Looking for a unique, family-friendly experience in Japan beyond Tokyo? 📍Nestled in the scenic mountains of Shizuoka, Izu Shaboten Park offers an unforgettable blend of adorable animals, cultural charm, and hands-on fun—perfect for families with young children and repeat visitors seeking hidden gems.
🛁 Capybara Onsen: Japan’s Cutest Spa Time
One of the park’s biggest highlights is the capybara onsen (hot spring). Picture this: giant, gentle capybaras soaking in a steaming open-air bath surrounded by floating yuzu citrus fruits. It’s not only incredibly relaxing to watch, but also deeply connected to Japanese hot spring culture. The steamy atmosphere and adorable capybara expressions make for a truly photogenic moment—perfect for Instagram!
🧼 Fun Fact: Capybara hot springs originated here at Izu Shaboten Park! In winter, it becomes a must-see event, drawing families and photographers alike. Feeding sessions are also available, letting kids interact up close with these chill creatures.
🐾 Red Panda Feeding: A Rare & Heartwarming Encounter
As passionate red panda fans at RedPanda Japan, our main mission on this 3-day trip was simple: feed the red pandas—and we did it five times! 🐼🍎 Few zoos in Japan offer such an experience. For a small fee per session, visitors can offer treats to these adorable animals using a special feeding stick.
Our daughter’s favorite moment? Feeding “Meishan,” who carefully grabbed her dish with both paws. The way they stretch from tree branches or sit neatly on a log makes your heart melt. It’s a must for anyone who loves red pandas.
🕒 Feeding Times: 11:00 AM & 2:00 PM (approx. 20 minutes)
🦜 Walk Among Free-Roaming Animals & Colorful Birds
Izu Shaboten Park is full of surprises—like when a majestic peacock casually walked the same path as we did! Many animals, including birds and small mammals, roam freely, making you feel like you’re part of their world.
You’ll also find a lively parrot zone resembling a jungle, full of bright blue, red, and green birds chatting away. It’s a delight for both kids and adults.
🌵 Don’t Miss the Cactus Greenhouse
“Shaboten” means cactus, and this park lives up to its name with an enormous collection of exotic cacti from around the world. The greenhouse is a peaceful place to stroll and discover spiky wonders you’ve never seen before.
🍦 Local Treats to Top Off Your Visit
After a day of exploring, treat yourself to local soft-serve ice cream sold near the entrance. The contrast between a cold dessert and the warm capybara onsen makes for a delightful end to your adventure.
🚗 Easy Access from Tokyo
Getting to Izu Shaboten Park is simple and convenient, whether you’re traveling by train or car:
🚆 By Train + Bus:
- From Tokyo Station, take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen to Atami Station (approx. 50 minutes).
- Transfer to the Izu Kyuko Line and ride to Izu-Kogen Station (approx. 1 hour).
- From Izu-Kogen Station, take a local bus or taxi to Izu Shaboten Park (approx. 15–20 minutes).
- 🚉 Total travel time: around 2.5 to 3 hours.
🚗 By Car:
- From central Tokyo, it takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours via the Tomei Expressway and Route 135.
- Parking is available at the park.
🎟️ Tickets in Advance: Save time and skip the ticket line by booking in advance via Klook: 👉 Book Izu Shaboten Zoo Tickets on Klook. Whether by car or train, Izu Shaboten Park is easily accessible for a day trip or overnight stay. Escape the city and step into a relaxing, animal-filled paradise.
🏨 Stay in a Hot Spring Ryokan Nearby
Izu is not just about adorable animals—it’s also a famous hot spring area! Why not extend your adventure by staying overnight at a traditional Japanese ryokan? Soaking in a private onsen after a fun day at the zoo is the perfect way to relax and unwind.
We stayed at a cozy family-friendly ryokan just a short drive from Izu Shaboten Park. The hospitality was warm, and the meals—especially the local seafood—were unforgettable.
👉 Check availability and book the ryokan we stayed at
🧸 More Nearby Attractions: Teddy Bear Museum
If you’re already in the Izu Kogen area, don’t miss the Izu Teddy Bear Museum! Just 10 minutes away from Izu Shaboten Park, this charming museum showcases vintage and modern teddy bears from around the world—and even features a Totoro corner!
We wrote about our experience here: 👉 Our Visit to Izu Teddy Bear Museum
✨ Tip: Add Izu Shaboten Park to your Japan itinerary for a perfect blend of family travel, capybara hot spring Japan, and red panda feeding Japan experiences. It’s a hidden treasure you won’t forget!
