Izu (Izu Peninsula)

Izu Peninsula Travel Guide

Izu Peninsula in Japan offers a wide range of attractions and activities for travelers. Here are some recommendations for sightseeing, dining, lodging, hot springs, activities, souvenirs, and more:

Sightseeing:

1. Shuzenji Temple: Explore this historic temple and its beautiful surroundings. Don't miss the bamboo grove and the chance to enjoy matcha tea.
2. Izu Shaboten Zoo: Visit this unique zoo known for its botanical garden, animal exhibits, and, of course, a variety of cacti.
3. Jogasaki Coast: Enjoy scenic coastal views, suspension bridges, and hiking trails along the Jogasaki coastline.
4. Shimoda: Discover the historical significance of Shimoda, including the arrival of Commodore Perry in 1854, at the Perry Road and Shimoda History Museum.
5. Atami: Relax in Atami's onsen (hot springs) and explore the Atami Castle and Kinomiya Shrine.

Dining:

1. Izu Peninsula Seafood: Savor fresh seafood at local restaurants. Try Ise-ebi (spiny lobster), abalone, and other local catches.
2. Wasabi Dishes: Enjoy dishes featuring fresh wasabi, such as sushi, sashimi, and soba noodles.
3. Izu Kuroge Wagyu Beef: Sample high-quality wagyu beef at local steakhouses and yakiniku (grilled meat) restaurants.
4. Local Sake: Taste regional sake brands produced in Izu.

Lodging:

1. Ryokans: Stay in a traditional Japanese ryokan for a quintessential experience. Many ryokans in Izu offer beautiful ocean or mountain views.
2. Hotels and Resorts: Izu also has modern hotels and resorts with various amenities, including onsen baths.

Hot Springs (Onsen):

1. Shuzenji Onsen: Relax in the historic Shuzenji Onsen, known for its beautiful surroundings and therapeutic waters.
2. Amagi Yugashima Onsen: Enjoy hot springs with scenic river views in the Amagi Yugashima area.

Activities:

1. Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the peninsula's lush forests and hiking trails, such as those in the Jogasaki Coast area.
2. Water Sports: Engage in water activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing along the coastline.
3. Bicycle Tours: Rent a bike and explore the scenic countryside and coastal routes.
4. Art Museums: Visit art museums like the MOA Museum of Art to appreciate Japanese and East Asian art.

Souvenirs:

1. Local Crafts: Shop for traditional Japanese crafts, including ceramics, pottery, and lacquerware.
2. Green Tea: Bring back high-quality green tea leaves as souvenirs.
3. Wasabi Products: Purchase various wasabi-related products, including wasabi paste and snacks.
4. Izu Peninsula Sake: Consider buying bottles of sake from local breweries as gifts.

Remember that the best time to visit Izu Peninsula depends on your preferences for weather. Spring and fall are generally pleasant with mild temperatures, while summer can be hot and humid. In contrast, winter offers fewer crowds and a peaceful atmosphere. Enjoy your trip to Izu Peninsula!

Izu Peninsula Travel Guide

Izu Peninsula is renowned for its natural beauty and delicious local cuisine. Here are some specialties, local foods, recommended restaurants, and souvenirs to explore during your trip:

Specialties and Local Foods:

1. Izu Kuroge Wagyu Beef: Izu is known for its high-quality Kuroge Wagyu beef. Try dishes like Wagyu steak or Sukiyaki for a mouthwatering experience.
2. Wasabi: Izu is one of Japan's major wasabi-producing regions. Fresh wasabi is a must-try, and you can find it served with sashimi, sushi, or in various condiments.
3. Seafood: Being a coastal area, Izu offers an abundance of fresh seafood. Look out for dishes like sashimi, grilled fish, and seafood hot pots.
4. Izukogen Green Tea: Sample locally produced green tea, which is known for its refreshing taste and health benefits.
5. Izunokuni Shizuoka Oden: This hearty stew features various ingredients like fish cakes, vegetables, and tofu simmered in a soy-based broth. It's a popular comfort food in the region.

Recommended Restaurants:

• Sakuraya Restaurant: Known for its fresh seafood dishes, including sashimi and grilled fish. Try their "Izu Don," a seafood rice bowl.
• Wasabi Farm Restaurants: Several restaurants near wasabi farms serve dishes featuring fresh wasabi. They often have unique wasabi-infused cuisine.
• Wakaba Ryokan: This traditional inn offers authentic Japanese meals, including kaiseki (multi-course) dinners. The seasonal ingredients make each meal a delightful experience.
• Izu Kogen Beer: If you're a fan of craft beer, visit Izu Kogen Beer for local brews and a pub-style atmosphere.

Souvenirs:

1. Wasabi Products: Pick up wasabi-infused snacks, sauces, and seasonings, as well as fresh wasabi to take home.
2. Izu Kuroge Wagyu: Look for packaged Wagyu beef products like jerky or sausages to bring a taste of Izu back with you.
3. Izunokuni Shizuoka Oden Seasoning: You can find pre-packaged seasonings for oden dishes, a convenient way to recreate this local favorite at home.
4. Local Crafts: Explore local craft shops for pottery, ceramics, and traditional Japanese handicrafts.
5. Green Tea: Purchase high-quality green tea leaves or tea-related items as a souvenir.

Remember to check the opening hours and reservation requirements for restaurants, especially those serving Kaiseki meals, as they may require advance bookings. Enjoy your journey through Izu Peninsula and its delectable cuisine!

Festivals and Events in Izu Peninsula

Izu Peninsula in Japan hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, each offering unique cultural experiences. Here's a glimpse of some notable festivals and events in Izu during different seasons:

Spring (March to May):

• Izu Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival: Held in late February to early March in Kawazu, this festival celebrates the early blooming cherry blossoms known as "kawazuzakura." You can enjoy cherry blossom viewing, food stalls, and illuminated night displays.

Summer (June to August):

• Izu-Kogen Jazz Festival: Taking place in July, this music festival in the Izu-Kogen Highlands features live jazz performances by local and international artists. It's a great way to enjoy jazz amidst stunning natural surroundings.

Fall (September to November):

• Izu Fruit Park Grape Harvest Festival: Held in early autumn, this festival allows visitors to pick and enjoy delicious grapes at Izu Fruit Park. It's a fun family activity, and you can also taste various grape-based products.

Winter (December to February):

• Dogashima Winter Illumination: During the winter months, Dogashima in Izu is adorned with beautiful illuminations, turning the seaside cliffs and caves into a magical wonderland. This event usually runs from late December to early January.

Special Features:

• Izu Peninsula is known for its onsen (hot spring) culture. Many ryokans (traditional inns) and hotels offer onsen facilities where you can relax in geothermal waters while enjoying scenic views.
• The peninsula's coastline is rich in natural beauty, with rugged cliffs, sea caves, and crystal-clear waters. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the unique geological formations.
• Izu is famous for its seafood, including abalone, lobster, and various fish. Be sure to savor the fresh and delectable seafood dishes offered at local restaurants and seafood markets.

Please note that event schedules may vary from year to year, so it's advisable to check the latest information and confirm event dates before your visit. Enjoy your sightseeing trip to Izu Peninsula!

Climate in Izu Peninsula

Izu Peninsula, located in Japan, experiences a diverse climate throughout the year. Here's an overview of the climate and temperatures during different seasons, along with some special features:

Spring (March to May):

• Spring in Izu is pleasantly mild and comfortable.
• Average temperatures range from 12°C (54°F) in March to 20°C (68°F) in May.
• Cherry blossoms typically bloom in late March to early April, creating beautiful landscapes.
• Spring is an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring nature.

Rainy Season (June to early July):

• The rainy season, known as "tsuyu" in Japanese, occurs in June and early July.
• Expect frequent rain and high humidity during this period.
• While it can be wet, the lush greenery and landscapes become vibrant and beautiful.

Summer (July to August):

• Summers in Izu are hot and humid, making it a popular beach destination.
• Average temperatures range from 24°C (75°F) to 30°C (86°F) in these months.
• The beaches, such as Shirahama Beach, attract sunbathers and water sports enthusiasts.
• Summer festivals and fireworks displays are common.

Fall (September to November):

• Autumn is a pleasant time to visit Izu due to milder temperatures.
• Average temperatures range from 22°C (72°F) in September to 16°C (61°F) in November.
• The fall foliage season begins in late October and continues through November.
• Hiking trails offer stunning views of colorful leaves.

Winter (December to February):

• Winters in Izu are relatively mild compared to other parts of Japan.
• Average temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) in December to 12°C (54°F) in February.
• While snow is rare in lower elevations, the inland mountainous areas may see some snowfall.
• Onsen (hot spring) resorts are particularly inviting during the colder months.

Special Features:

• Izu Peninsula is renowned for its beautiful coastlines, hot springs, and scenic landscapes.
• The peninsula offers numerous onsen towns, such as Atami, Shuzenji, and Dogashima, where you can relax in natural hot springs.
• The coastal cliffs and rock formations, like those at Cape Irozaki, provide picturesque views.
• Izu's seafood, including fresh fish and abalone, is a culinary highlight.

Keep in mind that Izu Peninsula's weather can vary slightly depending on the specific location within the peninsula, so it's a good idea to check local forecasts and plan accordingly. Enjoy your sightseeing trip to Izu!