Login

Photo of Izu

About Izu

Surrounded on three sides by the ocean, the region in which the small city of Izu sits is dominated by dramatic mountains, meandering rivers and verdant forests. It’s no surprise, therefore, that it’s a favourite amongst outdoorsy travellers or those escaping the city for the weekend. Japan's extensive railway network means that this restful region is just under two hours from Tokyo by train. The area’s accommodation options reflect this desire for peaceful guesthouses within reach of hiking, cycling and fishing opportunities, and our list of the best places to stay includes two superb ryokans, one of which dates back to the 15th Century.

The eastern side of the peninsula — which includes Atami — is characterised by superb coastlines, winding rivers and natural hot springs. You’ll find excellent surfing, busy beaches and water sports aplenty. Turn westwards, however, and you can expect a quieter, more laid-back vibe. Dogashima, for instance, is deemed particularly beautiful, known for its dazzling blue caves and dramatic sunsets.

Closer to the city of Izu itself the cascading Joren Falls tumble over moss-covered rocks, travellers can visit a fascinating wasabi farm, and the iconic Shuzenji Temple offers an insight into Izu's cultural heritage. Head to nearby Kawazu to admire the blossoming cherry trees, follow hiking and mountain bike trails, go horse riding, or pick a quiet spot for an afternoon’s fishing. If you’re looking to really unwind, simply take a soak in the rejuvenating waters of a traditional onsen at one of the best places to stay in Izu. These charming little guesthouses offer restorative massages, saunas and delicious Japanese dishes, too.

The Best Places to Stay in Izu

For Nature Lovers

  • Japanese Cultural Property Ochiairo Murakami is an atmospheric ryokan with 14 traditional rooms featuring tatami matting and Western beds. Indoor and outdoor onsens, as well as two saunas, offer the perfect chance to unwind after days of hiking, cycling, birdwatching and horse riding. For nature lovers.

For Absolute Bliss

  • Asaba dates back to 1489. A family-run ryokan with 17 serene, riverside guestrooms, this is a hugely luxurious place to experience traditional Japanese hospitality. Savour splendid cuisine at the restaurant, relax in classic rooms with woven-straw flooring, futon bedding and river views, or catch a cultural performance at the Noh stage after days in the hot springs. Tranquil and idyllic.

FOR AN APARTMENT Or Cottage

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Fly to Tokyo's Haneda International Airport or to Narita International Airport and travel to Izu by train. The journey should take around 1 hour and 45 minutes by road or rail.
  • The peninsula is wonderful to explore by road! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures hovering around 28°C. Many visitors choose to come in April or May, when the cherry trees are in bloom: this is a very special yet busy time. For a quieter trip and great hotel deals, we'd recommend travelling in the autumn.

STILL NOT SURE?

Weather

Monthly Weather in Izu

Best Hotels in Izu

  • Izu Marriott Hotel Shuzenji Izu, Izu 128 rooms from AU$280

    Country Escape  -  Set amid lovely countryside and with stuning views of Mount Fuji
    Total relaxation  -  A hot spring resort where relaxation is the name of the game
    Views  -  The hotel boasts fabulous views of Mount Fuji
    Spa  -  Expect first class treatment at the spa, including hot stone therapy and hot spring onsen
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking

    A hot spring hotel on the Izu Peninsula. Simple yet sophisticated rooms allow for the utmost luxury — think sleek wooden panelling, crisp, clean lines and warm, neutral colours. The best offer private outdoor onsen and Mt Fuji views. A communal onsen and international dining complete the picture. See More

    Check Availability
  • Japanese Cultural Property Ochiairo Murakami Izu, Izu 14 rooms from AU$329

    Active Holiday  -  The region provides an ideal landscape for outdoor pursuits, including hiking, cycling, horse riding and fishing
    Trekking  -  Find miles of hiking trails in the surrounding hills, including to the scenic Joren Falls, or up Mount Daruma
    Total relaxation  -  A 14-room ryokan with hot springs and saunas, perfect for unwinding in rural bliss
    Learning  -  Visit the beautiful Shuzenji Temple, 9km away, to delve into local culture
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    An atmospheric ryokan situated in the scenic Izu countryside. Traditional Japanese rooms are spacious and light with large windows, western beds, tatami mats and lovely views. Indoor and outdoor onsens and saunas provide total relaxation after a day spent indulging in outdoor pursuits. Charming. See More

    Check Availability
  • Isaribi Higashiizu, Izu 12 rooms from AU$453

    Total relaxation  -  Each room comes equipped with its own onsen, fed with water drawn from an underground hot spring
    Romantic Break  -  Isaribi is an intimate adults only inn with lovely rooms, great views and delicious food
    Hideaway  -  Located on the Izu Peninsula in a coastal village
    Restaurant  -  Isaribi's restaurant provides a wealth of fresh, locally sourced Japanese seafood dishes with seasonal menus
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantViewsParking

    A homely ryokan located in a picturesque seaside village. The Japanese and Western style rooms feature private open-air, hot spring-fed onsen with views over the Pacific. There are communal outdoor and indoor baths too. Expect nothing but the best local produce and seafood. Utter bliss. See More

    Check Availability
  • Ufufu Izu, Izu 7 rooms from AU$979

    Romantic Break  -  Beautifully styled rooms, private hot spring baths and superb food — the perfect couples' getaway
    Country Escape  -  Set beside a burbling river — relax and explorethe rural surroundings
    Spa  -  As well as the private onsen in each room, relaxing treatments can be booked to further enhance the experience
    Restaurant  -  Traditional Japanese dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients and many of the vegetables grown on site
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantGardenParking

    An elegant hotel on the banks of the Kano river. The beautifully conceived rooms fuse traditional Japanese decor with modern luxuries, and all come with a view of either the river or garden, plus private hot spring bath. The restaurant offers traditional kaiseki cuisine. Relaxation guaranteed! See More

    Check Availability
  • Asaba Shizuoka-Ken, Izu 19 rooms from AU$1403

    Great walks  -  Stroll along the riverbank or through the bamboo forest, listening to birdsong and the sounds of the water
    Hotel Entertainment  -  Traditional Japanese performances take place on outdoor Noh stages, including historical plays and dances
    Total relaxation  -  Unwind in indoor and outdoor hot-spring baths or treat yourself to a massage
    Country Escape  -  A tranquil hideaway in Shuzenji, with a timeless feel
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantGardenViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Relais & Chateaux

    Founded in 1489, historic Asaba enjoys a serene riverside location in Izu. Experience traditional Japanese accommodation (think tatami woven-straw flooring and futon bedding) with floor-to-ceiling windows offering lovely views. Splendid cuisine served at the restaurant. An idyllic spot! See More

    Check Availability