3-Day Izu Peninsula Itinerary: Shizuoka’s Dramatic Coastline, Historic Onsen, and Shrines by the Ocean

What Sort of Place Is Izu Peninsula?

Izu Peninsula in eastern Shizuoka Prefecture spans 60 km north to south and 40 km east to west. Renowned for its stunning coastline and rich geological features, it was once a cluster of underwater volcanoes before merging with Honshu after millions of years of tectonic activity. Now a UNESCO Global Geopark, the Izu Peninsula boasts one of Japan’s highest concentrations of hot springs, including Ito Onsen, known for its exceptional natural spring output, and notable geological sites such as Mount Omuro and the Jogasaki Coast 

Izu’s natural environment has also fostered a rich culinary culture. Its pristine streams produce top-quality wasabi, while Suruga Bay’s deep waters provide abundant seafood, including prized “kinmedai” (golden eye snapper). Izu is also known for exceptional green tea, particularly guri-cha, deep-steamed for a rich, smooth flavor with a lingering sweetness.

Izu Peninsula is one of the first places in Japan to welcome sakura, home to early-blooming varieties like Toi-zakura and Kawazu-zakura. The Toi and Cape Koibito areas showcase vibrant Toi-zakura, adding a touch of spring to winter. Every February, Kawazu Town and Minami-Izu attract visitors eager to see a breathtaking sea of pink. For a deeper experience, join this tour to admire the stunning blooms while also enjoying strawberry picking and other delightful activities in Izu.

Day 1: Exploring the Charming Onsen Town of Ito

Access to Ito

Getting to Ito from Tokyo or Osaka is easy, with several train options available. From Tokyo, you can take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Atami Station (Hikari: approx. 35 mins; Kodama: approx. 50 mins), then transfer to the JR Ito Line for a 20-minute ride to Ito Station. Alternatively, the Odoriko and Saphir Odoriko limited express trains provide a direct, comfortable journey from Tokyo Station to Ito Station in around 1 hour 40 minutes. For a budget-friendly option, local trains on the JR Tokaido Line and JR Ito Line can get you there in approximately 2.5 hours with a transfer at Atami.

From Osaka, the fastest way to reach Ito is by taking the Tokaido Shinkansen (Hikari or Kodama) from Shin-Osaka Station to Atami Station (Hikari: approx. 2 hrs 16 mins; Kodama: approx. 3 hrs 7 mins). From Atami, the JR Ito Line will bring you to Ito in 20 minutes.

Ito is compact and easy to explore on foot, with taxis readily available for short trips. To travel around the Izu Peninsula, you can take advantage of the train network, including the JR Ito Line and Izu Kyuko Line. Local buses provide convenient access to key attractions, while taxis are a great option for reaching more remote destinations.

For a hassle-free journey across the peninsula, consider the Izukyu Railway Pass, which offers unlimited rides on the Izukyu Railway. The pass is available in 1-day, 2-day, and 3-day options, making it a great value for those planning to explore multiple spots.

About Ito City

Ito City is located at the easternmost tip of Shizuoka Prefecture, on the eastern side of the Izu Peninsula, and is blessed with abundant natural scenery. Nearly half of its land area is designated as part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, showcasing breathtaking landscapes of both mountains and sea. Ito Onsen also stands out for having one of Shizuoka’s highest natural spring outputs, producing an impressive volume of thermal water every minute.

Despite being only about 70 minutes from Tokyo by Shinkansen and train, Ito retains a tranquil countryside atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking to experience the charm of rural Japan.

Tokaikan – A Nostalgic Glimpse Into Ito’s Hospitality Heritage

Access: Approx. 7-min walk from Ito Station

Tokaikan, located in the heart of Ito Onsen, is a three-story wooden building that preserves the architectural charm of the early Showa era (1926-1989). Originally opened as an “onsen ryokan” (traditional inn with hot springs) in 1928, it was meticulously crafted by artisans using “hinoki” cypress, Japanese cedar, and other precious woods to create an elegant and refined Japanese-style space. Throughout the building, along corridors, staircases, and guest room entrances, you can admire the exquisite craftsmanship of traditional woodworking. 

Today, Tokaikan has been transformed into a cultural and tourist facility, allowing visitors to explore freely and experience the nostalgic ambiance of the Showa period. The bathhouse is open only on weekends and public holidays.

As night falls, the building’s historic charm becomes even more enchanting, especially when the lanterns are lit, casting a warm glow on the wooden structure. They illuminate around 5 PM in winter and 6 PM in summer, allowing Tokaikan to exude its unique nostalgic allure under the evening sky.

Haruhira-maru – Savor Fresh Seafood With Stunning Ocean Views

Access: Approx. 4-min walk from Tokaikan

Ito is famous for its abundant seafood and traditional dried fish, and when visiting, you absolutely can't miss the fresh local seafood dishes. Haruhira-maru, located along Ito’s Orange Beach, is a restaurant where you can enjoy stunning ocean views while savoring a variety of Izu's signature seafood dishes. 

The restaurant’s signature dish, "Aji no Mago Chazuke", has been featured on numerous Japanese TV programs. This traditional fisherman’s dish consists of finely chopped fresh horse mackerel served over rice and topped with a specially crafted dashi broth, offering a refreshing and delicious flavor. In addition, the restaurant offers “kaisendon” (seafood rice bowls) featuring locally caught fish from that day's catch, showcasing the purest flavors of the Izu seas.

Yunohana Dori Shopping Street – A Taste of Ito’s Local Delicacies and Traditions

Access: Approx. 8-min walk from Haruhira-maru

Located near Ito Station, Yunohana Dori Shopping Street is a charming Showa-era-style (1926-1989) street lined with unique shops, offering visitors an easy way to experience Ito’s culinary culture and traditional craftsmanship.

Here, you’ll find tea shops selling local Ito specialties like “chinchin-age” and “jisaba karaage”, deep-fried snacks made from freshly caught local fish, perfect for enjoying as you stroll through the street.

Beyond food and shopping, one of the most distinctive attractions here is the “Oyukake Shichifukujin”, seven stone statues of the Seven Lucky Gods scattered throughout the street. Visitors traditionally pour hot spring water over the statues while making a wish (although this practice is currently paused). The district also hosts a Seven Lucky Gods Stamp Rally, where those who collect all the stamps receive a special souvenir!

Ichikawa Seicha Yunohana Dori Shop – Experience the Rich Aroma of Izu’s Guri-cha Tea

Access: 5-min walk from Ito Station

At the end of Yunohana Dori Shopping Street, Ichikawa Seicha specializes in guri-cha, also called tamaryoku-cha, a locally renowned green tea from Izu. Known for its deep-steaming process, this tea brings out a rich sweetness and full-bodied flavor, making it a signature tea of eastern Shizuoka. In addition to a wide selection of guri-cha, the shop also offers various teaware and local specialty souvenirs.

On the second floor, the “Waikoi-dokoro Chasai” tea lounge boasts a cozy Japanese-style setting and serves a variety of tea-infused delicacies and sweets, such as “Rich Guri-cha Anmitsu” (a bowl of small cubes of agar jelly, sweet azuki bean paste, boiled peas, and a variety of fruits) and “Premium Rich Guri-cha Oshiruko” (sweet bean soup).

Kinema Street Shopping Street – A Walk Through Ito’s Retro Cinema District

Access: Approx. 3-min walk from Ichikawa Seicha Yunohana Dori Shop

Kinema Street Shopping Street is a nostalgic arcade-style shopping street with a distinctive high-ceilinged archway. The street is named after the many cinemas that once operated here. While no theaters remain today, remnants of Showa-era (1926-1989) movie houses can still be found, evoking a sense of stepping back in time. 

Kinema Street is home to around 30 specialty stores, along with the “Fuku Maneki no Oteyu”, a hand spa where visitors can enjoy the soothing warmth of Ito’s hot springs while strolling or shopping. Additionally, “Nuku Mall”, Ito’s official tourism and specialty shop, is located here, offering locally certified products and travel information, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the charms of Ito.

Kimono Crossroad – Discover Vintage Kimono Treasures

Access: Approx. 1-min walk from Kinema Street Shopping Street

Located next to Tokaikan, Kimono Crossroad is a boutique specializing in antique and vintage kimono. Run by a knowledgeable female owner, the shop offers a carefully curated selection of high-quality kimono and yukata at affordable prices, with some pieces available for just a few thousand yen. The entrance, marked by a red “wagasa” (Japanese umbrella), enhances the store’s authentic traditional atmosphere.

While the shop does not offer rental or dressing services, you can casually layer a lightweight haori over a T-shirt and stroll through the streets of Ito, embracing the charm of Japanese fashion. For kimono enthusiasts, whether you prefer classic styling or mixing kimono with Western fashion, Kimono Crossroad is the perfect place to discover unique pieces that reflect your personal style.

Toushinan Komeya – A Luxurious Onsen Stay in Ito

Access: Walk 10 minutes from Kimono Crossroad to Ito Station, take the Izukyu Line, and get off at Minami-Izu Station (3 minutes). From Minami-Izu Station, it’s a 5-minute walk to Toushinan Komeya. Alternatively, a free shuttle bus is available at 2:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm, and 5:30pm.

Step into this secluded hideaway and find yourself in a Japanese space enveloped in silence, surrounded by nature—tranquil ponds with koi carp, gentle waterfalls, and seasonal beauty. 

At Toushinan Komeya you can experience Izu "kaiseki" cuisine (traditional multi-course Japanese cuisine), crafted from locally sourced ingredients, with a monthly changing menu that highlights the flavors of each season.

Choose from 17 uniquely designed rooms across three distinct buildings. The Main Building offers a haven of traditional Japanese calm, with tatami mat floors and soft lighting that evoke timeless serenity. The Annex exudes refined elegance, inspired by Kyoto’s teahouses, with delicate craftsmanship and picturesque garden views. The Bettei blends Western comfort with Japanese aesthetics, featuring modern furnishings while cherishing tradition. Some rooms also offer private half open-air baths, allowing guests to unwind in natural hot springs.

Shizuoka Japanese Tea Tour – A Scenic Journey into Japan’s Largest Tea-Producing Region

If you have extra time and want to explore Japan’s largest tea-producing region in greater depth, consider joining a Shizuoka Tea Experience Tour. This journey takes you to historic tea plantations with over a century of history, where you can experience tea tasting while enjoying breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and engaging with local tea farmers. You’ll also have the chance to visit the “Sky Tea Terrace”, where you can savor tea and sweets while admiring the picturesque tea fields, creating a truly unique open-air tea ceremony experience.

Additionally, the tour includes a visit to a wholesale tea merchant that has been in operation since the Edo period (1603-1868), where you can compare different tea flavors and even blend your own personalized tea. The entire experience is guided in English and includes tea tastings and refreshments, making it a must-try for travelers who love Japanese tea culture.

Day 2: The Breathtaking Beauty of Jogasaki Coast

About the Jogasaki Coast

Jogasaki Coast is a breathtaking natural landscape formed approximately 4,000 years ago by lava flows from the eruption of Mount Omuro. Its rugged cliffs and unique geological formations, such as striking columnar joints formed by cooling lava, make it one of the most iconic sites within the Izu Geopark.

Izu Teddy Bear Museum – Create Your Own Special Teddy Bear and Totoro

Access: Walk back to Minami Ito Station (approx. 5 mins), then take the Izukyuko Line (bound for Izukyu Shimoda) and get off at Izu-Kogen Station (approx. 21 mins). Walk 11 minutes to the Izu Teddy Bear Museum.

The Izu Teddy Bear Museum not only showcases a century-spanning collection of rare teddy bears but also features an interactive area where visitors can create their own custom teddy bear or Totoro plush toys.  In this 60-minute workshop, participants can choose their favorite character and go through the process of stuffing and sewing details to craft a one-of-a-kind plush companion. After completing their creation, they can even issue a special “passport” for their plush, making for a memorable keepsake.

The museum also displays teddy bear artworks by artists from around the world and includes a British-style café and a gift shop offering limited-edition teddy bears, themed cookies, and exclusive souvenirs, making it a perfect destination for families, collectors, and teddy bear enthusiasts alike. Book here in advance to get the admission tickets to the Teddy Bear Museum!

Boranaya – A Historic Fishermen’s Hut Serving Exquisite Local Seafood

Access: Walk back to Izu-Kogen Station (approx. 11 mins), then take the Izukyuko Line (bound for Ito or Atami) and get off at Jogasaki-Kaigan Station (approx. 3 mins). Take a taxi or walk 25 minutes to Boranaya.

Located near Izu Jogasaki Coast, "Boranaya" is a historic fishermen’s hut that dates back to the Edo period (1603-1868), now transformed into a renowned local seafood restaurant. Set in a traditional thatched-roof hut brimming with history, Boranaya offers a unique opportunity to savor exquisite seafood while experiencing Izu’s rich fishing culture. The restaurant’s most popular specialty is kinmedai (golden eye snapper), caught fresh from the waters off Izu.

Kinmedai, known for its tender texture and rich flavor, can be enjoyed in various preparations. The classic "Kinmedai Nitsuke Set" features the fish simmered to perfection in a savory-sweet sauce, bringing out its deep umami flavor. The "Kinmedai Sashimi Set" highlights the fish’s natural sweetness and smooth texture, served fresh. For the ultimate experience, the "Kinmedai Gozen" combines both simmered and sashimi-style kinmedai in one luxurious meal.

Kadowaki Suspension Bridge – A Thrilling Walk Above the Dramatic Jogasaki Coastline

Access: Approx. 10-min walk from Boranaya

Kadowaki Suspension Bridge spans across a sea-eroded cave at Kadowaki Cape, measuring 48 meters in length and 23 meters in height. Walking across the bridge offers a breathtaking view of the rugged volcanic landscape and a distant panorama of the Seven Islands of Izu. This dramatic terrain was sculpted by lava flows from Mount Omuro 4,000 years ago, leaving behind one of the most spectacular natural sights in the Izu Peninsula.

From the bridge, you can observe the columnar joints formed by cooling lava contraction, as well as the striking red rock layers shaped by years of erosion. Despite Kadowaki Cape’s rugged, jagged terrain, many plant species have adapted to thrive in these harsh conditions, offering a changing display of seasonal vegetation.

Hashidate Suspension Bridge, Oyodo-Koyodo, Tajima Waterfall – Discover the Coastal Wonders of Izu

Access: Take a taxi or walk back to Jogasaki-Kaigan Station (approx. 35 mins), then take the Izukyuko Line (bound for Izukyu Shimoda) and get off at Izu-Kogen Station (approx. 3 mins). Walk 14 minutes to Hashidate Suspension Bridge.

The Hashidate Suspension Bridge, Oyodo-Koyodo, and Tajima Waterfall stand adjacent to each other, allowing visitors to easily explore this area rich in natural wonders within a short time.

The Hashidate Suspension Bridge stands 18 meters high and 60 meters long, spanning across Jogasaki Coast. From the bridge, you can admire the breathtaking columnar joint formations along the coastline and the natural seawater pools of Oyodo-Koyodo. The rock walls here showcase a stunning hexagonal structure, and the intertidal zone is home to a variety of fish, shellfish, and other marine life.

Additionally, Tajima Waterfall, which cascades directly from the cliffs of the Jogasaki Coast into the sea, is also a highlight. Nicknamed the “Maboroshi Waterfall” (the elusive waterfall), it vanishes when there is little rainfall. According to legend, couples who witness this rare sight together will stay together forever.

Yawatano Onsen Village Mori no Yu Kiranosato – A Traditional Countryside Retreat with Great Onsen

Access: Walk back to Izu-Kogen Station (approx. 14 mins). From there, take the hotel’s shuttle bus (approx. 7-min) or walk (approx. 17 mins). Check here for the shuttle bus schedule.

"Kiranosato" is a hot spring ryokan nestled in the midst of “satoyama” (a traditional Japanese rural landscape), offering expansive natural views that evoke a nostalgic Japanese countryside atmosphere.

The ryokan offers four different styles of accommodation, including the traditional "Hatago Yawatano" with a lodging atmosphere reminiscent of a Japanese post town, the spacious and comfortable "Bettei Yamanoto", the Japanese folk house style "Hanae Takebue" with an open-air bath featuring natural hot spring water, and the "Kokyo Umihotaru", which offers a distant view of Sagami Bay.

The on-site "Morino-Yu" features eight different types of hot spring baths, including a cypress wood outdoor bath,  a lie-down bath, and three private outdoor baths. For dinner, guests can choose to enjoy the "seafood shabu-shabu", featuring fresh fish and shellfish caught from the Izu coastline, or savor "Yogan-yaki", where domestic beef, pork, and seasonal vegetables are grilled on hot stones.

Day 3: Discovering the Historic Port Town of Shimoda

About Shimoda City

Located in the southern part of the Izu Peninsula, Shimoda City is a historic port town surrounded by magnificent natural landscapes. Its stunning coastline features emerald-green waters and white sandy beaches. With a warm climate year-round, the area fosters rich marine life and diverse vegetation.

Shimoda also holds significant importance in Japanese history, as it was one of the first cities to open its port during the late Edo period (1603–1868) when the Black Ships arrived as part of the Perry Expedition. The city still retains many cultural relics related to Japan’s opening to the world.

Additionally, in early summer, blooming hydrangeas fill the city with vibrant colors, making them one of the most captivating seasonal attractions.

Perry Road – Walk Through Shimoda’s Past Along a Historic Street

Access: Take the hotel's shuttle bus (approx. 7 mins) or walk (approx. 17 mins) to Izu-Kogen Station. From there, take the Izukyuko Line (bound for Izukyu Shimoda) and get off at Izukyu Shimoda Station (approx. 38 mins). Walk 15 minutes to Perry Road.

Perry Road is a historic walking path that commemorates the arrival of the Perry Expedition in Shimoda in 1854 and the signing of the Japan–U.S. Treaty of Peace and Amity.

The path is approximately 400 meters long and runs along the Hiraname River. It is lined with many historically significant buildings, including old houses constructed with Izu stone and the distinctive "namako-kabe" (a traditional Japanese wall pattern). This technique arranges flat tiles in a diamond shape, with gaps filled with plaster to create a raised effect with fireproof properties. Due to its labor-intensive construction, the remaining examples are rare and valuable, symbolizing Shimoda’s cultural heritage. The most famous of these is the Former Sawamura Residence, built in 1915.

Beyond its historical significance, Perry Road is also home to notable sites such as Ryosenji Temple and Chorakuji Temple. The street is lined with small shops and cafés, making it a perfect place for a leisurely stroll.

Kazemachi Kobo – A Nostalgic Cafe in a Century-Old Japanese House

Access: Approx. 1-min walk from Perry Road

Kazemachi Kobo is a charming antique café with a nostalgic atmosphere, located beside the picturesque Perry Road. This old house, built in the early Meiji period (1868–1912), has over 150 years of history. Its distinctive appearance features a second floor with lattice windows, while the interior showcases a variety of antiques carefully selected by the owner. You can enjoy a delicious cup of coffee or tea while admiring the antique décor inside, take in the view of Perry Road from the window-side seats, or savor nostalgic drinks such as green cream soda, which perfectly complement the café's old-world charm.

This café is not only a great place to relax but also an ideal spot to purchase antiques, crafts, and kimono. Whether you're looking for everyday items from the Showa period or antiques from the Meiji and Taisho periods, you'll find them here.

Cafe & Hamburger Ra-maru – Taste the Famous Shimoda Burger with a View

Access: Approx. 18-min walk from Kazemachi Kobo

Cafe & Hamburger Ra-maru’s signature dish is the "Shimoda Burger” features crispy, golden kinmedai paired with rich camembert cheese, fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and cheddar cheese, creating a burst of flavor in every bite. The specially made sauce further enhances the taste, making it even more delightful. This beloved burger has appeared in various media and manga, making it a must-try dish for tourists visiting Shimoda.

"Cafe & Hamburger Ra-maru" is located at "Michi-no-Eki Kaikoku Shimoda Minato", a roadside station and complex that combines history, culture, and natural scenery. You can enjoy delicious burgers while taking in the beautiful view of Shimoda Bay.

Shirahama Shrine – A Sacred Seaside Sanctuary with Stunning Coastal Views

Access: Walk 4 mins to Takegahama Bus Stop, then take Tokai Bus Route S31 (bound for Itadoichiki) to Shirahama Shrine Bus Stop (approx. 9 mins).

Shirahama Shrine is the oldest shrine on Izu Peninsula, with a history spanning over 2,400 years. Nestled between Shirahama Ohama Beach and Shirahama Chuo Beach, it enshrines Ikonahime-no-Mikoto, a deity associated with matchmaking and fertility, as well as Mishima Okami, the guardian of commerce and fishing. 

The shrine features a majestic worship hall made entirely of zelkova wood and a main hall constructed from Japanese cypress,　showcasing the beauty of traditional architecture. Behind the main hall, an observation deck offers breathtaking panoramic views of the vast Shirahama coastline.

In addition to being a historic site of worship, Shirahama Shrine is a popular photography spot, especially its coastal torii gate, which stands directly facing the sea. The contrast between the vibrant blue ocean and sky creates one of Izu’s most iconic scenic views.

3-Day Izu Peninsula, Shizuoka Itinerary

The Izu Peninsula is a hidden gem that seamlessly blends history, culture, and nature. From the retro charm of Ito’s onsen town to the dramatic cliffs of Jogasaki Coast and the historical significance of Shimoda, each stop on this journey offers a unique perspective on Japan’s coastal beauty. Whether you’ve soaked in an open-air hot spring, crossed a suspension bridge with the ocean below, or tasted the finest seafood, the memories of Izu will stay with you long after your trip!