medialab.jp – animals and nature

The Bonin islands are located some 1000 km south of Tokyo, in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Despite the distance they are administered as part of the capital city. Because the islands have never been part of any other continent they are home to unique flora and fauna and are known as “The Galapagos of the Orient”. In 2011, the islands were listed as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site.

Thanks to their remote location and the fact that they can only be reached by sea, the islands are one of the few places in the world that can offer both pristine nature and modern convenience.

We are currently building this site in English to share information and help international travelers discover this magical place. More pages and content are being added on a regular basis. Thanks for visiting and we hope to see you on these extraordinary islands soon!

Tanuki – (Nyctereutes viverrinus)

The Japanese raccoon dog, or tanuki, is a charming and adaptable mammal native to Japan. Known for its fluffy appearance and expressive face, the tanuki plays an important role in local ecosystems by helping disperse seeds and control insect populations. It is also deeply woven into Japanese folklore and culture, where it symbolizes good fortune, playfulness, and transformation. Intelligent and resilient, the Japanese raccoon dog thrives in forests and rural landscapes, making it a beloved and fascinating part of Japan’s natural heritage. The Japanese Tanuki is different from other Euro-Asian racoon dogs and have a discrepant DNA and behaviour profile.