Hanako is a female African elephant who has lived alone at Omoriyama Zoo since returning in June 2024 after an unsuccessful breeding transfer.
As part of Elephants in Japan’s latest investigation into the welfare of solitary elephants in Japan, animal welfare consultant Georgina Groves visited Omoriyama Zoo in October 2025. Hanako’s enclosure included a shallow pool, a mud wallow, and areas of sun and shade. Even though signs stated that Hanako was provided with toys, hay, and other enrichment, the only one visible during the assessment was a single tire hanging from a chain.
During the day, Hanako’s indoor stalls remained locked. She was repeatedly seen stopping outside the closed doors, where hay could be seen inside, before walking away again.
Hanako stands outside in her enclosure.
Hanako was also observed walking the same route around her enclosure over and over again, with no clear purpose. This repetitive behavior is commonly seen in captive elephants living in poor conditions and may indicate that an elephant is struggling to cope with boredom, frustration, or chronic stress.
In the wild, African elephants live in close-knit family groups and spend their lives surrounded by mothers, daughters, sisters, and other relatives. They communicate constantly, care for one another, and rely on these lifelong social bonds to thrive. Hanako has none of this. Instead, she wakes up alone every day, with no other elephant to share her life with.
