Top 18 Recommended Popular Tourist Spots in Historic Izu! From Beaches to Hot Springs and Breathtaking Scenic Spots

Izu's Must-Visit Classic Tourist Spots - The first on our list are the essential tourist spots you should visit in Izu.

Kiun-Kaku (Kiun Pavilion)

Built in 1919 as a villa, Kiun-Kaku was known as one of Atami's three famous villas. Since 1947, it has been operating as a ryokan (traditional inn) and was cherished by renowned literary figures such as Osamu Dazai and Naoya Shiga. Now under the ownership of Atami City, the precious interior and gardens of Kiun-Kaku are open for public visits. The attraction lies in its architectural beauty, combining elements from Japan, China, and Europe. Particularly impressive is the Western-style mansion with its captivating Taisho Romantic interior. The stained glass ceilings and windows, along with the colorful decorations in the Art Deco style, are simply delightful. Don't miss the well-designed garden, which offers different perspectives of the building from various angles.

• Location: 4-2 Showa-cho, Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture
• Access: 20-minute walk from Atami Station, or a 9-minute bus ride from Atami Station, get off at Kiun-Kaku-mae

Kinomiya Shrine

Known as a power spot in Atami, Kinomiya Shrine's lush surroundings are dominated by a more than 2000-year-old "Dai-Kusu" camphor tree, boasting the largest size in Honshu. Legend has it that this giant tree grants blessings such as longevity and wish fulfillment. The shrine area offers many rest spots, including "Torii no Musubiha" near the torii gate, where you can find a variety of menu options, including roasted barley soft-serve ice cream, fresh fruit juice, sake offerings, and local beer. The spacious teahouse provides a relaxing atmosphere to unwind. In the evenings until 11 PM, a beautiful light-up event takes place, transforming the shrine into a romantic wonderland, offering a serene and enchanting experience.

• Location: 43-1 Nishiyama-cho, Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture
• Access: Approximately 5-minute walk from Kinomiya Station, or about 2 minutes by taxi

Bamboo Forest Path (Shuzenji Onsen)

Located in the Shuzenji Onsen town, the "Bamboo Forest Path" is an approximately 300-meter-long scenic promenade that captivates visitors with its photogenic views. Often called "Izu's Little Kyoto," the path is brimming with traditional Japanese elegance and charm. In the center of the path, you'll find a round bamboo bench, allowing you to relax while enjoying the soothing rustling sounds of the bamboo. Just a minute's walk from the Bamboo Forest Path is the brilliant vermilion "Kei-kyo Bridge," which is also worth visiting. The evening light-up is popular, transforming the atmosphere into a mystical wonderland.

For those who want to immerse themselves further in the Japanese ambiance, renting a kimono or yukata and strolling leisurely through the town is highly recommended. With a selection of around 150 yukatas and kimonos available for rent, the plan includes dressing assistance and convenient luggage storage services.

• Location: 1031-1 Shuzenji, Izu City, Shizuoka Prefecture
• Access: Approximately 8-minute bus ride from Shuzenji Station, get off at Shuzenji Onsen, then a 5-minute walk

Lover's Cape

Overlooking Suruga Bay, "Lover's Cape" is a renowned tourist spot known as a place for couples to confirm their love. On the spacious observation deck at the tip of the cape, there is a bell called "Love Call Bell." Legend has it that ringing this bell three times with your partner will bring eternal love. The panoramic view from the hilltop is also unmissable. On clear days, you can even catch sight of Mt. Fuji. With benches available, you can take your time and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

There is a free parking lot near the cape, and from there, a paved promenade takes about 700 meters to reach the observation deck. Keep in mind that the path has ups and downs, so it's best to avoid wearing high heels.

At the entrance of the promenade, you'll find "Lover's Cape Terrace House," where you can find souvenirs and love prayer ema (wooden plaques). "Koi-bito-Misaki's Kimi Dake Pudding," a pudding made from Izu eggs and milk without additives, is a recommended treat to enjoy for yourself or as a souvenir.

• Location: 3135-7 Oshioda, Izu City, Shizuoka Prefecture
• Access: Approximately 70-minute bus ride from Shuzenji Station, get off at Koi-bito-Misaki

Joren Falls

The largest waterfall in Izu, "Joren Falls," offers an impressive 25-meter vertical drop and a width of about 7 meters. Selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls and famously mentioned in the enka song "Amagi-Goe," the falls have become well-known for their beauty. The area around the falls is abundant with "Haikomoji-Shida" ferns, a natural monument that is quite rare and only found in southern Kyushu and the Izu Peninsula. Surrounded by primeval forest, the waterfall exudes a mystical atmosphere that has charmed people for ages. It's a cool spot even during summer and an excellent area for fishing as well.

Near the waterfall, you'll find plenty of wasabi fields. At the "Jonen Falls Tourist Center," you can enjoy the famous "Wasabi Soft-Serve Ice Cream" and explore various other sweets and souvenirs made with wasabi.

• Location: 892-14 Yugashima, Izu City, Shizuoka Prefecture
• Access: Approximately 50-minute bus ride from Kawazu Station

Must-Visit Scenic Spots in Izu

Let's introduce some spots in Izu where you can enjoy unique and breathtaking views.

Oomuroyama (Mt. Oomuro)

As a symbolic presence in Izu, Mt. Oomuro is a famous mountain that offers a vast panoramic view. It has been designated as a national natural monument. With an elevation of 580 meters, you can reach the mountaintop in about 6 minutes using the lift.

The "Ohachi Meguri" trail, which circles a volcanic crater with a diameter of about 1,000 meters, provides a stunning 360-degree view, including Mt. Fuji, the Izu Islands, and on clear days, you can even see Tokyo Skytree and Yokohama Landmark Tower. The scenery from the mountaintop is exhilarating. It takes about 20 to 30 minutes to complete the walk, making it an easy and enjoyable hiking experience.

Mt. Oomuro is also famous as a power spot, and you can find "Sengen Shrine" and stone Buddha statues with blessings for safe childbirth and marriage. At the crater, you can also try archery. The mountaintop shop offers soft-serve ice cream and a new specialty called "Dango" (rice dumplings) along with other snacks and light meals.

• Location: 672-2 Ike, Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture
• Access: About 40 minutes by bus from Ito Station, get off at Shaboten Koen Station

Shirahama Ohama Beach

Located along the national highway in Shimoda, "Shirahama Ohama Beach" is famous for being one of the most beautiful beaches on the Izu Peninsula. It features a stretch of about 800 meters of white sandy beach and crystal-clear blue waters, creating a tropical atmosphere that seems out of place for mainland Shizuoka Prefecture. The high water transparency and stable waves make it a popular spot for surfing.

The sight of the bright red torii gate of "Shirahama Shrine" seen from the beach is also impressive, with the contrast between the vibrant red gate and the sea and sky capturing the hearts of many visitors.

While there are no beachside facilities, restaurants are available along the national highway. You can also rent parasols, summer hats, floats, bodyboards, and more. There are over 10 parking lots along the national highway, and paid hot showers are also available.

• Location: Shirahama, Shimoda City, Shizuoka Prefecture
• Access: About 15 minutes by bus from Shimoda Station

Joga-shima Coast

Located within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, "Joga-shima Coast" is a popular tourist spot in East Izu. Formed by lava from a volcanic eruption 4,000 years ago, this coastline features rugged cliffs, making it distinctive. It offers a 9-kilometer-long picnic course and nature research trails, providing a relaxing stroll.

The highlight of Joga-shima Coast is the 48-meter-long, 23-meter-high "Monwaki Suspension Bridge." Despite its height, the bridge is sturdy and well-maintained, allowing visitors to cross with confidence. The sight of the crashing waves against the rocks is impressive. Crossing the suspension bridge allows you to walk closer to the cliffs along the rocky shore, but be aware that some areas can be difficult to walk on, so it's recommended to wear sneakers.

From the observation deck at "Monwaki Lighthouse" at the end of the walking path, you can enjoy views of the sky-blue sea and a dynamic horizon. *Currently, Monwaki Lighthouse is closed.

• Location: Tofu, Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture
• Access: About 35 minutes on foot from Joga-shima Coast Station

Dougasima Tensoudo (Dougasima Sky Cave)

"Dougasima Tensoudo," one of the top scenic spots in West Izu, is a designated natural monument since 1935 and a famous tourist spot known as the "Blue Cave" of Japan. To explore the cave thoroughly, we recommend taking a pleasure boat or cruise tour from "Dougasima Marine." The "Dougasima Cruise" allows you to see not only the cave but also islands and unique rock formations, including "Sanshiro Island," which looks different depending on the angle.

The cave has three entrances, with the southern entrance being 147 meters long. As you venture deeper into the cave, you'll come across a hole in the ceiling that lets sunlight shine through onto the sea surface. The sight of sunlight reflecting on the emerald green sea, which varies depending on the season and wave conditions, creates a fantastic atmosphere.

• Location: Nishina, Kamo District, Nishi Izu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture
• Access: About 1 hour 45 minutes by bus from Shuzenji Station to Matsuza, then immediately get off at Dougasima.

Popular Tourist Spots in Izu That Have Been Making Waves

Let me introduce some spots in Izu that have been attracting attention for their photogenic landscapes.

MOA Museum of Art

The MOA Museum of Art is known for its modern architecture and houses a collection of Japanese paintings, valuable artworks, and sculptures. One highlight is the "Golden Tearoom," a reproduction of a tearoom where Toyotomi Hideyoshi once held tea ceremonies. The splendid and ornate interior, unique to the Momoyama period, is truly impressive.

In addition to paintings, there is a "Noh Theater" where you can enjoy traditional performing arts, and concerts and lectures, including classical music performances, are also held.

The open and spacious main lobby, predominantly white in color, offers a magnificent view of Sagami Bay, providing a stylish atmosphere.

The facility also includes cafes and restaurants perfect for breaks. Among them, I highly recommend the "La Pâtisserie du musée par Toshi Yoroizuka," a sweets shop by the world-renowned patissier Toshihiko Yoroizuka. You can enjoy visually and gastronomically beautiful sweets that resemble works of art.

• Location: 1027-8 Kamitaga, Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture
• Access: About 15 minutes by Tokai Bus bound for "Amadome," get off at Acao Forest

ACAO FOREST (Formerly Akaō Herb & Rose Garden)

ACAO FOREST is a facility where you can enjoy a panoramic view of colorful flowers and the sea. It features 13 different gardens, from a rose garden with over 600 varieties to a Japanese garden adorned with giant bonsai.

One of the popular spots gaining attention as a scenic cafe is "COEDA HOUSE" located on a hilltop. With its glass exterior and warm wooden interior, it blends harmoniously with the blue sky. The cafe menu is extensive, including original baumkuchen and ice cream made from milk sourced from local farms. You can enjoy your meal inside the cafe or take it out and relax on the terrace while admiring the view.

• Location: 1027-8 Kamitaga, Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture
• Access: About 15 minutes by Tokai Bus bound for "Amadome," get off at Acao Forest

Ryugu Cave

Ryugu Cave is a popular tourist spot in southern Izu that has been attracting attention. It is a sea cave called "kaishoku-do" that has been eroded by the waves, and its unique atmosphere with an open ceiling is captivating.

From the parking lot, you can walk down the stairs and get close to the cave, allowing you to look up at the sky from below. The combination of the transparent emerald green sea and the enormous cave with a diameter of about 50 meters creates a feeling of viewing an artwork.

There is a promenade above the cave that allows you to stroll around and overlook the cave's ceiling. The view from above reveals a skylight in the shape of a heart, making it a popular spot for taking picturesque photos. Listening to the gentle sound of the waves, you can find solace in the embrace of nature.

• Location: Tagyu, Shimoda City, Shizuoka Prefecture
• Access: About 20 minutes by bus from Shimoda Station, get off at Maeno Hama and walk for about 3 minutes

Attention-Worthy Gourmet Spots in Izu Tourism

Let me introduce some popular local restaurants and hidden gem eateries in Izu.

Restaurant Takara-tei

Restaurant Takara-tei is a beloved establishment that has been serving Western-style cuisine in Atami since the Showa era. With its nostalgic atmosphere exuding from the exterior and scattered decorations that evoke a retro feel, this restaurant is a hit among locals.

Their signature dish, Katsu Curry, is a must-try. Made with high-quality pork sourced from Shizuoka Prefecture, a soup base simmered with pork bones, and the restaurant's special blend of spices, this curry has gained popularity among the locals. The juicy cutlet and rich curry sauce are its standout features.

Another popular item on the menu is the Hayashi Rice, made with 100% Japanese beef. It is a dish that highlights the flavors of vegetables and fruits, with a subtle sweetness derived from the use of red wine in the finishing touch. Take your time to savor the flavors of this dish with a history of over 70 years in a retro setting.

• Location: 5-10 Ginza-cho, Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture
• Access: About a 12-minute walk from Kami-Miya Station, About a 13-minute walk from Atami Station

Fujiichi

Fujiichi is a long-established seafood restaurant in Ito. The first floor houses a dried fish shop, while the second floor is a restaurant where you can enjoy fresh seafood dishes. One of its appealing features is that each table has a grill, allowing you to enjoy yakiniku-style cooking to your liking.

The recommended menu item is the Fujiichi Omakase Don, a rice bowl filled with carefully selected and fresh seafood. Not only is it delicious, but it also offers a visually appealing and satisfying dish with its generous portion.

In addition to rice bowls, the restaurant offers popular set meals. With a wide variety of options such as sashimi, grilled squid, horse mackerel sashimi, and tempura, you'll find yourself spoiled for choice. They also have a selection of à la carte dishes and a range of beers and alcoholic beverages. Located within walking distance from Ito Onsen, it's the perfect place to enjoy the blessings of the sea after a hot spring tour. Keep in mind that it's a popular restaurant with potential lines, so arriving early is recommended.

Vegetable Sommelier's Café & Restaurant Kaze no Uta

Nestled in the lush greenery of Izukogen, Vegetable Sommelier's Café & Restaurant Kaze no Uta is a restaurant where you can enjoy homemade dishes that are gentle to your body, made with plenty of local specialties such as Koshihikari rice produced in a clear stream and carefully cultivated vegetables. They use only pesticide-free vegetables and cook with spring water from the mountains, pursuing safety and peace of mind to the utmost.

The limited daily lunch set includes a main dish, salad, boiled egg, four vegetable dishes, miso soup, and coffee. The content varies depending on the season, allowing you to enjoy seasonal ingredients. They also offer course meals that require reservations made three days in advance, as well as a "Chiffon Roll Cake Set" made with fruits, which is highly recommended. They also sell vegetable buns and red bean paste-filled buns.

• Location: 267-11 Tojiashi, Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture

Izu Girls' Trip! Recommended Trendy Cafes

Let me introduce some stylish cafes in Izu where you can enjoy delicious sweets and bread while immersing in a pleasant atmosphere.

Bakery & Table Sweets Izu

Bakery & Table Sweets Izu is a café that opened in June 2020 within the Izu Hotel Resort & Spa. It offers a superb location with a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean. It's recommended for those who want to savor a luxurious atmosphere and enjoy the scenery.

In addition to bread, the café serves cakes and sweets made with seasonal ingredients. They also have an enticing lunch menu that includes the hotel's original pizzas, curries, and more. The "Foot Bath Terrace," a unique feature of hot spring areas, is also popular. You can enjoy the foot bath of Atagawa Onsen while marveling at the breathtaking view in front of you.

The "Wave Garden," which is open to non-hotel guests, is an attractive space lined with palm trees, reminiscent of Hawaii. Here, you can enjoy your purchased bread and coffee while soaking your feet in the foot bath.

• Location: 1457-30 Naramoto, Kamo District, Higashi-Izu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture (Izu Hotel Resort & Spa)

Garden Cafe Ripple

Garden Cafe Ripple is a café located in Atami City, offering a fantastic location surrounded by nature. Situated upstream of the Itokawa River, you can relax and enjoy café time while listening to the gentle sound of the flowing river.

The interior of the café features a calm atmosphere with abundant use of wood. The large windows offer views of lush greenery, creating a cozy and inviting space.

For lunch, they offer a variety of menu items such as galettes made with cheese and seasonal ingredients, Keema Curry, and Marmalade Chicken. The lunch set includes today's soup, salad, and a drink. They also have homemade pudding and ice cream with rich flavors, as well as a selection of popular sweets. Each cup of hand-dripped coffee is highly praised.

• Location: 22-23 Nishiyama-cho, Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture
• Access: Take the Sasaragidai Loop bus from Atami Station, get off at Yamada-Iriguchi

Chabo Aika

Chabo Aika is a Japanese-style café located near Atami Station. It is a cozy café where you can enjoy freshly roasted coffee and homemade sweets. As soon as you enter the shop, you'll see a large coffee roaster. The aroma of coffee fills the interior, creating a relaxed atmosphere.

One of the popular menu items is the "Shiratama Cream Anmitsu." It consists of moderately sweet red bean paste, firm-textured agar, soft-serve ice cream made with locally squeezed milk, and fruits as toppings. They also offer seasonal limited-time shaved ice. Additionally, the old-fashioned pumpkin pudding made with Hokkaido-grown pumpkins is another popular sweet.

Chabo Aika offers a wide selection of coffee, including original blends like "Aika" and "Atami Onsen Monogatari." They also have an abundant lineup of drinks such as pour-over coffee and tea. The unique coffee vessels used here are made by local artisans in Atami. They also sell original drip coffee as a souvenir.

• Location: 7-6 Taharamoto-cho, Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture
• Access: About a 2-minute walk from Atami Station

Recommended 3 Model Courses for Izu Sightseeing

The Izu Peninsula, stretching north to south, is dotted with various tourist spots. If you're unsure about planning your itinerary, we'll introduce the best model courses for each day.

Izu Sightseeing Day Trip Model Course

For those new to Izu travel, here's a recommended day trip model course.

First, head to "Atami," the gateway to the Izu Peninsula. Using the Shinkansen, it's about a 40-minute journey from Tokyo Station to Atami Station. Start by thoroughly enjoying the photogenic spot "ACAO FOREST" on the Izu Peninsula, where you can explore gardens, sweets, and breathtaking views from cafes.

For a typical Atami lunch, we recommend the "Atami Heiwa-dori Shopping Street," which is home to popular shops. "Uma Masashu," a highly-rated eel specialty restaurant, is famous even among locals. Their "unadon" (eel rice bowl) made with domestically produced eels, including those from Shizuoka Prefecture, has a crispy, fragrant outer layer and a tender, fluffy texture inside.

Once you're full, take a train from Atami Station to Jōgasaki Kaigan Station and head to "Jōgasaki Coast" with about a 35-minute walk. Enjoy the breathtaking view of the clear sea and experience walking on a thrilling suspension bridge. It's also famous for its beautiful sunset. Remember to capture those precious moments that can only be seen on that day before heading back.

Izu Sightseeing 1 Night 2 Days Model Course

We'll introduce a 1-night 2-day model course for enjoying marine activities and nature in the clear waters of Izu.

How about a plan in Izu Kitagawa where even beginners can enjoy a safe diving experience? Dive down to a maximum depth of 6 meters with an instructor and take a peek into the world of various fish and corals. While enjoying the view of the sea is great, diving underwater brings even more excitement.

There are also full-fledged diving plans for experienced divers.

After diving, have lunch at a nearby restaurant. After being soothed by the sea, head to "Ōmuroyama" where you can see stunning mountain views. From Izu Kōgen Station, take the East Sea Bus "to Shaboten Kōen・Ōmuroyama" for about 20 minutes. Get off at the last stop and take the lift to the summit. Stroll around the summit area and fully enjoy the majestic 360-degree panorama.

Izu Kōgen Station and its surroundings have many hot springs. "Akazawa Day Trip Onsenkan" is a recommended facility to wrap up your trip. From the open-air bath, which blends seamlessly with the sea, you can overlook the Pacific Ocean. They also have jet baths and lying baths, ensuring a relaxing time. There's an ocean-view restaurant as well, so you can enjoy a leisurely and pleasant time until the end. After enjoying Izu's sea, mountains, hot springs, and gourmet, it's time to head back.

Izu Sightseeing 2 Nights 3 Days Model Course

Let's introduce a 2-night 3-day model course to leisurely explore Izu. On the first day, enjoy Atami, on the second day, relish Izu Kōgen, and on the third day, go sightseeing in Shimoda, where there are nine beautiful beaches.

From Shimoda Station, take a bus for about 15 minutes to reach Izu's representative beach, "Shirahama Ōhama Beach." After enjoying ample water play on the beautiful beach, have lunch at "Izu Shirahama Barbecue Garden," about a 7-minute walk from the coast. You can enjoy a barbecue in a prime location with a view of the sea.

Also, visit "Ryūgū-Kutsu," one of the most scenic spots in South Izu. Take a bus from Shimoda Station and arrive at the "Ryūgū-Kutsu" bus stop in about 20 minutes. After walking for about 3 minutes from there, you'll encounter a scene full of mystique. There are many picturesque spots that will make you want to take photos, and you'll never get tired of the view.

For the last leg of your trip, return to Shimoda Station and take a stroll along the charming "Perry Road," where retro streetscapes are lovely. Lined with stone-paved paths, you'll find old-fashioned cafes and buildings that exude the ambiance of old Edo. At "Cafe Perry Berry" in the central part of Perry Road, you can taste gluten-free and delicious pancakes. When dusk arrives, head back to Izu Kyū-Shimoda Station.

Izu Tourist Spots MAP

Enjoy the Charms of Izu with Nature, Hot Springs, and Delicacies!

In the ever-popular tourist destination "Izu," you can explore enchanting hot spring towns and historic streets, admire breathtaking views of vast mountains and seas, experience marine activities at stunning resort beaches, and indulge in various forms of entertainment.

As the Izu Peninsula is vast, planning ahead is essential before embarking on your sightseeing journey. If it's your first time visiting Izu, be sure to check out the recommended model courses we have introduced for your reference.

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