| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point |
| Minimum participant requirement | 15 travelers |
| Meal arrangement | Lunch included |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights, Bus tour |
| Transport | Bus tour |
Please arrive at the meeting point 10 minutes before the bus departure time on the day of the tour.
If you are late for the meeting point and time on the day of the tour, you may not be able to participate in the tour.
According to Japanese law, please fasten your seatbelt on the bus.
If the number of participants is small, smaller vehicles may be used instead of large buses.
If the number of participants is small, smaller vehicles may be used instead of large buses.
The tour may be cancelled due to inclement weather on the day of departure. A refund will be issued, but you will be responsible for your own transportation costs to the meeting point.
Tours may be cancelled or suspended due to severe weather or unforeseen events.
Please wear non-slip shoes and temperature-controlled clothing. The weather in the Tohoku region is highly variable in temperature.
- During winter, snow accumulation and other weather conditions may cause significant delays in arrival times at Sendai Station. We recommend that you avoid scheduling tight connecting travel arrangements (such as Shinkansen or airplanes) after your trip and allow ample time.
Visitors typically spend about 60 to 90 minutes exploring Zao Fox Village. This allows ample time to observe the foxes in their natural habitat, visit the various enclosures, and browse the souvenir shop. The duration may vary based on your interest level and how much time you wish to spend watching the foxes and other small animals.
Tickets for Zao Fox Village can be purchased directly at the entrance gate upon arrival. Alternatively, for a more convenient and hassle-free experience that includes transportation and admission, you can book a full-day tour that covers entry to Zao Fox Village. Booking through KKday allows you to secure your tour arrangements in advance, ensuring a seamless journey with organized transfers.
To ensure both visitor and animal safety, it is crucial to follow the village's strict guidelines. Visitors should avoid touching or petting the foxes, as they are wild animals. Feeding is restricted to designated areas with special food purchased on-site. It's recommended to maintain a safe distance and walk slowly, observing from a respectful space. Supervise children closely at all times.
Reaching Zao Fox Village by public transportation can be challenging due to its somewhat remote location. The most convenient option is often to join a bus tour, which typically includes direct transportation from major cities or train stations. Self-driving or taking a taxi from Shiroishi-Zao Station are other possibilities, but tours provide a straightforward, guided experience without the need to navigate.
Ginzan Hot Spring offers a charming, nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of old Japan, especially captivating in the evening when the gas lamps illuminate the traditional ryokans along the river. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the Ginzan River, relax in public foot baths, and explore the quaint wooden architecture. It's a popular spot for photography and enjoying local culinary delights.
Tours visiting Zao Fox Village and Ginzan Hot Spring often include a local specialty for lunch, providing a taste of the region's cuisine. A common inclusion is Shiraishi Zao's famous warm noodles (Umen). This offers a delicious and hearty meal to fuel your day of exploration, ensuring a convenient dining experience as part of the tour.
Visitors can observe a large number of foxes roaming freely within the village, offering opportunities to see them up close in a semi-natural environment. While direct petting is generally not allowed for safety reasons, visitors can purchase special food and feed them in designated feeding areas, creating memorable photo opportunities and an engaging experience with these animals.
Both Zao Fox Village and Ginzan Hot Spring offer distinct charm throughout the year. Winter, with its snow-covered landscapes, provides a magical setting for Ginzan Hot Spring and adorable foxes playing in the snow. Autumn brings vibrant fall foliage. Spring and summer allow for comfortable outdoor exploration with lush scenery, making each season uniquely appealing for a visit.