Capybara in Yilan, Taiwan

In recent years, a surprising animal has taken over the hearts—and social media feeds—of travelers visiting Taiwan: the capybara. Known for their chill demeanor and expressive faces, these gentle creatures have become the unlikely stars of Yilan County.

From countryside farms to stylish Japanese gardens, Yilan offers a uniquely charming environment where visitors can get up close with capybaras in peaceful, nature-filled settings.

Whether you’re an animal lover, a parent planning a family trip, or simply looking for an Instagrammable experience off the beaten path, Yilan’s capybara spots are absolutely worth adding to your Taiwan travel itinerary.

Why Capybaras Captivate Visitors

Capybaras are the world’s largest rodents, but don’t let that title fool you—they are incredibly gentle, social, and endearingly mellow animals. Their calm personality makes them great for human interaction.

Unlike many other animals, capybaras aren’t easily spooked or hyperactive, so visitors can feed them, pet them, and even pose for pictures without stress.

It’s no surprise that capybaras have become a social media sensation. Their laid-back attitude and adorable expressions make them perfect for TikToks and Instagram Reels.

Travelers often share videos of capybaras lounging in hot springs, munching on snacks, or calmly soaking up the sun—content that quickly goes viral and sparks more interest. The rise of slow living and animal therapy experiences has only boosted their appeal.

Capybaras and the Power of Social Media

The explosion of capybara content online has played a huge role in their popularity. Tourists love to share their encounters, whether it’s feeding a capybara for the first time or watching one relax in a hot spring. These clips often go viral on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, turning even more people on to the idea of visiting these friendly animals in person.

Hashtags like #Capybara, #YilanCapybara, and #慢活 (slow living) continue to trend, showing how capybaras fit perfectly into Taiwan’s growing love for slow, nature-based travel experiences. With mental wellness and mindful tourism becoming more popular post-pandemic, capybaras are the perfect animal ambassadors for peaceful getaways.

Best Places to See Capybaras in Yilan

Whether you’re petting one for the first time or just enjoying their mellow energy, you’ll leave feeling more relaxed and probably with a few adorable photos to share. Capybaras have quietly become one of Taiwan’s most beloved animal experiences—and Yilan is the best place to meet them.

Zhang Mei Ama’s Farm (Yilan)

Zhang Mei Ama’s Farm (Zhang Mei Grandma Farm)—featuring the charming Yue Sen Ning Handmade Workshop—is a countryside paradise where you can interact with adorable animals, walk through a peaceful Japanese-style garden, and enjoy hands-on DIY experiences. Whether you’re traveling with kids, a partner, or friends, this farm offers a heartwarming rural escape that’s both educational and photogenic.

What to Expect

Animal Encounters

The farm is home to a variety of friendly animals that kids and adults alike will love:

Deer – gentle and approachable
Capybaras – everyone’s favorite chill animal
Alpacas – fluffy and photogenic
Rabbits, kangaroos, and sheep – perfect for feeding and petting

Japanese Garden & Kimono Rental

The farm includes a stunning 400-square-meter Japanese-style garden, complete with a red torii gate, mini shrine, and tranquil landscaping. You can rent a kimono and stroll through the gardens for a peaceful, Instagram-worthy experience.

DIY Craft & Food Experiences

Zhang Mei Ama’s Farm offers various hands-on workshops including:

Make-your-own taro balls
Traditional snacks like scallion pancakes, red bean cakes, and rice rolls
Seasonal DIY experiences like mochi pounding and handmade jelly

There’s also a vegetable picking experience, where you can harvest fresh produce straight from the farm.

Opening Hours

Weekdays: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Weekends & Holidays: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Wednesdays (Environmental disinfection): ~ 14:00 (subject to change – check their social media for updates)

Ticket Information

General Admission (Age 5+): NT$200 (includes snacks and animal feed)
Children (2–4 years old): NT$50
Under 2 years: Free
Yilan Zhang Mei Grandma Farm Tickets

DIY Combo Ticket (Age 4+): NT$350 (includes animal zone + DIY experience)
DIY activities must be booked in advance (here).

Location

Address: No. 161, Section 2, Xingjianxi 1st Rd, Sanxing Township, Yilan County
In Chinese: 宜蘭縣三星鄉行健溪一路二段161號

How to Get to Zhang Mei Ama’s Farm

By Train + Bus:

Take the TRA train to Luodong Station.
From the station, take bus 1794 to Fuxing stop (復興站), then walk 3 minutes.
Alternatively, bus 1792 to Tianxinzi stop, then walk ~15 minutes.

Bambi Land (Yilan)

Often referred to as “Taiwan’s Little Nara,” Bambi Land (斑比山丘) is a charming zoo that’s home to friendly sika deer, capybaras, and other docile animals, making it a perfect destination for families, couples, and animal lovers. A rural retreat in Yilan, Bambi Land combines adorable wildlife, lighthearted traditions, and tranquil scenery.

What to Expect

Interact with Sika Deer

The star attraction here is undoubtedly the sika deer, which roam freely in a safe, enclosed area where guests can interact, pet, and feed them. Visitors receive a feeding voucher with their ticket and can purchase extra treats like heart-shaped carrots for a small fee.

Meet Other Friendly Animals

Besides deer, you’ll also meet:

Capybaras – calm, adorable, and a hit with both kids and adults
Miniature donkeys – sweet and gentle companions with names like Nini and Nana
Occasionally, you may spot other small animals enjoying their day in the sun.

Opening Hours

Weekdays: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Weekends & Public Holidays: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Last Entry: 4:30 PM

Ticket Information

Regular Admission (ages 6 and up): NT$200 (includes one deer feed voucher)
Children (ages 6–12), Seniors (65+), or Visitors with Disability ID: NT$50
Children under 6: Free
Bambi Land Ticket in Yilan

Location

Address: No. 285, Lower Meihua Lake Road, Dongshan Township, Yilan County
In Chinese: 宜蘭縣冬山鄉下湖路285號

How to Get to Bambi Land

By Train and Bus:

Take a TRA train to Luodong Station.From the station, board bus 281 and get off at Hengzun Intersection (橫圳路口).
The farm is a short 10-minute walk from the stop.

Xingmeng Forest Theater (Yilan)

Xingmeng Forest Theater (星夢森林劇場) is often called one of the most beautiful animal-themed parks in the area, this spot isn’t just a petting zoo—it’s a fully immersive countryside experience. Think gentle wildlife, nature trails, themed decor, and playful attractions that both kids and adults can enjoy.

What to Expect

Meet the Animals

One of the main draws here is the chance to interact with friendly animals in thoughtfully designed enclosures. Some of the park’s popular residents include:

Capybaras – gentle, social animals you can pet and even “shake hands” with
Alpacas – always a crowd favorite for their cute looks and calm demeanor
Sika deer – elegant and tame, great for photo opportunities
Giant tortoises – slow but fascinating to observe
Mara – a rare animal that looks like a mix between a rabbit and a deer
Goats (Nubian and Pygmy) – playful and perfect for younger visitors to feed

Family Fun & Attractions

Beyond the animals, there’s a lot more to explore:

Miniature Train Ride – A scenic ride that’s perfect for young children
Outdoor Play Zones – Including inflatables, ride-on toys, and small games
Splash Pad/Water Play Area – A favorite during warmer months

Opening Hours

Daily: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Last entry: 4:30 PM
Closed: Every third Wednesday of the month (subject to change, especially for holidays)

Ticket Information

Adults & kids age 6+: NT$220, (Weekends/holidays: NT$230)
Children aged 2–4: NT$50
Seniors (65+): NT$150
Xingmeng Forest Theater Ticket in Yilan

Location

Address: No. 323, Jing’an 2nd Road, Dongshan Township, Yilan County, Taiwan
In Chinese: 宜蘭縣冬山鄉境安二路323號

How to Get to Xingmeng Forest Theater

By Train + Bus:

Take the TRA train to Luodong Station
From Luodong, catch a local bus (e.g., Route 1817 or 1818) and get off at Jing’an 2nd Road (靜安二路)
From the stop, it’s a short walk to the park

Alternatively, renting a car or scooter offers more flexibility if you’re visiting multiple Yilan attractions.

Lanyang Animal and Plant Kingdom (Yilan)

Lanyang Animal and Plant Kingdom (蘭陽動植物王國) is a fresh addition to the region’s family-friendly attractions—a large, thoughtfully designed park where animals, plants, and interactive activities come together in a relaxed, eco-friendly setting. It offers a peaceful rural atmosphere with hands-on experiences for kids and adults alike.

Drawing inspiration from Japan’s Kobe Animal Kingdom, this park features both indoor and outdoor zones, making it an ideal destination no matter the weather. With its kangaroo-themed area, Japanese-style aesthetic, and a strong focus on environmental education, it’s more than just a petting zoo—it’s a place to connect with nature and learn while having fun.

What to Expect

Up-Close Animal Experiences

At the heart of the park are a variety of approachable animals that guests can meet up close. Some of the stars include:

Kangaroos – Step into Taiwan’s first kangaroo interaction area and watch or gently feed these laid-back animals.
Capybaras – Calm and friendly, perfect for kids to gently pet.
Alpacas & Sika Deer – Fluffy and photogenic, these animals are a hit for photo ops.
Giant Tortoises & Mara – Great for curious kids interested in unusual animals.
Nubian and Pygmy Goats – Playful and lively, these goats love attention.

Nature & Culture Activities

Besides animal encounters, the park is packed with hands-on and educational elements:

Plant Education Zone – Learn about native Taiwanese plant life in a fun, accessible way.
DIY Workshops – Try your hand at making snowflake ice, or take part in seasonal arts and crafts.
Japanese-Inspired Areas – Explore themed zones with hot spring-style baths and traditional cultural touches like kimono photo areas.
Kangaroo Shrine – A playful, Instagram-worthy corner where you can leave a wish and take cute themed photos.

Opening Hours

Weekdays: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Weekends & Public Holidays: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed: Every third Wednesday of the month (for animal care and maintenance)

Ticket Information

Adults & children over 6: NT$280
children (2–12): NT$180
Kids under 90 cm / under 2 years old: Free
Yilan Lanyang Animal and Plant Kingdom Tickets

Location

Address: No. 62-13, Hongye Road, Zhuangwei Township, Yilan County
In Chinese: 宜蘭縣壯圍鄉紅葉路62-13號

How to Get to Lanyang Animal and Plant Kingdom

By Train + Bus

Take the TRA train to Luodong Station.
From there, hop on a local bus (routes like 1787 or 791) to Zhuangwei Bridge (壯圍大橋) stop.
It’s just a short walk from the stop to the park.

Alternatively, the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle (Zhuangwei Sand Dunes Line) also gets you close, stopping at the Zhuangwei Visitor Center, about a 10-minute walk away.

Homing Farm (Yilan)

Homing Farm (回巢農場) offers a unique blend of Western Wild West aesthetics and interactive animal experiences. The farm’s design features elements such as horse-drawn carts, cacti, and rustic structures, creating a charming and photogenic environment. Since its expansion in 2024, the farm has introduced new attractions, including capybaras, tortoises, and parrots, enhancing its appeal as a family-friendly destination.

What to Expect

Animal Encounters

Homing Farm is home to a variety of animals that visitors can interact with:

Capybaras: These gentle creatures are a highlight of the farm, offering visitors a chance to feed and observe them up close.
Tortoises: The farm houses large tortoises, including the Aldabra giant tortoise, providing a unique opportunity to learn about these ancient reptiles.
Parrots: Visitors can engage in feeding sessions with parrots, adding an interactive element to the experience.
Guinea Pigs: Housed in a cozy indoor space, these small rodents are a hit with children.
Meerkats: These curious animals add a touch of excitement as they interact with visitors.
Dwarf Sheep: Visitors can feed and pet these friendly animals, making for memorable interactions.

Western Wild West-Themed Environment

The farm’s design incorporates elements reminiscent of the American Wild West, including:

Horse-Drawn Carts: Visitors can take photos with these vintage carts, adding to the Western ambiance.
Cacti and Rocky Terrain: The landscape features cacti and rocky paths, enhancing the desert-like atmosphere.
Moeai Statues: Scattered throughout the farm, these statues provide unique photo opportunities.

Opening Hours

Monday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed: Every Wednesday for maintenance and animal care.

Ticket Information

General Admission: NT$200, which includes three types of animal feed and a choice of a drink or souvenir.
Children under 100 cm: Free admission.
Yilan Homing Farm Ticket

Location

Address: No. 18-17, Dazang Road, Jiaoxi Township, Yilan County
In Chunese: 宜蘭縣礁溪鄉大塭路18-17號

How to Get to Homing Farm

By Train + Bus

Train: Take the TRA to Jiaoxi Station.
From Jiaoxi, catch a local bus 113 and get off at Daejeon Road 2 (大塭路2)
From the stop, it’s a short walk to the farm

Grandpa Deer Farm (Yilan)

Yilan Grandpa Deer Park (鹿爺爺農場) is a warm and welcoming deer park that gives you the opportunity to get up close and personal with gentle animals such as deer and capybaras while enjoying a peaceful environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

What to Expect

Animal Encounters

The main highlight here is, of course, the animals! Grandpa Deer Farm is home to:

Sika Deer – Calm, friendly, and very photogenic. You can hand-feed them with grass or carrots.
Capybaras – These large, chill creatures are always a hit with visitors.
Meerkats – Curious and quick, they love to peek out and interact from their enclosures.
Miniature Sheep – Playful and energetic, especially fun for children.
Tortoises – Slow-moving but fascinating, offering a peaceful contrast to the other animals.

Farm Atmosphere

The farm is clean, well-organized, and built for a pleasant visitor experience:

Paved walkways for strollers and easy walking
Covered rest areas for shade and comfort
Interactive feeding zones clearly marked for safety and fun

Opening Hours

Open daily: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed every Tuesday for rest and animal care

Ticket Information

Adults: NT$200 (includes animal feed + snack voucher)
Seniors (65+): NT$150
Children (2–4 years old): NT$50
Children under 2: Free
Additional animal feed can be purchased for NT$30.
Yilan Grandpa Deer Farm Admission Ticket

Location

Address: No. 60-1, Dongxing Road, Sanxing Township, Yilan County
宜蘭縣三星鄉東興路60之一號

How to Get to Yilan Grandpa Deer Farm

By Train + Bus

Take a TRA train to Luodong Station
Catch a local bus(1792, 1793, or 1798)
The farm is a short walk from nearby bus stops

Shu Lan Restaurant (Sloth Restaurant) (Yilan)

Shu Lan Restaurant (Sloth Restaurant/樹懶餐廳), also known as Cute Pet Paradise (萌寵樂園), is a cozy and fun spot that combines a petting farm experience with a stylish café environment. It’s an ideal destination for families, couples, and anyone who loves animals—especially the laid-back charm of sloths. Set in a nature-inspired space, this pet-themed café is more than just a restaurant.

What to Expect

Animal Encounters

True to its name, the star residents of the café are the sloths, known for their calm and gentle personalities. But they’re not the only ones here! The animal zone is home to several friendly creatures:

Sloths – Watch them slowly move, hang from branches, or nap peacefully.
Capybaras – Social, mellow, and surprisingly cuddly.
Rabbits, guinea pigs, and meerkats – Ideal for kids who want to interact closely.
Mini goats and turtles – Gentle animals that add to the fun variety.

Dining with a View

The restaurant features:

A bright, open interior with large windows overlooking the animal zones
A menu that includes Western-style brunches, pastas, burgers, desserts, and beverages
It’s a place where you can enjoy your meal while watching animals roam just outside the glass—calm and entertaining all at once.

Opening Hours

Weekdays: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday & Sunday: 8:30 AM–5 PM

Ticket Information

Admission is required for entry, and it includes access to the animal area:

General Admission (ages 5–64): NT$200 (includes animal feed)
Seniors (65+): NT$150
Children (ages 2–4): NT$50
Children under 2: Free
Sloth Restaurant (Admission Ticket to Pet Paradise)

If you order a main course, you can add NT$100 to enter the farm (includes animal feed)

Location

Address: No. 78, Wanfu 7th Road, Sanxing Township, Yilan County
In Chinese: 宜蘭縣三星鄉萬富七路78號

How to Get to Sloth Restaurant (Pet Paradise)

By Train + Bus

Take a TRA train to Luodong Station
Catch a local bus(1792, 1793, or 1798)
The farm is a short walk from nearby bus stops

Discover Dancewoods Japanese Garden Theme Park (Yilan)

Dancewoods Japanese Garden Theme Park is an immersive experience inspired by the elegance and tranquility of a traditional Japanese garden. Kimonos can be rented and photos taken as many times as you like. The tranquil koi pond, quaint wooden bridges and seasonal flowers transport visitors to the heart of Japan.

What to Expect

Traditional Japanese Garden Design

Dancewoods is designed with careful attention to detail, bringing iconic elements of Japanese garden aesthetics to life:

Calm koi ponds filled with colorful fish
Arched bridges over flowing streams
Zen-inspired rock gardens and winding stone paths
Traditional structures like tea houses and torii gates

Animal Encounters

The park also includes small animal zones, such as:

Capybara, Alpaca, Meerkat, Call Duck, Sheep (Black RURU CAFE), Sika Deer

Note: This is mainly a park with kimono experience and Japanese landscape, with relatively few animal species. If you want to see more animals and interact with them, it is recommended to go to other farms.

Cultural Activities & Workshops

To make your visit even more immersive, Dancewoods offers a variety of hands-on cultural experiences:

Kimono rental – Dress up in elegant Japanese outfits for stunning photo ops
Tea ceremony sessions – Learn the ritual of Japanese tea preparation and appreciation
Calligraphy & flower arrangement – Join creative workshops for a taste of Japanese tradition

Opening Hours

April to October: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM)
November to March: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM)

Ticket Information

General admission: NT$300
Students: NT$270
Children (age 6–12) / Seniors (65+): NT$250
Children (age 3–6): NT$100
Dancewoods Japanese Garden Theme Park Ticket

Each ticket includes a NT$100 voucher you can use on food or drinks inside the park.

Location

Address: No. 459, Section 2, Wubin Road, Wujie Township, Yilan County
In Chinese: 宜蘭縣五結鄉五濱路二段459號

How to Get to Dancewoods Japanese Garden Theme Park

By Train + Bus

Take a train to Luodong Station
From there, take a local taxi or bus (621 or 1791) to Wubin Road
The park is within walking distance from the bus stop

Other capybara farms in Taiwan

Paradise of Capybara (Pingtung)

Paradise of Capybara (墾丁鹿ㄦ島水豚生態園區) is a delightful animal eco-park where you can meet friendly animals—including Taiwan’s first capybara swimming experience. Paradise of Capybara is one of Kenting’s most charming attractions—ideal for a slow-paced, feel-good afternoon. Whether you’re floating in a pool with capybaras or feeding deer and rabbits, the park offers a peaceful experience that’s fun, family-friendly, and just the right kind of quirky.

What to Expect

Swim with Capybaras

This park is famous for its unique feature: the Capybara Swimming Pool. You’ll have the chance to wade into the water and swim beside these gentle animals in a safe, controlled setting. Sessions are available three times daily and last 30 minutes each. It’s calm, relaxing, and incredibly cute.

Just make sure to bring your own swimsuit, towel, and a change of clothes. To keep the animals safe, you’ll be asked to wear protective clothing provided by the park.

Instagrammable Decor

The entrance features a striking red Japanese-style torii gate, creating a “mini Japan” vibe. The entire park blends traditional design with nature, making it just as fun for taking photos as it is for meeting animals.

Opening Hours

Open every day: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Last entry: 5:00 PM

Tip: Arrive early if you want to join the capybara swim session—it fills up quickly.

Ticket Information

General admission: NT$200
Children under 6: Free (must be accompanied by an adult)
Capybara Swimming Session: NT$800 per person (must be booked separately)
Tickets for Kenting Luyu Island Capybara Ecological Park

Booking ahead is strongly recommended for swimming sessions as spots are limited.

Location

Address: No. 275-1, Shengbei Road, Hengchun Township, Pingtung County, Taiwan
This spot is just a short ride from Kenting’s main beach area.

How to Get to Paradise of Capybara

By Public Transport

From Kaohsiung:

Take the High-Speed Rail (HSR) to Zuoying Station.
Transfer to the Kenting Express Bus (Route 9189) to Hengchun Transfer Station.
Walk about 5 minutes to reach the park.

From Kenting Street:

Take the local bus (8239) and get off at Zili Stop. It’s a quick 3-minute walk from there.

Paradise of Deer (Pingtung)

Paradise of Deer (屏東墾丁鹿境梅花鹿生態園區) is a peaceful, family-friendly attraction that’s easy to add to any Kenting itinerary. Whether you’re feeding gentle deer, watching capybaras chill in the sun, or snapping photos in a quiet, green space, this little slice of nature offers a great break from the usual tourist crowds. It’s a fun, calming, and hands-on way to connect with animals while enjoying the outdoors.

What to Expect

Get Up Close with Sika Deer

The highlight of the park is its population of friendly, free-roaming sika deer. Once inside, visitors are given food pellets so they can hand-feed the deer—an experience that’s fun, safe, and ideal for photos. The deer are used to being around people and are gentle when approaching for treats. Just follow the simple safety instructions, and you’re guaranteed a heartwarming interaction.

Capybaras Too

In addition to the deer, the park also has some laid-back capybaras lounging in their own area. You can watch them relax or join a scheduled feeding session if you’d like a closer look at the world’s largest rodents.

Note: According to the on-site announcement, you can queue up to enter (15 minutes) the capybara area for close interaction every few hours. The area will be cleared when the time is up, and you can queue up again when waiting for the next capybara period. The sika deer and capybara areas can enter and exit each other at intervals

Opening Hours

Open Daily: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Last Entry: 4:30 PM

Ticket Information

Regular Admission: NT$250
Discount Ticket: NT$100 (for kids 6–12, seniors over 65, and those with disability ID)
Free Entry: Kids under 6

Location

Address: No. 1097-1, Henggong Road, Hengchun Township, Pingtung County
In Chinese: 屏東縣恆春鎮恆公路1097-1號

How to Get to Paradise of Deer

From Kaohsiung:

Take the HSR (High-Speed Rail) to Zuoying Station.
Transfer to the Kenting Express Bus (No. 9189) to Hengchun Transfer Station.
Walk around 5 minutes from the station to the park.

From Kenting Town:

Take a local bus (9117 or 9188) to CHT Hengchun (Telecommunication).
The park is just a short walk from there.

Capybara Knight (New Taipei)

Capybara Knight (水豚騎士) offers visitors the rare chance to hang out with some of the chillest animals on earth—capybaras—while enjoying drinks, snacks, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Combining a small petting zoo experience with a creative café, Capybara Knight is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a memorable, heartwarming visit.

What to Expect

The café’s main attractions are Bala and Gabi, the two resident capybaras. These relaxed and friendly animals love human interaction—whether it’s being gently fed, petted, or simply observed as they laze around. During designated time slots, guests can feed them hay and spend quality time with them.

Opening Hours

Daily: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, and 2:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Closed: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM daily (for cleaning and animal rest)

Ticket Information

Minimum spend: Weekdays NT$200 or weekends NT$250/per person (kids under 6 are exempt)
Capybara interaction: NT$100 for 15 minutes
Animal feed: NT$50 per portion

Advance reservations are strongly recommended (here), especially on weekends, to ensure you get a time slot for the capybara experience.

Note: This is mainly a restaurant, and there are relatively few animal species. If you want to see more animals and interact with them, it is recommended to go to other farms.

Location

Address: No. 18, Lane 2, Alley 61, Yuanlin Street, Tucheng District, New Taipei City
In Chinese: 新北市土城區員林街61巷2弄18號

How to Get to Capybara Knight

By MRT

Take the Bannan Line (Blue Line) to Tucheng Station. From there, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the café.