Where to See Capybaras in Hot Springs: Japan's Best Onsen Capybara Spots

The Capybara Onsen Tradition: How It Started

You have probably seen the photos: capybaras — the world's largest rodents — sitting motionless in steaming outdoor baths with their eyes half-closed, looking profoundly content. This is not a meme. It is a real Japanese winter tradition, and you can see it in person.

The practice started at Izu Shaboten Zoo (伊豆シャボテン動物公園) in Shizuoka Prefecture in 1982. According to the Izu Shaboten Zoo official site, zookeepers noticed capybaras gathering near hot water outlets during cold weather, so they built the animals their own outdoor bath. The capybaras immediately took to it, and the tradition was born.

Since then, the practice has spread to other zoos and animal parks across Japan. The bathing season runs from late November through early March — a strictly winter-only experience. For more Shizuoka wildlife, see our Shizuoka wildlife guide.

Izu Shaboten Zoo: The Original and Best

Izu Shaboten Zoo remains the most famous and best-organized capybara onsen experience in Japan. The zoo sits at the base of Mount Omuro in Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture, and has been perfecting this exhibit for over 40 years.

Admission is ¥2,700 (~$18) on weekdays and ¥2,800 (~$19) on weekends and holidays for adults (middle school and above). Children ages 4 and up are ¥700 (~$5). Hours are 9:30-17:00 (last entry 16:30), with seasonal variations. No reservation is needed.

Many visitors on TripAdvisor recommend buying discounted tickets at the Izu Kogen Station information counter, which can save around ¥400. Plan to spend 2.5-3.5 hours at the zoo to see the capybara bath and other exhibits.

For the complete zoo experience beyond the capybara onsen, see our Izu Shaboten Zoo visitor guide.

Capybara Yuzu Bath and Special Events

The highlight within the highlight is the Capybara Yuzu Bath (カピバラのゆず湯). Following the Japanese winter tradition of bathing with yuzu citrus on the winter solstice to prevent colds, the zoo fills the capybara bath with yuzu fruit. According to iwafu.com, the Yuzu Bath event typically runs from late December through mid-January — the 2025-2026 season marks the 30th anniversary of this event.

During the Yuzu Bath event, bathing shows run twice daily: 10:30-11:30 AM and 1:30-2:30 PM. A special Seven-Herb Bath (七草湯, nanakusa-no-yu) is held on January 7, following another Japanese bathing tradition.

Other seasonal bath themes include flower petals and apples, adding variety throughout the winter season.

Getting to Izu Shaboten Zoo

From Tokyo, take the Izu Kyuko Line limited express to Izu Kogen Station — approximately 2 hours. From the station, take the Tokai Bus (about 20 minutes) or a taxi (about 10 minutes) to the zoo.

Alternatively, from Ito Station, the Tokai Bus takes about 35 minutes. Parking is available for those driving.

From	Route	Time
Tokyo	Izu Kyuko express to Izu Kogen + bus	~2.5 hours
Ito Station	Tokai Bus	~35 min
Izu Kogen Station	Tokai Bus or taxi	10-20 min

Other Parks with Capybara Onsen

Suzaka City Zoo, Nagano

Suzaka City Zoo (須坂市動物園) in Nagano Prefecture hosts its own capybara onsen from November through February, with seasonal decorations including yuzu on the winter solstice. According to Japan Travel, the zoo sits inside Garyu Park — a famous cherry blossom spot — making a late-season visit potentially combinable with early spring blossoms.

Suzaka is a smaller, less commercial operation than Izu Shaboten, which appeals to visitors who want a more intimate experience. Admission is significantly cheaper than Izu Shaboten.

Other Locations Across Japan

Several other facilities have adopted the capybara onsen tradition, including Nagasaki Bio Park and Nasu Animal Kingdom. Availability and schedules vary — check individual park websites for current-season details, as not all parks run the exhibit every year.

The core experience is the same at each location: capybaras soaking in heated outdoor pools during cold weather. Izu Shaboten remains the definitive version with the most polished presentation and longest tradition.

When to Visit: Season and Daily Schedule

Period	What to See
Late November - early March	Regular capybara onsen at most parks
Late December - mid-January	Yuzu Bath special event at Izu Shaboten
January 7	Seven-Herb Bath (nanakusa-no-yu) at Izu Shaboten
March onwards	Season ends — capybaras return to regular exhibits

At Izu Shaboten Zoo during the Yuzu Bath event, capybara onsen shows run twice daily: 10:30-11:30 AM and 1:30-2:30 PM. On weekdays, there may be only one afternoon show — check the daily schedule at the park entrance.

Arrive at the capybara onsen area at least 15 minutes before the show starts for a good viewing position. The first few minutes, when the capybaras initially enter the water and settle in, are the best for photos.

Tips for the Best Capybara Onsen Experience

• Arrive early for the bathing show. The viewing area fills up, especially on weekends. The first show is usually less crowded than the afternoon session.
• Weekdays are better. Weekend crowds at Izu Shaboten can be significant during peak Yuzu Bath season. A Tuesday or Wednesday visit is ideal.
• Bring a telephoto lens. You cannot enter the bath area, so a zoom lens or good smartphone zoom helps for close-up shots of the capybaras' blissful expressions.
• You cannot pet them during the bath. Separate interaction areas at Izu Shaboten allow feeding and petting capybaras, but not during the bathing exhibit. Ask staff for the interaction schedule.
• Dress warmly. You are standing outdoors watching the capybaras in winter. Warm layers, gloves, and a hat are essential.
• Afternoon discount. Izu Shaboten offers reduced admission after 5:00 PM during illumination events — check the official site for current discount hours.
• Combine with the Izu Peninsula. Izu Shaboten is in Ito City — combine with onsen ryokan, coastal scenery, or Omuro Mountain for a full winter trip.

Frequently Asked Questions