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For Glamping Reservations of Japan(Mt.Fuji, Awaji Island, Beppu, Tottori, Izu, Kyoto, Osaka, Hokkaido, Kyushu etc.)
Resort Glamping.com
For Glamping Reservations of Japan(Mt.Fuji, Awaji Island, Beppu, Tottori, Izu, Kyoto, Osaka, Hokkaido, Kyushu etc.)
December 2026, 4
Looking for a Japanese travel destination outside of major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, where you can escape the crowds, enjoy nature, and still have convenient transportation? Then Shizuoka Prefecture, located near the Kanto region and surrounded by mountains and the sea, is highly recommended. The Izu Peninsula, in particular, is a resort area deeply loved by Japanese people. Whether you want to enjoy breathtaking natural scenery, savor fresh and delicious local cuisine, or experience the currently trending luxurious glamping, Shizuoka can fulfill all your desires. This article is a complete guide to Shizuoka sightseeing, thoroughly explaining must-see spots in Shizuoka and Izu, Izu cuisine, Shuzenji Temple, and luxurious accommodations in Shizuoka. Plan a truly satisfying 1-night/2-day or 2-night/3-day trip to Izu!
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Shizuoka Prefecture boasts not only Mount Fuji, but also abundant hot spring resources and beautiful ocean views. You can breathe in the fresh air and explore a variety of natural spots, both large and small. And without a doubt, the most popular resort area in Shizuoka Prefecture is the Izu Peninsula! Before planning your Izu sightseeing schedule, let's first learn about the attractions of each area. The Izu Peninsula is broadly divided into four areas, each with completely different tourist spots and cuisine.
This area boasts magnificent coastline scenery and famous hot spring resorts such as Ito Onsen and Atagawa Onsen. It's also an area where you can enjoy views of Mount Fuji.
It is a peaceful town with a population of about 8,000. It is home to Yumigahama Beach, which has been selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Beaches, Hirizo Beach, which boasts exceptional clarity, and Shimogamo Onsen, which has an abundant supply of hot spring water.
You can see geological strata from the time when it was an underwater volcano in many places. In particular, the "Tenmado Cave," also known as the Blue Grotto of Dogashima, is not only a nationally designated natural monument, but it is also a highly recommended tourist highlight by locals because you can enjoy the mystical sight of sunlight pouring in from the ceiling.
It is known for its tranquil forests and the historic Shuzenji Onsen hot springs. Hidden within are natural spots and waterfalls rich in negative ions, and it is also an important production area for wasabi, a specialty of Shizuoka.
Now, let's introduce seven carefully selected must-see tourist spots in Izu. Whether you love taking photos (for social media), want to interact with animals, or simply enjoy the ocean scenery, each of these spots is sure to create lifelong memories!
This magnificent rocky coastline, stretching approximately 9km, was formed about 4000 years ago when lava from the eruption of Mount Omuro flowed into the sea and cooled and solidified. A must-see when visiting here is the 48m long, 23m high Kadowaki Suspension Bridge. On a clear day, it offers a fantastic panoramic view of the vast Pacific Ocean, making it a perfect spot for taking Instagram-worthy photos during your trip to Shizuoka!
Detailed information:https://itospa.com/spot/detail_54002.html
Not only does it cultivate approximately 1500 varieties of cacti from around the world, but it's also an incredibly popular spot where you can get up close and personal with animals. Every winter, they host the "Original Capybara Open-Air Bath"! Seeing the adorable capybaras soaking in the hot springs with yuzu citrus fruits (a specialty of Shizuoka) on their heads is sure to instantly soothe your soul.
Detailed information:https://izushaboten.com/
Mount Omuro, designated as part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and a national natural monument, is the most famous landmark on the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture. This volcano, with an elevation of approximately 580m, sees new grass sprout after the annual "mountain burning" in spring, making the entire mountain look like a giant matcha pudding! You can easily reach the summit by tourist lift, and the approximately 1km "crater rim walk" offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the Izu Islands, Sagami Bay, and even Mount Fuji.
Detailed information:https://omuroyama.com/
Looking for a tourist spot where the whole family can have a blast? This vast outdoor amusement park offers a variety of active attractions, including water balloons, zip lines, and go-karts. At night, the park transforms into the venue for the magical, limited-time illumination event, "Izu Kogen Gran Illumi." With over 600 million LEDs creating a world of light, it's a very popular spot for couples on dates and family trips.
Detailed information:https://www.granpal.com/
Tucked away in the heart of Minami-Izu lies Ryugu Cave, a hidden gem that has become incredibly popular on social media platforms like Instagram in recent years. This massive sea cave, formed by wave erosion, offers a stunning view of a large heart-shaped beach when viewed from above along a walking path! This mystical and romantic location attracts numerous couples for photo shoots and is also said to be one of the inspirations for Studio Ghibli animated films.
Detailed information:https://www.shimoda-city.info/ryugu
Shimoda Marine Aquarium is a floating aquarium built using a natural cove in Shizuoka! Here, you can not only watch amazing dolphin shows, but also swim with dolphins and participate in interactive experiences such as feeding them.
Detailed information:https://shimoda-aquarium.com/
Shizuoka's charm isn't limited to its beautiful natural scenery. For foodies, savoring the local delicacies is a crucial part of any trip! Shizuoka boasts Suruga Bay, Japan's deepest bay, and is rich in marine resources. Here, we introduce Izu cuisine that you absolutely must try when visiting Shizuoka, along with popular restaurants loved by locals!
The waters off Shizuoka and Izu are famous for the thick, fatty deep-sea fish, "Kinmedai" (golden snapper). When you come to Shizuoka, be sure to try the most traditional dish, "Kinmedai no Nitsuke" (simmered golden snapper). The sweet and savory sauce soaks perfectly into the fish, making it exquisite! Fresh golden snapper sashimi and shabu-shabu are also very popular as high-end Izu delicacies.
Besides the splendid alfonsino, another incredibly popular souvenir and gourmet item in Shizuoka is the special "mackerel chili oil"! Made with flaked fresh mackerel caught in Shizuoka, this spicy condiment is seasoned with chili oil and garlic, making it irresistibly appetizing. It's perfect with rice, mixed with noodles, or as a snack with drinks! It's a classic souvenir that many tourists always buy after sightseeing.
Shuzenji in Izu City is also a popular tourist destination. In particular, Shuzenji is known as "Little Kyoto of Izu." For transportation access, the luxurious Shizuoka accommodation "~Nakaizu Fishing Resort~ Gran In" is located in Izu City, just a 20-minute bus ride from Shuzenji Station, and a free shuttle service is also available. If you plan to spend a day sightseeing in the Shuzenji Onsen area, after arriving in Shuzenji, take a stroll through the famous Shuzenji Onsen area and feel the breath of history amidst the tranquil forest. Visit the historical buildings and walking trails around Shuzenji. In the afternoon, take a trip to the nearby "Joren Falls" to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the 25-meter-high, 7-meter-wide waterfall and see the nearby commemorative bronze statue. When you're tired from sightseeing, return to the Shuzenji Onsen area and relax your mind and body in the local hot springs. For dinner, enjoy Izu's representative gourmet cuisine, such as exquisite splendid alfonsino dishes.
While many travelers choose to stay at traditional hot spring inns in Shizuoka, glamping has become increasingly popular among young people and families in recent years! The following three glamping facilities, located around Izu and Atami, offer the ultimate relaxation experience for both mind and body after enjoying sightseeing.
Located near the Kano River, this facility offers a pure outdoor experience. All guest rooms are equipped with private hot springs. A variety of activities are available, including lure fishing and agricultural harvesting experiences. Furthermore, you can enjoy a luxurious BBQ featuring abundant local ingredients from Izu City! Let's fully enjoy the thrill of camping in the midst of nature.
Located in Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture, an area known for its mild and pleasant climate throughout the year and home to numerous luxury villas, this resort offers a luxurious BBQ featuring local Izu ingredients and an all-you-can-drink bar. Enjoy a truly exceptional experience while gazing at the breathtaking sunrise over the ocean.
This glamping facility features 100% free-flowing open-air baths in every guest room, fed by a private hot spring rich in natural skin-beautifying ingredients. Guests can enjoy luxurious BBQs, and a special open-air bath exclusively for dogs is also available, allowing you to enjoy the hot springs with your beloved pet. After your bath, you can savor fresh local ingredients from Yugawara, Kanagawa Prefecture. (Note: Although located in Yugawara, Kanagawa Prefecture, it is a very convenient base for sightseeing in the Atami and Izu areas.)
When planning an independent trip or itinerary in Shizuoka, many first-time visitors have several questions. Therefore, we've compiled the most frequently asked questions and answers from travelers from Hong Kong and Taiwan!
A: It depends on which tourist spots you want to visit. If your itinerary is concentrated around Atami or the main stations in Higashi-Izu, you can enjoy yourself sufficiently by using the Izu Kyuko Line and local Tokai Buses. However, if you want to extend your trip to Nishi-Izu to enjoy the beautiful sunset, or if you definitely want to visit the waterfalls and natural spots a little further away in Naka-Izu, there are fewer bus services in some areas, so many travelers choose to rent a car and tour along the coast while enjoying the scenery.
A: Shizuoka is a tourist destination that can be enjoyed at any time of year!
After reading this detailed complete guide to sightseeing in Shizuoka, aren't you eager to buy a plane ticket and fly there right now? Shizuoka offers not only Mount Fuji and beautiful ocean views, but also Izu cuisine, the hot spring resorts of Shuzenji, and luxurious glamping experiences.
When planning your next trip to Japan, be sure to consider Shizuoka in addition to the major cities! For more information on Shizuoka's tourist attractions and cuisine, as well as the latest travel information from all over Japan, please follow our website and social media accounts. We will be sharing lots of fascinating travel tips!
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He is an editor at Resort Glamping.com, a glamping-focused media outlet visited by approximately 100 million people a month. He has written over 150 articles introducing glamping facilities and experience reports, and is involved in a wide range of glamping facility services, from planning and development to operation and customer acquisition consulting.
