Izu Peninsula

The Izu Peninsula is a largely mountainous promontory jutting into the Pacific Ocean west of Tokyo, with a deeply indented coastline and a mix of sheltered bays and rocky cliffs. All of the peninsula lies within Shizuoka Prefecture and much of it forms part of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, so protected coastline, forests and volcanic landforms dominate the scenery. Tectonics have shaped Izu: the peninsula lies on the Philippine Sea Plate and its central spine is formed by eroded volcanoes and the Amagi mountain range, producing hot springs and frequent seismic activity. Visiting feels varied - there are busy onsen towns along the northeast and east coasts, quieter fishing villages and scenic, less-developed stretches on the west and southwest where roads trace the shoreline.

Historically the region was the old Izu Province; today its economy centers on tourism, fishing and agriculture, including wasabi cultivation in mountain valleys. Popular resort towns include Atami, Itō and Shuzenji on the east coast, while Shimoda anchors the southern end with beaches and a maritime history. The peninsula suits short stays from Tokyo as well as multi-day drives or cycle tours, but services are concentrated in the north and east while the west coast is more remote. Because of frequent earthquakes and the peninsula’s exposure to Pacific storms, check local advice if you plan coastal or mountain excursions.

• Amagi mountain range: A forested volcanic ridge that offers hiking, waterfalls and cooler inland scenery away from the coast.
• Jōgasaki Coast: A dramatic cliff-lined stretch with coastal walking paths and volcanic rock formations framed by the Pacific.
• Shuzenji onsen town: A historic hot-spring town in a valley with traditional ryokan, bamboo groves and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Shimoda beaches and harbour: Sandy bays on the southern tip popular for sea bathing and watersports in summer and with a maritime history to explore.
• Scenic drives - Izu Skyline: Mountain and coastal roads such as the Izu Skyline provide panoramic views and are favored by drivers and motorcyclists.

The peninsula’s main rail gateways on the north and northeast are Mishima and Atami; the Tokaido Shinkansen serves Atami and Mishima, making day trips from Tokyo straightforward. For coastal access, JR lines including the Itō Line and private Izu Kyūkō Line and the Sunzu Line serve places along the east coast but services are less frequent the farther south you go.

There is no major airport on the peninsula; the nearest international and domestic flights arrive into Tokyo’s airports and you continue by train or car. The final stretch around the coastline is best covered by local trains, regional buses, taxis or a rental car for the west and southwest where rail service is limited; check local timetables for infrequent services.

• Izu is seismically active and faces tsunami and storm risk; follow local safety signage and register for alerts if staying in small coastal towns.
• Bring swimwear and sun protection for summer beach and surf spots, but expect rainy days during the early summer and late summer months.
• If you want to visit remote west-coast villages, plan transport in advance or rent a car because public service is sparse there.
• Try local onsen but follow etiquette: wash before entering and avoid towels in the water.
• Carry some cash in smaller towns, as some ryokan, shops and rural services may not accept cards.