Up Close with Adorable Animals: Shaboten Park’s Fureai Corner

The Shaboten Park Fureai Corner in Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture, is a special hands-on animal interaction area inside Izu Shaboten Zoo (伊豆シャボテン動物公園).

At the Fureai Corner (“ふれあいコーナー”), visitors can get up close with friendly animals, petting and even feeding them. You’ll find capybaras, kangaroos, giant tortoises, squirrel monkeys, and more! The capybaras are a particular favorite—relaxing in their onsen (hot spring) baths during winter, creating one of the park’s most famous sights.

Unlike traditional zoos, where animals are behind barriers, the Fureai Corner lets you interact directly, making it a fun and unique experience for both kids and adults. The park also offers special feeding experiences, where you can give snacks to animals and watch their adorable reactions.

If you love animals and want a closer, more interactive experience, the Shaboten Park Fureai Corner is a must-visit in Ito. It’s a perfect stop for families, couples, or anyone looking for a fun, hands-on adventure with nature’s cutest creatures!

Geting there:

From JR Ito Station, take the Tokai Bus (東海バス) bound for Shaboten Park (シャボテン公園) or Izu Granpal Park (伊豆ぐらんぱる公園).

Get off at Shaboten Park (シャボテン公園) bus stop.

The ride takes about 35–40 minutes.

Walk a few minutes to the park entrance!