A Journey Through the Stories and Landscapes of Izu

Discover Izu on a three-day journey through its diverse landscapes of mountains, onsen, and coast, where distinctive local cultures have developed over time. Visit places connected to Nobel Prize-winning author Yasunari Kawabata and settings from The Izu Dancer, while experiencing local traditions and food culture passed down through generations. Through the stories and local life behind Izu’s beautiful landscapes, discover a deeper side of the peninsula.

Tour Overview

Explore Izu on a three-day journey through its diverse landscapes of mountains, onsen, and coast, each shaped by the region’s distinctive culture. Visit historic onsen towns and the rich natural landscapes of Amagi, while discovering local traditions, cuisine, and ways of life passed down through generations. Along the way, visit places connected to Nobel Prize-winning author Yasunari Kawabata and The Izu Dancer, and discover Izu more deeply through the stories and local life behind its beautiful landscapes.

Location & Access

By Tokaido Shinkansen to Atami Station

Tokyo → Atami: approx. 40–50 min.
Kyoto → Atami: approx. 2 hrs.
Osaka → Atami: approx. 2.5 hrs.

Who is this for?

Travelers who enjoy exploring nature and culture at a relaxed pace
Those interested in experiencing local culture and ways of life
Travelers who enjoy journeys with meaningful stories
Those interested in Japanese literature and Yasunari Kawabata

Tour Facts

Length of Trip: 3 Days / 2 Nights
Meeting Point: Atami Station (around 10:00 AM on Day 1)
End Point: Atami Station (around 4:15 PM on Day 3)
Physical Activity: Low
Style: Private Tour
Guide: English-speaking Guide
Capacity: 2–10 Guests
Transportation: Private Vehicle
Nights: 2 Nights in the East Izu Area
Accommodation: Selected ryokan and hotels offering distinctive onsen experiences and a sense of place (subject to availability)
Best Season: Year-round

Inquire About This Tour

Sample Itinerary

Day 1 | From Coast to Mountains: Discovering Izu’s Culture

After exploring the history and culture of Atami, continue to Mt. Omuro, one of Izu’s iconic scenic spots. Take in panoramic views while discovering the landscapes and local character that have shaped the region. Enjoy Izu’s distinctive scenery, where coast and mountains come together, before unwinding at an onsen in the East Izu area.

A historic building once favored by many writers, beautifully blending Japanese and Western architectural styles.

Mt. Omuro
Photo courtesy of Shizuoka Prefectural Tourism Association

One of Izu’s iconic scenic spots, offering panoramic views of the region’s distinctive coastal and mountain landscapes.

Day 2 | Following the Landscapes and Stories of Amagi

Explore the rich natural landscapes of Amagi while visiting places connected to Yasunari Kawabata and The Izu Dancer. Discover the scenery that inspired the author and the stories behind it, gaining a deeper understanding of Amagi and its unique character.

Former Amagi Tunnel
Photo courtesy of Izu City

A historic stone tunnel surrounded by the deep forests of Amagi, also featured in Yasunari Kawabata’s The Izu Dancer.

Kawazu Seven Waterfalls
Photo courtesy of Kawazu Tourism Association

The Kawazu Seven Waterfalls, surrounded by the lush nature of Amagi, with a statue inspired by The Izu Dancer.

Day 3 | Discovering Coastal Life and Culture

Experience the traditional craft of tsurushibina hanging ornaments, passed down through generations in the Inatori area. Stroll through the port town and enjoy kinmedai (splendid alfonsino), a local specialty, before visiting the dramatic coastline of Jogasaki. Through local traditions, cuisine, and nature, discover a way of life shaped by the sea in Izu.