JAPAN

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In Japan, pets like the standard cat or dog are common, but sometimes you’ll find pet owners with some interesting friends like snakes, tarantulas and more.

Exotic World at LaLaport Tachikawa Tachihi, a mall about a 20-minute drive from Yokota Air Base, is a pet shop catering to pet owners with a desire for the extraordinary.

Though you might not be on the market for a meercat, snake or owl, Exotic World is definitely an interesting shop to stop in and have a look. Recently the shop has added a six-banded armadillo and a common marmoset monkey to its offerings for adventurous customers.

The armadillo hails from South Africa and is 12 inches tall and eats dog food, according to an Exotic World release. The marmoset, is from South America and is small enough to carry on your shoulder. The shop said the marmoset eats special food and fruits and once it’s warmed to its family it will approach to be pet and held.

There are rules regarding what pets are allowed to be brought back with you when your tour of duty is done in Japan, so make sure to check those before attempting to purchase or adopt any furry or scaly friends. Furthermore, Exotic World, other pet stores and pet adoption agencies around the country have extensive requirements before allowing customers to purchase or adopt any of their animals. With that in mind, perhaps only seeing the animals at Exotic World at LaLaport Tachikawa Tachihi up close is exciting enough.

Exotic World Tachikawa Tachihi Location: LaLaport Tatikawatachihi [1F] “Pet Paradise DX,” 935-1 Izumi Town, Tachikawa City, Tokyo Hours: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. URL Instagram TEL: 042-512-8708

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