Izu｜Hot Springs, Ocean Views, and a Nature Getaway

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Recommendation Rating: 5/5

🗓️ We drove from Kawaguchiko to Izu, enjoying the scenic route. The journey included winding mountain roads, which were a bit thrilling but absolutely worth it!

🏨 Accommodation Experience: Inatori-so Onsen Ryokan

Our stay was fantastic! The hotel faces the ocean 🌊, and soaking in the open-air hot spring while listening to the sound of waves and gazing at the Pacific Ocean was truly healing.

🛌 The room features traditional Japanese-style decor, and you can wear a yukata 🛀 to walk to the large communal bath.
🍱 Dinner was served in a kaiseki style, with fresh and diverse ingredients including sashimi, grilled fish, and wagyu beef. Both the presentation and taste were top-notch 💯!

📍Day 1｜Seaside Stroll + Hot Spring Relaxation

🚗 After arriving in Izu in the afternoon, we checked into the hotel and then strolled around the area in yukata, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of the coastal town.

🌅 Evening: Hot spring soak + sunset viewing → complete relaxation 🧘🏻♀️
🌌 Night: A walk along the seaside back to the hotel, under a stunning starry sky ✨

📍Day 2｜Omuro Mountain + Volcano Crater Hike + Izu Glass Museum

🗻 In the morning, we drove about 40 minutes to Omuro Mountain, took the cable car up, and walked around the edge of the volcanic crater. It was breathtaking! On clear days, you can see the entire Izu Peninsula and Mount Fuji (though it was a bit foggy for us 🥲).

💠 After descending, we visited the Izu Glass and Craft Museum:
• The exhibits were exquisite and sparkly, perfect for photos.
• You can also pay to join a glass-blowing experience!

🍱 Food Recommendations
• 🍤【Seafood Bowl】We tried a local seafood restaurant recommended by locals, featuring fresh sea urchin, sweet shrimp, and scallops—absolutely delicious!
• 🍠【Purple Sweet Potato Dessert】Stopped by a cafe for a purple sweet potato cake + matcha set, which was both beautiful and tasty.

💬 Overall Impressions

Izu was even more relaxing and natural than I imagined! Compared to Tokyo or Hakone, it’s better suited for travelers seeking a slower pace 🕊️. Soaking in hot springs with ocean views is unbeatable, and the hotel’s friendly service made the trip perfect for couples or family vacations.

📌 Tips: Driving is more convenient—public transportation in some parts of Izu may not be very frequent.