Experience the Thrill of Being a Zookeeper at Summer Camp 2026

Discover the Exciting Zookeeper Camp 2026

Prepare for an exciting adventure this summer as the Plus One Education Company, a subsidiary of Riso Educational Group, hosts a unique Zookeeper Camp in Utsunomiya, Tochigi. From August 18 to August 20, 2026, children in grades 1 through 6 have the opportunity to learn about animal care in an immersive 3-day experience.

Camp Overview

- Date: August 18-20, 2026
- Duration: 2 nights, 3 days
- Location: Utsunomiya Zoo, Tochigi Prefecture
- Accommodation: Japanese-style room at 'Concerre'
- Meals: 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners
- Transportation: Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo
- Cost: 78,100 yen per elementary school student

Includes transport, accommodation, meals, event fees, and insurance.

- Participants: Maximum of 40, minimum of 15
- Application Deadline: August 8, 2026

A dedicated guide will accompany the group, ensuring all activities provide safe and enriching experiences for each child.

Highlights of the Camp

1. Exclusive Access to the Zookeeper's Backstage

In this intensive camp, participants will gain access to the zoo’s backstage areas, where they can witness firsthand what it takes to care for various animals. In addition, they will have the chance to feed the animals, learning about their characteristics and behaviors in a hands-on environment. This immersive experience allows kids not just to observe, but to engage deeply with wildlife.

2. Learn the Value of Life

As future zookeepers, children will learn the importance of responsibility and compassion toward all living things. Whether it’s hands-on tasks or observing zookeepers at work, campers are equipped with insights about caring for animals that resonate well beyond the camp experience. It’s no wonder this tour often has a waitlist, as participants cherish these authentic encounters with wildlife.

3. Exclusive Night Safari

Experience a different side of animals during an exclusive night safari designed specifically for school trip attendees. This unique event offers the opportunity to observe nocturnal creatures in their active state, providing a dynamic contrast to daytime observations. It promises to be a memorable occasion, leaving lasting impressions and stories to share.

Sample Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Kickoff

- 8:30-9:30: Depart Tokyo (Shinkansen to Utsunomiya)
- Opening ceremony
- Introduction to zookeeper responsibilities
- Guided tour of the zoo
- Water fun activities

Day 2: Hands-On Zookeeper Experience

- Zookeeper tasks: Cleaning animal habitats and preparing food
- Interactions with various animals
- Educational sessions on animal care
- Attend a dog show
- Pony rides
- Night safari

Day 3: Final Activities and Departure

- Feeding experience
- Create a nature research project
- Enjoy time at an amusement park
- Return to Tokyo (arrival around 16:30-17:30)

About STS (School Tour Ship)

The STS program supports the personal growth and emotional education of children through experiential learning. It emphasizes the importance of finding one’s passion—be it music, sports, or play—encouraging kids to discover their “Plus One” outside the norm of traditional education.

Hurry to secure your child's spot; due to high demand, some tours fill up quickly! For more information and registration, please visit the STS Tour Sign-Up Page.