TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Ito Onsen (Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture) is one of the most well-known hot spring resorts located on the east coast of the Izu Peninsula. It has long been popular as a therapeutic hot spring resort, and since the Edo period it has developed as a seaside resort and tourist destination. Ryokan and hotels are concentrated around Ito Port and Ito Station, and a major attraction is being able to enjoy the sea and hot springs at the same time. The water quality is primarily chloride spring water, which has a high heat-retaining effect, meaning that it "does not cool down easily after bathing," and is said to be good for recovering from fatigue and helping with sensitivity to the cold.
Highlights
- Ito Onsen Town (around the station) — Traditional hot spring inns and restaurants line the streets, along with footbath spots and souvenir shops. At night, the steam from the hot spring inns and the street lights create a charming atmosphere.
- Tokaikan — A historic building that was once a large inn, preserved and open to the public. You can see the atmosphere of the tatami corridors and large baths (events and exhibitions are sometimes held here).
- Ito Marine Town — There is shopping, dining, a foot bath, and an observation deck, so you can relax while looking out at the sea. It's also convenient as a roadside station.
- Ito Orange Beach — A popular summer beach, it's a beautiful spot for strolling along the beach and watching the sunset.
- Mount Omuro (Izu Highlands) — Take the ropeway to the top of the mountain, where you can enjoy 360-degree views from the volcanic cone-shaped summit (accessible by car or bus from Ito).
- Jogasaki Coast The highlights are the cliffs made of lava and the Kadowaki Suspension Bridge. There is also a promenade along the coast.
- Other tourist facilities There are many spots you can visit during your stay or on a day trip, such as Izu Cactus Park and art museums and experience facilities in the Atami and Izu Kogen areas.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Ito Line "Ito Station"
- Main routes from Tokyo:
- Direct from Tokyo Station on JR express trains such as the Odoriko/Super View Odoriko (approximately 2 hours, depending on the train)
- Take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Atami or Odawara, then transfer to the Ito Line bound for Ito (approximately 20-30 minutes from Atami)
- car: Head south on Route 135 via the Tomei Expressway and Odawara-Atsugi Road. From Tokyo, it takes approximately two hours depending on traffic conditions.
- Air: Use Haneda Airport to access by bus, rental car, or train (there are few direct trains, so it is common to have to transfer to get to Izu).
- *The itinerary may vary depending on the time of day, season, and traffic conditions. Please check express train and traffic information in advance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day trip: 3-6 hours (open-air baths, foot baths, strolling around the hot spring town, lunch or cafe visit)
- 2 days, 1 night: A standard plan for leisurely sightseeing and enjoying hot springs. You can also visit nearby tourist spots such as Mt. Omuroyama and Jogasaki.
- 2 nights or more: Ideal for a thorough tour of the eastern side of the Izu Peninsula (visiting museums, experience facilities, marine activities, etc.).
Nearby spots
- Jogasaki Coast (Kadowaki Suspension Bridge)
- Mount Omuro (Izu Highlands)
- Izu Cactus Park
- Ito Marine Town (roadside station facility)
- Art galleries, museums and experience facilities in the Izu Kogen area
- Day trip driving route to Atami and Shimoda
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: Transportation and tourist spots are crowded during the summer beach season, Golden Week, New Year's holidays, and other consecutive holidays. Make your accommodation reservations early, especially on weekends.
- Hot Spring MannersPlease observe basic etiquette, such as washing your body in the washing area before bathing, not putting towels in the bathtub, and refraining from talking on your cell phone for long periods of time in the bathroom.
- Tattoo: Some inns and public baths may refuse to allow you to bathe. If you have a large tattoo, it is best to check with the facility in advance or use a private bath.
- Seasonal precautions: In summer, the beach is bustling with people, but be careful to take precautions against heatstroke and accidents at sea. In winter, it gets chilly in the mornings and evenings, but the hot springs are especially pleasant to soak in. Typhoon season (usually around September) can affect tourism and transportation along the coast.
- traffic: Roads around Ito are prone to congestion during the tourist season. Please check in advance for information on public transportation, shuttle service, and parking from the nearest station.
Tips for enjoying the hot springs: Ito is a great place to combine a stay as a hot spring town with sightseeing in the sea, nature, and hands-on activities. We recommend relaxing in the hot springs in the evening and at night, and then visiting nearby scenic spots and theme parks the next day.
