Animal Therapy in Chiba — Cat Cafés, Farms & a Shelter Where You Can Stay | Washin Village Guide
There's something deeply healing about spending time with animals. Science confirms it — being near animals triggers oxytocin release and lowers cortisol, the stress hormone. Chiba Prefecture, just east of Tokyo, happens to be one of Japan's richest regions for animal encounters. Here are the best spots, from day trips to an overnight stay you won't forget.
Mother Farm (マザー牧場) — A Day on the Hills
Spread across rolling green hills in Kanoya, Mother Farm is roughly 60 Tokyo Domes in size. You'll find sheep, horses, cows, goats, alpacas, and more. The "Mother Farm Tour" lets you try milking and bottle-feeding calves. Admission is ¥1,500 for adults, open 9:00–17:00 on weekends and holidays.
The seasonal flower fields — canola in spring, hydrangea in summer, cosmos in autumn — create stunning backdrops. It's a perfect family day out.
Ichihara Elephant Kingdom (市原ぞうの国)
Home to Japan's largest herd of Asian elephants. At ¥2,000 admission (open 9:30–16:30, March–October), you can ride an elephant, feed them directly from their trunks, and meet over 70 species of animals including capybaras and hippos. The intimacy with animals here is unmatched.
Chiba Zoological Park — Meet Fūta the Red Panda
This park became famous when Fūta, a red panda, went viral for standing on two legs. In 2026, Fūta is 21 years old — the oldest in Japan — and still occasionally on display depending on his health. Admission is just ¥700.
Cat Cafés Around Chiba
Several cat cafés dot Chiba City, Funabashi, and Kashiwa. Some are rescue cat cafés where you can even adopt. Perfect for a casual hour of feline company during your travels.
Washin Village — Sleep with Rescue Animals
Animal cafés and farms are places you visit. Washin Village is a place you live in — even if just for one night. Nestled in the satoyama hills of Futtsu City, this glamping retreat is home to 16 rescue cats, 2 dogs, and 2 goats who roam freely.
There's no time limit. From check-in at 3 PM to check-out at 11 AM, you share roughly 20 hours with the animals. Cats wander into your room, curl up on your futon at night, and greet you in the morning. You wake up to goats bleating and dogs wagging their tails.
This isn't a zoo. It isn't a café. It's a completely new kind of experience — an "animal stay" where your visit directly supports animal welfare.
Chiba Animal Therapy Comparison
| Place | Experience | Animals | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washin Village | Live together | 16 cats, 2 dogs, 2 goats | 20 hrs (overnight) | from ¥18,000 |
| Mother Farm | Petting & tours | Sheep, horses, alpacas | Half–full day | ¥1,500 |
| Ichihara Elephant Kingdom | Feeding & rides | Elephants, capybaras | Half day | ¥2,000 |
| Chiba Zoological Park | Observation | Red pandas, monkeys | 2–3 hrs | ¥700 |
| Cat cafés | Indoor petting | 5–20 cats | 1 hr | from ¥1,100 |
FAQ
Can I stay at Washin Village if I have cat allergies?
Cats roam freely throughout the property, so complete allergen avoidance isn't possible. If you have mild allergies, we recommend taking antihistamines beforehand. Please contact us before booking if you have concerns.
Is it suitable for families with small children?
Yes! The animals are gentle and accustomed to people. Just remind children to let the cats come to them rather than chasing. The goats and dogs are also very friendly.
What's the best 2-day animal therapy itinerary in Chiba?
Day 1: Spend the morning at Mother Farm, then check in to Washin Village in the afternoon for sauna, BBQ, and bonfire with cats. Day 2: Morning with the animals at Washin Village, then stop by Ichihara Elephant Kingdom on your way back.