Long Trails in Southern and Western Izu: A Journey to Enjoy Stunning Scenery, Local Inns, and Gourmet Cuisine

Southern and Western Izu boast a variety of long trails that showcase the beauty of the Izu Peninsula. Whether you're walking along the coast, admiring the vast Pacific Ocean, or hiking through the mountains while enjoying picturesque rural scenery, each trail has its own unique appeal. Here are five highly recommended trails.

Amagi Mountain, the highest peak on the Izu Peninsula at 1,406 meters, is a region rich in natural beauty. The pristine beech and himeshara (Stewartia monadelpha) forests create a stunning landscape throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy lush greenery in spring, deep forests in summer, colorful foliage in autumn, and frosted trees in winter. This trail follows the famous "Amagi Pass" route, which also appears in Yasunari Kawabata’s novel The Dancing Girl of Izu. Along the way, hikers can visit the renowned "Hatcho Pond," whose reflections on the water create a mystical atmosphere. Since this is a long traverse course, proper equipment and stamina are required, but it is a special route where you can fully experience the grandeur of Amagi Mountain’s nature.

Cape Irozaki, located at the southernmost tip of Izu, is a breathtaking spot with panoramic views of the vast Pacific Ocean. Starting from Irozaki Lighthouse, the trail continues along rugged cliffs, offering a thrilling experience. Walking along the trail with the ocean breeze is refreshing, and the contrast between the deep blue sea and sky is mesmerizing. Along the way, hikers will find "Ishimuro Shrine," perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea. This mystical shrine has been worshipped as a guardian deity of the sea since ancient times. Furthermore, on the path extending toward Ai-Ai Cape, lucky hikers might even spot dolphins or whales swimming in the distance.

Koganezaki, located in Western Izu, is famous for its golden-hued cliffs that glow in the sunset. The "Koganezaki & Uma Rock Trail" is the perfect route to appreciate this beautiful scenery. With gentle ups and downs, this trail is easy for beginners and ideal for families or those new to hiking. Along the route, hikers will encounter "Uma Rock," a massive rock formation shaped like a horse’s head—a natural masterpiece created by erosion. Several observation decks along the trail offer magnificent views of Suruga Bay and Mount Fuji.

Senganmon, a giant rock arch in the Dogashima area of Western Izu, was formed over many years by wave erosion. The name "Senganmon" comes from the idea that it is a scenic wonder worth a thousand gold coins. The trail follows the coastline, allowing hikers to enjoy the sound of the waves while walking. Along the way, you’ll find crystal-clear blue waters, where people enjoy snorkeling and fishing. Walking through the natural rock arch feels like an adventure, and completing the trail brings a satisfying sense of accomplishment.

Dogashima is a renowned tourist destination in Western Izu, featuring spectacular coastal landscapes with unique rock formations and vibrant blue waters. The highlight of this area is "Tensodo," a sea cave created by erosion. A hole in the cave’s ceiling allows sunlight to pour in, creating a magical ambiance. Although the Dogashima trail is relatively short, it offers stunning scenery. Walking along the Dogashima promenade, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Suruga Bay and Mount Fuji from the observation deck. There are also hot spring inns along the route, where hikers can relax in open-air baths overlooking the ocean, making this trail a perfect blend of nature, relaxation, and local cuisine.

Each of these trails showcases the unique beauty of Izu’s landscapes. With changing scenery throughout the seasons, there's always something new to enjoy. Choose a trail that suits you and embark on a journey to experience the breathtaking sights of Southern and Western Izu.

The Izu Peninsula, with its rugged terrain jutting into the Pacific Ocean, is home to many dramatic cliffs offering breathtaking ocean views. Walking along these clifftop trails provides an awe-inspiring experience, with the vast ocean stretching endlessly before you and majestic mountains rising behind.

One particularly recommended route is the Cape Irozaki & Ai-Ai Cape Trail in Southern Izu. The Irozaki Lighthouse stands tall along this route, where the striking contrast between the rocky cliffs and the expansive sea creates an unforgettable view. On clear days, hikers can even see the Izu Islands in the distance.

Another must-visit is the Senganmon Trail in Western Izu, where hikers can marvel at the immense rock arch formed by ocean erosion. The sheer scale of Senganmon is overwhelming, and at sunset, the sight of the sun sinking into the sea is breathtaking, painting the ocean and sky in a stunning golden hue.

These cliffside trails offer a unique opportunity to witness the raw power of nature while enjoying unparalleled coastal views. Keep an eye on your footing and immerse yourself in the dramatic beauty of Izu’s rugged coastline.

After exploring the long trails of Southern and Western Izu, staying at a local inn is the perfect way to rest and recharge. The warm, homely atmosphere of Izu’s traditional inns, combined with heartfelt hospitality and delicious local cuisine, makes for an unforgettable experience.

Southern Izu is home to many family-run inns that welcome guests with open arms. Some inns near Cape Irozaki offer ocean-view rooms where visitors can relax to the soothing sound of the waves. Homemade regional dishes, including fresh sashimi and simmered fish, are a highlight of the stay.

Western Izu features numerous hot spring inns where guests can soak in soothing baths after a long hike. In towns like Dogashima and Matsuzaki, inns with open-air baths overlooking the sea provide a truly luxurious experience, especially at sunset. Chatting with the friendly inn owners offers a great opportunity to learn about the local culture and history.

Some inns even offer fishing or farming experiences, allowing visitors to connect with Izu’s natural environment in a unique way. Staying at a local inn is more than just accommodation—it’s an opportunity to experience the lifestyle and traditions of Izu.

The Izu Peninsula is a paradise for food lovers, boasting an abundance of fresh seafood and mountain delicacies.

A must-try dish is Kinmedai (Golden Eye Snapper) Simmered in Sweet Soy Sauce, a local specialty featuring tender, flavorful fish cooked in a rich soy-based sauce—perfectly paired with rice. At local fishing ports, visitors can enjoy freshly caught fish as sashimi or sushi, with the Local Fish Rice Bowl being a popular choice among tourists.

For mountain cuisine, freshly grated wasabi from the Amagi Mountains offers a refreshing spiciness that enhances the flavors of sashimi and soba. Additionally, wild game dishes such as venison and wild boar are available, prepared as grilled meat or hearty stews to bring out their rich flavors.

Western Izu also offers exquisite seafood, including grilled turban shells and charcoal-grilled Ise lobster, both featuring the fresh taste of the sea. These gourmet delights provide a well-deserved treat after a long trail hike.

When visiting Izu, be sure to savor the local delicacies and make your journey even more memorable.

Long trails can be enjoyed by beginners with the right preparation. First, check the difficulty of the route and choose a course that matches your fitness level. Wear comfortable walking shoes and breathable clothing, and stay hydrated throughout your hike.

Izu offers many beginner-friendly trails, such as the Dogashima promenade and the Cape Irozaki walking path, both well-maintained and easy to explore.

Take your time, enjoy the stunning landscapes, and embark on a safe and rewarding long trail adventure in Izu!