Some Wonders of The Islands of the Rising Sun

In the far north of Japan, close to Siberia, lies Hokkaido, an island known for its pristine nature, vast forests, impressive mountains, and harsh winters. At Pairi Daiza, you can experience the atmosphere of Hokkaido through siamang monkeys, Japanese cranes, and macaques. Discover a beautiful mosaic inspired by the famous prints of Katsushika Hokusai and enjoy a relaxing foot bath that references the iconic “Married Rocks” of the Ise Peninsula.

Honshu is the largest and most centrally located island of Japan, home to major metropolises such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. At Pairi Daiza, the island is represented through an evocation of Mount Fuji, a dry garden, and a traditional Roji, or tea garden. Here, you can encounter the Suikinkutsu, an acoustic installation producing melodious sounds reminiscent of the koto, a traditional Japanese instrument.

Shikoku, the smallest of Japan’s main islands, is also represented at Pairi Daiza. It hosts the territory of water buffalo and an imposing Torii, those sacred gates, often red or orange, marking the entrance to a place inhabited by deities.

The third-largest island of Japan, Kyushu is known for its rich culture and history. At Pairi Daiza, it is accessed through a Buddhist entrance guarded by two authentic Nio statues, protective deities that welcome visitors. To the left of the gate, palm trees rise next to a cave and a mirror, evoking the legend of Amaterasu, the Shinto sun goddess, who is said to have hidden in a cave, plunging the world into darkness.