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  6. [Awaji Island Learning Trip] Why did the "Awaji Monkeys" become such a kind group of monkeys? Learn from the ecology of the "Awaji Monkeys" who chose a social style of helping each other instead of force or conflict ~ Awaji Island Monkey Center ~ (Sumoto, Hyogo)
Product #271448
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Close-up of a large group of Awaji macaques at Awaji Island Monkey Center, showcasing their unique docile social ecology, offering visitors intimate observation.
Awaji Island Monkey Center in Sumoto, Hyogo Prefecture, showing Awaji macaques freely moving outdoors as visitors feed and observe them under staff guidance.
A mother Awaji macaque gently cuddling three baby monkeys at Awaji Island Monkey Center, illustrating their cooperative and gentle social ecology.
Awaji macaques at Awaji Island Monkey Center forming the Japanese character 'サル' (saru/monkey) on the ground, showcasing their intelligence and unique group interaction.
A visitor at Awaji Island Monkey Center sitting closely among docile Awaji macaques for a photo opportunity, enjoying this unique interactive experience.
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[Awaji Island Learning Trip] Why did the "Awaji Monkeys" become such a kind group of monkeys? Learn from the ecology of the "Awaji Monkeys" who chose a social style of helping each other instead of force or conflict ~ Awaji Island Monkey Center ~ (Sumoto, Hyogo)

Japan-Hyogo
Booking confirmed within 3 working day(s)
Free cancellation 11 day(s) prior to experience date
Please present the e-voucher on-site
  • Generally, Japanese macaques are said to be aggressive creatures who value hierarchy, with the boss monkey at the helm. However, the wild Japanese macaques that come to the Awaji Monkey Center are seen to behave in a gentle manner, supporting the weaker monkeys. These monkeys are called "Awaji monkeys," and the center staff talk about the ecology of the monkeys who live in a gentle society. You can learn about the Awaji monkeys, and have a soothing experience by feeding and observing them. This is the only place where you can be surrounded by monkeys and take commemorative photos with the monkeys!
[5% App discount] Code: APP5OFF , HK: APP15HK

Product Info

The content of this product is provided by machine translation and may not reflect the actual information, please take this into consideration before booking.

The Japanese macaques that come to the Awaji Island Monkey Center live in groups of about 350. They are wild Japanese macaques that come down from the mountains around 9am, spend the day near the feeding grounds, and return to the mountains in the evening.

The monkeys here are very docile and gentle with a high level of tolerance; this characteristic is so rare that they have been nicknamed "Awaji Monkeys."

After listening to a lecture by the staff who manages the center about the characteristics of Awaji monkeys and how to become the leader of the group requires not only strength but also kindness, you can enter a building specially designed for feeding the monkeys and have a unique feeding experience (additional fee: 200 yen per feeding).

The opportunity to take commemorative photos in front of a group of monkeys is possible only at the feeding points where the center staff scatter the food, and because the Awaji monkeys are so kind, so you can't experience this unless you come here.

If you scatter food in the shape of letters, the monkeys who eat the food will also take on the shape of letters, which is a unique sight only seen here with the monkeys here. (A panel is posted on-site.)

If you want to observe the Awaji monkeys to your heart's content, you can enter the park before the experience time.

■Time 15:00~

■ Duration: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes

■Price: 11,750 yen per person (minimum 2 - maximum 6 people)

Intro

Purchase Notice


Please pay the admission fee and experience fee for the number of people in your group in cash at the Awajishima Monkey Center admission ticket booth. You can enter the Awajishima Monkey Center before the experience time and observe freely (from 9:30).
Please do not touch the monkeys. Do not get too close to the monkeys. It is dangerous to look at them. Do not hand twigs or stones to the monkeys. Do not run or shout in the park. You cannot bring food into the park. Pets are not allowed. Customers are prohibited from live streaming on YouTube, Instagram, etc. in the park. Please ask us if you would like to take photos with a single-lens reflex camera. Tripods and selfie sticks are prohibited. Wheelchairs are difficult to access due to the steep slope to the feeding area. As these are wild monkeys, it depends on the weather and the season, and there may be cases where the monkeys do not come to the center.

Reminders

  • [What to bring] Comfortable clothes and shoes (the feeding area at the Monkey Center is paved, but it is on the side of a mountain), camera (if you want to take photos with the monkeys)

Cancellation Policy

  • Cancellations 11 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
  • For cancellations made 8 to 10 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 20% will apply
  • For cancellations made 2 to 7 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 30% will apply
  • For cancellations made 1 to 1 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 40% will apply
  • Cancellation is not allowed between 0–0 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
NOTE
  • Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once the cancellation is confirmed, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.

FAQ

1. What unique aspects can visitors experience at the Awaji Island Monkey Center?

At the Awaji Island Monkey Center, visitors can observe wild Japanese macaques known for their gentle, supportive behavior towards weaker members. You can participate in feeding sessions, allowing close interaction with these unique "Awaji monkeys." It's also the only place where you can be surrounded by monkeys and capture memorable photos with them in a natural setting, providing a truly distinctive and heartwarming experience.

2. What makes the "Awaji Monkeys" at the Awaji Island Monkey Center different from other Japanese macaques?

The "Awaji Monkeys" at the Awaji Island Monkey Center are distinguished by their unusually gentle and supportive social structure. Unlike typical Japanese macaques, which are often characterized by strong hierarchies and aggressive behavior, the Awaji monkeys prioritize helping weaker individuals and avoid conflict. This unique ecological adaptation makes them a fascinating subject for observation and learning about alternative social dynamics in primate communities.

3. How can I interact with the monkeys, such as feeding or photography, at the Awaji Island Monkey Center?

Visitors at the Awaji Island Monkey Center can engage in direct interaction through scheduled feeding experiences, where you can offer food to the monkeys under staff supervision. This allows for an up-close encounter. For photography, the center is unique in allowing visitors to be surrounded by the monkeys, providing excellent opportunities for commemorative photos. Always follow staff guidelines to ensure a safe and respectful interaction for both visitors and monkeys.

4. What is the recommended visit duration for the Awaji Island Monkey Center?

To fully appreciate the unique ecology and interactive experiences at the Awaji Island Monkey Center, a visit duration of approximately 1 to 2 hours is recommended. This allows ample time to observe the "Awaji monkeys," learn about their gentle social behavior from the center staff, participate in feeding sessions, and capture memorable photos within the natural environment.

5. Is the Awaji Island Monkey Center suitable for families with children or visitors of all ages?

Yes, the Awaji Island Monkey Center is well-suited for families with children and visitors of all ages. The experience is designed to be educational and heartwarming, allowing everyone to learn about the unique "Awaji monkeys" and their gentle society. The feeding opportunities and close observation provide an engaging and memorable experience that is both safe and enjoyable for various age groups, making it a great family outing.

6. How can I reach the Awaji Island Monkey Center in Sumoto, Hyogo?

The Awaji Island Monkey Center is located in Sumoto, Hyogo. From Sumoto Bus Center, you can take the local bus towards Ebisu-cho and get off at the "Awaji Monkey Center-mae" stop. Alternatively, if traveling by car, it's accessible via the Kobe-Awaji-Naruto Expressway, exiting at Sumoto IC. The center provides parking facilities. Checking local bus schedules or using a navigation system is recommended for the most current travel details.

7. What kind of educational insights can I gain about the "Awaji Monkeys'" social structure at the Awaji Island Monkey Center?

Visitors to the Awaji Island Monkey Center can learn profound insights into the "Awaji Monkeys'" unique social structure. Center staff provide detailed explanations of how these wild Japanese macaques have developed a society characterized by mutual support and gentleness, rather than force or conflict. This educational experience delves into their ecological adaptations, demonstrating how they assist weaker members and maintain a peaceful community, offering a rare perspective on primate behavior.

8. What is the process for booking tickets to the Awaji Island Monkey Center?

To book tickets for the Awaji Island Monkey Center, you can conveniently purchase them through KKday. Booking via KKday offers a streamlined process, ensuring your entry and providing clarity on what's included in your visit. This allows for hassle-free planning and immediate confirmation, making your trip preparation straightforward. It's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred visit date.

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