Experience the Charm of Izu Kogen: Where Nature and Art Blend
Izu Kogen, located in Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture, is a beautiful tourist destination known for its harmonious blend of nature and art. With its hot springs, museums, outdoor activities, and more, Izu Kogen captivates visitors with its diverse attractions. Here, we will explore the many charms of Izu Kogen, including access from Narita, Haneda, and Kansai airports, and nearby shopping and dining options.
Access
From Narita Airport
From Narita Airport to Izu Kogen, take the Narita Express to Tokyo Station. From Tokyo Station, take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Atami Station. At Atami Station, transfer to the JR Ito Line to Ito Station, then take the Izu Kyuko Line to Izu Kogen Station. The total travel time is about four hours.
From Haneda Airport
Access from Haneda Airport to Izu Kogen is very convenient. First, take the Keikyu Line to Shinagawa Station. From Shinagawa Station, take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Atami Station. From Atami Station, take the JR Ito Line to Ito Station, then the Izu Kyuko Line to Izu Kogen Station. The total travel time is about three hours.
From Kansai International Airport
From Kansai International Airport to Izu Kogen, first take the JR Kansai Airport Rapid Service to Shin-Osaka Station. From Shin-Osaka Station, take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Atami Station. At Atami Station, transfer to the JR Ito Line to Ito Station, then take the Izu Kyuko Line to Izu Kogen Station. The total travel time is about five hours.
Attractions in Izu Kogen
Izu Shaboten Zoo
One of the most famous attractions in Izu Kogen is the Izu Shaboten Zoo. Here, you can see cacti and succulents from around the world, as well as cute animals like capybaras and squirrel monkeys. You can even enjoy a unique experience of soaking in hot springs with the animals.
Omuro Mountain
Omuro Mountain is an iconic mountain in Izu Kogen, accessible by lift to the summit. From the top, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view, including Mount Fuji and the Izu Islands. There is also a hiking trail around the crater, perfect for a leisurely walk.
Izu Teddy Bear Museum
The Izu Teddy Bear Museum is a popular spot, showcasing teddy bears from around the world. It’s a delightful place for both children and adults. Additionally, there are exhibits featuring characters from Hayao Miyazaki’s films, making it a must-visit for Ghibli fans.
Shopping and Dining in Izu Kogen
Shops Around Izu Kogen Station
Around Izu Kogen Station, there are many shops and cafes. You can find local specialties and souvenirs, enjoy delicious Izu sweets, and taste local sake. Art galleries and craft shops also abound, offering unique items that you can only find here.
Local Cuisine
Izu Kogen is famous for its fresh seafood. Particularly, dishes featuring spiny lobster, abalone, and golden eye snapper are exceptional. Local seafood restaurants offer luxurious dishes prepared with these fresh ingredients. In addition, hot spring towns have many restaurants serving delicious onsen manju and dishes made with local vegetables, satisfying all visitors.
Other Tourist Spots
Jogasaki Coast
Jogasaki Coast, located on the east side of Izu Kogen, features a beautiful coastline created by lava flows. The contrast between the rugged landscape and the blue sea is stunning. The suspension bridge and lighthouse offer breathtaking views, and the coastal trails are perfect for hiking and photography.
Akazawa Onsen
Izu Kogen has many hot spring facilities, and Akazawa Onsen is particularly recommended. It features open-air baths with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, perfect for relaxing and unwinding. The onsen resorts also offer excellent accommodations and delicious meals.
Izu Animal Kingdom
For families, Izu Animal Kingdom is a popular tourist spot. You can observe a variety of animals in a vast area and enjoy interactive experiences. The close encounters with white tigers and giraffes are especially thrilling and unforgettable.
Conclusion
Izu Kogen is a captivating tourist destination where the beauty of nature and art harmoniously blend. With convenient access from Narita, Haneda, and Kansai airports, and an abundance of sightseeing, dining, and shopping options, Izu Kogen offers something for everyone. On your next trip to Japan, be sure to visit Izu Kogen and experience its many charms to the fullest.