Everything a first-time visitor should know before booking Izu Shaboten Park — timings, ticket prices, how long you'll need and how not to overspend.
Discover the whimsical charm of Izu Shaboten Park, a unique wildlife and botanical sanctuary nestled in the scenic Izu Peninsula. Famous for its adorable capybaras relaxing in hot springs and over 1,500 species of cacti, this family-friendly park offers unforgettable interactive animal encounters just a stone's throw from Mt. Omuro.
Updated August 2026
Izu Shaboten Park: quick guide
| 🕐 Best time | The absolute best time to visit is during the winter months from late November to early Ap… |
| ⏱️ Time needed | Plan to spend about three to four hours to comfortably explo… |
| 💰 From price | See live price on HolidaySG |
| 🎟️ Best-value ticket | Book online in advance for the best price |
| 👨🏫 Private guide | ★★☆☆☆ (optional) |
| 👨👩👧 Best for | First-time visitors, couples, families |
| 🌧️ Rain-friendly? | Partly — some outdoor sections |
| ⭐ Worth it? | Yes |
Best time to visit Izu Shaboten Park
The absolute best time to visit is during the winter months from late November to early April, which is when the famous capybara hot springs are in full operation. Aim to arrive right at the 09:30 opening time to enjoy the animals during their active morning feeding hours and to avoid the midday crowds. Spring is also a wonderful season, as the outdoor flora blooms beautifully against the backdrop of Mt. Omuro.
How long to spend
Plan to spend about three to four hours to comfortably explore the cactus pavilions, enjoy the animal interactions, and take a relaxed lunch break. If you are short on time, prioritize the capybara onsen enclosure and the free-roaming peacock pathways for the most iconic Izu Shaboten experiences.
Izu Shaboten Park tickets & prices
Your E-ticket covers general admission to all botanical gardens and animal zones, with infants typically entering for free. Animal feeding snacks and special interactive experiences inside the park require separate, affordable purchases via on-site vending machines.
Book Izu Shaboten Park tickets on HolidaySG →
How to save money at Izu Shaboten Park
- Start with general admission — you can always add a guided or premium experience later if you want it.
- Book Izu Shaboten Park online in advance — it usually beats the gate price and locks your time slot.
- If you're seeing several attractions, compare a combo or multi-attraction pass before buying singles.
- Follow HolidaySG for seasonal promotions before you commit to fixed dates.
- Go on a weekday and arrive close to opening to skip the longest queues and peak-time surcharges.
Do you need a private guide?
★★☆☆☆ — Optional. Worthwhile if you want deeper background, otherwise you'll do fine independently.
What to expect
In the Izu Cactus Zoo, you can get up close and personal with animals ranging from free-range squirrel monkeys, peacocks to the beloved capybara. New animal species are constantly being added, from 100 to 130. A collection of various cacti from all over the world, a display of 1500 cacti and other succulents collected from countries around the world.
Top things to do
- Watch the iconic capybaras blissfully soak in their traditional yuzu hot springs during the winter months.
- Hand-feed the free-roaming peacocks, squirrel monkeys, and friendly kangaroos in the open-air animal enclosures.
- Explore the expansive greenhouse pavilions housing a massive, rare collection of over 1,500 cacti and succulent plants from around the world.
- Enjoy a scenic stroll around the park's central pond while taking in the beautiful backdrop of nearby Mt. Omuro.
Hidden gems
- Seek out the park's hidden desert pavilion where you can find exceptionally rare and bizarrely shaped succulents that most casual visitors walk past.
- Visit the capybara enclosure early in the morning right after opening to see them actively foraging before they settle into their famous afternoon naps.
- Look for the subtle, artistic stone carvings and traditional Japanese garden elements cleverly integrated into the cactus landscaping near the park's upper trails.
Good to know
Visitors must present their E-ticket at the entrance for direct verification and access to the park. The facility operates from 09:30 to 16:00, with the last admission permitted at 15:30. Because operating hours are subject to change, guests should verify the daily schedule on the official Izu Shaboten Park website prior to their arrival.
Facilities
Restrooms, Gift Shop, Cafe, Wheelchair Access, Stroller Rental, Parking, First Aid, Nursing Room, Pet Kennel, Picnic Area
Accessibility
Izu Shaboten Park is largely wheelchair and stroller accessible, featuring paved main pathways and ramps leading into the major greenhouse pavilions. Accessible restrooms are available near the entrance, and manual wheelchairs can be borrowed on a first-come, first-served basis at the information desk.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Izu Shaboten Park?
The absolute best time to visit is during the winter months from late November to early April, which is when the famous capybara hot springs are in full operation. Aim to arrive right at the 09:30 opening time to enjoy the animals during their active morning feeding hours and to avoid the midday cro…
How much do Izu Shaboten Park tickets cost?
Check the live "from" price for Izu Shaboten Park on HolidaySG — booking online is usually cheaper than the gate. Your E-ticket covers general admission to all botanical gardens and animal zones, with infants typically entering for free. Animal feeding snacks and special interactive…
How long should I spend at Izu Shaboten Park?
Plan to spend about three to four hours to comfortably explore the cactus pavilions, enjoy the animal interactions, and take a relaxed lunch break. If you are short on time, prioritize the capybara onsen enclosure and the free-roaming peaco…
What can I expect at Izu Shaboten Park?
In the Izu Cactus Zoo, you can get up close and personal with animals ranging from free-range squirrel monkeys, peacocks to the beloved capybara. New animal species are constantly being added, from 100 to 130. A collection of various cacti from all over the world, a display of 15…
Do I need to book Izu Shaboten Park in advance?
Booking Izu Shaboten Park online on HolidaySG confirms your slot instantly and often costs less — recommended on weekends and holidays when it can sell out.
Ready to visit? Book Izu Shaboten Park on HolidaySG for the best price and instant confirmation — or plan your whole trip with the AI Trip Planner.