Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Ito Marine Town is a complex tourist facility (including areas registered as roadside stations) located on the coast of Ito City on the Izu Peninsula. Taking advantage of its seafront location, it sells seafood and local specialties, has restaurants overlooking the sea, and has rest facilities such as a walking deck and foot baths, making it a popular tourist base. As it is adjacent to the port, it is also an attractive spot for boats to the Izu Islands, including Hatsushima, and for viewing the seascape and sunsets.
Its distinctive feature is the casualness with which you can feel the sea. You can enjoy shopping, dining, and a quick hot spring (foot bath), making it an attractive place for families, couples, and day-trippers to drop by. There are also seasonal seafood and events, allowing you to casually enjoy the local atmosphere.
Highlights
- Seaside Promenade: A promenade overlooking the harbor and Sagami Bay. If the weather is good, you can see Mount Fuji and beautiful sunsets.
- Dining area: There are a number of restaurants offering sashimi and seafood bowls made with fresh seafood, as well as dishes using local ingredients.
- Souvenir and specialty shop: A selection of souvenirs including dried fish, locally processed products, Izu seafood, sweets, and crafts.
- Footbath (Footbath Space): A spot where you can casually enjoy a hot spring footbath while feeling the sea breeze. Perfect for soothing your tired feet after walking.
- Ferry and sightseeing boat departure and arrival: Depending on the season, regular ferries and sightseeing cruises to Hatsushima and other islands are available, allowing you to tour the islands and enjoy sightseeing trips.
- Event space: Seasonal events, local events, markets, etc. are sometimes held here, allowing you to experience local culture.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Ito Station (JR Ito Line).
- Transportation from the station (approximate)
- Car/Taxi: Approximately 5-10 minutes from Ito Station (depending on traffic conditions).
- Bus: Many areas can be accessed by local bus from Ito Station, so please check the local timetable.
- Walking: It is a little far from the station, so it takes about 30 to 40 minutes on foot (depending on your physical strength and route). If you have luggage, we recommend taking a taxi.
- Parking: There is a parking lot near the facility. It may fill up on weekends and during peak seasons, so we recommend arriving early.
- By ferry: Ferries to Hatsushima and other destinations may depart. Please check in advance as operation dates and times may change depending on the season.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short visit: 30 minutes to 1 hour (tourist information, snacks, foot bath only)
- If you want to enjoy it at your own pace: 2-3 hours (dining, shopping, walking, foot bath)
- Combining with sightseeing in the surrounding area: Half a day to a full day (full day if you include sightseeing around the area and a cruise to Hatsushima)
Nearby spots
- Ito Onsen Town: A hot spring town that can be reached on foot or in a short distance. There are many inns and hot springs available.
- Hatsushima (Ferry): Popular for day trips to explore the island (check operating status).
- Mount Omuro: Take the lift to the summit and enjoy panoramic views of the crater and Izu (easy access by car).
- Jogasaki Coast: A scenic spot famous for its cliffs and suspension bridge (recommended for nature walks).
- Izukogen Cactus Park, etc.: There are many facilities popular with families.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: Weekends, public holidays, Golden Week, and summer vacation can get quite crowded, and you may have to queue for parking and restaurants. If you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend visiting early on a weekday.
- Footbath etiquette: When using a footbath, please observe proper etiquette, such as wiping your feet with a towel before entering, refraining from entering if you have any open wounds, and avoiding prolonged use. Please do not bring pets or put towels in the bath.
- Weather: Winds can be strong along the coast. It can be chilly in winter and hot in summer, so please prepare appropriate clothing and heatstroke prevention measures. In the event of typhoons or bad weather, boats may not operate and some facilities may be temporarily closed.
- Parking/Transportation: When parking lots are full, surrounding roads will become congested, so we recommend using public transportation and allowing yourself plenty of time.
- Garbage and environmental considerations: The facility is kept clean, so please dispose of your garbage in the designated areas. Please be mindful of beach etiquette (rules for picking up shells, etc.).
Note: Facility opening hours, event information, ferry operations, etc. may change depending on the season and facility circumstances. Please check the official website or local information in advance for the latest information.
