Nasu Owl and Small Animal Park - Chaminuka Entrance
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Nasu Owl and Small Animal Park

4.4
·11k reviews·Nasu, Japan

Discover a charming park with diverse owls, interactive small animal feeding, and immersive natural habitats. A delightful escape for all ages.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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Nasu Owl and Small Animal Park - Chaminuka Entrance

Nasu Owl and Small Animal Park

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover a charming park with diverse owls, interactive small animal feeding, and immersive natural habitats. A delightful escape for all ages.

4.4
(11k reviews)

"Highly recommend for families, with well-maintained grounds and engaging animal encounters!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Drive for Convenience

Public transport is scarce. Driving is highly recommended for easier access to the park's two main areas. :car:

💰 Affordable Feeding Fun

Many animal feeding opportunities cost only 100-300 yen. A great way to interact with animals affordably! :moneybag:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Owl Encounters

Owl Encounters

Various aviaries

Marvel at a diverse collection of owls, from majestic large species to tiny, adorable ones. Many are housed in spacious, naturalistic enclosures.

Small Animal Feeding

Small Animal Feeding

Designated feeding areas

Get up close and personal by feeding small animals like otters, ducks, and capybaras. A guaranteed hit with kids!

Immersive Habitats

Immersive Habitats

Asian Forest, Wetlands, Rainforest

Explore meticulously designed exhibits that mimic natural environments, allowing animals like sloths and marmosets to roam freely.

Bird Shows

Bird Shows

Show arena

Witness impressive aerial displays and learn about various bird species during engaging and educational shows.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for a Peaceful Visit

To avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience with the animals, aim for weekdays. Weekends and holidays can get busy, especially with families. Consider visiting during off-peak hours, like right when the park opens or later in the afternoon, to maximize your time with the animals.

Embrace the Interactive Experience

Nasu Owl and Small Animal Park offers unique opportunities for animal encounters, including feeding sessions and close-up interactions. Check the daily schedule upon arrival for feeding times and animal shows to make the most of your visit. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the expansive grounds!

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Mornings
Why
Animals are most active
Crowd
Medium
When
Afternoons
Why
Feeding shows are on
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#マヌルネコ #那須どうぶつ王国 #nasuanimalkingdom #おすすめスポット #うちの子が可愛すぎる #動物 #animals #冬季営業中
@nasu_animal_kingdom1
169.8K likes • 3.2M views

🚗 Drive for Convenience

Public transport is scarce. Driving is highly recommended for easier access to the park's two main areas. :car: Reddit

💰 Affordable Feeding Fun

Many animal feeding opportunities cost only 100-300 yen. A great way to interact with animals affordably! :moneybag: Reddit

How to Spend 1 Day at Animal Kingdom✨🐘🌿🐒 #disneyanimalkingdom #animalkingdom #disneyparks #creatorsearchinsights #disneyworld #waltdisneyworld #disneytipsandtricks #disneytips #disneyvacation #disneytrip #disneyadvice #disneycontentcreator #disneycontent #disneyadult #disneylife #disneytiktok #orlando #orlandoflorida #disneyfood #disneyfoodie Disney animal kingdom Animal kingdom theme park Animal...
@travelbykaitlynreifsteck
24.1K likes • 284.5K views
10/10 recommend dinner @ Sanaa if you’re staying anywhere on Disney property, worth the trip & you can explore the resort! Or even after a day at AK! Also, didn’t mention in the vlog but service was 100/10! Disney’s hospitality and customer service always blows me away - coming from a former service industry girl 🫡🫡 #disneyworld #disneytrip #animalkingdom #disneyparks #vacationvlog
@sky.kellisa
21.1K likes • 156.1K views

☔ Rainy Day Ready

Well-covered areas ensure fun continues even on rainy days. Don't let weather stop your adventure! :umbrella: Reddit

🗓️ Check Show Schedules

Daily animal shows and feeding events offer great entertainment. Plan your day around them! :clock: Reddit

#sanaa and #boma are my fav Disney restaurants! 😍 #animalkingdomlodge #orlandospots #orlandofoodie #orlandoeats #disneyeats
@orlandoqueen
18.4K likes • 300.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Drive for Convenience

Public transport is scarce. Driving is highly recommended for easier access to the park's two main areas. :car: Reddit

💰 Affordable Feeding Fun

Many animal feeding opportunities cost only 100-300 yen. A great way to interact with animals affordably! :moneybag: Reddit

☔ Rainy Day Ready

Well-covered areas ensure fun continues even on rainy days. Don't let weather stop your adventure! :umbrella: Reddit

🗓️ Check Show Schedules

Daily animal shows and feeding events offer great entertainment. Plan your day around them! :clock: Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The park is large and split into two sections. You'll be doing a lot of walking! :athletic_shoe: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(11k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Nasu Owl and Small Animal Park is largely praised for its interactive animal feeding sessions, engaging shows, and immersive exhibits that allow for close encounters. Visitors appreciate the cleanliness and the variety of animals, making it a great family destination. However, some reviews have raised concerns about the welfare of certain animals, citing small enclosures and signs of distress.

"This zoo is absolutely amazing! The entire place is clean and well-maintained, and all the animals look healthy and full of energy. It’s clear they are very well cared for. There are plenty of small animal feeding shows that kids absolutely love. The on-site restaurants serve delicious food, making it easy to spend the whole day here. Weekdays are less crowded, and even on rainy days, the covered areas are so well designed that the fun never stops! Highly recommend for families."

Cerise

"I went here last year and it was terrible. Im not a zoo person in general because I love animals but I was taken here by my cousin.

I saw two seals that were in an extremely small area with barely any water; there was just enough for them to submerge their body — not swim. The water looked very murky and green.

I also saw what I think was a reindeer. The hooves of the adult reindeer were definitely way too long and needed trimming. It also looked like it was on the semi malnourished side. I was able to see some of its ribs. I'm not a vet or anything but i've always loved animals and I have studied about them through many videos and all I know is none of this felt right to me. I felt very heartbroken for the animals.

The kangaroo looked very depressed in the corner and I'm really hoping they let it out at some point every day because that is not a big enclosure at all. Same with the reindeer.

I also saw a tiger which I dont have a picture of but I swear, its enclosure was way too small. It kept pacing back and forth repeatedly, and books/videos have told me that usually means the tiger is either stressed, bored or frustrated. I wouldnt want to waste a penny on buying a ticket for this zoo. I personally do NOT want to support this."

Rina T

"Love this place.

The shows are excellent! Good balance of learning and entertainment. The bird show in particular had a lot of wow factor as the birds flew in barely over the heads of the audience.

More immersive exhibits compared to other zoos I've been to. The wetlands and rainforest enclosures especially. Marmosets and lemurs wander around (seemingly) freely and the sloths are cage free. This adds a good touch of excitement to moving through the park.

Feeding events/ opportunities are also great. Feed penguins and a seal at 300 yen (3 small pieces of fish) also you can buy feed for the otters and ducks.

Restaurants are as expected a little expensive but surprisingly good quality and portions.

Also some animals walk around the park with their handlers and you can touch them. Skunk! Anteater! Tortoise!

Love this place, will certainly go again."

adrian sukhram

What People Like

Interactive animal feeding
Engaging bird shows
Immersive exhibits

What People Dislike

Animal welfare concerns
Limited public transport

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most convenient way to reach the park is by car, as public transportation options are limited. If you're relying on public transport, you'll likely need to combine trains and buses, which can be time-consuming. Reddit

Yes, parking is generally available at the park. Driving is recommended for ease of access and for navigating between the park's two distinct sections. Reddit

While possible, visiting without a car can be challenging due to scarce public transport. It's best to research bus routes in advance or consider a taxi if public transport is not feasible. Reddit

Yes, there is a free bus service that connects the two main parts of the park. Alternatively, you can pay to ride a tractor or chairlift for a more scenic journey. Reddit

From Tokyo, you can take a Shinkansen (bullet train) to Utsunomiya Station and then transfer to a local train or bus towards Nasu. Driving is also an option, taking approximately 2-3 hours depending on traffic. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's always best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours before your visit. TikTok

Admission fees are reasonable, especially considering the interactive experiences offered. Check the park's official website for current ticket prices. Reddit

Information on discounts for children, seniors, or group rates is usually available on the park's official website. It's worth checking for any special offers. Reddit

While tickets are typically available for purchase at the entrance, buying in advance online might be an option, especially during peak seasons, to save time. Reddit

Many animal feeding opportunities are available for a small fee, often around 100-300 yen, making it an affordable way to interact with the animals. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors often rave about the diverse owl collection, the interactive small animal feeding sessions (like with capybaras and otters), and the immersive exhibits featuring sloths and marmosets. TikTokReddit

Yes, the park hosts engaging bird shows and various feeding events throughout the day. These are highly recommended for both entertainment and education. Reddit

In some designated areas, you can have close encounters and even touch certain animals like skunks, anteaters, and tortoises with handlers present. Reddit

Absolutely! The park is very family-friendly, with many interactive activities, feeding opportunities, and engaging shows that children love. TikTokReddit

The park has well-designed covered areas, ensuring that the fun continues even on rainy days. You can still enjoy many exhibits and shows. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are on-site restaurants that offer surprisingly good quality food and decent portion sizes, though they can be a bit pricey. Reddit

While the restaurants are described as a little expensive, many visitors find the quality and portions to be worth the cost. Reddit

Specific dietary options are not detailed in reviews, but typical zoo restaurants often have a range of choices. It's best to inquire directly at the restaurant. Reddit

While not explicitly stated in reviews, many parks allow visitors to bring their own food and drinks for picnics. Check the park's policy. Reddit

While the park itself has dining options, the surrounding Nasu area offers various restaurants and cafes if you prefer to dine outside the park. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The immersive exhibits, especially the rainforest and wetlands, offer unique backdrops. Close-ups during feeding sessions and interactions with handlers are also great photo opportunities. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed. However, be mindful of flash photography, as it can disturb the animals. Always check for any specific signage. Reddit

While general photography is permitted, avoid using flash, especially in indoor exhibits or when animals are resting. Some areas might have specific restrictions. Reddit

A camera with good zoom capabilities is helpful for capturing animals in their enclosures. A smartphone with a decent camera is also sufficient for most visitors. TikTok

Yes, during feeding times and supervised animal encounters, you can get very close for memorable photos. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Nasu Owl and Small Animal Park is a fantastic destination for families. The interactive feeding sessions with animals like capybaras and otters are a huge hit with children, offering hands-on fun for a small fee. Reddit The engaging animal shows, particularly the bird shows, provide entertainment and educational value that keeps kids captivated. TikTokReddit

With well-maintained and clean facilities, and a variety of animals to see, it's easy to spend a whole day here. Even on rainy days, the park's covered areas ensure the fun doesn't stop. The park's layout, while large, is manageable with the available shuttle services between sections, making it accessible for families with young children. Reddit

🚗 Travelers Who Prefer Driving

For visitors who prefer the convenience of driving, Nasu Owl and Small Animal Park is an ideal choice. Driving is highly recommended as public transport options are scarce in the area, making it the most straightforward way to reach the park and navigate its two distinct sections. Reddit

Parking is generally available, and having your own vehicle allows you to easily travel between the different zones of the park. You can also explore the wider Nasu region at your leisure before or after your visit. This flexibility is a major advantage for those who enjoy road trips and exploring at their own pace. Reddit

🌿 Nature and Animal Enthusiasts

This park offers a unique experience for those who appreciate nature and animals. The immersive exhibits designed to mimic natural habitats, such as the rainforest and wetlands, provide a more authentic viewing experience. Seeing animals like sloths and marmosets in seemingly free-roaming environments is a special treat. Reddit

The variety of owls is a significant draw for bird lovers, and the opportunity for close encounters and feeding allows for a deeper connection with the animal kingdom. While some reviews have raised welfare concerns, many visitors report seeing healthy, energetic animals, suggesting a commitment to their care. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the Animal Welfare Concerns

While many visitors praise Nasu Owl and Small Animal Park for its clean facilities and well-cared-for animals, some reviews raise concerns about animal welfare. One visitor noted seeing seals in a small, murky pool and a reindeer with overgrown hooves and appearing underweight. They also observed a tiger pacing excessively, which can indicate stress or boredom. These observations highlight the importance of critically evaluating zoo conditions and supporting facilities that prioritize animal well-being. Reddit

It's crucial for visitors to be aware that not all zoo experiences are universally positive. While the park offers many engaging activities, it's essential to consider these critical reviews. If animal welfare is a primary concern for you, researching a zoo's accreditation and specific animal care practices before visiting is highly recommended. Reddit

Conversely, many other reviews highlight the animals appearing healthy and energetic, with spacious and well-maintained enclosures. The presence of free-roaming animals like marmosets and lemurs, and cage-free sloths, is often cited as a positive aspect. This disparity in experiences suggests that while improvements may have been made or that individual animal conditions can vary, it's beneficial to approach any zoo visit with an informed perspective. Reddit

Interactive Experiences and Animal Encounters

Nasu Owl and Small Animal Park truly shines in its interactive offerings, providing visitors with unique opportunities to connect with the animals. The small animal feeding sessions are a major draw, allowing guests to feed animals like capybaras, otters, and ducks for a small fee. This hands-on experience is particularly popular with children and creates memorable moments. Reddit

Beyond feeding, the park facilitates close encounters with various animals under the supervision of handlers. Visitors have reported interacting with animals such as skunks, anteaters, and tortoises, adding an exciting dimension to the visit. The park's design, with immersive exhibits like the Asian forest, wetlands, and rainforest, further enhances these encounters. Animals like marmosets and lemurs are often seen roaming freely within these habitats, and sloths are housed cage-free, creating a more naturalistic and engaging environment. Reddit

The daily animal shows, especially the bird shows, are another highlight. These performances are not only entertaining but also educational, showcasing the abilities of various bird species with impressive aerial displays. The combination of interactive feeding, supervised encounters, and engaging shows makes Nasu Owl and Small Animal Park a dynamic destination for animal lovers of all ages. TikTokReddit

Navigating the Park's Layout

Nasu Owl and Small Animal Park is quite expansive and is divided into two main sections. This layout means visitors will be doing a considerable amount of walking to explore all that the park has to offer. Comfortable footwear is an absolute must to ensure an enjoyable experience without discomfort. Reddit

To facilitate movement between these two sections, the park provides a free bus service. For those seeking a more scenic or adventurous route, there's also the option to pay for a ride on a tractor or a chairlift. This thoughtful provision helps visitors manage the park's size and enjoy the journey between different animal zones. Reddit

Given the park's size and the limited public transport options in the surrounding area, driving to the park is highly recommended. This allows for greater flexibility in exploring both sections at your own pace and easily accessing the park. Reddit

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