Discovering Shizuoka A Journey through Izu’s Hidden Gems
Discovering Shizuoka A Journey through Izu’s Hidden Gems
Izu and Shizuoka Prefecture in Japan offer a wide range of attractions, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Here are some things you can see and do in Yugawara, Manazuru, Atami, Ito, the Jogasaki Coast, Shimoda, Perry’s Black Ship, and the west coast of Izu:
Yugawara:
Yugawara Onsen: Yugawara is famous for its hot springs. Enjoy a relaxing soak in one of the many onsens (hot spring baths) in the area.
Yugawara Plum Festival: If you visit in late winter or early spring, don’t miss the plum blossom festival at the famous Makuyama Park, where you can see beautiful plum trees in bloom.
Manazuru:
Manazuru Peninsula: This area is known for its rugged coastal scenery, walking trails, and unique rock formations. Hike along the Manazuru Nature Path for breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Manazuru Castle Ruins: Explore the ruins of Manazuru Castle, which offer panoramic views of Sagami Bay and the surrounding landscape.
Atami:
Atami Sun Beach: Enjoy a day at the beach at Atami Sun Beach, which is known for its black volcanic sand.
Atami Castle: Visit Atami Castle, a replica of a historic Japanese castle, and learn about the region’s history and culture.
Ito:
Izu Shaboten Park: This botanical garden is home to a variety of cacti and other plants. It’s also known for its capybara hot spring bath, where you can see these cute animals enjoying a soak.
Izu Cactus Park: Another place to admire cacti and succulents, this park features a diverse collection of desert plants.
Jogasaki Coast:
Jogasaki Coast Walking Trail: Take a walk along the Jogasaki Coast Walking Trail, which offers stunning views of rugged cliffs and the Pacific Ocean. The suspension bridge is a highlight.
Jogasaki Kaigan Park: Visit the Jogasaki Kaigan Park to enjoy picnics, bird-watching, and more scenic coastal vistas.
Shimoda:
Perry Road: Discover the historical significance of Shimoda by walking along Perry Road, where you can see Western-style buildings and learn about the arrival of Commodore Matthew Perry’s Black Ship in 1854, which led to the opening of Japan to the West.
Shirahama Beach: Relax on the sandy shores of Shirahama Beach, one of Shimoda’s most popular beaches.
Shimoda Aquarium: Visit the Shimoda Aquarium to learn about marine life in the area, including local species and creatures from around the world.
Gyokusen-ji Temple: Explore the beautiful Gyokusen-ji Temple and its tranquil garden, featuring a pond with koi fish.
Ryosen-ji Temple: This temple is known for its role in the introduction of Buddhism to Japan. It’s a serene and culturally significant site.
West Coast of Izu:
Cape Tsumeki: Explore Cape Tsumeki and its scenic lighthouse. This area offers stunning views of the rugged coastline.
Dogashima: Visit Dogashima to see unique rock formations and take a boat tour to explore sea caves and enjoy the coastal beauty.
Kogel Bay: Relax on the beautiful Kogel Bay Beach, known for its clear waters and natural beauty.
While in the Izu and Shizuoka region, you can also savor local seafood, particularly eel and other fresh catches from the sea. Additionally, don’t forget to try some of the region’s famous green tea, as Shizuoka is one of Japan’s top tea-producing areas. Exploring the history of Perry’s Black Ship and the impact it had on Japan’s opening to the West is a fascinating aspect of the region’s history and culture.
From Airbnb Rental Arbitrage to Making a great Listing: https://www.udemy.com/course/draft/4557050/?referralCode=B14AAAB5BAD83107B69F
How to be a Travel Writer from A-Z & Chat GPT https://www.udemy.com/course/draft/5176742/?referralCode=A810BA3AB7BDB66B82CD
Check out my courses at Udemy:
Check out my courses on How to Airbnb at Udemy: https://www.udemy.com/user/kevin-burns-12/
Want to Host on Airbnb?
https://www.airbnb.com/r/kburns502?s=6&t=061n0g
Kevin`s Guesthouses near Hakone,Japan: https://www.airbnb.com/users/35135086/listings
I am Hakone, (Kevin’s Blog):
https://nearhotspringsandfujiviews.wordpress.com
Kevin`s English Schools Online:
https://kevinsenglishschools.wordpress.com
Donate to me at Patreon: https://patreon.com/kevinrburns?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan
6 Comments
Izu is so beautiful!
I am Hakone, Kevin’s Guide to this beautiful part of Japan:
https://nearhotspringsandfujiviews.wordpress.com/
Would you like to be an Airbnb host? https://www.airbnb.com/r/kburns502?s=6&t=061n0g
Want to learn how to host on Airbnb? https://www.udemy.com/course/airbnb-hosting-success-a-z/?referralCode=B14AAAB5BAD83107B69F
Want to stay in Hakone, Japan? Kevin's Guest Houses: https://www.airbnb.com/users/show/35135086
Universal Studios Japan Express Pass: https://affiliate.klook.com/redirect?aid=78788&aff_adid=971648&k_site=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klook.com%2Fen-US%2Factivity%2F3407-universal-studios-japan-express-pass-osaka%2F