Izu Shaboten Park

Must Do Experiences

• 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.

What Makes it Special

• It is one of the very few places in Japan where you can witness capybaras enjoying authentic, seasonal outdoor hot springs.

• The park seamlessly blends a world-class botanical cactus collection with a highly interactive, barrier-free zoo experience.

• Its elevated location in Ito City provides breathtaking, unobstructed panoramic views of the Izu highlands and Mt. Omuro.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

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.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the capybaras in the onsen during the late morning when the steam rises beautifully against the crisp winter air and the natural light is soft.

• Use a macro lens or the macro setting on your smartphone to photograph the intricate textures, vibrant flowers, and sharp spines of the rare succulents inside the glass pavilions.

• Position yourself near the central pond in the early afternoon to get stunning reflection shots of the free-roaming peacocks with Mt. Omuro in the background.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When interacting with the free-roaming animals, it is important to remain calm, avoid sudden movements, and never chase them, as Japanese wildlife parks prioritize animal welfare and stress-free environments. Please refrain from feeding the animals anything other than the designated food purchased on-site to ensure their health and dietary balance. Remember to bow slightly and say thank you to the park staff if they assist you with animal interactions or directions.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• The Capybara Hot Spring Festival runs annually from late November to early April, featuring daily onsen sessions with seasonal additions like yuzu citrus or sweet potatoes in the water.

• The Spring Cactus Blooming Exhibition in April and May showcases rare, vibrant flowers from the park's extensive succulent collection.

• During the summer Obon festival in August, the park often hosts special evening illuminations and extended hours for a magical twilight wildlife experience.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Always supervise young children closely in the open animal enclosures, as the free-roaming birds and monkeys can occasionally be unpredictable if startled.

• Be cautious of the sharp spines on the cacti and succulents by keeping to the marked pathways and avoiding touching the plants in the greenhouse pavilions.

• Stay hydrated and utilize the shaded rest areas during the hot and humid Japanese summer months, as the park involves a fair amount of outdoor walking.