Things To Do
in Izu

Izu, Japan, is a stunning peninsula located just south of Tokyo, renowned for its scenic coastlines, hot springs, and lush landscapes. It offers a diverse range of attractions from beautiful beaches to mountainous hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy traditional ryokans, vibrant local culture, and delicious seafood.

The region is also famous for its onsen (hot springs), making it a perfect destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Atami and Hakone
morning
:

Start the day with a visit to Atami Onsen, soaking in the hot springs and enjoying the seaside views. Grab breakfast at a local café, sampling fresh pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

Head to the Hakone Open-Air Museum, which features impressive sculptures and beautiful gardens. Take a scenic ride on the Hakone Ropeway for breathtaking views of Mount Fuji.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant in Atami, trying the local seafood specialties. Conclude the night with a stroll along the beach, enjoying the night lights reflecting on the water.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture in Izu
morning
:

Begin with a hike in the Izu National Park, exploring the lush trails and stunning waterfalls. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy amidst nature.

afternoon
:

Visit the Izu Granpal Park, a family-friendly amusement park with attractions and flower fields. Take time to explore the local shops for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Have dinner at a traditional izakaya, experiencing a variety of local dishes. Relax at a ryokan, enjoying a private onsen experience before bedtime.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Meal at a Local Restaurant$10-$30
🏨Mid-Range Hotel Night$100-$200
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2-$5
Coffee at a Café$3-$5
🎟️Entrance Fee to Attractions$5-$15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and coastal views.
  • Rich cultural experiences with traditional ryokans and onsen.
  • Delicious local cuisine, especially seafood and Wagyu beef.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport can be less frequent in rural areas.
  • Some attractions can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • "こんにちは (Konnichiwa)" - Hello
  • "ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu)" - Thank you
  • "すみません (Sumimasen)" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "おいしい (Oishii)" - Delicious
  • "トイレはどこですか? (Toire wa doko desu ka?)" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in Izu

Visit one of these nice places.

Shuzenji Temple

A serene temple surrounded by lush gardens, perfect for capturing traditional Japanese architecture.

Jogasaki Coast

Famous for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters, ideal for stunning coastal shots.

Mount Amagi

Offers panoramic views of Izu and the surrounding sea, especially beautiful at sunrise.

Culinary Guide

Food in Izu

Izu offers a delightful culinary experience, influenced by its coastal location and agricultural abundance.

Izu Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Izu Kuroge Wagyu

Premium black beef known for its tenderness and rich flavor, often served as shabu-shabu or steak.

Must-Try!

Sakura Ebi

Tiny, sweet shrimp caught off the coast of Shizuoka, often enjoyed in sushi or tempura.

Kinmedai

Golden eye snapper, a prized fish in the region, typically grilled or served as sashimi.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Atami Fish Market

A bustling market where you can sample fresh seafood and local delicacies.

Izu Shaboten Park

Features food stalls offering local snacks and treats amidst cacti and animal exhibits.

Climate Guide

Weather

Izu experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers. Summer (June to August) is warm and humid, perfect for beach activities. Autumn (September to November) features cool weather and stunning fall foliage. Winter (December to February) is cooler, ideal for onsen visits, with occasional snowfall in mountainous areas.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respectful Greetings

Bowing is a common greeting; a slight bow signifies respect.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove shoes when entering homes, ryokans, and some traditional restaurants.

Quiet Public Spaces

Maintain a low volume in public transport and dining areas to respect others.

Safety Guide

Safety

Izu is generally very safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a friendly local population. However, it's advisable to stay alert in crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure. Natural disasters such as earthquakes can occur, so familiarize yourself with safety protocols in case of emergencies.

Tipping in Izu

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan, and service charges are typically included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's best to carry cash (Yen) for smaller shops and restaurants.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Cherry blossoms bloom, making it a picturesque time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm weather and beach activities abound; expect crowds at popular tourist spots.

Autumn

Foliage colors change, offering stunning landscapes perfect for hiking and exploration.

Winter

Cooler temperatures, ideal for enjoying onsen experiences; less crowded tourist attractions.

Nightlife Guide

Izu at Night

Izu's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, but it offers a charming mix of izakayas, karaoke bars, and onsen ryokans. Visitors can enjoy local sake and shochu while savoring small plates of sashimi or grilled fish. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making it an excellent opportunity to mingle with locals and enjoy traditional entertainment such as shamisen performances or folk music.

Hiking in Izu

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Amagi Mountains Trail

A scenic trail that offers a diverse range of flora and fauna, with stunning views of Izu and the surrounding areas.

Jogasaki Coast Trail

A coastal trail featuring dramatic cliffs and ocean views, ideal for leisurely hikes and photography.

Airports

How to reach Izu by plane.

Shizuoka Airport

Located about 70 km from Izu, it offers domestic flights and some international connections, providing convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Izu is moderately walkable, particularly in areas like Atami and the coastal towns. While many attractions are within walking distance, some distances may require transportation. Sidewalks are generally available, but rural areas may have limited pedestrian pathways. Public transportation, such as buses and trains, can help reach more distant attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population consists mainly of Japanese, with a mix of families, retirees, and young professionals engaged in tourism and agriculture.

Tourists

Visitors from across Japan and internationally, particularly those seeking relaxation in onsen and enjoying local cuisine.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball enjoys great popularity in Japan, with local teams and schools actively participating in leagues.

Soccer

Soccer is growing in popularity, with local clubs and community teams frequently playing in leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Izu can be congested during peak tourist seasons, especially near major attractions. Public transportation is available, with buses and trains connecting towns and villages. However, renting a car can provide greater flexibility to explore the region at your own pace.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Izu.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetable tempura, tofu dishes, and seasonal vegetable sides.

Gluten-Free Options

Rice and sashimi are safe choices; however, inquire about sauces and marinades.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Japan has a high standard of healthcare, with excellent facilities available in urban areas like Atami. In case of minor ailments, local pharmacies are well-stocked. For emergencies, hospitals can provide immediate care, and it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide