Best Things to do in Izu Peninsula, Japan (2024)

Have you ever heard of the Izu Peninsula in Japan? We hadn’t either until our trip, but we’re so glad we discovered it! During our three-week journey through Japan, visiting popular cities like Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Okayama, and Tokyo, our road trip through the Izu Peninsula turned out to be our favourite part. If you’re curious about the best things to do in Izu Peninsula and why it became the highlight of our trip, this post is for you!

We’ll cover everything about Izu Peninsula, including the differences between the eastern and western sides, the top must-dos, and some planning logistics. Let’s dive in!

Where is Izu Peninsula?

The Izu Peninsula is a picturesque region located in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, extending into the Pacific Ocean to the southwest of Tokyo. You can get there from either Mishima or Atami stations, and can be reached within 45 minutes on a Shinkansen from Tokyo.

Known for its natural beauty, the peninsula is an off-the-beaten-path wonder in Japan, offering a mix of coastal and mountainous landscapes. It is also close to Mount Fuji, offering spectacular views of the iconic volcano.

Having a car is recommended to fully explore the Izu Peninsula, as public transportation primarily serves the eastern side and does not cover the entire region comprehensively.

Western Vs. Eastern Izu Peninsula

During our 5 day road trip through the Izu Peninsula, we had the opportunity to experience both the Western and Eastern sides of the peninsula. The experience on each side of the peninsula is actually quite different so it is important to consider this when planning your trip.

Overall, we enjoyed the Western side of Izu Peninsula more since it provided a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience in some of the most stunning coastal sceneries we have seen in Japan. 

Here are some of the important differences we noticed:

Western Izu Peninsula

Eastern Izu Peninsula

➤ Need a car to access since public transportation there is scarce ➤ A lot less touristic  ➤ Accommodation is a lot more local and smaller scale ➤ Very little English spoken ➤ Best views of Mt Fuji since you are on the coast directly facing the mountain. ➤ Has a lot of amazing viewpoints and interesting nature highlight spots ➤The town of Mishima is served by the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen (50 mins), however Mishima is still a 1 hour drive away from the main Western coast.

➤ Has decent public transportation service so it is possible to visit without a car ➤ A lot more touristic and busy ➤ Large towns with a lot of accommodation options including large hotels ➤ A lot more English spoken ➤ Unable to see Mt Fuji since you are on the Eastern side of the peninsula.  ➤ Has Mt Omuro and a few Geoparks ➤ Easier access to Tokyo since there is the Atami station which is served by the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen (only 37 mins), and also Ito station.

16 Best things to do in Izu Peninsula

These are our favourite and most memorable experiences during our Izu Peninsula road trip itinerary. In general, I have written them in order of attractions that you will see if you are doing the Izu Peninsula loop in a counter-clockwise direction.

This means you are starting in Mishima, renting your car, and then driving the West Coast before going to the East Coast to finish at Atami.

1) Experience Ryokans and some of the best seafood Kaiseki

One of the main reasons we wanted to visit the Izu Peninsula was to experience their local Ryokans set amongst the beautiful natural landscapes of Japan. This is harder to find within the main cities of Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo since the cities are dense and surrounded by buildings.

When we checked, Ryokans within those cities were also quite expensive, easily ranging from 250-500$ per person per night. 

Whereas on the Izu Peninsula, we stayed in several beautiful Ryokans for only approximately 150$ per person per night. This price includes your stay, a multi-course kaiseki breakfast, and a full seafood dinner.

Staying in Ryokans is one of the most relaxing experiences you can have. Spend the day wearing their traditional yukatas, soak in their natural volcanic onsens, enjoy their multi-course seafood Kaiseki meals, and end the night in a zen tatami room. We spent 5 nights in Ryokans and never wanted to leave!  

2) Drive along the beautiful coast of Izu Peninsula

The Izu Peninsula is renown for their stunning ocean coast with the backdrop of Mt Fuji. This is particularly so on the Western side of the peninsula. You will be driving through winding mountainous roads, with majestic ocean views throughout the ride.

There are also multiple natural highlight spots showcasing various landscapes ranging from rocky promontories, sandy beaches, to jagged cliffs. Around every turn, we were awe-struck by the beauty of the views and wanted to stop constantly to take pictures! 

3) Lover’s Cape gold bell

Lover’s Cape Gold Bell, located on the Izu Peninsula, is a romantic stop during your road trip and offers your first glimpse of Mount Fuji. Situated at the north-western part of the peninsula, the site features a symbolic golden bell that couples ring together for good luck or to reconfirm their love.

It can be reached after a short 10 minute walk downhill through the forest and then onto the rocky outcrop. Here you will find the famous bell. On your way back, make sure to stop off a the cute cafe where you can taste wasabi ice cream! 

4) Koganezaki Park and one of the best views of Mt Fuji

Koganezaki Park in the Izu Peninsula offered us one of our favourite views of Mount Fuji. Though the park is relatively small, it boasts a large rocky outcrop with wooden stairs leading to a panoramic viewpoint at the top.

If you climb the slope opposite the outcrop, near the parking lot, you’ll find Mount Fuji perfectly aligned with the promontory.

Additionally, from the side of the rocky outcrop, you can admire the jagged cliff rocks above the ocean, which resemble the shape of a horse’s head. This spot provided one of our most memorable views during our entire Izu Peninsula road trip. 

5) Tombolo Land bridge and Dogashima Cave

The Tombolo Land Bridge, located in Japan, is a unique natural formation that connects the small island of Zo to the mainland of the peninsula. When the tide is low, a narrow strip of land appears and allows visitors to walk across and explore the island on foot.

When we visited, it was high tide, so there was no land connection to reach Zo island. Instead, we explored the nearby Dogashima Cave. You can either take a boat ride into the ocean cave or climb the rocky hill to view the cave through its open ceiling chamber. 

6) Kumomi Omoide Misaki to get direct view of Mt Fuji

We ended up staying the night in this very cute small town of Kumomi right on the western tip of the Izu Peninsula. This is a very famous photography spot for Mount Fuji since you get a perfect unobstructed view of the volcano which aligns with the two small islands right off the Kumomi Coast. 

Legend has it that there was once a storm that flooded the entire coastal Kumomi area. All the houses and livestock were washed away but one day later, they found one of the cows safely standing on the small rocky island in front of the port.

Today, they have built a tori gate and a rope that connects the two rocks to pray for the safety of the region and protection against storms/floods. This spot makes for one of the most photogenic views of Mount Fuji.

7) Kumomi Sengen Shrine High observation point

The Kumomi Sengen Shrine observation point (you can find it under the name of 展望台 in google maps)
will bring you up hundreds of stairs to get an incredible panoramic view of the Kumomi area. It is located right next to the Kumomi Omoide Misaki mentioned above. 

We woke up very early in the morning from our Ryokan and when we gazed out the window, there it was Mount Fuji in all it’s splendour. Apparently the volcano only reveals itself a mere 20% of the time so this was a rare opportunity. We then ran outside and then ran up the hundreds of stairs to get the amazing views from the top of the observation point. It takes around 30 minutes to climb up and is so worth it!

8) Yusuge Park and cafe selling local hand-made souvenirs

This is a cute little park where you get stunning views of the southern tip coast of Izu Peninsula. But what made this spot even more special was the little cafe selling local hand-made souvenirs and delicious home-made coffees/desserts.

It was opened by a British and Japanese couple and they both speak English. We actually ended up stopping here since we forgot to return our hotel key and wanted to inquire if it was possible to send it back by post (which we did).

It was the perfect pit stop to enjoy their delicious cakes and a cup of coffee. After that, you can do the short 10 minutes walk along the cliffs. 

This post is part of our series about Japan. If you want to learn more about Japan, planning your trip, and some of the best experiences there, check out the guides below:

Izu Peninsula Itinerary: Planning & Tips for the Perfect Izu Peninsula Road Trip

2 Days Kyoto Itinerary: Exploring off the Typical Tourist Trail

Day Trip to Nara, Japan: Ultimate Travel Guide (2024)

9) Cape Irozaki

Cape Irozaki is right at the southern tip of the Izu Peninsula. It is a rocky outcrop that allows you to walk out and get a full view of the ocean. We didn’t end up getting there since we were short on time but it might be an interesting stop!

10) Toji sand ski resort

Toji Sand Ski Resort offers a unique outdoor experience. Unlike traditional ski resorts, Toji features large sand dunes where visitors can enjoy sand sandboarding. You can go to the shop next door to rent your sandboard.

We didn’t end up going there since it looked rather dangerous. At the bottom of the steep sand dunes are pebble rocks so there doesn’t seem to be any area for you to properly slow down. If you don’t want to sandboard, you can also just climb up the sandy hill and sit to enjoy the coastal views.

Anyway we added this to the list in case you are one of those daredevils! 

11) Izu Peninsula Geopark and Tsumekizaki Lighthouse

We were about to skip this park since it was raining that day but we are so glad we ended up visiting it. Here at the Izu peninsula geopark you will find a botanical garden park with beautifully trimmed bushes, trees, and plants. At the end of the peninsula, you will find the bright white Tsumekizaki lighthouse. 

We saw a few people doing their wedding shoots there and we can totally understand why. The area is very picturesque and if you climb out a bit further, there are these unique uniform rocky pillars. 

12) Beautiful park with cherry blossoms in Minami-Izu

When we were in Japan, it was during cherry blossom season. Unfortunately, that year was unseasonably cold so the timing of the blooming was delayed. We missed it in Osaka and even after spending 5 days in Kyoto, but finally caught it in full bloom at this park. 

Here at the Rapeseed field of Minami-Izu, you will find rows and rows of cherry blossom trees with a calm river cutting through the park. We saw people kayaking and paddleboarding through the park and enjoying the views. You can easily spend half an hour to an hour admiring the view. At the end of the park, there is also a rapeseed field. 

13) Delicious unagi meal at 万両 in Kawazu

Since you are on the coast right next to the ocean, you definitely should not miss out on trying fresh Unagi. You can find it at several restaurants but ended up visiting 万両 in Kawazu. This is a small shop where the chef expertly grills and prepares the eel in front of you. We also noticed that it is a lot around 25% cheaper than if you were to eat it in Kyoto or Tokyo. 

14) Mount Omuro

Mount Omuro, located near the town of Ito, is an extinct volcano renowned for its distinctive bowl-shaped crater. Rising approximately 580 meters above sea level, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including Mount Fuji, the Pacific Ocean, and the Izu Islands.

You can reach the summit of the volcano via a chairlift, and visitors can walk along the crater rim for a unique perspective.

There is also the option of going into the crater where you can try your hand at archery. 

15) Kadowaki Suspension bridge on the Jogasaki Coast

Right next to Mount Omuro is the Jogasaki GeoPark. Here you will find several scenic hiking trails, volcanic rock formations, and the Kadowaki suspension bridge overlooking the jagged coastal rocks and waves. If you still want to see more lighthouses, you will find the Kadowaki Lighthouse here.

This is a popular spot for tourists and while walking along the coast, you can really appreciate just how powerful the ocean waves are. 

16) Mishima Sky Walk

Towards the end of the loop, near Hakone, you will find the Mishima Sky Walk. At a total length of 400m and standing 70m above ground level, it is Japan’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge. If the weather is right, this high vantage point gives you one of the closest and best views of Mount Fuji. 

There is also a Sky Garden here with beautiful arrangements of seasonal plants and flowers. If you are looking for more adventure, then you can do the long zip line or rent a segway/mountain bike. You should definitely buy your tickets in advance since this is a popular tourist spot.

Get your tickets here for Mishima Sky Walk

Is Izu Peninsula worth visiting?

Izu Peninsula is 100% worth visiting! In fact, it was the favourite part of our 3-week trip through Japan.

What made Izu Peninsula so special was how off-the-beaten-path it is. You drive through the quiet coastal countryside with stunning views and stay at quaint Ryokans owned by local families. There are no crowds like Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto, and you have all the space to fully appreciate the beauty of Japan.

On top of that, on the Western part of the peninsula, you will have some of the best views of Mount Fuji. Once again, without any crowds. While staying in the ryokans and soaking in the onsens, we felt so relaxed that we didn’t want to leave. It takes some planning to do this road trip but we cannot recommend it highly enough!

How to plan your trip to Izu peninsula?

Now that you know the best things to do in Izu Peninsula, the next hurdle is figuring out how to plan your itinerary.

How long should you stay?

How to get around?

Which Ryokans to stay at?

Where do you eat?

How to plan your scenic stops?

We have written a complete guide where we answer all those questions including other tips for planning your ultimate Izu Peninsula Road trip!

Best time to go to Izu Peninsula?

Every season has its highlight in the Izu Peninsula. 

If you head there during Spring (March to May), you will be perfectly timed with mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms. 

Going in Summer (June to August) is popular for those who enjoy beaches and water activities. Yes, there are beaches on the Izu Peninsula.

Visiting in Fall (September to November) also offers mild temperatures and stunning fall foliage. Given how mountainous this area is, you will have plenty of opportunities to do some hikes. 

Finally, the Winter months (December to February) are a lot quieter with very few tourists. However, it is the ideal time to enjoy the hot springs (onsens) and given the cold temperatures, you have a higher chance of a clear day with unobstructed views of Mount Fuji.  

Using WISE card in Japan

When taking cash out of an ATM while abroad, you will most likely be charged both a foreign exchange fee and a foreign transaction fee by that country’s ATM. With my Canadian card, this can easily be 3-4$ + 2.75% + a markup on the exchange rate charged by my bank, and then another 3-5$ charged by the foreign ATM.

This can be really costly. For this reason, we recommend using WISE card which has only minimal fees and just about no foreign currency exchange markup. This helps me save at least 5-7$ every time I take out money from an ATM. If you want to see our full review of the card showing exactly how WISE can help you save, check out our WISE Travel card Review post.

Summary: Best Thing to do in Izu Peninsula

Izu Peninsula to us was the hidden gem of our Japan trip. It combines beautiful views of Mount Fuji, stunning coastal drive, off-the-beaten-path experiences with local families, relaxing ryokans, and delicious seafood. We couldn’t ask for more and were sad to leave. If we have the chance to return to Japan, we will definitely come back to this region! If you are heading to Osaka as well, make sure to do a day trip to Nara. It was one of our other favourite memories of our trip!

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