Japan zoo bans solo male visitors to prevent flirtation, citing family and couple discomfort
Zoo director shares her struggle with openly rejecting, turning away visitors, frequently feeling forced to smile, respond politely
A zoo in Japan has implemented an entrance ban for solo men following repeated instances of harassment directed towards its female owner and women guests, attracting significant attention online.
Situated in Tochigi Prefecture in eastern Japan, Healing Pavilion is an interactive zoo that allows visitors to feed, cuddle, and forge bonds with animals such as pigs, cats, dogs, and sheep.
Since its opening last March, the zoo has aimed to provide therapeutic companionship through engaging animal interactions.
The facility also features a dog park where visitors are welcome to bring their pets.
On January 26, the zoo’s director, known online as Misa Mama, took to her social media to announce the restriction, leaving netizens in shock.
She stated: “Effective immediately, male visitors are prohibited from entering the zoo alone.”