Japanese tree frog (Dryophytes japonicus)
Photo: 池田正樹masaki ikeda / Public domain · via Wikimedia Commons

Amphibian · Tree frog

Japanese tree frog care guide

Dryophytes japonicus

Beginner

The japanese tree frog is a beginner-level tree frog from Japan, Korea, eastern China, Russian Far East. Adults reach 2.5–4.5 cm and live 4–6 years in captivity. A small temperate tree frog; small groups in a planted vivarium.

  • Enclosure 45 × 30 × 45 cm
  • Temp 18–26°C
  • Humidity 60–80%

How much does a japanese tree frog cost in Canada?

Animal$30–60Typical captive-bred price
Bioactive enclosure$360–620Enclosure $130–260 · equipment $70–160 · bioactive supplies ≈ $160
Yearly upkeep$100–200Food, supplements, bulbs, power, vet fund
First year total$490–880All prices CAD, estimates

Japanese tree frog quick facts

Skill level
Beginner
Adult size
2.5–4.5 cm
Lifespan
4–6 years
Activity
Nocturnal
Native range
Japan, Korea, eastern China, Russian Far East
Minimum enclosure
45 × 30 × 45 cm (18 × 12 × 18 in, ≈ 16 US gal)
Housing
Up to 4 can share; add about 30% more floor space for each extra animal.
Temperature
18–26°C
Humidity
60–80%
UVB
Recommended
Diet
Insectivore – small crickets, flies, small roaches
Bioactive style
Tropical arboreal

Japanese tree frog enclosure & bioactive setup

Give one adult at least 45 × 30 × 45 cm (18 × 12 × 18 inches). Up to 4 can share; add about 30% more floor space for each extra animal. This species suits a tropical arboreal bioactive build.

  1. Leaf litter2 cm
  2. Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix8 cm
  3. Drainage – clay bio balls4 cm

Most of the action is vertical – keep the soil moist but not wet, and focus on perches and dense planting.

Temperature: 18–26°C. Humidity: 60–80%. UVB: Recommended.

What does a japanese tree frog eat?

Insectivore – small crickets, flies, small roaches. Feed dusted small insects every 2 days.

Handling, temperament & health

Skittish; minimal handling.

Health watch: Dehydration and skin infections.

Cleaning & maintenance schedule

Daily

  • Mist to raise humidity – usually a heavy evening misting with a dry-down by day.
  • Check temperatures at perch height.

Weekly

  • Feed; remove uneaten food (and diet dishes after 24–48 h).
  • Check the drainage layer and prune vines.
  • Look for stuck shed on toes and tails.

Monthly

  • Top up leaf litter.
  • Check branches and mounts are still secure.
  • Clean glass, vents and misting nozzles.

Yearly

  • Refresh the top of the soil in open areas.
  • Replace UVB bulbs (if used) on schedule.

Recommended for a japanese tree frog bioactive

Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (45 × 30 × 45 cm).

Japanese tree frog FAQ

Is the japanese tree frog good for beginners?

Yes – the japanese tree frog is a good choice for beginners. Skittish; minimal handling.

What size enclosure does a japanese tree frog need?

At least 45 × 30 × 45 cm (about 18 × 12 × 18 inches, roughly 16 US gallons) for one adult. Up to 4 can share; add about 30% more floor space for each extra animal.

How much does a japanese tree frog cost in Canada?

Typically $30–60 CAD to buy, about $360–620 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $100–200 CAD a year to keep.

What temperature and humidity does a japanese tree frog need?

Temperature: 18–26°C. Humidity: 60–80%.

What does a japanese tree frog eat?

Insectivore – small crickets, flies, small roaches. Feed dusted small insects every 2 days.

Similar species

Browse all 1,000 species →

This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.