Japanese Zoo Bans Solo Male Visitors

The Healing Pavilion zoo in Tochigi Prefecture, Japan, has banned solo male visitors following repeated harassment incidents targeting its female owner, Misa Mama, and female guests. Males must now be accompanied by family or friends to enter the zoo, which offers therapeutic animal interactions. Misa Mama explained that while most visitors are families and couples, some unaccompanied men have engaged in inappropriate behavior, causing her significant stress and discomfort. Critics argue that the policy is discriminatory, but Misa Mama maintains it is necessary for safety, as managing the zoo alone poses challenges in dealing with such misconduct. Despite the backlash, she emphasizes that the rule aims to ensure a safe, healing environment and is not based on a misunderstanding of men. The decision has sparked both support and controversy on social media.