The Izu Peninsula stretches south of Tokyo into the Pacific, combining hot spring towns, rugged coastline, and some of Japan’s earliest cherry blossoms. For residents, it’s a year-round escape within two hours of the capital — an accessible yet genuinely beautiful corner of Shizuoka Prefecture.
Getting to Izu from Tokyo
The Odoriko limited express runs from Tokyo or Shinjuku to Shimoda (about 2.5 hours) and Shuzenji (about 1.5 hours). The Tokaido Shinkansen to Mishima then a local train also works. A JR Pass covers the shinkansen leg. By car, the Izu Jukan Expressway speeds access during non-holiday periods. Book trains in advance on weekends and during the Kawazu cherry blossom festival in February.
Kawazu Cherry Blossoms (Late January–February)
Kawazu hosts one of Japan’s earliest cherry blossom festivals, typically running from late January to late February. The Kawazu-zakura variety blooms earlier and longer than standard Somei Yoshino. The river walk lined with 850 trees draws large crowds on weekends. Weekdays and early mornings offer more space. Combine with nearby hot spring ryokan stays to make a full overnight trip. Access by train on the Izu Kyuko Line from Ito.
Shuzenji: Classic Onsen Town
Shuzenji is Izu’s most atmospheric onsen town — a compact historic center built around a hot spring said to have been established by Kobo Daishi in the 9th century. The Tokko-no-Yu outdoor foot bath sits in the river between the two banks of the old town. Shuzenji Temple stands at the center, surrounded by bamboo groves. The main street (Honmachi) has ryokan, tofu restaurants, sweets shops, and a handful of small museums. Stay overnight in a traditional ryokan for the full experience. The autumn maple colors here are exceptional.
Shimoda: Black Ships, Beaches & History
Shimoda at the tip of the peninsula was the port where Commodore Perry forced Japan open to trade in 1854. The Ryosenji Temple holds artifacts from the treaty negotiations. The town has a distinct blue-and-white tile aesthetic. Shimoda is also famous for its beaches — Shirahama and Kisami Ohama are among the cleanest on Honshu. Water is warm enough for swimming from late June through September. A short cable car ride gives panoramic views over the bay.
Dogashima & the West Izu Coast
The western coast of Izu is less visited but arguably more dramatic. Dogashima features eroded sea caves, glowing turquoise water, and a boat tour through a sea cave that opens to sky above. Toi is known for its gold mine history and more secluded beaches. The Nishiizu coastline at sunset turns vivid orange and red — it’s popular among photographers. Roads are narrow; a rental car gives the most flexibility on this side.
Izu’s Hot Spring Towns Beyond Shuzenji
Ito Onsen (on the northeast coast) is the largest hot spring resort, easily reached from Tokyo by direct train. Atami (just north of the peninsula) is a retro resort city experiencing a revival, popular with younger visitors. Yugashima, Nakaizu, and Kona Onsen are inland alternatives with fewer crowds. Many ryokan along the Izu coast offer rooms with ocean views and open-air baths facing the Pacific. Day-use bathing (higaeri nyuyo) is widely available without requiring an overnight stay.
Cycling, Hiking & Outdoor Activities
The Izu Cycling Terrace is a well-maintained road cycling route around parts of the peninsula. Mountain biking and trail running have a growing community in central Izu. Amagi Highland in the interior offers hiking through cedar forest to summit views. The Joren Falls near Shuzenji is a popular short walk year-round. Sea kayaking tours operate out of Shimoda. Deep-sea fishing charters run from several ports on both coasts.
Food & Local Products
Wasabi is Izu’s most famous product — the Amagi area grows a significant share of Japan’s authentic wasabi in cold mountain streams. Try fresh wasabi don (rice bowl) near Shuzenji. Kinmedai (splendid alfonsino) is the iconic Izu fish — grilled or simmered in soy. Izu is also known for green tea, mikan oranges, and locally made tofu. Shimoda has craft beer spots and cafes that have opened in old kura (storehouse) buildings.
Seasonal Calendar
January–February: Kawazu sakura festival. March–April: standard cherry blossoms in Ito and Atami. May–June: hydrangeas along the coastal roads. July–September: beach season on the eastern and southern coasts. October–November: autumn foliage at Shuzenji and Amagi Highland. December: quiet season — ideal for onsen without crowds, and ryokan often offer lower rates.
Practical Notes for Residents
The Izu peninsula rewards multiple visits across seasons rather than a single long trip. A Suica or IC card works on JR lines to Atami and Ito; beyond Ito the Izu Kyuko Line requires a separate ticket purchase. Holiday weekends (especially Golden Week and the February cherry festival) see heavy traffic on National Route 135 along the coast — trains are more reliable. Many ryokan have a minimum stay requirement on peak weekends. English signage is improving along major tourist routes but limited in rural interiors.