Visit シャボテン公園: Izu Shaboten Zoo Guide & Tickets

Updated 2026-10-24 · By Attractionss

Attractionss Izu Shaboten Zoo Ticket

What is シャボテン公園 (Izu Shaboten Zoo)?

シャボテン公園 is a specialized wildlife and botanical park located in Itō, Japan. It uniquely combines a zoo with a massive cactus garden, housing approximately 150 different animal species and 1,500 varieties of succulents and cacti for visitors to explore.

This destination is a haven for nature lovers, blending wildlife encounters with botanical beauty. Visitors can wander through expansive grounds where they will find a diverse collection of flora and fauna. The park is particularly noted for its immersive environment, allowing guests to get close to animals in a naturalistic setting.

From the towering columnar cacti in the greenhouses to the free-roaming animals, the zoo provides an educational and relaxing atmosphere. Whether you are interested in rare desert plants or playful mammals, the park offers a comprehensive experience of biodiversity in the Izu region.

Top Animal Encounters at Izu Shaboten Zoo

Visitors to Izu Shaboten Zoo can interact with a wide array of animals, including free-roaming peacocks and squirrel monkeys. The Savanna Area features giraffes, zebras, and ostriches, while other zones allow close encounters with kangaroos and the park's famous capybaras.

The animal experience is designed to be interactive and engaging. One of the most distinct features is the presence of free-roaming animals, such as peacocks and squirrel monkeys, which add a sense of wildness to the stroll. The Savanna Area is a must-visit for those wanting to see larger mammals like giraffes and zebras.

• Capybaras: The star attraction, especially during the colder months.
• Savanna Area: Home to ostriches, zebras, and giraffes.
• Interactive Zones: Opportunities to get close to kangaroos and squirrel monkeys.

Photo gallery

Exploring the Cactus Greenhouses

The botanical side of シャボテン公園 features greenhouses containing 1,500 varieties of cacti and succulents. A primary highlight is the 170-year-old Echinocactus grusonii, alongside various towering columnar cacti that showcase the diversity of desert plants.

The greenhouses provide a controlled environment to view rare plant species from around the world. The sheer variety of succulents makes this a premier spot for botanical photography and study. The 170-year-old Echinocactus grusonii stands as a testament to the park's long-term dedication to plant conservation.

Walking through these glasshouses, visitors can observe the intricate shapes and sizes of columnar cacti, providing a stark and beautiful contrast to the animal exhibits found in the outdoor areas of the park.

The Famous Winter Capybara Baths

Since 1982, Izu Shaboten Zoo has maintained the tradition of allowing capybaras to relax in outdoor hot baths during winter. This seasonal highlight attracts thousands of visitors who wish to see the animals soaking in the warmth to escape the cold.

This tradition has become a cultural phenomenon in Japan, symbolizing the cozy side of winter. Watching the capybaras peacefully soak in the steaming water is considered one of the most relaxing sights in the park. It is the primary reason many travelers schedule their visit specifically for the winter season.

The baths are designed to mimic natural hot springs, providing the animals with a comfortable environment while offering visitors a unique photo opportunity that is exclusive to the winter months at シャボテン公園.

book Izu Shaboten Zoo tickets - check current ticket details and availability.

Planning Your Visit: Duration and Timing

A typical visit to Izu Shaboten Zoo takes approximately 2 hours. The park is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with the critical rule that last admission is permitted only 30 minutes before the closing time.

To make the most of your trip, it is recommended to arrive early. Two hours generally allows enough time to visit the Savanna Area, the greenhouses, and the capybara exhibits. However, those who wish to spend more time observing the animals or photographing the cacti may want to allocate a bit more time.

Because the park is located in Itō, it is often paired with other local sightseeing. Ensure you check the time for last entry to avoid missing out on the experience, as the gates close strictly at 5:00 PM.

Ticket Options and Age Policies

Entry tickets for Izu Shaboten Zoo start from AED 18.43. The park is family-friendly, with a specific policy stating that children under 4 years old are free of charge, while preschoolers aged 4 to 5 have a dedicated ticket option.

Booking online is the most efficient way to secure entry. The ticket includes full admission to the park grounds, the animal exhibits, and the botanical greenhouses. For families, the age-based pricing makes it an accessible destination for young children.

Visitors are advised to have their e-ticket or booking confirmation ready on their mobile devices upon arrival at the entrance to ensure a smooth and quick entry process into the park.