Himonya Koen Kodomo Dobutsu Hiroba: Tokyo Meguro-ku

Predating the era of cat and rabbit cafes by many years, petting zoos offer a friendly, interactive animal experience for young kids (and their parents) without the cover charge or the expensive cafe au lait.

The one here lets you play with vivacious rabbits, plump guinea pigs and one rather bored-looking dog. Next door to the mini-zoo are stables offering pony rides at Y200 a shot. (Be sure to note the limited hours of operation before you head down there, though.)

Other attractions in the park include rowboat rentals on the small pond, and a ping-pong area.

Himonya Koen Kodomo Dobutsu Hiroba
03-3714-1548
Tokyo Meguro-ku / Park/garden
Open 10-11:30am, 1:30-3pm. Closed Mondays.
Free admission; pony rides Y200
Average visit time: 20-40 minutes
Meguro-ku, Himonya 6-9-31.
Gakugei Daigaku station (Toyoko line)