Route 2：A route that takes the Tokai Bus from Shuzenji Station.
Shuzenji Station is served by the Izu Hakone Railway and does not have Shinkansen service. It is on the line connecting Mishima Station to Shuzenji Station, which takes about 40 minutes by Izu Hakone Railway.
From Shuzenji Station, it takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes by bus to reach Matsuzaki, the final stop. Buses depart at a frequency of once per hour.
There is a bus information board on the wall of the South Exit of Shuzenji Station.
Exit the South Exit and head to the left. Follow the signs to the bus stop.
50メートルぐらい進むとバス乗り場案内看板があります。
西伊豆方面は4番のバス停になります。
The bus stop is directly behind the information board. Please board the bus that arrives at Bus Stop No. 4. Buses depart once per hour.
Route 3：A route that takes the Tokai Bus from Izukyu-Shimoda Station.
Izukyu-Shimoda Station is served by the Izu Kyuko Line, which connects Ito Station to Izukyu-Shimoda Station. The journey from Ito Station to Izukyu-Shimoda Station takes about 65 minutes. From Tokyo Station to Ito Station takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, so traveling by local train from Tokyo Station to Izukyu-Shimoda Station, including waiting times, takes around 3.5 to 4 hours.
Additionally, Izukyu-Shimoda Station is the terminus for the limited express train “Odoriko.” Although it requires an extra fare, the journey from Tokyo Station to Izukyu-Shimoda Station takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes.
An alternative route is to take the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Atami Station, then transfer to the Odoriko Limited Express, which takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes. However, considering the timing and transfers, the earlier mentioned routes might be more convenient.
From Izukyu-Shimoda Station, it takes about 50 minutes to reach Matsuzaki by bus. Buses depart at a frequency of once to twice per hour.
Izukyu-Shimoda Station has two exits, which are almost at the same location. Regardless of which exit you use, you will find the bus stop right in front of you.
Near the bus stop, there is a bus information board. For buses heading to the Nishi-Izu area, use Bus Stop No. 5.
The bus stops are numbered and lined up as shown in the photo.
When a bus arrives at Bus Stop No. 5, you can board it. Buses depart once to twice per hour.
For Toi Onsen, if you are traveling from Izukyu-Shimoda Station, you need to board Bus No. 5 and transfer at the “Matsuzaki” bus stop. If you prefer not to transfer buses, it is recommended to take a route from Mishima Station or Shuzenji Station to reach Toi Onsen.
Transportation Within the Nishi-Izu Area
The Nishi-Izu area does not have train service. Therefore, travel within the area is primarily by bus. If you wish to rent a car, note that rental cars are not available within the Nishi-Izu area itself. Instead, you can rent a car from Mishima Station, Shuzenji Station, or Izukyu-Shimoda Station, where car rental shops are located in front of each station.
Characteristics of Nishi-Izu
Nishi-Izu is known for its beautiful natural scenery and numerous hot springs. There are many day-use hot springs available, which will be introduced in another section.
Located on the western side of the Izu Peninsula, Nishi-Izu offers stunning sunsets. The evening sunsets in the Toi area, Nishi-Izu Town area, and Matsuzaki Town area are particularly spectacular.
With its combination of sea, mountains, and rivers, the area provides an opportunity to relax while enjoying Japan’s traditional landscapes.
There are also walking trails where you can fully enjoy nature. Some trails are longer, but there are also shorter ones that take about an hour round trip, making them ideal for those who want to take a leisurely walk in nature.
Nishi-Izu offers a variety of accommodation options in Toi, Nishi-Izu Town, and Matsuzaki, so you can enjoy your stay with peace of mind. While there are not many convenience stores and restaurants, each area has some, so you will not have difficulty finding accommodations.
Street Scenery in the Nishi-Izu Area
Toi Area
The Toi area may be the most famous within the Nishi-Izu region. It is known for Toi Onsen, a popular hot spring town and tourist destination. Its proximity to Tokyo may also contribute to its popularity as it is the closest part of Nishi-Izu to the city.
Bus Stop: The Toi-Kinzan bus stop is located roughly in the center of the Toi area.
The streets are lined with hot spring ryokan (inns).
The sea is close by. Since it is not a beach resort, it is not crowded, allowing for a relaxing experience.
There is a supermarket called “Max Valu.” It is located right in front of the Toi-K1inzan bus stop.
Nishi-Izu Town is renowned for its breathtaking viewpoints and beautiful coastlines. The highlight of the area is the scenic coastline and cave tours at “Dogashima.” The presence of Dogashima makes Nishi-Izu Town well-known among tourists. It is also popular as a renowned sunset viewing spot.