: At Tobu Zoo (just north of Tokyo), an elderly Humboldt penguin named Grape-kun became a global sensation in 2017 for his "romance" with a cardboard cutout of Hululu, a penguin character from the anime Kemono Friends . After his mate of ten years left him, Grape-kun spent his final days constantly by the cutout's side, leading to a massive outpouring of support from fans.
Explore Ueno Zoo: Japan's First Zoo, a Tokyo Travel Favorite! : At Tobu Zoo (just north of Tokyo),
Other Tokyo-area zoos utilize specific species to market themes of romance and family: Inokashira Park Zoo Other Tokyo-area zoos utilize specific species to market
Far out in Hino City, Tama Zoological Park is massive. It requires commitment. A date at Tama Zoo suggests serious intent. Because it is harder to reach than Ueno, couples who survive the journey from Shinjuku (45 minutes by train plus a bus) prove their dedication. Because it is harder to reach than Ueno,
Not all romantic storylines go as planned, leading to stories that have become legendary for their "identity crises."
Zoos assign human-like names to animal pairs to encourage shipping culture. At the Tokyo Sea Life Park (Kasai Rinkai Suizokuen), the sea otters "Takumi" and "Miyuki" have a fan club of 40,000 women who track their relationship drama (did he bring her a shell? did she reject it?).