What places should you add to an Izu Peninsula itinerary? If you’re hoping to enjoy some unique Japan experiences during your trip but in a way that avoids tourist crowds, overlooked Izu will be the region for you!

Geographically located between Tokyo and Kyoto, the Izu Peninsula lies unnoticed by most foreign visitors, despite zipping right past it on bullet trains. Having visited Japan over the past decade, to me, Izu feels like being transported back in time to that pre-tourism-boom Japan I first fell in love with all those years ago!

Its relaxed-pace vibe, preserved onsen towns, rugged coastlines, geological wonders, hidden histories and some of the friendliest local residents make Izu the perfect getaway to unwind from the busy cities (and overtourism issues) elsewhere.

Izu Peninsula Itinerary: One to 7 Days of Uncrowded Gems | The Invisible Tourist

Although the eastern coast of the peninsula is serviced by JR trains, there is a public transport hurdle to overcome if wanting to explore beyond that. How can you reach the most offbeat places if you’re not planning to hire a car?

Not to worry, I have a solution to help you “blend in” and uncover the local charm of Izu beloved by its residents. If you’re wanting to discover stunning alternatives to the popular places elsewhere in Japan without any crowds, read on for more!

To bring you this Izu Peninsula travel itinerary, I’ve teamed up with local guide Jimmy from Jimmy’s Izu Tours. This post contains affiliate links at no extra cost to you. I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Izu Peninsula Itinerary: One to 7 Days of Uncrowded Gems | The Invisible Tourist
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How to get around the Izu Peninsula

Said to be the gateway to the Izu Peninsula, the onsen town of Atami can be reached from Tokyo in around 80 mins by train. However, public transport on the peninsula itself is relatively limited, so it’s ideal to hire a car or a local guide to drive for added flexibility.

Map of Izu Peninsula: Izu Map for Tourists, Japan
Map of Izu Peninsula

Train/public transport

  • JR Odoriko Limited Express: From Tokyo Station or Yokohama Station (reservations necessary) to Atami Station
  • JR Tokaido shinkansen: From Tokyo Station to Atami Station or Mishima Station
    • Once there, the peninsula is serviced by two railway lines (Izu-Hakone line from Mishima to Shuzenji in central Izu, and Izukyu Line from Atami along the east coast).
  • Tokai Bus Network: Sometimes there are only 1 – 2 buses per day, which doesn’t allow room for spontaneity. Bus passes are available for 1, 2 or 3 days here.

JR Odoriko train from Tokyo to Izu, Japan

Rental car

I certainly recommend getting around by car in Izu! You’ll be able to stop off at interesting spots along the way. Compare companies with Discover Cars, or pick up from Toyota Rent-A-Car from Atami or Ito Stations. Don’t forget your IDP… Check my tips specific to driving in Izu as a tourist down the page for everything you need to know!

Private Izu Peninsula tour with a local expert

For my readers who prefer not to drive themselves in Japan but want to visit the most offbeat spots, allow me to introduce you to your new local friend in Izu, Jimmy from Jimmy’s Izu Tours to enrich your trip!

Having lived between Japan and the USA for the past 30 years and settling in Izu in 2019, Jimmy is a walking encyclopedia about Izu. I spent two days with Jimmy on a private tour of the most overlooked and beautiful places in Izu, and his passion for this region effortlessly shines through.

Jimmy offers half day, full day and customised tours of Izu, so just tell him your interests and he’ll be able to take you to some stunning off the beaten path locations. His tours really made me fall in love with Izu and the generosity of its locals.

I wouldn’t have found these falls without Jimmy’s local knowledge!

I’ll share all the spots we visited down the page to give you ideas for places to include on your own Izu peninsula itinerary.

Things to do in Izu Peninsula: What to include on an Izu itinerary by interest

What is Izu famous for? While Japan itself is famous for many things, the Izu Peninsula boasts some unique features that make it quite special. Which of these things interest you to create your perfect itinerary?

  • Centuries-old maritime history (Shimoda, Heda)
  • Pristine beaches (South East Coast)
  • Early-blooming cherry blossoms (Kawazu, Toi)
  • Premium wasabi and fresh local cuisine (Izu City)
  • Water activities (Shimoda)
  • Unique views of Mount Fuji (West Coast)
  • Preserved onsen towns (Central Izu)
  • Waterfalls and dramatic volcanic geology (East Coast, Central Izu)
  • Over-the-ocean sunrises (East Coast) and sunsets (West Coast).

The stand-out feature to me with Izu was the obvious adoration and connections locals have to their land, which can sometimes seem lost in Japan’s larger cities. I hope you feel it too!

How many days to spend in Izu Peninsula

Determining how many days to spend exploring the Izu Peninsula is going to come down to what you’ll want to see based on your interests. But I’d allow for a minimum of two to three days to get a taste of what Izu has to offer.

Use my bullet points above to determine what you’d most like to see, then tailor your trip around them using my day-by-day Izu Peninsula itinerary samples below.

Izu Peninsula Itinerary Samples: Ideas for One to 7 Days

To make things easier for you and thanks to Jimmy’s recommendations, I’ve grouped the main sights as well as some hidden gems into a day-by-day Izu itinerary below.

DAY 1: SOUTH EAST IZU – Shimoda & Kawazu Seven Waterfalls

If you only have one day in Izu, I recommend heading down to gorgeous Shimoda as an Izu Peninsula day trip from Tokyo (although, it may be a long day) or overnight stay. When it’s sunny, enjoy the area’s expansive beaches, portside vibe and hydrangeas in summer.

In 1854,Commodore Perry from the United States first docked here and negotiated trade with Japan, therefore ending the country’s two-century isolationist period. Shimoda’s preserved old streets will transport you back to this era!

Things to do in Shimoda 

  • Take in the views from Shimoda Ropeway & Mt Nesugata Summit.
  • Spot the Shimoda Castle Ruins.
  • Visit Ryosen-ji, where the Tokugawa Shogunate signed the Amity Treaty with Perry.
  • Stroll along preserved Perry Road, a picturesque spot, enjoying the cafes and op-shops.
  • Walk by Old Sawamura House.
  • Stop at Admiral Perry’s Arrival Memorial Stone.
  • Take a Black Ship sightseeing cruise.
  • Say hello to panoramic views of Shimoda Fuji from the Hydrangea Garden (best viewed in June).
  • Visit the sacred Shirahama Shrine, sunbathe or surf at Shirahama Beach.

illow-lined canal of Perry Road, Shimoza, Izu Japan

Izu Peninsula Itinerary: Things to Do in in Shimoda Japan | The Invisible Tourist
Things to do in Shimoda: 1) Shimoda Ropeway ~ 2) Perry’s Arrival Stone ~ 3) Perry Road ~ 4) Mt Nesugata Summit ~ 5) Shimoda Fuji

From Shimoda, Kawazu Seven Waterfalls can be reached in 25 mins by car. These falls were easily one of my favourite spots in the Izu Peninsula.

Things to do at Kawazu Seven Waterfalls

At each of the seven waterfalls is a statue of one of the Seven Lucky Gods in Japanese mythology, as well as a stamp to commemorate your visit.

Across many kinds of volcanic formations, these falls are a truly beautiful sight and will leave you in awe of Mother Nature’s power.

Dotted along the lengthy Kawazu River, the Seven Waterfalls are:

  • O-daru Falls
  • Deai-daru Falls
  • Kani-daru Falls (Crab Waterfall)
  • Shokei-daru Falls
  • Hebi-daru Falls (Snake Waterfall)
  • Ebi-daru Falls (Shrimp waterfall)
  • Kama-daru Falls.

NOTE: Some sections are not mobility friendly, including slippery stairs, a suspension bridge and rocky paths to reach the last three falls. The smooth pathway between the third and fourth waterfalls is accessible, though.

Stunning Odaru Falls, first at Kawazu Seven Waterfalls

Kawazu Seven Waterfalls: 1) Game of luck ~ 2) Shokei-daru Falls ~ 3) Typical scenery along the path ~ 4) Suspension bridge ~ 5) Massive Kama-daru Falls. TOP: Odaru Falls.

Afterwards, find the original Kawazu cherry tree believed to be which all other Kawazu cherry trees descended from. While not in bloom during my autumn visit, the tree dates back to 1955!

Kawazu Sakura Original Tree, Izu Peninsula

DAY 2: EAST COAST IZU – Jogasaki Coast & Mount Omuro

For an Izu Peninsula 2 day itinerary, combine the Jogasaki Coast & Mt Omuro with yesterday’s South East Izu itinerary.

These two attractions are very closely linked. Jimmy explained how 4,000 years ago Mt Omuro erupted, its lava creating an expansive area of volcanic rock that we call the Jogasaki Coast today.

Regarding the local flora, Jimmy detailed a local story about how a particular plant came to be beloved by locals throughout the centuries despite its sad origins.

Things to do on the Jogasaki Coast

  • Walk across the Jogasaki suspension bridge and see the old lava tube below.
  • Follow the Jogasaki Coastal Walk (some sections under repairs until early 2025).
  • See the unusual shape of Kadowaki Cape Lighthouse.
  • Take a look Boranaya, an old fisherman’s hut turned restaurant. It features a unique thatched rooftop to this area, and the building dates back to Shakespeare’s time (four centuries ago). Thanks to Jimmy’s local friendships, the owner Iishi-san was kind enough to allow me a peek inside!

Jogasaki Coast, Izu Peninsula Japan

The Jogasaki Coast is a must for any Izu Peninsula itinerary
Jogasaki Coast: 1) Suspension Bridge ~ 2) Learn the sad myth behind this local shrub ~ 3) Old lookout post for mullet fishing ~ 4) Boranaya ~ 5) Lave tube

Unfortunately for me, Mt Omuro was covered in fog during my visit. However on a clear day, you can take the chairlift up to the summit for a unique view of Mt Fuji! See Jimmy’s amazing photos from his Mt Omuro tour on DiscoverIzu.com (don’t forget to use code INVISIBLE5 for 5% off any tour).

Things to do at Mt Omuro

  • Take the Mt Omuro chair lift to admire the region from the summit, learn how she is spiritually tied to Mt Fuji and why her grassy exterior always looks perfectly groomed.
  • Snack on some delicious fresh momiji manju, made right on the spot.
  • During February, don’t miss Sakura no Sato Park, with a sea of cherry blossoms and local festival at the foot of Mt Omuro.
Mt Omuro, Izu Peninsula Japan
Mt Omuro: 1) Expectation ~ 2) Reality with fog surrounding the peak during my visit. I wish you better luck!

DAY 3: NORTH EAST IZU – Atami & Ito

To create an Izu Peninsula 3 day itinerary, combine the previous two days with today’s North East Izu spots in Atami and Ito. 

Jimmy will share his knowledge about the importance of this area during the Tokugawa Shogunate, and what happened when William Adams (the first British man to reach Japan) arrived in 1600.

Things to do in Ito

  • Hunt down the Anjin Memorial Monuments, dedicated to William Adams (have you seen the hit TV series, movie or read the book Shogun?).
  • Attend the Anjin Festival in early August, celebrating William Adams’ contributions to Japan and witness a fantastic fireworks display.
  • Stroll along the picturesque Matsukawa Promenade, its willows a lovely focal point against the old architecture.
  • Visit the Tokaikan Museum, one of the few remaining remnants of architecture in Ito from the Taisho Period (1912 – 1926).
  • Find the decorative manhole covers depicting local events. 
  • Enjoy a break at Aoki-san’s Chit Chat Cafe, frequented and recommended by Jimmy.
  • See the hand-carved bamboo lanterns around Ito Station.

Don't miss Matsukawa Promenade during your time in Ito city

Ito city is lovely to add to your Izu Peninsula itinerary
Ito City: 1) Bamboo lanterns at JR Ito Station ~ 2 & 3) Anjin Memorial Monuments ~ 4) Tea Break at Chit Chat Cafe ~ 5) Decorative manhole covers of Ito

Things to do in Atami

  • Venture up the Atami Ropeway to the Aijo-misaki Observatory.
  • Enjoy amazing views over Sagami Bay from Atami Castle.
  • Visit the quirky Hihokan Adult Museum or the Trick Art Museum.
  • Pay a visit to Kiunkaku, a 400-year old preserved villa with beautiful gardens.
  • Check out the impressive MOA Museum of Art overlooking the bay.

It was absolutely pouring rain during my two visits to Atami, so my photos don’t show this city at its best. Here’s a preview of what you can expect when the weather is ideal!

DAY 4: CENTRAL IZU: Izu City & Shuzenji 

On day 4 of this Izu itinerary, we’ll cover the central peninsula. Jimmy explained why the environmental conditions in the Izu City area are absolutely perfect for wasabi cultivation, and why you need to try it freshly-ground here!

With an impressive history dating back 1200 years and known as Shizuoka Prefecture’s “Little Kyoto,” Shuzenji is a quaint onsen town with scenery reminiscent of the hit Spirited Away film.

Perhaps you‘ve heard of Mt Koya (Koyasan) down in the Kansai Region, but did you know the same monk who established that site also found Izu’s oldest hot spring here? Named Tokku-no-Yu, the onsen ryokan village of Shuzenji was then built around it.

Things to do in central Izu

  • Learn all about wasabi farming, its use in cosmetics and health benefits of wasabi at the Izu Wasa Visitor Centre.
  • Try some fresh wasabi at one of the local restaurants (elsewhere in Japan it can come from a tube, you’ll be surprised to learn the ingredients are not the same!)
  • Stop by impressive Banjo Falls and spot the heart-shaped rock, before checking out towering Asahi Falls.
  • Stroll the grounds of Saisho-in Temple, founded in the 15th century and a true hidden gem. I would never have known about this exquisite spot without Jimmy.
  • Visit the 1200 year old Shuzen-ji Temple, famed for its autumn colours.
  • Take a peaceful walk through the Bamboo Forest Path, a great mini alternative to Arashiyama in Kyoto.
  • Spend the night in an onsen ryokan along the Katsura River.

Shuzenji Onsen, Izu Peninsula, Japan

Things to do in Izu Peninsula, Japan
Central Izu: 1 & 2) Learn all about wasabi and see it growing on a local farm ~ 3) Saisho-in Temple ~ 4) Banjo Falls ~ 5) Shuzen-ji Temple at dusk

DAY 5: WEST COAST IZU: Toi, Heda & Cape Misaki

The scenery along this section of Izu’s west coast is nothing short of breathtaking. On day 5 of this Izu itinerary, combine the historic town of Toi with the sleepy port of Heda and amazing views from Cape Misaki.

As there is little public transport servicing this area, it truly is off the beaten path in Japan – allow Jimmy to show you around!

Things to do in Toi, Heda & Cape Misaki

  • See the world’s largest gold ingot (250kgs!) at the old Toi Gold Mine, the second largest mine in Japan.
  • Find the various jizo and admire the unique entry gate of Seiun-ji Temple.
  • Catch the early-blooming Toi cherry blossoms in late January.
  • Take part in the Toi summer festival and fireworks display during late August.
  • Browse through the Heda Shipyard Museum of History and Folklore. To be honest, I was a little sceptical of this place as it seems quite random, but Jimmy knows his stuff and the museum was actually super fascinating! A must-see for anyone interested in Russian-Japanese maritime relations and why Russian sailors were thankful to the locals of Heda during 1854. 
  • On a clear day, admire some amazing views of Mt Fuji across the bay from Heda Beach and Heda Lighthouse (unfortunately Fujisan was hiding from me, but you can see the lenticular clouds above her peak below!)
  • Stand beneath the torii of Morokuchi Shrine and peer out across Heda Port. This is such a peaceful spot, and makes a perfect uncrowded alternative to Hakone Shrine (where tourists queue for two hours for a photo).
  • Try some of the fishing town’s popular spider crab at one of the many restaurants serving this local specialty.
  • Watch the sunset over Mt Fuji from Jimmy’s favourite spot, Darumayama Lookout.

Morokuchi Shrine, Heda Port, Izu Peninsula

Toi, Heda & Cape Misaki, Izu Peninsula, Shizuoka Japan
Toi, Heda & Cape Misaki: 1) Toi Gold Mine ~ 2) Cape Misaki ~ 3) Heda Peninsula ~ 4) Morokuchi Shrine ~ 5) Mt Darumayama Lookout. TOP: Morokuchi Shrine & lenticular clouds of Mt Fuji

DAYS 6-7: SOUTH WEST IZU & NORTHERN IZU

I ran out of time to visit the following locations, but will cover them in the future. These spots are highly recommended by Jimmy, so they’d definitely be worth looking into for your trip.

Things to see in South West Izu

  • Watch an unforgettable sunset over the ocean in Nishi Izu.
  • Cruise through the incredible Dogashima Cave (Tensondo Cave). 
  • See the old whitewashed merchant buildings of Matsuzaki, an important stone production area during the building of Edo Castle.
  • Stroll along the Naka River in spring, framed by cherry blossoms and a great alternative to Kyoto’s popular Philosopher’s Path.
  • Try lobster ramen and other locally-caught seafood in Minami Izu, and admire the dramatic coastal scenery of Cape Irozaki.
  • Don’t forget to try and catch the sunset over Mt Fuji from the bell on Lover’s Cape!

Matsuzaki and Mount Fuji, Izu Peninsula

Unfortunately for me, the weather was miserable during most of my stay around Izu, so I didn’t visit these next few places that were on my list. However if the weather is in your favour, these are some more unique spots to admire Mt Fuji that aren’t Hakone or Kawaguchiko!

Things to see in Northern Izu

  • Take in views of Mt Fuji from the huge suspension bridge at Mishima SkyWalk (book tickets in advance here).
  • Enjoy the beautiful scenery surrounding Mt Fuji from Izu Panorama Park.
Mishima Skywalk, Izu Peninsula
Mishima Skywalk, Izu

Where to stay in Izu

As with my guides to where to stay in Tokyo and hotels and ryokan in Kyoto, I always pay for hotels with my own money and review them unbeknownst to owners or staff.

I spent three nights at the incredible Kamenoi Ryokan Hotel in Izu Kogen. It’s about 15 mins walk from Jogasaki Kogan Station, and there is free on-site parking for guests.

Its reflective water feature to mirror the incredible sunrises over the ocean was a beautiful highlight! While I didn’t try the segregated onsen, it looked amazing.

I actually booked this hotel for its location and views, but didn’t realise a 7 course dinner and buffet breakfast were included with my room option (so double check when you book). The meals were delicious and adopted many fresh local ingredients from the peninsula. I highly recommend staying here if you’re wanting to relax!

TIP: Note there are no konbini or many restaurants nearby, so dinner and breakfast provided is a handy option. You’ll need to book your dinner time slot in advance at reception. It is a family-friendly hotel and children were visiting the onsen with their parents.

NOTE: If you’re spending longer than three days in Izu, you may wish to have two bases to stay – one on the east Coast in Izu Kogen as I did and perhaps another on the West Coast, or in the stunning central onsen town of Shuzenji.

Buffet Breakfast and Seven Course Dinner at Komenoi Hotel Izu Kogen, Japan
My hotel in Izu Kogen: Buffet breakfast and seven course dinner. TOP: Sunrise over the ocean from the hotel

Tips for driving on the Izu Peninsula

I’ve hired a car and driven half a dozen times in Japan now, and I have some advice specifically for Izu. Remember to read my guide to driving in Japan as a tourist for everything you need to know.

  • Watch out for deer! Some areas are quite remote, especially on the West Coast. Jimmy and I encountered some stunned deer by the side of the road during our road trip.
  • There aren’t many places to stop to take pictures or if you need a break. I missed out on snapping a few sunset spots as there just wasn’t anywhere to stop along the cliffside roads!
  • Beware of super windy turns and bends. Other drivers do tend to cut the corners, so take care and drive defensively.
  • At night, some roads aren’t equipped with street lights so remember to dim your high beams at oncoming cars and take extra care.
  • When hiring your car, you won’t need an ETC card on the Izu Peninsula as they don’t accept them, you’ll need cash.

Concluding this Izu itinerary for one to 7 days

Visiting the the Izu Peninsula is akin to stepping back a decade ago in time before Japan became a tourist hotspot. Locals enjoy meeting visitors and are passionate about their hometowns, as well as keeping old traditions alive.

With its own ancient shrines, preserved onsen towns, dreamy vistas from cliff sides, superb local cuisine, early sakura season and some of the friendliest locals, uncrowded Izu is dotted with alternatives to popular spots elsewhere in Japan to help you avoid crowds.

And to top it off, if you’re lucky, you’ll experience unique views of Mt Fuji that will rival any viral locations you’ve seen on social media. What more could first time visitors to Japan want?

 

What do you think of this Izu Peninsula travel guide? Which places will you add to your own Izu Peninsula itinerary? I’d love to hear in the comments below!

More expert Japan travel itineraries

Looking for more tried-and-tested itineraries for Japan? You need to read these posts:

Feeling social? Explore beyond the main touristy sights with my dedicated Japan Off the Beaten Path Facebook Group or come and join me on Facebook, Pinterest, TikTok and Instagram for more travel inspiration!

Until next time,

The Invisible Tourist


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2 Comments

  1. I had heard of the Izu Peninsula before but was not aware how close it was to Tokyo. Looks like I may have to visit on my next Japan trip. What season would you recommend?

    Thank you
    John

    1. Hi John, thanks for reading!
      Personally I think Izu would be wonderful in any season – As mentioned in the article for spring, you can see early blooming sakura as soon as January (Toi) and February (Kawazu). Great idea for skipping the crowds that flock to Japan in late March – early April for sakura.
      Then enjoy the beaches during summer, and autumn colours in central Izu during autumn. My visit was early autumn and the temperature was still mild, with some rainy days.
      For winter, colder months bring clearer weather, which means better chances of seeing Mt Fuji without her cloudy blanket!
      I hope that helps and you get the chance to visit Izu soon 🙂

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