Picture yourself standing in the Japanese highlands, surrounded by fluffy alpacas with curious eyes and gentle demeanors. This is hitsujikai arupaka, a unique tourism experience that combines Japanese hospitality with the charm of these South American mammals. Whether you’re planning your first visit or looking to understand what makes these farms special, you’ve come to the right place.
Japan has transformed alpaca farming into an experience that delights thousands of visitors each year. From feeding friendly alpacas to walking alongside them through scenic landscapes, these farms offer something you won’t find anywhere else in Asia.
This guide covers everything you need to know: what hitsujikai arupaka means, where to find the best farms, what activities await you, and how to make the most of your visit. You’ll also learn about the alpacas themselves and why they’ve captured the hearts of so many Japanese tourists.
What Does Hitsujikai Arupaka Mean?
Hitsujikai arupaka (羊飼いアルパカ) translates directly to “shepherd alpaca” or “sheep rancher alpaca” in English. The term combines two Japanese words: hitsujikai (羊飼い), meaning “shepherd,” and arupaka (アルパカ), the Japanese word for alpaca borrowed from Spanish.
In practice, this term refers to alpaca farms in Japan where visitors can interact with these gentle creatures. These farms blend traditional shepherding concepts with modern animal tourism, creating spaces where alpacas live comfortably while providing educational and therapeutic experiences for guests.
The phrase captures the essence of what these farms offer: a chance to step into the role of an alpaca shepherd, even if just for an afternoon.
The Rise of Alpaca Farms in Japan
Japan’s first alpaca farm opened in 1999 on the Nasu Plateau in Tochigi Prefecture. The founders imported 200 alpacas from Peru via chartered airplane, choosing a location with climate conditions similar to the Andean highlands where alpacas naturally thrive.
The plateau sits roughly 1,000 meters above sea level with winter temperatures dropping to -15°C. These conditions replicate the alpacas’ native environment at 3,000 to 5,000 meters elevation in South America. The herd has since doubled to approximately 400 animals, making it Japan’s largest alpaca farm.
Following the success of Nasu, several other farms emerged across Japan:
- Yatsugatake Alpaca Farm in Nagano Prefecture opened with 23 alpacas
- VIVA Alpaca Farm in Hokkaido created a therapeutic environment
- Yamakoshi Alpaca Farm in Niigata started from three donated alpacas after the 2011 earthquake
The 2008 Japanese commercial featuring an alpaca sparked nationwide interest. Alpacas became overnight sensations, transforming from unknown animals into beloved tourism attractions. Today, these farms welcome families, animal lovers, and international tourists seeking authentic Japanese nature experiences.
Why Alpacas Captured Japanese Hearts
Alpacas possess qualities that resonate deeply with Japanese cultural values. Their calm temperament and gentle nature align with concepts of harmony and peace. Large, expressive eyes allow easy eye contact with humans, creating immediate connections that visitors describe as “healing.”
Their physical features add to their appeal:
- Soft, fluffy wool that grows about 1 cm per month
- Long eyelashes that flutter endearingly
- Mouths that appear to curve into natural smiles
- Slender bodies that become especially visible after summer shearing
Alpacas are social animals that live in herds and interact well with humans. Unlike their llama cousins, they rarely spit unless frightened or competing for food. Their docile personalities make them perfect for petting farms and educational programs.
The Peru Alpaca & Llama Breeders’ Organization recognized Nasu Alpaca Farm as raising “the world’s friendliest alpacas,” a testament to Japanese animal care standards.
What to Expect at Hitsujikai Arupaka Farms
Hands-On Experiences
Most hitsujikai arupaka locations offer several interactive activities:
Feeding Sessions: Purchase special food pellets and hand-feed alpacas. They approach gently, their soft muzzles brushing your palm as they eat. Morning and afternoon feeding times typically draw the most enthusiastic crowds of hungry alpacas.
Walking Tours: Take alpacas on leashed walks through farm grounds (usually 500 yen for 10 minutes). Junior high students and older can hold leashes independently, while younger children can pet the alpacas during walks. Baby alpacas are particularly popular for these strolls.
Petting Areas: Designated zones allow direct contact with alpacas. Touch their incredibly soft wool and feel the warmth of their bodies. Some farms charge 300 yen for 10-minute sessions to manage crowd flow and ensure animal welfare.
Photo Opportunities: Certain farms feature celebrity alpacas like Hanako at Nasu, who wears a cute hat and carries a basket for photo sessions. She’s appeared on TV shows and at Peruvian cultural events.
Educational Components
Farms typically include information centers explaining alpaca biology, behavior, and habitat. Peruvian guides fluent in Japanese often lead tours, sharing stories about alpaca culture in the Andes and demonstrating the connection between Peru and Japan.
You’ll learn about:
- Alpaca wool properties and hypoallergenic qualities
- Breeding practices and herd management
- The difference between alpacas and llamas
- Sustainable farming methods
Seasonal Highlights
Spring (March to May): Alpacas sport their longest, fluffiest coats. Peak viewing occurs during Golden Week in early May before shearing begins. Fresh greenery and cherry blossoms enhance the scenery.
Summer (Late May to August): Shearing season transforms fluffy alpacas into sleek creatures. Some farms shave patterns or Japanese characters into alpaca wool for entertainment. The alpacas’ slender summer bodies offer a completely different aesthetic.
Autumn (September to November): Wool grows back as temperatures cool. Colorful foliage creates stunning backdrops for photos. Comfortable weather makes this the second-most popular visiting season.
Winter (December to February): Fully wooled alpacas brave cold temperatures that remind them of their Andean homeland. Fewer crowds mean more intimate experiences, though some farms close during peak winter months.
Planning Your Visit
Best Times to Go
Spring and autumn offer the ideal combination of weather, scenery, and alpaca appearance. Visit between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM for maximum activity levels, as alpacas tend to rest during early mornings and late afternoons.
Weekends and holidays see larger crowds. Consider weekday visits for more personal interactions and better photography opportunities without crowds in your shots.
What to Bring
| Item | Why You Need It |
|---|---|
| Comfortable walking shoes | Farms feature uneven terrain and gravel paths |
| Camera | Alpacas and scenery create perfect photo opportunities |
| Weather-appropriate clothing | Most activities occur outdoors |
| Hand sanitizer | After touching animals, clean hands before eating |
| Cash | Many farms operate in rural areas with limited card acceptance |
Admission Costs
Typical pricing structure:
- Adults: 800 yen
- Junior/high school students: 600 yen
- Elementary children: 400 yen
- Children under 4: Free
- Additional activities: 300-500 yen each
Important Rules
Farms maintain strict guidelines to protect both visitors and animals:
- Follow staff instructions carefully
- Don’t chase or startle alpacas
- Keep voices at moderate levels
- Wash hands after touching animals
- Don’t feed personal food items
- Respect designated interaction areas
- Book workshops and special tours in advance
The Therapeutic Benefits
Spending time with alpacas offers documented mental health benefits. Their peaceful presence reduces stress and anxiety. The act of petting their soft wool releases oxytocin, the “bonding hormone” that promotes feelings of calm and connection.
Farm staff report that visitors often arrive stressed from city life and leave noticeably more relaxed. Parents bring children to learn responsibility and gentle animal handling. Elderly visitors appreciate the slow-paced, low-pressure environment.
One Hokkaido visitor who attended all major Japanese alpaca farms called VIVA Alpaca Farm “the best place I’ve ever seen” for its animal care quality and beautiful environment. The therapeutic atmosphere stems from conscientious farm management and the alpacas’ inherently calming nature.
Understanding Alpaca Behavior
Social Structure
Alpacas are herd animals that establish clear hierarchies. Farms typically separate males from females to prevent uncontrolled breeding and species mixing. Observe how alpacas communicate through ear positions, humming sounds, and body language.
When Alpacas Spit
Despite their gentle reputation, alpacas will spit when frightened or fighting over food. This defense mechanism rarely targets humans unless the animal feels threatened. Warning signs include:
- Ears pinned back flat
- Head raised high
- Tense body posture
- Competing with other alpacas for treats
Give space to alpacas showing these signs. Staff members intervene if tensions rise during feeding times.
Humming and Sounds
Alpacas communicate through various vocalizations. The most common is a gentle humming that indicates contentment or curiosity. Mothers hum to babies, and herd members hum to maintain contact. Listen for these soothing sounds as you walk through farms.
Popular Hitsujikai Arupaka Destinations
Nasu Alpaca Farm (Currently Closed)
Once Japan’s premier alpaca destination with 400 animals across 25,000 square meters. Though closed now, it set the standard for alpaca tourism in Japan and trained many farmers who opened subsequent facilities.
Yatsugatake Alpaca Farm
Located in Nagano Prefecture at 1,000 meters with stunning views of the Japanese Alps. Features 23 alpacas, plus guinea pigs and rabbits. English-speaking staff welcome international visitors. Sunday alpaca derby events provide unique entertainment.
VIVA Alpaca Farm
Situated in Kenbuchi, Hokkaido, this farm offers riverside activities in summer and beautiful natural surroundings year-round. Features a live camera so alpaca fans can check on their favorite animals remotely. Known for exceptional animal care standards.
Yamakoshi Alpaca Farm
Opens May through November in Niigata Prefecture. Started from three donated alpacas meant to lift spirits after earthquake damage. The community of Yubu has grown the herd while maintaining intimate, personal visitor experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can children safely interact with alpacas? Yes. Alpacas are gentle with children when supervised. Kids under junior high age need adult assistance with leashed walks but can pet and feed alpacas safely.
Do alpacas bite? No. Alpacas don’t have upper front teeth. They may spit if frightened but won’t bite visitors following farm guidelines.
What’s the difference between alpacas and llamas? Alpacas are smaller (100-200 lbs vs 250-450 lbs), have shorter ears, and fluffier faces. Llamas serve as pack animals while alpacas are bred for fiber.
Are alpacas used for wool in Japan? Most Japanese alpaca farms focus on tourism rather than wool production. Animals are sheared for comfort but wool isn’t commercially harvested.
How long should I plan to spend at a farm? Two to three hours allows time for all activities, including feeding, photos, walking tours, and exploring grounds without rushing.
Making the Most of Your Experience
Arrive early in the day when alpacas are most active and alert. Book any special activities like walking tours in advance, especially during peak seasons. Bring treats for the alpacas if allowed (confirm with staff first).
Take your time. The experience isn’t about rushing through activities but about connecting with these remarkable animals. Sit quietly near the petting areas and let alpacas approach you naturally. They respond to patience and calm energy.
Consider visiting multiple farms if you’re an alpaca enthusiast. Each facility offers different herd sizes, landscapes, and activity options. The variation between highlands in Nagano, plateaus in Tochigi, and Hokkaido’s northern environment provides diverse experiences.
Beyond the Farm Gates
Hitsujikai arupaka represents more than cute animals and photo opportunities. These farms demonstrate sustainable tourism that benefits animals, communities, and visitors simultaneously. The alpacas live in environments carefully designed to replicate their natural habitat while allowing human interaction on terms that respect their well-being.
For many Japanese families, visiting alpaca farms has become a tradition. Children grow up returning yearly, watching baby alpacas mature into adults. International tourists discover a different side of Japan, away from temples and cities, where nature and animal welfare take center stage.
As you plan your visit to a hitsujikai arupaka farm, remember you’re participating in a cultural exchange that began when those first 200 alpacas flew from Peru to Japan in 1999. You’re experiencing the result of decades of dedication to creating spaces where humans and alpacas can connect meaningfully. That connection is what makes hitsujikai arupaka truly special.
Featured Snippet: Hitsujikai arupaka refers to alpaca farms in Japan where visitors interact with gentle alpacas through feeding, walking, and petting experiences. The term translates to “shepherd alpaca” and represents a unique blend of Japanese tourism and Andean animal culture.
