Izu Highlands in Shizuoka: Scenic Destinations, Museums, and Hot Spring Inns

Travel to the Izu Highlands with the Tokyo Wide Pass

The budget-friendly JR Tokyo Wide Pass is exclusively available to non-Japanese passport holders and allows unlimited rides for three consecutive days on all JR trains in Tokyo and its surrounding areas.

Take the JR Express Odoriko from Tokyo Station, which will take you to Izu-Kogen Station in two hours. Alternatively, opt for the shinkansen to Atami Station, followed by a 48-minute train trip.

Seasonal events in the Izu Highlands

Situated east of the Izu Peninsula, the Izu Highlands experiences a mild climate, with temperatures averaging around 10 degrees Celsius in winter and 25-32 degrees Celsius in summer.

The region offers a diverse range of activities throughout the seasons, so read on for the best things to do.

Izu Highland Grand Illumi

Izu Granpal Park ranks among the top tourist destinations in the Izu Highlands. During the day, it's an amusement park featuring rides and activities like carousels, roller coasters, go-karting, high-altitude zip-lining, and more.

At night, this large park transforms into the Izu Highland Grand Illumi, featuring countless LED lights that turn the park into a twinkling sea of stars. Marvel at the dynamic light shows and the illuminated park from above while enjoying the zip-line, or ride the dreamy carousel for an out-of-this-world experience.

Izu Highland Grand Illumi
Address: 1090 Tomito, Ito-shi, Shizuoka Prefecture
Access: 20-min bus ride from Izu-Kogen Station (Izu Kyuko Line)
Official website: https://granillumi.com/ (in Japanese only)

Sakura Tunnel

From mid-February, the early-blooming okan cherry blossoms around Izu-Kogen Station burst into bloom, with their adorable and large pink petals being incredibly eye-catching. By late March, the yoshino cherry blossoms begin to bloom, eventually forming a cherry blossom tunnel that stretches for almost three kilometers.

Take a stroll under the cherry blossom trees and immerse yourself in the charming colors of spring.

5 best scenic destinations in the Izu Highlands

The Izu Highlands are home to natural wonders like Mount Omuro and Mount Komuro and attractions such as the Izu Shaboten Zoo and Izu Oceanic Park that offer unique experiences, from animal encounters to diving adventures.

Mount Omuro

The Ito area of the Izu Peninsula features landscapes shaped by ancient volcanic activity, including the iconic Mount Omuro, formed around 4,000 years ago. Known for its distinctive shape, Mount Omuro is a renowned landmark and served as inspiration for the animated movie Your Name.

Each February, the area hosts the traditional yamayaki ritual, where all of the mountain's old dry grass is burnt within 15 minutes. To protect the mountain's vegetation, visitors will also have to ascend and descend using the lifts.

Mount Omuro
Address: 672-2 Ike, Ito-shi, Shizuoka Prefecture
Access: 20-min bus ride from Izu-Kogen Station (Izu Kyuko Line) to Saboten Koen bus stop
Official website: https://omuroyama.com/index_en/

Komuroyama Ridge Walk Misora

After its renovation in 2021, the Komuroyama Ridge Walk Misora on the summit of Mount Komuro has become a popular destination for Instagram-worthy shots thanks to its transparent skywalk. Nearby, you’ll also find Café 321, with an interior design focusing on earthy tones, which perfectly complements the panoramic views of the blue sea and sky.

When you visit Mount Komuro in April, don't miss the chance to ride the vintage chairlift for a bird's-eye view of 100,000 azaleas bursting into bloom in Komuroyama Park.

Komuroyama Ridge Walk Misora
Address: 1428 Kawanakajima, Ito-shi, Shizuoka Prefecture
Access: 23-min bus ride from JR or Izu Kyuko Line's Ito Station to Komuroyama Ropeway bus stop; from there it’s a 3-min walk
Official website: https://www.tokaibus.jp/business/lift.html (in Japanese only)

Izu Shaboten Zoo

Don't miss out on the Izu Shaboten Zoo if you're a fan of capybaras. From late November to mid-April each year, these lovable creatures enjoy soaking in the on-site outdoor hot spring baths. The zoo changes the outdoor baths according to the season and Japanese traditions, offering options like maple leaf baths in autumn, yuzu citrus baths for the winter solstice, and even strawberry baths.

The Izu Shaboten Zoo is also home to animals like red pandas, ring-tailed lemurs, meerkats, and otters, and a vast greenhouse housing over 1,500 species of cacti. Due to its proximity to Mount Omuro, it's a great place to stop by.

Izu Shaboten Zoo
Address: 1317-13 Tomito, Ito-shi, Shizuoka Prefecture
Access: 20-min bus ride from Izu-Kogen Station (Izu Kyuko Line) to Saboten Koen bus stop
Official website: https://izushaboten.com/ (in Japanese only)

Izu Oceanic Park

Less than a 2.5-hour drive from Tokyo, the Izu Oceanic Park is renowned for being a diving hotspot, while its barbecue area is equally popular among locals. During summer, the kids' seawater pool is a favorite among families.

Izu Oceanic Park
Address: 841-1 Tomito, Ito-shi, Shizuoka Prefecture
Access: 9-min bus ride from Izu-Kogen Station (Izu Kyuko Line) to Izu Kaiyo-koen bus stop
Official website: https://izuoceanpark.com/ (in Japanese only)

Lake Ippeki

Lake Ippeki, created by volcanic eruptions around 100,000 years ago, is one of Japan's top scenic destinations. Its serene water surface reflects the changing beauty of each season, especially the pink cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn foliage.

With a variety of sightseeing boat tours and canoe experiences available, the lake is a great spot for adventure seekers. Whether paddling to the iconic red torii shrine gate or simply relaxing by the lakeside with a cup of coffee, Lake Ippeki offers a peaceful retreat amidst stunning natural surroundings.

Lake Ippeki
Address: 815-121 Fujiwara, Yoshida, Ito-shi, Shizuoka Prefecture
Access: 30-min bus ride from Ito Station (JR or Izu Kyuko Line) to Ippeki-ko bus stop
Official website: https://nationalpark-ippekiko.jp/ (in Japanese only)

3 best museums in the Izu Highlands

The Izu Highlands offer more than just natural beauty; they are also home to a wealth of cultural and artistic treasures. Three recommended museums include the whimsical Izu Teddy Bear Museum, the Ikeda Museum of 20th Century Art with its vast collection, and the vibrant Izu Kogen Stained Glass Museum. Read on to learn more.

Izu Teddy Bear Museum

The Izu Teddy Bear Museum, just a ten-minute walk from Izu-Kogen Station, showcases many rare antique stuffed bears. The museum also educates visitors about the origins of these beloved toys, their evolution over time, and their role in pop culture.

Izu Teddy Bear Museum
Address: 1064-2 Yawatano, Ito-shi, Shizuoka Prefecture
Access: 10-min walk from Izu-Kogen Station (Izu Kyuko Line)
Official Website: https://www.teddynet.co.jp/izu/ (in Japanese only)

Ikeda Museum of 20th Century Art

The Ikeda Museum of 20th Century Art, established in 1975, showcases modern art with a focus on approximately 1,400 artworks centered around the theme of “humanity.”

Works by renowned artists like Renoir, Picasso, Dali, and Matisse are featured in the museum's permanent exhibition. Enjoy paintings displayed in the cafe while savoring a cup of coffee, and immerse yourself in the museum's artistic ambiance.

Ikeda Museum of 20th Century Art
Address: 614 Totari, Ito-shi, Shizuoka Prefecture
Access: 30-min bus ride from JR Ito Station to Ikeda Bijutsukan bus stop
Official website: https://ikeda20.or.jp/en/

Izu Kogen Stained Glass Museum

The Izu Kogen Stained Glass Museum primarily showcases European stained glass works dating back to the 1800s. Housed within a grand and majestic building reminiscent of European castles, the museum also features a restaurant offering exquisite cuisine and a wedding chapel.

In 2023, the museum opened its Villa Michael Hotel, which accommodates only one group of guests per day. Enjoy luxurious rooms and exclusive facilities like a private nighttime pool.

Izu Kogen Stained Glass Museum
Address: 1439-1 Kawana, Ito-shi, Shizuoka Prefecture
Access: 6-min bus ride from Kawana Station (Izu Kyuko Line) to Takatsuka bus stop
Official website: https://www.kawana-sgm.com/ (in Japanese only)

3 best hot spring ryokan and hotels in the Izu Highlands

After a day of adventure, unwind in one of the best hot spring ryokan or hotels in the Izu Highlands.

Atagawa Prince Hotel

Izu Onsen, known for its long-standing hot spring tradition, boasts a variety of unique inns, each with distinct features. Situated by the scenic Atagawa Onsen seaside, the Atagawa Prince Hotel provides ocean-view rooms and three open-air hot springs.

Its rooftop hot spring also converts into a private bath by reservation for guests seeking a more exclusive bathing experience.

Atagawa Prince Hotel
Address: 1248-3 Naramoto, Higashiizu-cho, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka Prefecture
Access: 10-min walk from Izu-Atagawa Station (Izu Kyuko Line)
Official website: https://www.atagawa-prince.co.jp/

Hanare Yado Yoshizumi

For the ultimate Japanese experience in the scenic Izu Onsen hot spring village, Hanare Yado Yoshizumi is your best bet. Each room comes with its private outdoor bath, allowing you to relax in complete privacy. Don't forget to indulge in the traditional Japanese kaiseki cuisine offered by the hotel during your stay. With a variety of beautifully presented local delicacies, it's a treat for the senses.

Hanare Yado Yoshizumi
Address: 4-24 Minami-omurodai, Ito-shi, Shizuoka Prefecture
Access: 8-min drive from Izu-Kogen Station (Izu Kyuko Line)
Official website: https://www.yosizumi.com/en/

Sea-View Resort Hotel Village Izukogen

Sea-View Resort Hotel Village Izukogen offers rooms with ocean views and includes fully-equipped kitchens in each room. Additionally, apartment-style accommodations like 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom suites are available, making it suitable for groups of friends or families. After a relaxing soak, slip into a yukata (light cotton kimono) and enjoy the expansive sea view.

Sea-View Resort Hotel Village Izukogen
Address: 1317-8 Futo, Ito-shi, Shizuoka Prefecture
Access: 11-min bus ride from Izu-Kogen Station (Izu Kyuko Line) to Omuro-Kogen Kuchoume bus stop; from there it's a 9-min walk
Official website: https://vl-izu.hvf.jp/eng/

Discover the Izu Highlands

The Izu Highlands stand out as a natural and cultural treasure in Shizuoka Prefecture, boasting captivating natural scenery, diverse art museums, and relaxing hot spring accommodations. When in Shizuoka, be sure to visit the Izu Highlands and enjoy a relaxing getaway.

Explore more of Japan by using one of the many different transportation passes.

*The information in this article, such as prices and business hours, was accurate at the time of publication but is subject to change. Please refer to the official website(s) for the latest information.

*When staying at a hotel or ryokan, you may be charged an accommodation tax and/or a hot spring tax depending on the area. Please pay directly at the hotel.