No longer will the tagline "Japan's most dangerous zoo" draw crowds, as the notorious facility faced closure recently. The closure, which stemmed from a series of high-profile animal escapes and safety violations, marks the end of an era. The zoo, whose location and name have been withheld for privacy, was infamous for its lax security measures and questionable animal welfare practices. The authorities decided to prioritize public safety and animal welfare, leading to the zoo's shutdown.

Animal rights and public safety have increasingly become matters of public concern in Japan in recent years. Despite the zoo's popularity as a quirky tourist spot, a surge in public sentiment against its lax safety practices and potential animal cruelty led to the decision to close it down. This event aligns with Japan's continuous efforts to improve animal welfare standards and tighten safety measures across institutions housing wildlife.

Similar issues in the US and EU have also led to zoo closures or significant reforms. In the West, there is substantial legal and social value placed on the health and safety of animals, leading to rigorous inspections and regulations for zoos. In several instances, public backlash against mistreatment of animals has led to closure or reformation of these institutions.