Cover image via 伊豆アニマルキングダム 【公式】(Facebook)
A Japanese zoo holds an adorably heartwarming event where an anteater climbs around flowering cherry trees to 'cheer on' students taking entrance exams
Image via 伊豆アニマルキングダム 【公式】(Facebook)
The annual event, called the "Unfallen Anteater Cherry Blossoms", is held at the Izu Animal Kingdom in Higashiizu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture. The zoo has been organising the event since 2015 to coincide with entrance exam season from February to March.
This year's event began on 1 March and is expected to end in mid-March when the cherry blossoms finish flowering.
Image via @izu_anikin (X)
Image via @vanity_temple (X)
The event draws upon the Japanese metaphor, sakura saku (cherry blossoms bloom), symbolising passing exams, while ochiru (to fall) signifies failure
The sight of anteaters — known for their climbing prowess — navigating a blossoming Kawazu cherry tree without falling, provides a playful pick-me-up for students about to take one of the most stressful and competitive exams in the country.
Image via @izu_anikin (X)
Image via @izu_anikin (X)
Image via @vanity_temple (X)
Image via @animalkingdom_official (Instagram)
Ifu, a four-year-old Southern Tamandua, has been the star of the show. Zookeepers assist Ifu in reaching the trunk, after which she navigates the branches with ease, even enjoying the nectar from the blossoms with her long, sticky tongue.
Take a look at her atop a cherry tree below:
Image via 伊豆アニマルキングダム 【公式】(Facebook)
Image via @vanity_temple (X)
The event is held twice a day at 10.30am and 2.30pm during the cherry blossom season, with each session lasting about 15 minutes
While zoo entry requires a ticket, this special event is completely free.
Here are the ticket prices:
Weekdays
Adults: 2,500 yen (approximately RM74)
Children (4 to 12 years old): 1,250 yen (approximately RM36.80)
Weekends, peak seasons, and public holidays
Adults: 2,800 yen (approximately RM82.50)
Children (4 to 12 years old): 1,400 yen (approximately RM41)
Visit the zoo's website here.
