ANN/THE STAR – A zoo in Japan has barred solo male visitors after multiple incidents of harassment targeting its female owner and women guests, sparking widespread discussion online.
Located in Tochigi Prefecture, eastern Japan, Healing Pavilion is an interactive zoo where visitors can feed, cuddle and connect with animals like 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 said, “Effective immediately, male visitors are prohibited from entering the zoo alone.”
A notice at the entrance reiterated the policy, stipulating that solo men must be accompanied by family or friends.
Misa Mama pointed out that since the zoo’s inception, the majority of its visitors had been families or couples. However, some unaccompanied male guests had approached and attempted to strike up conversations with both her and female patrons.
She noted that these individuals had even engaged in flirtatious behaviour or made inappropriate remarks.
As the director of the zoo, Misa Mama expressed her difficulty in openly rejecting or turning away guests, often feeling obliged to smile and respond courteously.
Stressing that Healing Pavilion is designed for emotional healing rather than dating or matchmaking, she defended her policy.
“This rule isn’t based on arrogance or a misunderstanding of men,” Misa Mama clarified.
“Too many have come with harmful intentions, causing me significant stress. I feel as if my heart is in pain.”
Some netizens questioned the fairness of the policy towards male visitors.
One male commenter stated: “This is blatant gender discrimination. Many individuals like me simply wish to enjoy the company of animals alone and mean no harm.”
Misa Mama addressed the online backlash, explaining: “If I could, I would only prohibit those who misbehave. But as a woman managing the zoo alone, I fear potential retaliation, leaving me no choice but to enforce this rule.”
She stressed that she does not harbour prejudice against men.
However, she recognised the challenges of operating the zoo independently and expressed hope for public understanding.
Many netizens voiced their sympathy and support.
One visitor remarked: “Thank you to the animals at Healing Pavilion for bringing me warmth and joy. Misa Mama is facing difficulties; let us protect this zoo together.”
“I hope only genuine animal-lover visit. I believe animals can sense those with ill intentions,” added another.
