Japan is one of the best countries in the world to get up close with alpacas. There are more than 30 alpaca farms scattered across the country, many set in scenic highlands where the fluffy South American camelids roam freely in large open pastures. You can hand-feed them, join a guided walking session, watch shearing demonstrations, and even buy products made from their exceptionally soft fleece. This guide covers the best alpaca farms in Japan and everything you need to know before your visit.
Best Alpaca Farms in Japan
🦙 Nasu Alpaca Farm
Nasu, TochigiAdmission: ¥1,200 adults / ¥600 children · Access: 2 hr from Tokyo (Shinkansen + bus)
200+ alpacas on open highland pastures
Japan's largest alpaca farm; walking, feeding, and shearing shows all available
🗻 Fuji Alpaca Farm
Fujiyoshida, YamanashiAdmission: ¥800 adults / ¥400 children · Access: 1.5 hr from Tokyo (Fuji Excursion train)
80 alpacas with Mt Fuji as backdrop
Combine alpaca feeding with iconic Mt Fuji views — bring a telephoto lens
❄️ Alpaca World Sapporo
Sapporo, HokkaidoAdmission: ¥1,000 adults / ¥500 children · Access: 40 min from Sapporo Station by bus
60 alpacas plus llamas and goats
Year-round access; indoor petting zones open even in Hokkaido winters
🍵 Shizuoka Highland Farm
Izu Highlands, ShizuokaAdmission: ¥900 adults / ¥450 children · Access: 2 hr from Tokyo via Odoriko limited express
50 alpacas in tea-plantation scenery
Surrounded by Shizuoka's tea fields; farm-fresh produce shop on site
Stay in Tokyo — Base for Nasu & Fuji Alpaca Farms
Tokyo makes an ideal base for Japan's two most popular alpaca farms. Nasu Alpaca Farm in Tochigi is 2 hours by Shinkansen to Nasushiobara, and Fuji Alpaca Farm is 1.5 hours via the Fuji Excursion limited express. Stay in the Shinjuku or Akihabara area for the easiest access to both Shinkansen and Fuji-direction trains.
Alpaca Farm Tips & Etiquette
Arrive early for walking slots
Alpaca walking sessions are limited in number and fill up quickly on weekends. Arrive at opening time to secure a slot.
Bring dedicated footwear
Alpaca farms are outdoor pastures. Waterproof boots or shoes you don't mind getting muddy are strongly recommended.
Let the alpaca approach you
Sudden movements startle alpacas. Crouch down, extend the feed cup calmly, and let the animal decide to come forward.
Avoid eye contact when feeding
Direct eye contact can make alpacas feel challenged. Look at their mouth/neck area while offering food.
Watch for humming sounds
Alpacas hum to communicate contentment or mild worry. A high-pitched hum means the animal wants space — give it room.
Check seasonal closures
Some outdoor pasture sections close in winter or during heavy rain. Always check the farm's website before visiting.
Stay in Sapporo — Alpacas in Hokkaido
Sapporo is the gateway to Hokkaido's alpaca farms, with Alpaca World Sapporo just 40 minutes from Sapporo Station by bus. Combine your visit with Hokkaido's famous ramen, fresh seafood at Nijo Market, and — in summer — the lavender fields of Furano just 2 hours away. Hokkaido's cool climate means alpacas are active and happy even in summer when farms elsewhere can get uncomfortably warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I see alpacas in Japan?
Japan has more than 30 alpaca farms open to the public. The most well-known are Nasu Alpaca Farm in Tochigi Prefecture (a 2-hour day trip from Tokyo), Fuji Alpaca Farm near Fujiyoshida in Yamanashi, and Alpaca World in Sapporo, Hokkaido. Many farms are located in highland areas with open pastures, so spring through autumn is the ideal visiting season. Several also operate indoors and are accessible year-round.
Can you walk alpacas in Japan?
Yes — several alpaca farms in Japan offer guided alpaca walking experiences where visitors can lead an alpaca on a leash through a scenic course. Nasu Alpaca Farm and Fuji Alpaca Farm both offer 10–15 minute walking sessions for an additional fee of around ¥500–1,000. Sessions must often be booked on arrival at the farm and are limited in number per day, so arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends.
How much does an alpaca farm visit in Japan cost?
Admission to most alpaca farms in Japan ranges from ¥500 to ¥1,500 per adult. Children are often free or half-price. Add-on experiences such as alpaca walking (¥500–1,000), alpaca feeding (¥100–200 per bag), and alpaca grooming sessions (¥500–800) are available separately. A full visit with activities typically costs ¥1,500–3,000 per person.
What is the best alpaca farm near Tokyo?
Nasu Alpaca Farm (那須アルパカ牧場) in Tochigi Prefecture is the most popular alpaca farm accessible from Tokyo. It sits in the Nasu Highlands about 2 hours from Tokyo by Shinkansen to Nasushiobara, then a local bus or taxi. The farm houses more than 200 alpacas across broad grassy pastures and offers feeding, walking, and shearing demonstrations. Fuji Alpaca Farm near Fujiyoshida is another excellent option, combining alpacas with views of Mt Fuji.
Are there alpaca farms in Hokkaido?
Yes — Hokkaido has several alpaca farms, with Alpaca World Sapporo being the most visitor-friendly. Hokkaido's wide open landscapes and cool climate are well-suited to alpacas, and several farms near Furano, Biei, and Niseko also keep small herds alongside horses and sheep. Hokkaido alpaca farms are particularly photogenic in summer when lavender fields are in bloom nearby.
When is the best time to visit an alpaca farm in Japan?
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) are the best seasons to visit alpaca farms in Japan. Alpacas are most active in cooler temperatures and their thick fleece makes them uncomfortable in the peak summer heat of July–August. Some farms operate shearing events in May–June which are a popular spectacle. Winter visits are possible at highland farms but check ahead as some outdoor pasture areas close during heavy snowfall.