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Hot Spring Beauties: 9 Places to Meet Capybaras in Japan
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Capybaras, beloved for their gentle nature and affection for hot springs, have captured the hearts of people around the globe. We have compiled a list of nine capybara-friendly destinations across Japan.
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Tokyo,Japan
Renowned for their fondness for hot springs, capybaras can be found throughout Japan, indulging in the healing water. Capybaras are sociable creatures that thrive on human companionship and relaxation, often bringing peace and harmony to the animal kingdom as ultimate peacemakers.
Taking the internet by storm, capybaras have become a sensation in recent years. Adorable capybara videos have captivated the hearts of many, leading to the creation of original capybara songs and merchandise. These lovable creatures arrived in Japan over 50 years ago and have since become a beloved sensation, with residents eagerly anticipating yearly onsen bathing competitions and watermelon eating contests.
In this article, we take you on a journey to capybara-friendly destinations, where you can interact with these gentle giants or witness them taking hot spring baths. Don't miss the adorable capybara videos at the end of the article for an extra dose of cuteness.
9 Places to Meet Adorable Capybaras in Japan
1. Izu Shaboten Zoo
2. Nagasaki Biopark
3. Nasu Animal Kingdom
4. Saitama Children’s Zoo
5. Harvest Hill Osaka - Sakai Farm
6. Aichi Non Hoi Park
7. Mother Farm in Chiba
8. Aso Farmland
9. Capyneko Cafe
1. Izu Shaboten Zoo
Photo by PR Times
The world-renowned and absolutely adorable capybaras at Izu Shaboten Zoo have captured the hearts of people all over the globe with their yearly winter onsen bathing ritual. Now considered one of Izu's beloved winter traditions, Izu Shaboten Zoo was the first to discover the capybaras' affinity for onsens.
It all began in the winter of 1982 when a zookeeper was cleaning the premises with hot water and noticed the capybaras soaking their feet and behinds in the warm water remnants. From that moment, a hot spring was created for the capybaras, and the rest is history!
Photo by PR Times
The hot spring has become a highlight, not only for the delighted capybaras but also for visitors. Every year, capybara enthusiasts flock to Izu to witness this remarkable winter event, hoping to catch a glimpse of the rare and amusing sight of a capybara balancing a citrus fruit atop its head!
The open-air bath for capybaras can be observed from November to April, and occasionally, the zoo adds various fruits and flowers to the bath for the capybaras to enjoy.
2. Nagasaki Biopark
Photo by Pixta
A capybara paradise! Nagasaki Bio Park has 20 capybaras freely roaming its vast park. They have plenty of options for relaxation, including ponds and even their very own onsen during the winter months. The park warmly welcomes guests and staff to interact with these friendly capybaras, who enjoy nothing more than a good scratch from their visitors.
The annual capybara hotspring bathing event, a delightful spectacle that brings laughter to people around the world, is even broadcast on TV! The capybara onsen is open from December to February, providing a cozy retreat during the cold months of Nagasaki.
Photo by atpress
Nagasaki Bio Park is one of the five organizations that have signed The Capybara Open-air Bath Agreement, along with the first four parks mentioned in this article and Ishikawa Zoo. This agreement signifies their recognition of the significance of hot springs for capybaras during the winter season.
Capybaras are known for their love of human interaction, and their remarkable intelligence and friendliness have been exemplified by the park's beloved capybara, Donguri. Donguri, adored by visitors for her gentle and welcoming nature, once even took herself to the park's capybara hospital when she felt unwell.
Official website: Nagasaki Bio Park
3. Nasu Animal Kingdom
Nasu Animal Kingdom, situated in Tochigi Prefecture, boasts an expansive landscape spanning an impressive 43 hectares. The park is divided into two sections: Kingdom Town, an indoor facility, and Kingdom Farm, an outdoor facility.
What sets Nasu Animal Kingdom apart is its resident capybara, Umi, who holds the remarkable title of being the undefeated champion of the onsen bathing championships. Umi's impressive record stands at an astonishing 4 hours, 56 minutes, and 36 seconds. Numerous capybaras have attempted to surpass this feat, but none have succeeded so far.
With approximately 600 animals, the park offers a diverse array of species to observe, including the captivating capybara. In addition to witnessing the bathing capybaras during the winter season, guests have a truly unique opportunity to relax in a hot spring facility that provides picturesque views of the capybaras enjoying their own bathing experience.
4. Saitama Children’s Zoo
Photo by PR Times
Not far from Tokyo lies Saitama Children's Park, a delightful animal park teeming with interactive experiences and charming wildlife. Within this natural haven, capybaras find relaxation in the inviting waters of Tamagawa Onsen, accompanied by the playful bobbing of citrus fruit around them.
Displaying their fondness for hot water, certain capybaras can be spotted positioned directly below bamboo faucets, adorably curling up into a traditional Japanese hot spring bucket. This captivating event typically graces the park from November until the end of March.
5. Harvest Hill Osaka - Sakai Farm
Photo by PR Times
While Sakai Farm may not have formally signed the Capybara Open-air Bath Agreement like the aforementioned sites, they have embraced a similar practice by introducing a hot spring for their beloved capybara residents.
At Sakai Farm, capybaras delight in citrus-infused hot springs within the specially crafted onsen tub. During the summer, they can also be observed participating in a fun-filled watermelon party, relishing in the refreshing fruit as a way to cool down from the scorching heat.
Photo by PR Times
These friendly capybaras eagerly welcome scratches from the farm's visitors, adding to the joyful experience.
Located in Osaka, Sakai Green Museum Harvest Hill charms visitors with its picturesque landscape adorned with seasonal flowers. Its popularity and family-friendly attractions have earned the farm multiple awards. With a plethora of activities and events available, it is an ideal destination for a memorable family day out.
Official website: Sakai Farm (Japanese)
6. Aichi Non Hoi Park
Photo by Pixta
Nonhoi Park has a wide variety of educational facilities and activities. Not only does it boast seasonal flowers but it also includes a zoo, a natural history museum, a botanical garden, and an amusement park on its grounds! Sunbathing capybaras can be found in their pool, which is heated in winter!
Official website: http://www.nonhoi.jp/
7. Mother Farm in Chiba
Situated in Chiba Prefecture, Mother Farm sprawls across 250 hectares of land, making it an ideal destination for a memorable outing with loved ones. For those seeking a longer experience, the farm offers accommodations for overnight stays. With a plethora of activities to choose from, including thrilling ziplining adventures, theme park rides, encounters with animals, and the beauty of seasonal flowers, Mother Farm ensures there is something for everyone.
The capybaras residing at Mother Farm are fortunate to enjoy the crisp, fresh air and invigorating pools. Visitors have the delightful opportunity to interact with these lovable creatures, offering them gentle pats. During the winter months, guests can observe the capybaras indulging in relaxing onsen baths, creating a heartwarming sight.
8. Aso Farmland
Photo by Pixta
Aso Farmland provides an incredible opportunity for delightful capybara encounters while enjoying a memorable holiday with friends or family. Nestled in Aso-Kuju National Park, a verdant region in Kyushu renowned for its inviting onsens and expansive grasslands, including the active volcano Mt Aso, Aso Farmland offers a picturesque setting for visitors.
The capybaras at Aso Farm have their own pool, providing them with a refreshing haven to swim and cool down. Additionally, they have a designated area where they can roam freely, relax on the grass, and bask in the warmth of the sun.
Guests are invited to engage with the capybaras, feeding and interacting with them as they explore the farm's captivating animal kingdom. For those seeking an extended experience, overnight accommodations are available in brightly colored and uniquely designed domes, adding a touch of whimsy to the stay. Aso Farmland offers an array of activities within this leisure park, ensuring there is something enjoyable for everyone.
Official website: Aso Farmland (Japanese)
9. Capyneko Cafe: Unwind With Cats and a Capybara
Photo by PR Times
Renowned for their gentle nature, capybaras possess a remarkable ability to forge bonds of trust and friendship with other animals. Numerous videos circulating online showcase the unique sight of these gentle giants coexisting harmoniously with a diverse range of creatures, including turtles finding solace on their backs, ducks resting nearby, and now even cats!
Enter Capyneko Cafe, Japan's sole establishment that brings cats and capybaras together as hosts. The cafe's amiable capybara, Tawashi, is a delightful soul who adores gentle scratches and treats. Visitors have the extraordinary opportunity to spend quality time with Tawashi and his feline companions while unwinding in a cozy, welcoming environment. Promoting interaction with their rescue cats, the cafe also offers the chance to adopt these lovable feline friends.
Official website: Capyneko Cafe (Japanese)
Adorable Capybara Competitions in Japan
An organization comprising five parks that have capybaras hosts two annual competitions: the Capylympics, a lively event where the rodents showcase their speed in devouring watermelons, and the Capybara Long Bath showdown, where the capybaras compete to see who can enjoy the longest soak in the bath. For a delightful glimpse of these amusing events, be sure to watch the accompanying videos.
Photo by PR Times
So, why not plan a relaxing day and visit these gentle giants during your next trip? Whether it's summer or winter, you're bound to find them adorable and enjoy this truly unique experience.
FAQ
Are capybaras friendly?
Capybaras are known for their friendly and social nature. As the largest rodents in the world, they are typically quite docile and gentle, which has earned them a reputation for being friendly animals. Capybaras are often seen interacting peacefully with other animals and even with humans in certain settings, like wildlife parks.
In their natural habitat, capybaras are highly social animals that live in groups. They are known to be tolerant of other species and are often seen interacting with birds, fish, and other animals. Their calm demeanor and lack of aggression contribute to their perceived friendliness.
However, as with any wild animal, it's essential to remember that they are not domesticated pets. While they may appear friendly in certain contexts, interactions with capybaras should be approached with caution and respect for the animal's natural behaviors.
Why are capybaras so popular in Japan?
Capybaras have become popular in Japan due to their adorable appearance and gentle nature, which align well with the country's appreciation for cuteness and tranquility. Their relaxed demeanor has captured the interest of the Japanese audience, with their presence in media, including TV shows and social media, further boosting their appeal. Capybaras are featured in zoos and pet cafés, offering unique opportunities for interactive experiences. Their popularity is also influenced by their representation in Japanese pop culture, such as the character Capybara in "Kemono Friends," solidifying their status as beloved animals in Japan.
Where can I pet a capybara Japan?
In Japan, opportunities to pet capybaras can be found in various settings such as zoos, wildlife parks, themed cafes, and petting zoos. These locations offer supervised interactions where visitors can observe and pet these friendly animals up close. Some notable locations for interacting with capybaras include Capyneko Cafe, Nagasaki Biopark, and Sakai Farm, providing visitors with unique and memorable experiences with these charming creatures in a controlled environment.
Why do capybaras like onsen?
Capybaras are attracted to onsen (hot springs) for various reasons, including thermoregulation as they enjoy soaking in water to regulate their body temperature, especially in colder climates. The warm environment of onsen offers relaxation and social bonding opportunities for these social animals, mimicking their natural tendency to gather in groups. Some believe that the minerals and heat in the hot spring water may provide health benefits for capybaras, offering soothing effects and potential relief from muscle aches. Additionally, the mineral-rich water in onsen can be beneficial for their skin health, contributing to their overall well-being. In places like Japan, where capybaras have become popular tourist attractions, their affinity for onsen has added to their charm, creating a unique and heartwarming spectacle for visitors and locals alike.
Does Japan have a capybara cafe?
Yes, although capybara cafes are not as common as some other animal cafes in Japan, there are a couple of capybara cafes that can be enjoyed in the country. One example is Capyneko Cafe, providing visitors with the chance to experience the presence of one of these charming creatures in a cafe setting alongside cats. These unique establishments offer a niche experience for animal lovers who wish to interact with and appreciate capybaras in a cozy and controlled environment while enjoying food or beverages.
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Tokyo,Japan
Assistant editor at MATCHA since 2023, Kate is a photographer who enjoys traveling Japan's hidden gems and adventuring off the beaten path. Living in Japan since 2018, she has traveled across different areas of Japan. From indulging in Aomori’s apple pies and fiery festivals to exploring the quaint charm of Nagasaki’s cat-filled streets she is always searching for new areas full of atmospheric beauty, festivals, and seasonal events to capture on camera.Assistant editor at MATCHA since 2023, Kate is a photographer who enjoys traveling Japan's hidden gems and adventuring off the beaten path.
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