When is the best time to visit Squirrel Forest Hidayama Wild Grass Nature Garden?

Visitors typically stay for 30-45 minutes. It's best to visit in the morning when the squirrels are most active and hungry.

Squirrel Forest Hidayama Wild Grass Nature Garden

ZooTourist Attraction

4.2

(1.0k)

This nature garden offers a unique chance to interact closely with squirrels and chipmunks in a spacious, natural enclosure. You can purchase food to feed them, and they are known to be friendly and will climb on visitors. The environment is designed to be calm, with rules against shouting and running.

Address

2351-7 Matsukuramachi, Takayama, Gifu 506-0034, Japan

Opening Hours

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Thu)

Phone

+81 577-33-9232

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Worth it?

Worth it if you want a calm, hands-on animal feeding experience

Skip if you're afraid of squirrels climbing on you or if you prefer easily accessible attractions

Reviewers consistently highlight the unique and up-close interaction with friendly squirrels and chipmunks.5 mentions

The spacious and natural setting allows for a calm observation and feeding experience.3 mentions

The location is quite far up a hill, making it difficult to reach without a car or taxi, and the closest bus stop is 5km away.3 mentions

Road signage to the garden is minimal, requiring careful attention to smaller signs to find the place.1 mention

Location

2351-7 Matsukuramachi, Takayama, Gifu 506-0034, Japan

Nearby places

Matsukura Castle

19 min walk

Highlights

The enclosure is the size of a large farmhouse, allowing squirrels and chipmunks to roam freely and approach visitors on the main paths.

You can buy small packets of seeds for 100¥ each to feed the animals, and they will often climb onto you to get the food.

Who it's for

Family with kids

Couples

Friends

Solo

Cash only

Families and anyone who enjoys close encounters with animals in a relaxed setting will love this spot. It's particularly good for those who don't mind fast-moving creatures.

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Know before you go

The garden is closed on Mondays.

It's recommended to visit as early as possible, as the squirrels may be less active and less interested in food in the afternoon.

If you don't drive, a taxi is the most practical option to reach the park, and staff can help call one for your departure.

Be aware that the path to the garden involves walking through a forest, and some signs at the bottom of the hill warn about bears.

Reviews

4.2

Very good

5 Reviews

Visitors consistently praise the Squirrel Forest for its unique and calm experience of feeding friendly squirrels and chipmunks that will climb on you. Many recommend arriving early as the squirrels might be full and less active in the afternoon. Be prepared for a journey, as it's located on a hill and often requires a taxi or a long walk.