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Izu is a popular destination for travelers in Japan, renowned for its unique coastal geography featuring rare and beautiful coastlines, towering waterfalls nestled in lush forests, and a treasure trove of historical and cultural heritage sites. Not only is it a top choice for domestic travel among Japanese people, but it also attracts visitors from around the globe. In this guide, we’ll delve into the must-visit attractions in Izu and uncover the charm of this enchanting getaway. Finally, we’ll also share tips on transportation from Tokyo and provide information about Japan’s newly issued currency.

Top Izu Attractions for Japan Travel

Banjo Falls

Banjo Falls is one of the most famous sights on the Izu Peninsula. With a height of 20 meters, this waterfall is a breathtaking spectacle. The abundant, crystal-clear water gushes from the cliffs year-round, creating a majestic scene. Visitors can even walk to the lower reaches of the falls to experience the spray up close, as long as safety precautions are followed. Nearby, there are pavilions for resting and a plaza with a thousand-year-old sacred tree, making it an ideal spot for picnics.

• Address: 776-1 Jizo-do, Izu City, Shizuoka Prefecture
• Access: From Shuzenji Station on the Izuhakone Railway, take a Tokai Bus for about 40 minutes. Get off at Jizo-do Bus Stop and walk for 15 minutes.

Izu Shaboten Zoo

The Izu Shaboten Zoo features five greenhouses and various animal enclosures, showcasing various cacti and animals. The highlight is undoubtedly the adorable capybaras! The zoo has an open-air hot spring where visitors can watch the capybaras enjoy a relaxing soak. You can also feed and pet these charming creatures up close, making for a delightful and heartwarming experience.

>> Book Tickets for Izu Shaboten Zoo Now

• Address: 1317-13 Futo, Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture
• Access: From Izu-Kogen Station, take a Tokai Bus for about 20 minutes and get off at Shaboten Park Bus Stop.

Tensodo Cave

The volcanic terrain of the Izu Peninsula creates many unique geological features, and Tensodo Cave is a standout. The cave, formed from tuff rock, features a skylight that allows sunlight to pour through, illuminating the water below with a mesmerizing blue glow, reminiscent of a sparkling sapphire.

For a closer look, local tour operators offer boat tours of Tensodo Cave. Prices typically range from 1,500–1,700 yen for adults and 600–700 yen for children.

• Address: 2060 Nishina, Kamo District, Izu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture
• Access: A 3-minute walk from Dogashima Tokai Bus Stop.

Mount Omuro

Standing at 580 meters, Mount Omuro is the most iconic landmark in the Izu Highlands. As part of the Izu East Volcano Group, this rounded hill is designated as a national natural monument. Visitors can take a cable car from the nearby bus stop to the summit, offering panoramic 360-degree views.

[Summer Exclusive] Atami Kinomiya Shrine, Izu Omuro Mountain, Shaboten Zoo & Jogasaki Coast Day Tour (Departing from Tokyo)

Seasonal Highlights:

• Spring: Vibrant cherry blossoms
• Summer: Lush green meadows
• Autumn/Winter: Silvery pampas grass

• Address: 672-2 Ike, Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture
• Access: From Izu-Kogen Station, take a Tokai Bus for about 20 minutes and get off at Shaboten Park Bus Stop, then walk for 1 minute.

Amagi Tunnel

For those seeking a tunnel adventure, the Amagi Tunnel is the perfect destination. Connecting Izu City and Kawazu Town, this historic tunnel was hand-carved by Japanese craftsmen from stone and completed in 1905. It was designated as a National Important Cultural Property in 1998. The moss-covered entrance, cool air, and serene forest atmosphere make it feel like stepping into another world.

• Address: Yushima, Izu City, Shizuoka Prefecture
• Access: From Shuzenji Station, take a Tokai Bus for about 35 minutes. Get off at the Suishin-Chika Bus Stop and walk for 30 minutes.

Kawazu Seven Waterfalls

The Kawazu Seven Waterfalls are a group of stunning cascades in Kawazu Town, connected by an 850-meter-long walking trail that takes about an hour to complete. Along the way, you’ll cross a 46-meter suspension bridge and enjoy observation decks for up-close views of the 22-meter-tall waterfalls. The final waterfall reaches an impressive height of 30 meters, making the Kawazu Seven Waterfalls a truly awe-inspiring experience.

• Address: Nashimoto, Kawazu Town, Kamo District, Shizuoka Prefecture
• Access: From Kawazu Station, take a Tokai Bus for about 25 minutes. Get off at Kawazu Seven Waterfalls Bus Stop and walk for 5 minutes.

Travel Information for Izu

Transportation from Tokyo

Izu is located in Shizuoka Prefecture in southeastern Japan. From Tokyo, you can take the Limited Express “Odoriko” train, which reaches Ito Station in under two hours and Shuzenji Station in about 2 hours and 10 minutes. The train also stops at major stations like Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, Shinagawa, Shibuya, and Yokohama, making it very convenient.

Japan’s New Banknotes

As of July 3, 2024, Japan has issued new banknotes in denominations of 10,000 yen, 5,000 yen, and 1,000 yen, available at major banks and ATMs. However, the old notes remain in circulation, and no official expiration date has been announced. While some banks in Taiwan now exchange new notes, travelers can rest assured that both old and new notes are widely accepted in Japan.

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