Dogashima (Nishiizu Town, Kamo District, Shizuoka Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Dogashima is a scenic spot located in Nishiizu Town, Kamo District, Shizuoka Prefecture, characterized by a magnificent coastal landscape with steep sea cliffs, countless small islands, and sea caves. The scenery, created by the strange rock formations and caves carved by wave erosion, has long been a subject of paintings and waka poetry since the Edo period. In particular, the cave known as Tensoudo is famous for the contrast between the light streaming in through the hole in the ceiling (skylight) and the blue sea inside the cave.

The biggest attraction of Dogashima is that you can take a sightseeing boat to tour the inside of the cave, and you can enjoy the color of the sea, the mysterious atmosphere of the cave, and sometimes even spot dolphins and seabirds.It is also known for its beautiful sunsets, and many tourists spend their time relaxing at hot spring inns along the coast.

Highlights

• Tensoudo Cave: A sea cave with light streaming in through windows in the ceiling. It can be viewed from sightseeing boats and promenades.
• Dogashima Sightseeing Boat: A classic cave tour. You can view the inside of the cave and the surrounding strange rock formations up close on a small boat (typically takes about 25-30 minutes).
• Promenades and observation spots: There are walking paths and observation decks where you can view the cliffs and reefs, making it ideal for taking photos and enjoying the sunset.
• Ocean scenery and small islandsThe seascape, woven with columnar joint-like rocks and scattered small islands, changes its appearance depending on the season and weather.
• Hot Springs and Accommodation: There are hot spring inns overlooking the sea, including Dogashima Onsen, where you can relax for a day trip or stay overnight.
• sunset: The sunset view on a clear day is particularly beautiful and is popular among photography enthusiasts.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

Dogashima is located along the coast of West Izu, and public transportation is mainly by bus, sightseeing boat, and car. The following are the most common ways to get around.

• Train + Bus: The nearest major stations are Numazu Station, Mishima Station, Shuzenji Station, etc. From each station, take Tokai Bus, Izu Hakone Bus, or a bus bound for Nishiizu towards Dogashima (travel time is approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on the station and route). Routes and times change depending on the season, so we recommend checking in advance.
• carFrom Tokyo, take the Tomei and Shin-Tomei Expressways, enter central Izu via Numazu and Susono, and head towards Nishiizu on National Route 136. Travel time varies depending on traffic, but it should take approximately 3.5 to 4 hours from Tokyo. There are parking lots and accommodations on-site.
• Express bus tours: Seasonal express buses and sightseeing bus tours may be available to take you to Nishiizu, including Dogashima. Please also check the operating status in advance.
• Pleasure boat dock: The Dogashima sightseeing boat has a pier, and information on where to board will be available at tourist information centers and accommodations. The boat may be suspended due to weather conditions.

Note: Routes and schedules are subject to change, so be sure to check the latest information for each transport operator before travelling.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Short tour: Sightseeing boat and sightseeing walk takes about 1-2 hours (sightseeing boat takes about 25-30 minutes, including walking and taking photos).
• A leisurely sightseeing tour: Half a day (3-4 hours) including a sightseeing boat ride, a stroll along the promenade, a soak in the hot springs, and a stroll around the surrounding area.
• Relaxed stay: If you plan to watch the sunset and stay overnight at a hot spring inn, we recommend a two-day, one-night stay. If you combine it with other sightseeing spots in Nishiizu (Matsuzaki, Toi, etc.), a one- to two-night stay is convenient.

Nearby spots

• Dogashima Onsen Town: Dotted with inns overlooking the sea and day-trip hot spring facilities.
• Matsuzaki Town: A spot where you can enjoy the historic townscape and coastal scenery (accessible by car).
• Toi Onsen: A famous hot spring resort within driving distance. The sunsets and coastline views are beautiful.
• Coastal drive in Nishiizu: The drive around the coastline of Nishiizu is scenic and takes you to several observation spots.

(The above information focuses on areas that are convenient for travel by car. Travel times to each location may vary depending on traffic conditions.)

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Pay attention to the weather and sea conditions: The sightseeing boat will be canceled if the sea is rough. Be sure to check the boat's operating status the day before and on the day itself. The cave is easily affected by waves, so please follow safety instructions when boarding.
• Busy period: During Golden Week, summer vacation, consecutive holidays, and weekends, sightseeing boats, observation spots, and parking lots will be crowded. They will be particularly crowded around sunset time, so we recommend leaving early and considering staying overnight.
• Slippery areas and steps: The trails and rocky areas can be slippery when wet, and there are steep stairs and steps. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
• Nature Conservation and Manners: The natural environment of the coast and rocky areas is precious. Please be considerate of your surroundings by taking your trash with you, not picking plants or living creatures, and keeping noise to a minimum.
• Seasonal precautionsIn summer, take precautions against UV rays and heatstroke, and the sea breeze can throw sand and salt into the air. In winter, the wind can be strong and the sea can get rough, so dress warmly and check the ferry operations. Spring and autumn are relatively calm and suitable for sightseeing.
• Parking and Transportation: Parking spaces may be limited in some locations, so please consider using public transportation or arriving early, especially during peak periods.

Dogashima is a place that is attractive for its dramatic scenery created by the sea and rocks. Enjoy the nature and atmosphere of Nishiizu from sightseeing boats, promenades, and hot springs, while taking safety precautions.