Buzz
If you're seeking a tranquil place to connect with nature, away from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, then Machida Squirrel Garden is the spot for you. Located in the Tama area, south of Tokyo, Machida city sits between Tokyo and Kanagawa prefecture, allowing visitors to experience serene surroundings and playful moments with the adorable and agile squirrels. So, in today's article, let's explore the fun activities and distinctive features of the squirrel garden!
1. The main attraction of the squirrel garden: 'Free Plaza'
Historically, the Machida area was once a large fishing and farming community during the Meiji period. However, amidst rapid industrialization, it has retained its rustic charm, reminiscent of a suburban area.
Machida Squirrel Garden first opened its doors in 1988, it's a small zoo where you can interact and participate in fun activities with squirrels and some small animals. Perhaps not widely known to foreign tourists, but for Japanese locals, it's a beloved destination, especially for families with young members. The garden is also a popular spot for many kindergartens and elementary schools in the Tokyo and Yokohama area. During peak times, this small park can attract over 1,000 visitors per day.
The Free Plaza is the central square of the squirrel garden, also the most attractive and prominent spot here. The square has a circumference of over 200m, but what's impressive is that there are over 200 squirrels released freely, along with many colorful birdhouses, which are homes to various birds in the park.
What everyone looks forward to the most is playing and feeding these playful squirrels directly. Visitors can buy sunflower seed packages available at the squirrel garden for 100 yen. For the little ones, it's best for adults to equip them with cotton gloves to prevent accidents caused by their sharp claws. If you don't have them, don't worry because we can borrow them from shops around the square or rent them.
It's truly delightful to admire these small squirrels with their friendly brown-black fur that can get close to us. Sometimes, you'll burst into laughter because of their incredibly cute and amusing actions. Witness how they agilely climb on tree branches or play around.
2. Playtime with Thai squirrels
When it comes to squirrels, many people might immediately think of the common gray squirrel, but among the over 200 squirrels in the Free Plaza, most of them are Thai squirrels. They have larger bodies than gray squirrels, light brown fur, large and bushy tails, and what's special about this species is that they are friendly and very approachable, unlike other squirrel species.
You just need to approach them, put some food on your hand, and move closer; these squirrels will quickly show an incredibly cute gesture, staring at you with their eyes and raising their front legs as if waiting for permission. However, be careful as they have sharp claws and teeth, they can injure you, so it's best to wear gloves or long clothing to protect yourself.
Squirrels are usually active in the morning and evening, so this is the time when we see their most lively and energetic behavior. All activities from eating, playing, climbing, and interacting with everyone. From noon to 3 pm, they are quite calm, it seems like this is a resting and relaxing time to recharge for the next activities.
3. Also, there are cute chipmunks, red squirrels, and Japanese squirrels
Machida Squirrel Garden is also home to many other types of squirrels such as red squirrels, chipmunks, or adorable Japanese squirrels. Among the over 200 squirrels in the plaza, there are only about 3 chipmunks. People can easily distinguish them through their appearance. Chipmunks are shorter, plumper, and have darker fur than Thai squirrels. They seem to be more shy when interacting with people compared to Thai squirrels.
For those who have watched the famous movie Peter Rabbit, you probably remember the image of an intelligent, brave, and very funny rabbit, well, the red squirrel species is the prototype for the character Peter Rabbit in the movie. Although they belong to the squirrel species, they have long ears like rabbits, alongside the characteristic red fur on their heads and legs. These are some of the rare squirrel species that tourists won't have many opportunities to encounter in many parks or other zoos.
Depending on the time of year, the activities of red squirrels vary. Sometimes we may not be able to see them because they spend almost the entire day in their burrows. Sometimes they are very curious about the world around them. Especially when eating, their red ears stand up along with their fluffy tails curling up, making them really cute and adorable.
4. Hugging bunnies and ferrets
Not only squirrels, but Machida Squirrel Garden also has many other species such as rabbits, turtles, guinea pigs, and ferrets of all sizes for tourists to admire and interact with. In the ferret area, there are over 150 individuals separated by a fence from visitors. You will be amazed by the diversity in shapes, colors, breeds, and sizes of ferrets cared for here. Don't hesitate to buy some food and experience how they eat. Ferret food includes green vegetables, spinach, or carrots.
On Saturdays, Sundays, or holidays, at the Fureai Plaza, tourists and children will have the opportunity to personally hug squirrels, rabbits, and ferrets under the guidance of trainers. Visitors will be taught how to groom, pet, and befriend these adorable animals.
Additional information:
Address: 1-733-1, Yakushidai, Machida City, Tokyo
Phone: 042-734-1001
Cost: Adult ticket: 400 yen, children: 200 yen
Website: https://www.machida-risuen.com/
Posted by: Phuong Phuong Ta Nguyen
Keywords: Weekend date with squirrels at Machida Squirrel Garden
