Owls in Japan?

When you think of Japan, you'll probably think of  ramen, Mt Fuji, skiing, sushi, temples etc... So when Lizzy said she wanted to go see owls, I was kinda surprise. Owls in Japan, I've not heard of that. But she said they have trips there just for that. Really?

There are fox villages & now owl cafes in Japan? She wanted to pat an owl ! But Whatever for ?

Ok the pic looks kinda cute ....but ....??? Anyway, our group is planning for a trip to Japan this coming Oct or Nov & she's rooting for this elaborate owl expedition. This leads to someone wanting to see foxes. Boy... it's becoming like a safari trip, we might as well go Africa!