This Izu Peninsula Itinerary will introduce you to one of Japan’s most beautiful areas.
This hidden gem lies between Tokyo and Kyoto.
Many foreign visitors overlook it, but it has stunning beauty and easy access.
Izu is special because it offers natural wonders and rich cultural experiences.
It remains untouched by overtourism, unlike many other places.
While the eastern coast is easily reached by JR trains, the peninsula’s most magical spots are tucked away from the main transport routes.
Plan your Izu Peninsula itinerary here:
How to Travel Around the Izu Peninsula
Trains and Public Transport
Getting around the Izu Peninsula by public transport is possible but requires some planning.
From Tokyo, you can reach Atami in about 80 minutes, making it a convenient entry point to the peninsula.
Several train options connect Tokyo to the Izu Peninsula:
- JR Odoriko Limited Express: Runs from Tokyo or Yokohama Station to Atami (booking required)
- JR Tokaido Shinkansen: High-speed option from Tokyo to Atami or Mishima
Once you’ve arrived, two main railway lines serve the peninsula:
- Izu-Hakone line (connects Mishima to Shuzenji in central Izu)
- Izukyu Line (runs from Atami along the east coast)
The Tokai Bus Network also operates throughout the peninsula, but some routes only run 1-2 buses daily.
This limited schedule can restrict spontaneous travel.
Consider purchasing bus passes, which are available for 1-3 days for more value if you’re planning multiple journeys.
Hiring a Vehicle
Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the Izu Peninsula.
With your own transport, you’ll enjoy the freedom to stop at interesting spots along scenic routes and reach places that buses don’t serve.
Remember to bring your International Driving Permit (IDP) as this is required for foreign visitors driving in Japan.
A car lets you explore hidden gems and change your plans easily.
This is especially helpful in Izu, where public transport can be rare.
Personal Guide Services
If you prefer not to drive yourself but still want to explore off-the-beaten-path locations, hiring a local guide is an excellent option.
Local experts know the peninsula well.
They can craft personalized experiences just for you based on your interests.
They can take you to stunning locations that most tourists miss and share insights about local culture and history.
Guided tours usually offer half-day or full-day options.
Most guides can also customize itineraries to fit your interests.
You can choose from natural scenery, cultural sites, or local cuisine.
Things to Do in Izu Peninsula: Planning Your Perfect Itinerary Based on Your Interests
The Izu Peninsula offers something special for every traveller.
Whether you’re drawn to its stunning coastlines, historical sites, or natural wonders, you’ll find plenty to explore.
Consider what excites you most about this beautiful region:
- Rich maritime heritage in Shimoda and Heda
- Beautiful beaches along the South East Coast
- Early cherry blossoms in Kawazu and Toi
- Fresh local cuisine and premium wasabi in Izu City
- Water sports opportunities around Shimoda
- Stunning Mount Fuji views from the West Coast
- Traditional onsen towns in Central Izu
- Dramatic volcanic landscapes and waterfalls throughout East Coast and Central Izu
- Breathtaking sunrises (East Coast) and sunsets (West Coast)
How Many Days to Spend in Izu Peninsula
To truly appreciate what Izu has to offer, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days.
This gives you enough time to experience the region’s highlights without feeling rushed.
Your ideal length of stay depends on your interests:
- Quick visit: 2 days to see major attractions
- Relaxed exploration: 3-4 days to include onsen relaxation and nature walks
- In-depth journey: 5+ days to explore multiple coastal areas and inland treasures
Izu Peninsula Itinerary Samples
Here are some friendly day-by-day suggestions to help you make the most of this lovely coastal area.
These ideas group the main sights and hidden gems to make your planning easier.
1-Day Trip:
- Visit Shuzenji Onsen town
- Stroll through bamboo forests
- Enjoy coastal views
2-3 Day Trip:
- Eastern coast drive from Atami to Shimoda
- Jogasaki Coast walking trails
- Kawazu waterfalls
For longer stays, add trips to wasabi farms and more hot springs!
DAY 1: SOUTH-EAST IZU – Explore Shimoda & Kawazu’s Magnificent Waterfalls
Wonderful Activities in Shimoda
Shimoda is a perfect spot for your Izu Peninsula adventure.
This coastal town is historically important.
In 1854, America’s Commodore Perry docked here.
This event helped end Japan’s long isolation.
The town’s preserved streets offer a glimpse into this fascinating era.
For the best views, head to the Shimoda Ropeway and ascend to Mt Nesugata Summit.
You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding area.
History lovers will enjoy the Shimoda Castle Ruins and Ryosen-ji Temple.
This is where the important Amity Treaty was signed.
Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Perry Road with its charming cafés and unique shops.
Don’t miss the Old Sawamura House and Admiral Perry’s Arrival Memorial Stone to complete your historical tour.
For a different perspective, hop aboard a Black Ship sightseeing cruise around the harbour.
If you’re visiting in June, the Hydrangea Garden offers lovely views of “Shimoda Fuji” amidst beautiful blooms.
Beach lovers can head to Shirahama Beach for sunbathing or surfing, and don’t forget to visit the sacred Shirahama Shrine nearby.
Discovering Kawazu Seven Waterfalls
Just 25 minutes by car from Shimoda, you’ll find one of Izu’s most spectacular natural attractions.
The Kawazu Seven Waterfalls (Nanadaru) highlight nature’s strength.
They feature beautiful cascades along the Kawazu River.
Each waterfall features a statue of one of the Seven Lucky Gods from Japanese mythology, plus a stamp station for collectors.
The complete trail includes these magnificent falls:
- O-daru Falls (the largest at 30 metres tall)
- Deai-daru Falls
- Kani-daru Falls (Crab Waterfall)
- Shokei-daru Falls
- Hebi-daru Falls (Snake Waterfall)
- Ebi-daru Falls (Shrimp Waterfall)
- Kama-daru Falls
The entire return journey spans about 2.6 kilometres along a boardwalk that follows the river.
Watch out for slippery stairs, a suspension bridge, and rocky paths.
These are especially important when you go to the last three waterfalls.
However, the path between the third and fourth falls is smooth and more accessible.
DAY 2: EAST IZU – Jogasaki Coastline & Mount Omuro
Your second day exploring the Izu Peninsula brings you to two natural wonders connected by an ancient volcanic event.
About 4,000 years ago, Mount Omuro erupted, sending lava flowing all the way to the sea, creating what we now enjoy as the stunning Jogasaki Coast.
Exploring the Jogasaki Coastline
The Jogasaki Coast offers several lovely spots worth visiting:
- Suspension Bridge – Walk across this stunning bridge. Enjoy great views of ancient lava tubes that formed thousands of years ago.
- Coastal Walking Path – Enjoy a scenic stroll along the shoreline (note: some sections are being repaired until early 2025)
- Kadowaki Cape Lighthouse – Check out this uniquely shaped lighthouse that watches over the rocky coast.
- Historic Boranaya – This old fisherman’s hut is four centuries old. It has unique thatched roofing that you won’t see anywhere else nearby.
The coastal area showcases fascinating plant life with interesting local stories.
Mount Omuro Highlights
Even on foggy days, Mount Omuro is worth visiting.
On clear days, you’ll enjoy:
- Chair Lift Experience – Take a relaxing ride to the summit for spectacular panoramic views, including Mount Fuji on clear days
- Perfectly Groomed Slopes – Check out the mountain’s well-kept grassy surface. It has a special link to Mount Fuji.
- Fresh Momiji Manju – Treat yourself to these delicious traditional sweets made right before your eyes
If you’re visiting in February, don’t miss Sakura no Sato Park at the mountain’s base.
Here, you can enjoy stunning cherry blossoms and participate in local festivities.
For the best experience, split your visit into two parts.
First, arrive at Mount Omuro early.
Then, take the bus to Izu Kogen station to begin your coastal exploration heading northward.
DAY 3: EXPLORING NORTH EAST IZU – ATAMI & ITO
Fun Activities in Ito
Ito offers a delightful mix of history and charm on your third day exploring the Izu Peninsula.
Take time to find the Anjin Memorial Monuments dedicated to William Adams, the first Briton to reach Japan in 1600.
If you’re a fan of the popular Shogun series, you’ll appreciate this historical connection!
If you’re in town in early August, check out the Anjin Festival.
It features amazing fireworks that celebrate Adams’ impact on Japanese society.
The Matsukawa Promenade provides a lovely walking path.
Here, graceful willows complement the traditional architecture.
The Tokaikan Museum in Ito is a must-see for history buffs.
It features rare architecture from the Taisho Period (1912-1926).
Brilliant Spots in Atami
Atami boasts several attractions worth your time.
For amazing views, ride the Atami Ropeway to the Aijo-misaki Observatory.
You’ll find stunning panoramas there.
Atami Castle offers magnificent vistas over Sagami Bay that will have you reaching for your camera.
For something different, you might fancy the unusual Hihokan Adult Museum or the mind-bending Trick Art Museum.
Don’t overlook Kiunkaku, an impressive 400-year-old villa featuring beautiful traditional gardens.
Art enthusiasts should make time for the MOA Museum of Art with its prime position overlooking the bay.
Atami looks particularly splendid in good weather, so if possible, try to visit on a clear day to fully appreciate its coastal beauty!
DAY 4: CENTRAL IZU: Izu City & Shuzenji
The fourth day of your Izu adventure takes you inland to the charming central region.
Here, you’ll discover Shuzenji, often called “Little Kyoto” of Shizuoka Prefecture.
This historic onsen town has a 1,200-year history.
Its beautiful scenery may remind you of popular Japanese animation.
Did you know that Shuzenji’s oldest hot spring, Tokku-no-Yu, was established by the same Buddhist monk who founded the famous Mt. Koya?
This historic hot spring became the heart around which the entire village developed.
The central Izu area is also famous for its perfect wasabi growing conditions.
Something you’ll want to experience firsthand.
Things to do in central Izu
- Izu Wasabi Visitor Centre – Explore the amazing world of wasabi farming. Learn about its unexpected uses in skincare and its health perks.
- Sample authentic wasabi – Taste the real thing at local eateries. You’ll be amazed at the difference between the fresh product and the paste from tubes (which often contains very little actual wasabi!).
- Waterfall viewing – Check out the beautiful Banjo Falls and its heart-shaped rock. Then, head over to the stunning Asahi Falls.
- Saisho-in Temple – Wander through this hidden 15th-century temple complex, a true treasure off the typical tourist path.
- Shuzen-ji Temple – Visit this ancient temple, which is 1,200 years old. It’s especially stunning in autumn when the leaves change color.
- Bamboo Forest Path – Enjoy a calm walk in this bamboo grove, a nice break from Kyoto’s busy Arashiyama.
- Riverside ryokan stay – End your day at a traditional hot spring inn by the lovely Katsura River. Enjoy an authentic Japanese experience.
DAY 5: WEST COAST IZU: Toi, Heda & Cape Misaki
The west coast of Izu offers stunning seaside views and peaceful villages far from the usual tourist paths.
Things to do in Toi, Heda & Cape Misaki
Toi’s gold mining history comes alive when you visit the Toi Gold Mine, Japan’s second largest.
While in Toi, take a moment to explore Seiun-ji Temple with its unique entrance gate and charming jizo statues dotted around the grounds.
If you’re visiting in late January, you’re in for a treat with Toi’s early cherry blossoms.
They bloom much earlier than most places in Japan.
Summer visitors can enjoy the lively Toi festival in late August, complete with dazzling fireworks.
You’ll learn why Russian sailors were so grateful to Heda locals back in 1854.
It’s much more interesting than it sounds!
On clear days, Heda Beach and Heda Lighthouse offer spectacular views of Mt Fuji across the bay.
Even if clouds hide the mountain peak, the scenery remains lovely.
For a peaceful moment away from crowds, visit Morokuchi Shrine and look out over Heda Port.
This spot offers a wonderful alternative to busier shrines like Hakone, where tourists often queue for hours.
Feeling peckish?
Try the local spider crab at one of Heda’s seafood restaurants.
This regional delicacy is fresh and delicious.
Before the day ends, head to Darumayama Lookout for a magical sunset.
On clear evenings, you might catch Mt Fuji bathed in golden light.
A perfect way to cap off your west coast adventure.
DAYS 6-7: EXPLORING SOUTHWEST AND NORTHERN IZU
Beautiful Spots in Southwest Izu
Southwest Izu offers some truly magical experiences that shouldn’t be missed on your journey:
- Catch a breathtaking sunset over the ocean in Nishi Izu – perfect for photography enthusiasts
- Take a boat tour through the fascinating Dogashima Cave (Tensondo Cave)
- Visit Matsuzaki to see charming whitewashed merchant buildings from the Edo period
- Enjoy a peaceful walk along the Naka River in spring, where cherry blossoms create a stunning alternative to Kyoto’s busier spots
- Sample lobster ramen and fresh seafood in Minami Izu
- Marvel at the rugged coastline of Cape Irozaki with its dramatic cliffs and crashing waves
Stunning Views in Northern Izu
Northern Izu provides some less crowded vantage points for admiring Mt Fuji:
- Walk across the huge Mishima SkyWalk suspension bridge for amazing views. It’s best to book tickets in advance.
- Visit Izu Panorama Park for sweeping vistas of Mt Fuji framed by beautiful natural scenery
Where to Stay in Izu
Izu Peninsula offers a range of lovely accommodation options to suit different travel styles.
From traditional ryokans to modern hotels, you’ll find something to match your preferences during your visit.
Good to know:
- The area around Izu Kogen has few convenience stores or restaurants
- Book your dinner time slot when you check in
- The hotel welcomes families with children
Tips for Motoring Around Izu
If you’re planning to drive across Izu Peninsula during your holiday, here are some helpful pointers:
Wildlife awareness:
- 🦌 Keep an eye out for deer, especially in remote areas of the west coast
- Drive cautiously around bends where wildlife might appear suddenly
Road conditions:
- Many coastal roads have limited stopping points for photos or rest breaks
- The mountain roads feature tight curves. Local drivers sometimes cut corners, so drive defensively, particularly on hairpin turns
Night driving challenges:
- Some rural roads lack street lighting
- Remember to dip your headlights for oncoming traffic
- Take extra care when navigating after dark
Payment info:
- Unlike other parts of Japan, the Izu Peninsula toll roads don’t accept ETC cards
- Bring cash for any toll payments
Concluding this Izu itinerary for one to 7 days
The Izu Peninsula truly offers a refreshing escape from Japan’s popular tourist routes.
Izu is different from busy cities you see elsewhere.
It feels like stepping back in time to old Japan, before it turned into a global tourism hotspot.
What makes Izu special?
It’s the perfect blend of authentic experiences:
- Ancient shrines tucked away in peaceful settings
- Traditional onsen towns preserved in their historic charm
- Breathtaking coastal views from dramatic cliff edges
- Delicious regional cuisine using fresh local ingredients
- Early cherry blossom viewing before the main crowds arrive
The best part is how uncrowded these attractions remain.
What parts of this Izu Peninsula Itinerary are you most excited about?
The hidden shrines, the seafood, or perhaps those potential Mt Fuji views?
