Izu Shaboten Zoo, Zoo and botanical garden in Ito, Japan
Izu Shaboten Zoo is a zoological and botanical garden in Ito that presents around 1500 types of cacti and succulents from across the globe alongside roughly 140 animal species. The grounds spread across several themed zones where plants are grouped by origin and animals live in settings that resemble their natural homes.
The complex opened in October 1959 and combined the display of foreign plants with the keeping of different animal species from the start. Over the decades the site grew into a center for education and conservation efforts in the Ito region.
The name Shaboten comes from the Japanese word for cactus and reflects the founding purpose of the place. Families often spend time learning about both local gardening traditions and plants from distant climates under one roof.
The site offers guided feedings with kangaroos, lemurs, and capybaras where visitors can observe the animals up close. Workshops on cactus care take place regularly and teach the basics of growing succulents.
This facility was the first in Japan to introduce the tradition of bathing capybaras in hot springs. These baths run from late November through early April and draw many photographers and animal enthusiasts.
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