
Overview
Machida Squirrel Garden is a small zoo specializing in squirrels and other small animals, located in Yakushidai, Machida City, Tokyo. One of Machida City's representative tourist attractions, it is popular for the chance to interact directly with free-roaming squirrels. Set within a corner of Yakushi-ike Park amid lush greenery, it is an approachable spot where families, couples, and animal lovers can enjoy relaxed time with small creatures.
Highlights
- ●The experience of feeding and interacting directly with free-roaming squirrels
- ●A representative Machida City attraction specializing in squirrels and small animals
- ●A natural setting within a corner of the green Yakushi-ike Park
- ●A small zoo that opened in 1988 and has long been loved locally
History
Machida Squirrel Garden opened on December 15, 1988. Built around the theme of getting close to squirrels and other small animals, it has since been cherished locally as one of Machida City's representative tourist facilities. As part of Yakushi-ike Park, surrounded by nature through the seasons, it has long been loved by residents and visitors alike. For its history since opening and details of the animals it keeps, it is best to check official information.
Access
The garden lies in Yakushidai, Machida City, Tokyo (around 35.58 degrees north, 139.45 degrees east). Adjacent to Yakushi-ike Park, it is generally reached by bus from the Machida Station area. Use public transport and confirm the route after getting off with on-site guidance or a map app so you do not get lost. Please check official information for opening hours, closed days, and admission fees before your visit.
Best season
Because this is an outdoor facility where you can interact with free-roaming squirrels, the comfortable seasons of spring and autumn are especially recommended. You can enjoy it together with Yakushi-ike Park, colored by fresh greenery or autumn leaves. Summer offers cool shade and winter shows the squirrels active, so each season has a different face; choose your timing to suit your purpose.
Map
35.5781, 139.4497 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Enter and first feed and interact with the squirrels in the free-roaming area
- 2Tour the grounds and observe the small animals beyond squirrels as well
- 3Stroll the adjacent Yakushi-ike Park and enjoy the seasonal nature
- 4Take a rest around the park, then extend your trip to sightseeing in Machida City
Did you know?
💡 The garden's signature feature is its free-roaming area, where you can feed squirrels that scamper about your feet in great numbers, a scene unique to Machida Squirrel Garden. Beyond squirrels, you can also interact with various small animals, making it a small yet richly packed zoo.
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