Explore Sumpu Castle, which had the largest keep in Japan and dates back nearly 500 years to the Warring States Period.
Ieyasu was the founder and first shōgun of the Tokugawa shogunate of Japan, which effectively ruled Japan from 1603 until the Meiji Restoration in 1868.
Ieyasu, who had spent part of his youth in Sumpu, present Shizuoka City as a hostage, eventually went on to build Sumpu Castle in 1585 and take up residence there for a number of years, preparing for the famous battle of Sekigahara in 1600. After this famous battle he established the longest period of peace and isolation in Japan’s history, known as the Edo period and created the city that is now known as Tokyo.
After creating Tokyo and establishing the Tokugawa Shogunate (which would rule Japan for 265 years) Ieyasu again returned to Sumpu Castle to retire until his death in 1616.
So it could be argued that Sumpu Castle is one of the most historically significant heritage sites in Japan – at least in terms of the past 500 years and the establishment of much of current-day rule of law.
Today, Sumpu Castle is surrounded by a beautiful park and sits in the centre of Shizuoka City. The keep of the castle was the largest in Japan, even bigger than its more famous cousin, Edo Castle.
However, because of war, fire and the castle changing hands over the centuries, many of the buildings have had to be recreated.
Sections made from wood, such as the East Gate that were destroyed in a 17th century fire, were reconstructed in 1996 to exact specifications, even using the original hinoki timber, along with beams made from entire tree trunks, as they were when the castle was originally constructed in 1589.
Other reconstruction projects in 1989 recreated the Tatsumi Yagura sections, so even visiting the castle today, one can still enjoy the atmosphere of the original design along with the smells of hinoki timber as if it were constructed yesterday.
Visiting the castle is easy. The Tokaido Shinkansen, which travels between Tokyo and Osaka, stops at Shizuoka Station, and the castle and surrounding attractions are a short 10-minute taxi ride or a leisurely 20-30 minute walk through parks and shops, making a great half-day excursion. See other attractions in Shizuoka city and plan to explore.
Autumn is an amazing time to be in Shizuoka – enjoy blue sky days, crisp clear nights and fantastic views of Mt. Fuji from many different parts of Shizuoka.
Take in views of Mt. Fuji under November skies at these 5 great locations.
ASAGIRI PLAINS
Asagiri Plains is a popular destination for people looking to get active.
Fujinomiya City is the closest city to Mt. Fuji and offers stunning views of this majestic mountain.
Early Autumn is a great time to try paragliding as the winds are generally calm, the skies are often clear and during the day, it is still relatively warm.
Popular activities in the area include cycling, camping and golf. Renting a car or campervan and spending a couple of days exploring the area is an unforgettable experience.
SHIRAITO FALLS
Firery foilege can be enjoyed mid-Novemeber to late November at Shiraito Falls.
The popular Shiraito Falls is located close to the Asagiri area and offers an additional attraction to include in a Mt. Fuji Countryside itinerary.
From November, the leaves on the trees around the Shiraito Falls turns red, and Mt. Fuji gets its iconic snowcap. The Autumn blue skies offer spectacular views of the mountain and fiery colors of the Autumn leaves.
After visiting Shiraito Falls, join a cycling ecotour and jump on a bike and cycle through the local countryside to gain a better understanding of everyday life living with Mt. Fuji.
During November, the waterfalls are illuminated at night as part of a special event every year.
LAKE TANUKI
Enjoy outdoor activities at Lake Tanuki in the crisp autumn air.
Lake Tanuki, also in the Asagiri area of Fujinomiya, is an extremely popular spot for people wanting to get up close and personal with Mt. Fuji.
The lake attracts photographers from all over the world to capture the ultimate Mt Fuji shot reflected off the calm waters of the lake.
The best time to view Mt. Fuji is at sunrise and it is well worth the effort to get up early. The lakeside campsite is the perfect place to stay in order to get the best view.
GOTEMBA
On a clear day in Gotemba, enjoy the skyline dominated by Mt. Fuji.
Jump on the Odakyu Romance Car train from Shinjuku early in the morning and you will be in Gotemba early enough to get morning views of Mt. Fuji.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Gotemba to make it worth a 1 day or 2 day trip and Autumn is a great time to visit.
Activities such as horseback riding, mountain biking, golf and cycling or shopping, hot springs or gourmet Italian dining are all great options in Gotemba that also offer magnificent views of Mt. Fuji.
Some of the best places to view Mt. Fuji in Gotemba include – Fuji Heiwa (peace) Park, Gotemba Outlet Mall, Tokinosumika, Restaurante Italiano Sakurakagami or on one of the many golf courses in the area.
SATTA PASS
The same view was depicted in one of Hiroshige’s woodblock prints.
The view of Mt. Fuji from Satta Pass was made famous by the woodblock print artists Ando Hiroshige who created prints of the 53 Post Stations on the Old Tokaido Highway.
Today the Viewing deck of Sata Pass is accessible from either Okitsu on the JR Tokaido Train line (16 mins from Shizuoka Station) – it is a pleasant, and well sign posted 45 minute walk or 10 minute taxi ride.
The clear blue Autumn skies are a great time to get the best views of Mt. Fuji and replicate the famous view that was capture by Hiroshige nearly 200 years ago.
Highlights of the area: OI RIVER, SHIMADA CITY MUSEUM, KAWAGOSHI RUINS, GREEN TEA MUSEUM, RETRO TRAINS
INTRODUCTION
The Old Tokaido Highway became firmly established in the early 17th century as the main thoroughfare for travelers between the new capital of Edo (Tokyo) and Kyoto.
The 23rd and 24th Post Town on the Old Tokaido Highway were Shimada and Kanaya Juku, located on the side banks of the sometimes treacherous Oi River and followed by the challenging Nissaka Pass section of the journey.
Oi River depicted in The Fifty-Three Stations of the Tokaido by the renowned Ukiyoe artist Hiroshige Utagawa
The Tokugawa Shogunate had forbidden a bridge being built across the Oi River and, as seen in Hiroshige’s classic woodblock print, travelers on the Tokaido Road had to pay to hire porters and get carried through the river.
The Oi River was is said to be one of the hardest sections to pass on the Tokaido Highway along with Hakone Hachiri, and travelers often got stuck there for days waiting for safe crossing of the river.
These two post towns, therefore prospered with over 1,000 buildings including three honjin (high-class lodging facility) and about 50 hatago accommodations each.
From Kanaya Juku, the hike to Nissaka Juku is a great day hike for visitors who like to be active and enjoy a challenging walk – the trail from Kanaya to Nissaka Juku over the Nissaka Pass was also one of the most difficult parts of the original Tokaido Highway.
SUGGESTED ITINERARY
The following itinerary focuses on the area between Shimada and Kanaya Juku and is for those who still want to experience the Tokaido Highway without as many hills.
Use this MAP as a guide for your journey from Shimada Juku to Kanaya Juku.
MORNING – MIGHTY OI RIVER AND KAWAGOSHI CULTURE
At Shimada Station North Exit you can rent a bicycle for the day at the bicycle parking area – this is a great option to help you get around.
This area north of Shimada Station is a nice place to find a coffee or green tea – head up to Obi-Dori Street and see where the famous Obi Festival is held every 3 years.
From there cycle down to the historical Horai Bridge, world’s longest wooden pedestrian bridge, and over the Oi River to the green tea fields on the other side – on a clear day there should be a view of Mt. Fuji.
The 897.4-meter-long Horai Bridge
A photo spot at the Shimada City Museum
Cycle back over Horai Bridge and head toward the Kawagoshi Ruins and old Shimada town area. Explore the remnants of the Old Tokaido Road – in late March the cherry blossoms in this area are highly recommended.
Make sure to visit Shimada City Museum that showcases the fascinating history of Oi River and its Kawagoshi (river-crossing) culture and try the soba at Sobagen.
AFTERNOON – COBBLE STONE PATH AND GREEN TEA
After lunch, head back to Shimada Station and take the train to Kanaya Station and take some time to walk up and check out the remaining Tokaido Road leading to Nissaka Juku. Take a break with green tea sweets at Ishidatami-chaya EN that stands by the restored cobble stone path.
Ishidatami-chaya EN – A Kominka style cafe
If you have a spare time, travel further to Tea Museum, Shizuoka to learn all about tea. Here, you can also try a traditional tea ceremony.
Alternatively, take a short train ride to Shin-Kanaya Station to check out steam trains and Thomas the Tank Engine trains.
Take a journey on a steam locomotive deep into the forest covered mountains of Kawane, Shizuoka – discover turquoise waters nestled amongst a canvas of green in one of the most epic valleys in Japan.
Bridge of Dreams in Sumatakyo located in Kawanehon-cho is an 8-meter-high, 90-meter-long suspension bridge over the Oma Dam Lake. The emerald green lake viewed from the bridge and the rich nature of the Southern Alps are breathtaking.
When you arrive at the parking lot of Sumatakyo, the entrance of the hike to the bridge, there is a small cluster of shops and eateries. Scrumptious soba awaits. Right opposite is a classic local Japanese onsen, where you can refresh and recover tired muscles before moving on your expedition to the bridge.
Suikouen – A local Japanese ryokan
To the bridge, pass through the gate and walk along on the Sumatakyo Promenade Course (90 minutes).
As you walk, you will see a tunnel. Once you pass through the tunnel, there is a junction that takes you to either Bridge of Dreams or Hiryu Bridge. To reach Bridge of Dreams, take the right-side route.
Junction – take right side route toward the Bridge of Dreams
So far, we have been hiking up a gentle path, but the path ahead from the junction continues downhill. If you continue further along, our destination, Bridge of Dreams, will finally come into view.
Bridge of Dreams
The mystical sight of the suspension bridge surrounded by the beautiful lake and mountain greenery is so spectacular that you will forget that you have come a long way.
There is an old saying that if you wish for love near the center of the bridge, your wish will come true, making the bridge a popular “power spot” among young women and couples. In autumn, the leaves of the trees turn red and yellow, and you can enjoy the beautiful autumn colors.
Bridge of Dreams from the front
During busy times such as the autumn foliage season, there can be a long waiting line to cross the suspension bridge, so it would be wise to check the latest information in advance.
There are three bridges in Sumatakyo that visitors can enjoy at once, including the Sannami Bridge, Bridge of Dreams and Hiryu Bridge. As you continue walking along the stream of the Sumata River on the right, you will see the Sannami Bridge far below. At 96 meters, this suspension bridge is the longest of the three bridges. Only four people can cross at a time, making it a thrilling experience. The Sannami Bridge can be reached from Green Shower Road, so if you have time to spare, please visit here as well.
From Tokyo or Osaka, take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen (bullet train) to Shizuoka Station.
From Shizuoka Station take the local train to Kanaya Station. Then ride the Oigawa Railway and transfer at Ieyama Station to the bus bound for Senzu Station.
From Senzu Station it is a 45 minute bus ride up to Sumatakyo Village
Indigo dyeing is a fabric or thread coloring technique that had its heyday during the Edo Period of Japan (1603-1868).
The process results in a color known as Japan blue that many of us may remember from the beautiful color of the jersey that the Japan National Soccer team wore during the 2022 Soccer World Cup.
In the city of Gotemba, you can visit one of the few remaining ateliers, Shoaizome Koharaya, where the visitors can experience the traditional way of indigo dyeing and learn about the history of this unique traditional process.
While the experience includes dyeing your own fabric to take back home with you, the atelier also features a showroom where visitors can buy the clothes masterfully dyed by the master and his son.
Matcha Calligraphy – Enjoy the aroma and vibrant color
As the bitter-sweet aroma of matcha fills the air, clear your mind and put the matcha-soaked brush to paper with this uniquely Japanese experience, MatchaSho®.
This extremely unique experience, replacing traditional ink with matcha in the practice of Zen Japanese Calligraphy, is produced by a Shizuoka-based Shodoka (calligrapher), Shoran.
After the session, you will have a hanging scroll with your own writing on to take home – What would you like to write?
Japanese Bamboo lattice ware has been produced in Japan for more than 2,000 years dating back to the Yayoi Period.
Referred to in Japan as ‘Takezaiku’ – Suruga Takesensujizaiku is a style of bamboo craft work that was developed in Shizuoka which involves splitting the bamboo extremely thin.
Suruga Bamboo Ware products became especially popular around the time Tokugawa Ieyasu was at Sumpu Castle.
The techniques used to create elegant flower vases, sweet containers and lampshades have been handed down over generations and can take up to 10 years to master.
Visitors to Shizuoka that would like to try their hands at creating Suruga Bamboo Ware can visit Takumishuku.
Nihonshu (Sake) is an iconic Japanese drink that makes for a great souvenir to take back for family and friends back home.
Visit Hananomai Brewery in Hamamatsu and take the brewery tour to meet the local craftsmen and learn how they produce their sake so that you can impress your friends when you give them their souvenir from your trip to Shizuoka.
Established in 1864, the brewery has stayed true to its values by only making sake crafted from 100% locally produced Shizuoka rice.
If you have been to Japan you will no doubt have seen the intricately designed thin cloth towels called Tenugui that are sold at various souvenir stores around the country.
One of the processes for dyeing tenugui is called ‘Chusen’ in Japanese and the fablic is often used to create the iconic Summer Yukata that are often worn at festivals.
Despite modern technology and mass production taking over, there are still factories in Hamamatsu City that produce these dyed products using techniques that haven’t changed for hundreds of years.
Shuzenji has long been a place for relaxation & reflection – make the most of your time here by checking out these 5 things to do.
5 THINGS TO DO IN SHUZENJI
Just a couple of hours outside of Tokyo is the small hot spring town of Shuzenji.
Said to have been established by the famous Buddhist Monk Kobo Daishi more than 1,200 years ago Shuzenji has long been a refuge for people looking to refresh, unwind and forget about the stresses of everyday life.
Here are 5 things to do in Shuzenji to make the most of your time there.
STROLL AROUND TOWN IN YOUR YUKATA
Shuzenji bamboo forest
Shuzenji is often referred to as Shizuoka’s ‘Little Kyoto’ and for visitors to Japan that do not have time to travel down to Kyoto, or prefer to avoid the crowds, Shuzenji offers a ‘highlights’ package version of Japan’s old capital.
A perfect way to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Shuzenji is to visit Machi Navi Yururi and get outfitted in a Kimono or Yukata when you arrive.
Stroll through the streets, visit the temples, historical buildings and the bamboo forest and you will feel as though you have stepped back in time.
EAT SHUZENJI’S FRESH SPICY WASABI
wasabi field
Izu City, where Shuzenji is located, is famous for its wasabi locally grown in nearby streams.
As a result many of the local restaurants, cafes and ryokan inns provide wasabi root that is served freshly grated.
If you are a fan of wasabi but have only ever eaten it as a paste from a tube, then visiting Shuzenji just to try freshly grated wasabi, freshly picked from a stream should be on the top of your Japan to do list.
In Shuzenji one of the most popular ways to eat freshly grated wasabi is together with Soba noodles, as part of a Ryokan Kaiseki meal or with a healthy dollop added to your soft served ice cream or dessert.
SOAK IN NATURAL HOT SPRINGS
hot spring at Yagyu no Sho – the traditional Japanese ryokan
Legend has it that it was Kobo Daishi himself that discovered the natural hot spring in Shuzenji by hitting a rock with his Tokko (Buddhist ritual tool).
The hot spring system in Shuzenji now provides thermally heated water to all of the local Japanese Ryokan accommodation which provide both indoor and outdoor bathing.
Instead of traveling to Shikoku and walking the 1,200 km trail in Shikoku, the locals in Shuzenji were then able to visit all 88 sites and pay their respects – which they still do today every November.
DRINK LOCAL CRAFT BEER AT BAIRD BREWERY
local craft beer brewery
Baird Brewery was first established by Brian and Sayuri Baird in Numazu City in 2000 as a passion project.
From these humble beginnings the Baird Brewing Company expanded to a local Tap Room in the Numazu fish market district and have not looked back.
In 2013 they found a location just outside of Shuzenji to break ground for a new brewery realising their long held dream “to build a beautiful rural brewery that demonstrates naturally the intricate connection existing between land and beer” – Baird Brewery Gardens Shuzenji
Shizuoka Prefecture offers many hotels and ryokans (traditional Japanese style inns) that offer seasonal views of Mt. Fuji in all four seasons. Only in Shizuoka Prefecture can you experience the beauty of Mt. Fuji in a variety of situations, from the view overlooking the water of Suruga Bay, to the panoramic view of Mt. Fuji on the plateau from the foot of the mountain, and the majestic sight of Mt. Fuji stretching out along the shores of a quiet lake. In addition to views from the guest rooms and lobby, there are also a wide variety of hot springs with open-air baths from which you can view Mt. Fuji. Soothe yourself with the view of the sacred Mt. Fuji, enjoy the delicious local cuisine and experience a moment of sheer bliss!
Izu Area
Fugaku Gunjo (Izu City)
This quiet, relaxing hotel located in Toi Onsen, Nishi-Izu, boasts eight luxury guestrooms. The scenery of Mt. Fuji and the sea seen from the window is a unique and spectacular view that can only be experienced here. The beauty of the evening sunset, unique to Nishi-Izu, is also exceptional. Spend the day of your special trip in this traditional Japanese-style inn soaking in the clear, gentle hot spring water surrounded by a beautiful satoyama landscape.
Located in Mitohama, Izu, this inn is renowned for spectacular views of the sea and Mt. Fuji, as well as for its gourmet cuisine. The view of Mt. Fuji across the waters of Suruga Bay is particularly breathtaking, and the majestic mountain can be seen from everything within the inn, including the lobby, guest rooms, and public baths. The creative Japanese-style dishes that incorporates seasonal ingredients are all exquisite and give you a sense of the season.
The “Gotemba Premium Outlets” features more than 300 stores and restaurants, and after enjoying shopping at one of the largest outlets in Japan, you can head to HOTEL CLAD, which opened on December 15, 2019 on the outlet premises. Located in an area that offers a panoramic view of Mt. Fuji, visitors can unwind and relax in a space designed to provide a sense of ultimate comfort. You can also relax your body and mind in the natural hot spring at the adjoining day-trip hot spring facility.
Just off the Gotemba Interchange on the Tomei Expressway, is a sprawling high-quality resort space. The resort hotel offers twin rooms that are generally 44㎡in size, and the hotel, restaurants, and other facilities are arranged around a lush green garden with an area of approximately 6,600㎡. There is also a large natural hot spring bath and delicious cuisine that will delight your taste buds with its seasonal flavors. Unobstructed views of Mt. Fuji from the foot of the mountain can be seen from the multi-purpose “Fuji Sky Room,” and at night, you can enjoy the “Okayo Fuji” (small and large fountain) at the Mt. Fuji-themed fountain show.
Located halfway up Otome Pass, the view of Mt. Fuji is overwhelmingly beautiful. We recommend taking in the view of the majestic foot of Mt. Fuji that changes with each season, and the breakfast buffet that utilizes fresh, locally grown ingredients. You can also enjoy the newly renovated and redesigned natural hot spring bath. Spend a relaxing time at the nature-rich Gotemba highland resort while taking in the views of Mt. Fuji and enjoying the cuisine and hot springs.
The hotel is located on the shore of Lake Tanuki, known for its spectacular view of “Diamond Fuji”. Powerful panoramic views of Mt. Fuji and Lake Tanuki can be seen from all guest rooms, and visitors can choose between the seasonal course meals, which features dishes made with seasonal ingredients from Shizuoka’s mountains and sea, and the “Fujisan Gourmet Buffet,” which offers over 50 different Japanese and Western-style dishes. Soak in the luxurious natural hot spring water, which is alkaline spring water and is gentle to the skin, while enjoying a view of the majestic Mt. Fuji.
Kappo Ryokan Tachibana is located on a hilltop with the best view of Mt. Fuji in Japan, as well as a panoramic view of downtown Fujinomiya. Mt. Fuji can be seen from the ridgeline from every room. This charming little Japanese-style restaurant with an attached inn is the perfect place to spend some quiet time. Relax and enjoy the dynamically changing scenery of Mt. Fuji. You can also just dine at the restaurant without spending the night.
The Nippondaira Hotel overlooks the majestic Mt. Fuji from the top of Nihondaira, a scenic spot on the border of Suruga and Shimizu wards in Shizuoka City. The hotel’s concept is a “Nihondaira as a landscape art museum,” and the views of Mt. Fuji, Suruga Bay, Miho no Matsubara, which have all been designated World Cultural Heritage sites, in addition to the expansive garden, are simply breathtaking. Visitors can fully enjoy the picturesque scenery that changes from season to season and from moment to moment. The Nihondaira Yume Terrace, a hilltop observation deck with a 360-degree panoramic view, and the Nihondaira Ropeway that leads to the Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, a national treasure, are also just a short distance away! These are also essential spots for sightseeing in Shizuoka City.
Shizuoka City is the capital and 2nd largest city of Shizuoka Prefecture.
A cosmopolitan city with a fascinating samurai history there is no shortage of things to do in Shizuoka City – here is a list of the top 5 attractions on offer.
If you enjoy green tea and enjoy cafe culture then Shizuoka, even just for a morning cafe fix, should definitely be on your itinerary.
In recent years, a number of green tea cafes have established themselves in the metropolitan area of Shizuoka City. You can enjoy anything from a traditionally brewed cup of the freshest leaves to a shot of green tea espresso or enjoy tasting various types of green tea ice cream or gelato.
For an excellent list of some of the best green tea cafes in Shizuoka City, check out this Japan Travel Article.
If you are looking for a caffeine boost to start your day, the city also provides a few options – aside from the ubiquitous chain coffee stores probably the most popular cafe in Shizuoka is HUG Coffee which has 5 stores in the city.
Sumpu Castle was built by the local superstar, Tokugawa Ieyasu, in the early 1600s.
After stepping down and passing on the title of Shogun – Supreme leader of Japan – to his son, Tokugawa Ieyasu chose Shizuoka City and retired to Sumpu Castle.
It is said that even though Edo (Tokyo) was the capital at the time, the real power was still controlled inside this castles walls.
Now the castle grounds have converted into a green-rich park, Sumpu Castle Park. The park is situated in the middle of Shizuoka City and 10 mins stroll from the Tokaido Bullet train station – pick up a coffee or green tea from one of the cafes on the way and relax in the park situated within the castle moats.
is the perfect place to let your imagination run wild with thoughts of ninjas, samurai, geisha and feudal lords.
To find out more about this amazing castle and its history check out the Explore Shizuoka article here.
Shizuoka Sengen Shrine
A short walk from Sumpu Castle grounds is Shizuoka Sengen Shrine – a collective of three beautiful Shinto shrines.
Perhaps Japan’s most famous Samurai warlord Ieyasu Tokugawa was a resident of Shizuoka City in his twilight years building Sumpu Castle and he sponsored the rebuilding of these shrines – wandering through the grounds is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Japanese Samurai history and culture.
Fugetsuro Gardens
Just a few minute walk from Shizuoka Station is Fugetsuro.
Home to Tokugawa Yoshinobu (the last Shogun of the Tokugawa reign) this residence and garden has been impeccably kept and visitors can now stroll through the garden and enjoy a traditional Japanese Kaiseki course meal in one of the many rooms looking out onto the grounds transporting you back 200 years.
The beautifully Japanese garden soaked in traditional samurai history is a popular spot for weddings and it is easy to see why.
Where the prefecture’s biggest city Hamamatsu is known for its industry and craftsman, Shizuoka City has traditionally been known more as a artisan, culinary, and it is fair to say, cosmopolitan type of place.
As such, in Shizuoka City you are more likely to see more fine dining and variety of different culinary delights.
There are old favorites like the Aoba Oden Alley which is an entire alley dedicated to Oden, lined with cozy restaurants known for fantastic oden and great conversation.
Recently there has been a surge in craft beer opening up and a variety of modern style green tea cafes that offer green tea vbevarages and treats.
Izu Peninsula is a popular destination for its dramatic coastlines, beautiful valleys and mountains, abundant seafood and healing hot springs.
Just 45 minutes from Tokyo Station is the stunning coastal onsen town of Atami.
Not only one of the closest tradtional hot springs towns to Tokyo Atami is the gateway to the the spectacular East Coast of Izu Peninsula.
MUSEUM OF ART & OCEAN VIEWS – Atami City
MOA Museum of Art
Start your Izu East Coast journey in the picturesque hot spring town of Atami – only 45 minutes from Tokyo Station on the bullet train.
Stepping out of Atami train station you automatically feel like you are on holiday – the Atami Ginza shopping street is a great way to try some of the local cuisines.
On the hill above Atami town area is the impressive MOA Museum of Art which is home to a wonderful collection of Japanese art and calligraphy, a Noh theatre, a Japanese garden, and stunning views of the ocean.
Head to the Japanese tea house for a traditional green tea ceremony experience.
JOGASAKI COAST & MT. OMURO – Ito City
The Jogasaki Coast
Travel down the Coast to Ito City which offers traditional ryokan experiences around Ito Station for those looking to relax and outdoor and underwater activities for travelers that are a little more adventurous.
The coastline of Ito is famous in Japan and a popular destination.
Thousands of years of volcanic activity have shaped the Jogasaki coast producing sheer rockfaces and cliffs both on and under the water.
Many scuba diving enthusiasts flock to Ito to explore the abundant underwater life and sea caves in the area.
If you prefer to stay on land, take the chairlift to the top of Mt. Omuro and enjoy 360 views of Izu Peninsula and its surrounds.
Due to its conical volcano shape, Mt. Omuro is known locally as Mt. Fuji’s big sister green with envy of its much more beautiful younger sibling – which can be seen from the top of Mt. Omuro on a clear day.
Close to Mt. Omuro is the Izu Shaboten Zoo, a small petting zoo with a number of kid-friendly animals and a sprawling cactus garden is a great place to spend a few hours with the family.
The stars of the show are without a doubt the Onsen-loving Capybara that roam freely and enjoy warming themselves in the natural hot spring pools.
Also worth a visit is Lake Ippeki in the Izu Highlands area of Ito City. Enjoy strolling around the lakeside pathway.
The early Spring cherry blossoms and late Autumn leaves make this relatively easy 1hour hike a great option for those who love the outdoors.
If you enjoy waterfalls and Japanese onsen, then make sure to put the coastal town of Kawazu on your travel itinerary.
Famous for the Kawazu Sakura – a type of cherry blossom tree that generally bloom from early-February to early March – Kawazu is also blessed with hot spring water, wasabi fields and the Nanadaru Waterfalls.
Nanadaru translates to 7 waterfalls – the last of the 7 waterfalls is the impressive 30-meter Odaru Fall which can be viewed while bathing in the surrounding outdoor onsen.
If you prefer an ocean-view while you bath, check out the outdoor hot spring facilities at Funado no Banya close to Imaihama Kaigan Station.
The last stop on the Izukyu train line is the popular beach resort town of Shimoda.
Shimoda is famous for surf beaches such as Shirahama, Iritahama, and Kisami beach and in the Summer months is a popular destination for sun lovers.
While in Shimoda, make sure to take some time to delve into the history of the area and learn about the integral role Shimoda played in opening Japan up to the World in the mid-1800s.
