Izu Shaboten Zoo opened in 1959 and is both a zoo and a botanical garden. Some of the animals roam freely in the park rather than living behind fences, so small children may meet them on the path. The zoo’s best-known tradition is the capybara open-air bath, held every year from late November to early April. Year-round, there is an animal show in the Great Hall, and the schedule is posted on a board at the Great Hall entrance, so it’s worth checking early and planning the rest of the visit around it.
The trade-off is strollers. The zoo rents them out for a fee, but it has only a limited number and gives them out first come, first served. If your child still needs a stroller, bring your own or arrive early.
Lunch is flexible. There are restaurants on site, and you can also bring your own packed lunch and eat it on the benches in the park, as long as you put your rubbish in the bins provided or take it home. Never feed the animals. The baby room has space for changing and nursing, and there is a first-aid room if a child feels unwell. Ask the nearest member of staff.
Family FAQ
How much does Izu Shaboten Zoo cost?
Weekdays / weekends, holidays and long school holidays: adults (junior high and older) ¥2,800 / ¥3,000, elementary school children ¥1,400 / ¥1,500, children aged 4 and up ¥700 / ¥800.
Can you bring a stroller to Izu Shaboten Zoo?
Strollers can be rented for a fee, but numbers are limited and first come, first served.
Is there baby changing at Izu Shaboten Zoo?
There is a baby room for nappy changing and nursing.
Can you bring your own food to Izu Shaboten Zoo?
Packed lunches are generally allowed; eat at the benches in the park and put rubbish in the bins provided or take it home.
Is there parking at Izu Shaboten Zoo?
There is a paid car park with room for 400 cars.
