Japanese Macaque
70% of youMacaque
About the size of a large dog when standing
Photo: Seotaro (CC BY-SA 3.0)
4 featured species ยท 3 habitat zones
Animals of Japan
Japan is a land of incredible animals with habitats ranging from snowy peaks to sunny beaches. You might find the curious Japanese macaques, also known as snow monkeys, playing in hot springs or spot the colorful Japanese giant salamander in a stream. Whether in the trees, streams, or mountains, these creatures make Japan a magical place full of life.
Featured Species
Habitat Zones
Mountains
Japanese mountains are tall and majestic, often covered in snow and mist. They are home to beautiful views and quiet nature.
Japanese macaque, Asiatic black bear
Wetlands
Wetlands in Japan are soggy and lush, full of swaying grass and shallow waters. They support lots of fascinating birds and plants.
Japanese crane, Eurasian otter
Forests
Japanese forests are green and thick with trees, filled with exciting sights and the sounds of nature. They are magical places with lots of wildlife.
Sika deer, Red fox
How Big Are They?
Each animal shown next to a 10-year-old (๐ง) at true scale.
Red-Crowned Crane
1.1ร youCrane
Taller than most 10-year-olds!
Japanese Giant Salamander
1.1ร youAs long as three or four 10-year-olds lying end to end
Red Fox
60% of youAbout the size of a small dog
Where to Spot Them
Japanese Macaque
Look in: Throughout most of Japan, especially in snowy regions
Watch for: They are social animals that live in groups led by dominant females.
Red-Crowned Crane
Look in: Hokkaido
Watch for: Lifelong monogamous bonds; often returns to the same nesting site each year.
Japanese Giant Salamander
Look in: Western Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu
Watch for: Nocturnal and spends its life in fresh water, using its sense of smell to find prey.
Red Fox
Look in: Throughout Japan, especially in northern and central regions
Watch for: They use their ears to locate prey under the snow.
Cultural Connection
In Japan, the Red-Crowned Crane is revered and appears in many legends and traditional artworks.
Vocabulary
Did you know that while both Japan and the USA have many forests, Japan is home to animals like the Japanese Macaque that enjoy winter hot springs!