Shizuoka Ito

You’ll discover Ito nestled on Shizuoka Prefecture’s Izu Peninsula, where natural wonders meet traditional Japanese culture. This coastal paradise boasts some of Japan’s finest hot springs, with the largest volume of onsen water in the region. Explore the dramatic Jogasaki Coast’s hiking trails, take in Mt. Fuji views from Mt. Omuro’s summit, and savor local delicacies like fresh wasabi and sakura shrimp. The compact city’s blend of volcanic landscapes and thermal waters beckons you to uncover more.

Exploring the Natural Wonders of Ito

Perched along the rugged East Coast of Izu Peninsula, Ito City beckons nature enthusiasts with its stunning coastlines and diverse landscapes.

You’ll discover the magnificent Jogasaki Coast, where a 10-kilometer hiking trail guides you past jagged cliffs and dramatic stone formations. Cross the Kadowaki Suspension Bridge for breathtaking ocean views, or choose shorter routes to match your pace. A scenic lighthouse near the bridge adds to the coastal charm.

Two volcanic peaks dominate the skyline: Mt. Omuro and Mt. Komuro.

Take the chairlift to Mt. Omuro’s summit for 360-degree views of Mt. Fuji and Oshima Island, or try archery in its crater. At Mt. Komuro, you can stroll the MISORA ridge walk for panoramic vistas of Sagami Bay and the Amagi mountain range.

Don’t miss Café 321 at the summit or the unique Izu Shaboten Zoo, where capybaras soak in onsen baths.

Hot Springs Paradise: Ito’s Famous Onsen

Beyond its natural wonders, Ito’s renowned hot springs have drawn visitors for centuries, earning its place among Japan’s top three onsen destinations.

You’ll discover the largest volume of hot spring water in Shizuoka Prefecture, with a rich history dating back to the Heian Period and once serving the Tokugawa shogunate.

The slightly alkaline waters (pH 8.4) offer powerful therapeutic benefits. You’ll find these transparent, odorless springs effectively treat conditions from rheumatism to lethargy while providing excellent skin conditioning properties.

At facilities like Ito Kowakien and Ito Ryokuyu, you can choose between public baths, gender-separated open-air baths, or private garden onsen. The unique feature of drinkable hot spring water at the Insen-dokoro service station adds to the therapeutic experience.

You’ll have access to extensive amenities, including massage services, skincare products, and modern room comforts, ensuring a rejuvenating stay on your terms.

Getting Around the City

While Ito’s compact size makes it walkable, you’ll find an extensive network of trains and buses that seamlessly connect the city’s major attractions.

You can take the Tokaido Shinkansen to reach Ito through major hubs like Mishima Station, then switch to local services for city exploration. When arriving at Mishima Station, you can easily access Shuzenji Onsen and other coastal attractions.

For maximum flexibility, grab an Ito Local Bus Pass, which gives you unlimited rides for just 1,300 yen per day.

This pass lets you access any bus stop in the city, including popular spots like Mt. Omuro, which is a 40-minute ride from Ito station.

You’ll find everything you need at the Izu Tokai Bus Information Center, where you can pick up timetables, purchase passes, and plan your routes efficiently.

Cultural Heritage and Historical Sites

Steeped in centuries of history, Ito’s cultural heritage comes alive through its remarkable temples, shrines, and natural monuments.

You’ll discover the historic Shuzen-ji Temple, founded in 807, where you can explore Tokko no Yu bath and view Kukai’s sacred Vajra in the treasure house. The temple is renowned as one of Japan’s oldest hot spring resorts.

Don’t miss Kinomiya Shrine’s 2,000-year-old camphor tree, Japan’s second-largest. Circle it once to extend your lifespan by a year and make a wish.

For stunning views, take the six-minute lift up Mount Omuro, where you’ll command a 360-degree panorama of Mt. Fuji from its 980-foot crater rim. The mountain’s seasonal colors make it worth multiple visits.

At the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre, you’ll experience a simulated climb and learn about the iconic peak’s cultural significance.

Where to Stay in Ito

Whether you prefer traditional Japanese hospitality or modern luxury, Ito offers diverse accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs.

For an authentic experience, choose traditional ryokans like Ito Ryokuyu or Hanafubuki, where you’ll find hot springs and cultural amenities. These properties give you direct access to local attractions and traditional Japanese services.

If you’re seeking modern comfort, book a stay at Abba Resorts Izu or Ito Hotel Juraku, featuring contemporary amenities and luxury services. The best time to find deals on these properties is during autumn months, when tourism is quieter.

For breathtaking views, consider Resort Hotel Corte Largo or Le Nessa Jyogasaki, which offer scenic vistas of the ocean.

Many properties provide essential amenities like free WiFi, private parking, and on-site restaurants. You’ll also find accommodations with swimming pools, such as Laforet Ito Onsen Yunoniwa and Kira No Sato, perfect for recreational activities.

Best Time to Visit

Deciding when to visit Ito depends largely on your preferred activities and tolerance for varying weather conditions.

For ideal beach and water activities, plan your trip during July or August when temperatures reach 30°C (86°F). Many visitors enjoy the refreshing waters at Ito Orange Beach, which is perfect for swimming during these months. If you’re seeking comfortable sightseeing weather, target spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) when temperatures hover between 10-24°C (50-76°F).

You’ll encounter peak crowds during summer festivals and cherry blossom season in late March to early April. To avoid both rain and tourists, skip July, which averages 13.67 rainy days.

Winter offers fewer tourists but requires warm clothing for temperatures around 5-7°C (42-44°F). Pack rain gear if visiting June through September, and light, breathable clothing for summer months when humidity reaches over 80%.

Local Cuisine and Dining

Celebrated for its exceptional local ingredients, Shizuoka’s culinary scene centers around its world-famous green tea, pristine wasabi, and exclusive sakura ebi shrimp.

You’ll discover these treasures expertly prepared at local establishments like Amago Chaya, where you can savor rare amago sashimi near mountain wasabi terraces.

For an upscale experience, head to Restaurant Sakurakagami in Gotemba, where you’ll find local ingredients transformed into Italian-inspired masterpieces.

Don’t miss Shizuoka’s signature oden, a rich hotpot featuring a robust soy-beef broth and dried fish seasoning.

Dark brown broth is a defining characteristic that sets Shizuoka oden apart from other regional versions.

You can explore these flavors during the Anjinsai festival’s Wakuwaku-ichi market, where food stalls serve regional specialties alongside cultural performances.

Try the wasabi zuke, a premium delicacy of wasabi pickled in sake lees, for an authentic taste of Shizuoka.

Day Trips and Excursions

Looking to explore beyond Ito’s city limits? You’ll find two standout destinations within easy reach.

Head to the Jogasaki Coast, where you can traverse a 9km volcanic coastline with stunning views of Sagami Bay. Take the local Tokai bus or Izu-Kyuko line from Ito station to access the Jogasaki Picnical Course hiking trail. The trail features a picturesque fishing lookout as your first scenic stop.

For an elevated experience, visit Mount Omuro, a 4,000-year-old cinder cone volcano south of Ito. You’ll get 360-degree panoramic views of Mount Fuji and the Izu islands.

Take a bus from Izukaiyo Park to reach the crater walk and Sengen Shrine. Plan your trips carefully, as buses run hourly.

Consider getting the Ito Sightseeing Free Pass for discounted transportation and easier access to both destinations.

Shopping and Entertainment

After exploring Ito’s natural wonders, you’ll find the city’s shopping scene offers its own distinct charms.

Head to Yu no Hana Shotengai, just three minutes from Ito Station, where you can browse local groceries under a glass-covered arcade that captures the nostalgic atmosphere of 1950s Japan. While there, you can participate in the traditional oyukake shichi fuku jin ritual of pouring water on seven lucky god statues.

Make sure to visit Nukumoru on Kinema Street, where you’ll discover 30-40 local brands from the “Ito no Ii Mono” Series. This specialty shop, open from 10:00 to 17:00 except Wednesdays, showcases the best of Ito’s edible treats and beverages.

For a broader shopping experience, you can venture to nearby cities like Atami, where the 170-meter Ginza Shopping Street combines modern convenience with traditional charm through its mix of new stores and Showa-era establishments.

Seasonal Festivals and Events

Throughout the year, Ito bursts with vibrant festivals and events that showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage.

You’ll find the most exciting celebrations during summer, with the three-day Anjinsai Festival in early August taking center stage. This spectacular event commemorates Japan’s first Western-style sailing ship through fireworks, yosakoi dances, and taiko competitions. Since its inception in 1947, the festival has been a cherished annual tradition.

You can experience the Ito Onsen Ocean Fireworks almost nightly for two weeks before and after Anjinsai, with synchronized displays set to drum rhythms.

Don’t miss the Wakuwaku-ichi Market along the Matsukawa River, where you’ll discover food booths, local crafts, and live performances in the evening hours. The market becomes especially lively during Anjinsai, featuring professional vendors and bonus events like bon odori dances.