Clothes!)
Timing is Key for Feeding Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear sturdy pants! :athletic_shoe:
Squirrels love to climb! Opt for durable pants you don't mind getting a little dirty.
Buy the feed bag! :moneybag:
For ¥100, you can buy a bag of nuts to feed the squirrels – totally worth it for the interaction!
Go early for peak activity :sunrise:
Squirrels are most energetic and eager to eat in the morning.
Support the garden :heart:
Purchasing items from the gift shop helps support the garden and its animals.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear sturdy pants! :athletic_shoe:
Squirrels love to climb! Opt for durable pants you don't mind getting a little dirty.
Buy the feed bag! :moneybag:
For ¥100, you can buy a bag of nuts to feed the squirrels – totally worth it for the interaction!
Go early for peak activity :sunrise:
Squirrels are most energetic and eager to eat in the morning.
Support the garden :heart:
Purchasing items from the gift shop helps support the garden and its animals.
Check closing times :clock1:
Arriving before closing is possible, but feeding opportunities might be limited.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique and interactive experience of feeding and being climbed on by hundreds of friendly squirrels. The affordable entry and the opportunity to support a community-run garden are also highly praised. Some minor concerns were noted about the cleanliness of certain animal enclosures.
"My partner and I came here on one of our first days in Tokyo and this place was such a highlight! If you're planning on visiting, be prepared for the squirrels to crawl all over you- it might be a good idea to wear heavier pants that you're not afraid of getting dirty. I absolutely loved how a lot of the gifts you could buy in the gift shop were designed by kids! Made everything we bought there feel so special."
Tav L.
"So this was the next highlight that we wanted to engulf ourselves with. After doing research, we found out that this was run by loving adults and the community was helping support them in many ways. We were both so happy to visit this place that we wanted to take our time and purchase as many things as we could to help support the squirrel garden. I hoped it helped because we really enjoyed the mini zoo."
Joey Rodberry
"Wow, we loved this place. There are so many squirrels in America that we miss so it was nice to come feed the squirrels. You were a and they jump on your head and this giant turtle was just the best."
Jason Sheinkopf
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Machida Squirrel Garden is accessible via train. Take the Odakyu Line or JR Yokohama Line to Machida Station. From there, it's a short bus ride or a walk to the garden. Many visitors combine their trip with a visit to the nearby Suntory brewery for tours and tastings.
Yes, it's generally well-signposted from Machida Station. Public transport is the most recommended way to reach the garden.
While driving is possible, parking availability and cost can vary. Public transport is often more convenient for tourists.
Taking the train to Machida Station and then a short bus ride is a common and manageable option for families.
Yes, the Suntory brewery is in the same area and offers free tours with tastings, making it a great day trip combination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is very affordable, typically around ¥500 for adults. This makes it a budget-friendly attraction. 
Tickets are usually purchased at the entrance on the day of your visit. It's advisable to check their official website for any updates on ticketing procedures.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or social media for the most current information before your visit.
Yes, you can purchase a small bag of feed for the squirrels for an additional fee, typically around ¥100. It's highly recommended for the interactive experience.
Information on specific discounts for children or seniors is not widely publicized, but the general admission fee is quite low.
🎫 🐿️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is hundreds of Asian squirrels. You can also see guinea pigs and rabbits.
Yes, the squirrels are very friendly and accustomed to people. They will often climb on visitors, especially if you have food.
It's recommended to wear sturdy pants that you don't mind getting dirty, as squirrels may climb on you. [^Review Summary]
Absolutely! It's a great place for photos and videos, especially of the squirrels interacting with visitors.
Yes, children often love the experience of interacting with the squirrels and other small animals. Parental supervision is advised.
📸 📸 Photography
The areas where squirrels are most active and interacting with visitors offer the best photo opportunities. The colorful houses also make for charming shots.
Yes, the squirrels are quite approachable, especially when you have food. Be ready to capture them as they climb on you or interact with their environment.
Any camera or smartphone will work well. Having a camera with good low-light performance can be helpful if you visit on a cloudy day.
Generally, photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive behavior.
Yes, the squirrels often come very close, allowing for excellent close-up shots. Be patient and let them approach you.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a hands-on animal encounter that's far more authentic than a typical pet cafe. Remember to dress kids in sturdy clothing that can handle a bit of squirrel activity. [^Review Summary]Beyond the squirrels, the garden also features guinea pigs and rabbits, offering a gentler interaction for younger children or those who might be a little shy. The affordable entry fee makes it a budget-friendly option for a fun family day out.
+1💰 Budget Travelers
+1Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Suntory brewery for free tours and tastings, creating a full day of affordable entertainment.
❤️ Animal Lovers
[^Review Summary] You'll get up-close encounters that are rare in other settings. Beyond the squirrels, the presence of guinea pigs and rabbits adds to the charm. It's a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the world of small, adorable creatures.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Squirrel Experience: Up Close and Personal
To enhance this interaction, you can purchase a small bag of nuts for ¥100. The tip is to rustle the bag near an energetic squirrel to coax it onto you.
+1 While this is a highlight for many, it's important to be prepared. Wear sturdy clothing that you don't mind getting a little dirty, as the squirrels can be quite active. [^Review Summary]Each squirrel is said to have its own name and house, adding a personal touch to the garden. [^Review Summary] This level of detail and the direct interaction make Machida Squirrel Garden a standout attraction for animal lovers seeking an authentic encounter.
Beyond Squirrels: Other Adorable Residents
These smaller animals are also well-cared for and offer a delightful addition to your visit. It's a chance to see a variety of small creatures in a relatively natural setting.
The presence of these other animals contributes to the garden's appeal as a family-friendly destination, offering something for everyone to enjoy.
Visiting Machida Squirrel Garden: Practical Tips
+1 It's advisable to visit earlier in the day, as the squirrels are most active and eager to eat during the morning hours. Arriving later in the day is still an option, but you might find the squirrels are already full and less inclined to interact. Many visitors recommend purchasing the feed bag for ¥100 to enhance the squirrel interaction.
+1 The garden also has a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs. Interestingly, many of the gift items are designed by children, adding a unique and heartwarming touch to the merchandise. [^Review Summary]For those looking to make a day of it, the Suntory brewery is located in the same area and offers free tours with tastings, which can be combined with your visit to the squirrel garden.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit