Best place in Japan for Giant Salamanders?

[Minniechild]

Konichiwa!!
Well I'm heading to Japan in February 2013!! I'm super excited about it, and already starting to think about what i can pack
Besides stuffing myself silly on Japanese cuisine, shopping my pants off, temples, Disney, Snow festivals and other incredibly exciting things, I really really really want to go and see (or cuddle if permitted ) a Giant Salamander and learn as much as humanly possible about them. And get a stuffed one to bring home. But that's not the point.
I was wondering where is the best place to go to get up close to them? I'll be based in Tokyo, but would be able to travel on Honshu if there isn't somewhere in Tokyo
Arigato gozaimasu!
-Minnie

 

[Neil C]

Asa zoo in Hiroshima appears to have a breeding program for them although I see it's quite a way from Tokyo and I've no idea if they would be on display. Try contacting them to see what is on display or maybe they could tell you somewhere nearer Tokyo? Please don't cuddle one even if you do get the opportunity for the obvious reasons. Have a fantastic trip and of course take loads of pics. Keep your eyes open for the Wooper Loopers as well.


Regards Neil