Minamiizu

Minamiizu is the ruggedly beautiful southern gateway of the Izu Peninsula, offering some of mainland Japan's most pristine coastal experiences. Yumigahama Beach is iconic for its crescent shape and soft white sand, excellent for swimming. For those seeking adventure, Hirizo Beach is an unparalleled snorkeling spot accessible only by boat, where the water's transparency rivals tropical islands. Toji and Togai beaches are famous for their sea caves and unique geological formations, while Tanigawa-hama (谷川浜) has a serene escape from the crowds. The town is also a premier destination for early-blooming cherry blossoms in February and relaxing hot spring onsens. Dining on fresh Ise-ebi (spiny lobster) is a local tradition. Reaching Minamiizu involves a scenic bus ride from Shimoda, ensuring the area remains a peaceful sanctuary of natural beauty.

Nearby cities

Hamamatsu

A dynamic coastal city known for its musical instruments, Lake Hamana, and the impressive Nakatajima Dunes.

Shizuoka

The heart of Japanese tea production with breathtaking views of Mt.

Numazu

A port city in Shizuoka Prefecture, famous for its fresh seafood and views of Mount Fuji.

Yaizu

A major port city in Shizuoka, famous for its tuna fishing, hot springs, and views of Mount Fuji.

Kosai

A city on the western shore of Lake Hamana, known for its water sports and industrial history.

Izunokuni

A historic onsen city on the Izu Peninsula, famous for UNESCO sites and views of Mount Fuji.

Izu

A famous city on the Izu Peninsula known for its hot springs, wasabi fields, and beautiful coastal stretches.

Higashiizu

Higashiizu is a scenic hot spring resort town on the eastern coast of the Izu Peninsula, famous for its coastal onsens and fresh seafood.

Nishiizu

A scenic town on the west coast of the Izu Peninsula, famous for its spectacular sunsets and views of Mount Fuji across the bay.

Matsuzaki

Matsuzaki is an idyllic village on the Izu Peninsula, known for its Namako-wall architecture and hot springs.

Shimoda

A historic port city at the southern tip of the Izu Peninsula, famous for its role in opening Japan and its beautiful white-sand beaches.

Ito

A charming coastal city on the Izu Peninsula known for its rugged Pacific coastline, hot springs, and the volcanic Mount Omuro.

Atami

A classic seaside resort town famous for its hot springs, frequent fireworks displays, and views of Sagami Bay.

Oshima

The largest of the Izu Islands, dominated by the active Mihara volcano and unique black sand beaches.

Hakone

A mountainous town famous for its hot springs, Lake Ashi, and stunning views of Mount Fuji.

History & landmarks

Lake Ashinoko

A scenic crater lake in Hakone that offers stunning views of Mount Fuji on clear days.

More places

Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan and an active volcano.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

A national park that includes Mount Fuji, the Fuji Five Lakes, Hakone, the Izu Peninsula, and the Izu Islands.

Hamaoka Nuclear Power Plant

A nuclear power plant considered the most dangerous in Japan due to its location in an area of high seismic activity.

Shizuoka Tea Plantations

Shizuoka Prefecture is the largest producer of tea in Japan.

Hakone Ropeway

A ropeway that offers scenic views of the Ōwakudani volcanic valley and Lake Ashi.

Hakone Open-Air Museum

Japan's first open-air museum, creating a harmonic balance between nature and art, with sculptures displayed in a picturesque setting ove…

Fuji-Q Highland

An amusement park at the base of Mount Fuji, known for its record-breaking roller coasters and breathtaking views.

Aokigahara Forest

A forest at the northwest base of Mount Fuji, known for its dense trees and absence of wildlife.