Izu Peninsula Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, food, and culture of Izu Peninsula. Plan your trip with our comprehensive guide.


Introduction to Izu Peninsula

Located in Shizuoka prefecture, in Chubu region, Japan, Izu Peninsula is a popular travel destination for those who seek a retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. The peninsula is known for its natural beauty, hot springs, and cultural attractions.

Visitors to Izu Peninsula can explore mountains, valleys, and lush forests or simply relax at one of the many hot springs. With charming towns and villages, delicious local cuisine and unique cultural experiences, Izu Peninsula is an ideal destination for anyone interested in exploring rural Japan.

List of Places to Visit in Izu Peninsula

Visitors to Izu Peninsula have a wealth of options to explore. From historical sites to stunning natural landscapes to culinary delights, there is something for everyone. Here is a list of must-see attractions in Izu Peninsula.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Shuzenji Niji-no-Sato: This open-air museum showcases the history, culture, and traditional arts of the Japanese countryside.

  2. Tokaido Hiroshige Art Museum: Visitors can explore the life and work of Hiroshige, one of Japan’s most famous woodblock print artists.

  3. Cherry Blossom Viewing at Kakita River: In springtime, visitors flock to the banks of the Kakita River to view the stunning cherry blossoms.

  4. Shuzenji Temple: This temple dates back to the 9th century and is the oldest temple in Izu Peninsula.

Natural Attractions of Izu Peninsula: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Mount Omuro: A volcanic cone shaped like a bowl, Mount Omuro offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Visitors can hike or take a chairlift up to the summit.

  2. Jogasaki Coast: This coastal area offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged cliffs. Visitors can hike or cycle along the coast or take a boat tour.

  3. Kawazu Nanadaru Waterfalls: A series of seven waterfalls, Kawazu Nanadaru is a popular hiking destination.

  4. Atagawa Tropical & Alligator Garden: A unique attraction where visitors can get up close and personal with alligators, tropical birds, and various other creatures.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Izu Peninsula

Izu Peninsula offers a variety of hiking and biking routes that take visitors through stunning natural landscapes. Here are some of the best routes to explore in Izu Peninsula.

  1. Amagi Nature Trail: A hiking trail that takes visitors through the Amagi Mountains.

  2. Izu Velodrome: A biking route that takes visitors through the scenic coastal areas of Izu Peninsula.

  3. Higashi Izu Skyline: A scenic drive through the mountains of Izu Peninsula.

Best Things to Do in Izu Peninsula: Activities and Tours

From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, Izu Peninsula has no shortage of things to see and do. Here are some of the best activities and tours to enjoy in Izu Peninsula.

  1. Hot spring hopping: Izu Peninsula is home to numerous hot springs, and visitors can spend a day or two visiting different baths and relaxing in the soothing waters.

  2. Whale watching: During the winter months, visitors can take a boat tour to see humpback whales in their natural habitat.

  3. Sake tasting: Izu Peninsula is known for its sake, and visitors can tour local breweries and taste different varieties of this traditional Japanese drink.

Week-Long Itinerary for Izu Peninsula

Planning a trip to Izu Peninsula can be overwhelming with so many attractions and activities to choose from. Here is a week-long itinerary for Izu Peninsula that covers some of the most popular sights and experiences.

Day Activities
1 Arrival and check-in at a Hot Springs Ryokan
2 Visit Mount Omuro and Amagi Nature Trail
3 Explore Shimoda and visit the Tokaido Hiroshige Art Museum
4 Take a boat tour along Jogasaki Coast and visit Shuzenji Temple
5 Visit the Cherry Blossom Viewing at Kakita River and Kawazu Nanadaru Waterfalls
6 Attend a sake tasting tour and take a cycling tour of Izu Peninsula
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Izu Peninsula

Izu Peninsula is known for its delicious local cuisine, and visitors can taste a range of traditional and unique dishes. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages in Izu Peninsula.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Wasabi: The spicy root is grown locally in Izu Peninsula, and visitors can taste the fresh wasabi grated on-site in many restaurants.

  2. Sakana no Nitsuke: A local fish dish simmered in soy sauce and sugar.

  3. Fucha Ryori: A traditional vegetarian meal served in Buddhist temples.

Local Beverages

  1. Sake: Izu Peninsula is home to numerous sake breweries, and visitors can taste different varieties of this traditional Japanese drink.

  2. Shochu: A type of Japanese liquor distilled from barley, sweet potatoes, or rice.

Where to Stay in Izu Peninsula: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From luxurious ryokans to budget hostels, Izu Peninsula offers a range of accommodations for all types of travelers. Here are some of the best places to stay in Izu Peninsula.

  1. KAI Ito: A luxury hot springs ryokan located in the coastal town of Ito.

  2. Shimoda Yamatokan: A traditional Japanese inn located in the historic town of Shimoda.

  3. Guest House Inn Matsukaze: A budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of Izu Peninsula.

What to Buy in Izu Peninsula: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Izu Peninsula is known for its unique crafts and local products. Here are some of the best souvenirs to bring home from Izu Peninsula.

  1. Wasabi products: Visitors can purchase fresh wasabi or wasabi-flavored snacks and condiments.

  2. Izu Glassware: Handcrafted glassware made in Izu Peninsula.

  3. Atsuyaki Tamago: A local specialty of Izu Peninsula, a sweet omelet made with locally produced eggs.

Local Culture and Customs of Izu Peninsula

Izu Peninsula has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can learn about traditional Japanese culture and customs during their stay. Here are some of the cultural experiences to explore in Izu Peninsula.

  1. Tea ceremony: Visitors can attend a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at one of the many tea houses in Izu Peninsula.

  2. Ninja Experience: Visitors can learn about the history and mythology of the ninja and even try on ninja costumes.

Best Time to Visit Izu Peninsula

The best time to visit Izu Peninsula is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the foliage is at its peak. However, visitors can enjoy Izu Peninsula’s unique attractions and activities year-round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Izu Peninsula

Do:

  1. Take your shoes off when entering traditional Japanese buildings.

  2. Try the local cuisine and beverages.

  3. Visit a hot spring and relax in the soothing waters.

Don’t:

  1. Wear shoes in hot springs or traditional Japanese buildings.

  2. Ignore the rules and etiquette of traditional Japanese culture.

  3. Be loud or disruptive in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Izu Peninsula

Izu Peninsula is a safe destination for travelers, and visitors can enjoy exploring the area without any concerns. However, visitors should take standard safety precautions like securing valuables and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Izu Peninsula

Visitors to Izu Peninsula should be aware of the risks associated with hot springs, like burns and bacterial infections. They should also take precautions against insect bites and ticks, especially during the summer months.

Getting to Izu Peninsula: Transportation Options and Logistics

Izu Peninsula is easily accessible from Tokyo and other major cities in Japan. Visitors can use a range of transportation options to reach Izu Peninsula.

  1. Train: The most popular and convenient way to reach Izu Peninsula is by train. The Shinkansen stops at Atami and Mishima stations, and visitors can transfer to a local train or bus to reach their destination.

  2. Car: Visitors can rent a car and drive to Izu Peninsula, which offers a scenic drive through mountains and coastal areas.

  3. Bus: There are regular bus services from Tokyo and other major cities in Japan to Izu Peninsula.

Airports Near Izu Peninsula

  1. Tokyo Haneda Airport: Located approximately 120km from Izu Peninsula.

  2. Chubu Centrair International Airport: Located approximately 250km from Izu Peninsula.

Bus Stations Near Izu Peninsula

  1. Tokyo Station: From Tokyo Station, visitors can take a direct bus to Izu Peninsula.

  2. Shinjuku Station: From Shinjuku Station, visitors can take a direct bus to Izu Peninsula.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a ferry to Izu Peninsula from Atami or Shimoda.

How to Get Around in Izu Peninsula

Visitors can use a range of transportation options to get around Izu Peninsula.

  1. Train: The local train network connects major towns and tourist attractions.

  2. Bus: Regular bus services connect most of the towns and tourist attractions.

  3. Taxi: A convenient way to get around, especially for those visiting remote areas and hot springs.

Where to Go Next from Izu Peninsula: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Izu Peninsula is surrounded by other great destinations that visitors can explore. Here are some of the recommended destinations to visit after exploring Izu Peninsula.

  1. Mount Fuji: A visit to Izu Peninsula can be combined with a trip to Mount Fuji, Japan’s iconic mountain, and a famous tourist attraction.

  2. Hakone: Located next to Mount Fuji, Hakone offers stunning views of the mountain and hot springs experiences.

Conclusion

Izu Peninsula offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and delicious local cuisine. From the rugged coastlines to the traditional hot springs, Izu Peninsula is an ideal destination for anyone looking to experience rural Japan. Plan your trip with our comprehensive guide, and enjoy exploring all that Izu Peninsula has to offer.

JR ''Saphir Odoriko'' luxury train on the Izu coast JR ''Saphir Odoriko'' luxury train on the Izu coast Hot springs next to Odaru Waterfall, Kawazu Hot springs next to Odaru Waterfall, Kawazu Wasabi fields in Izu Wasabi fields in Izu


    Ito (Shizuoka)
    Izu
    Kawazu