Things To Do
in Higashiizu
Higashiizu is a picturesque coastal town on the eastern Izu Peninsula known for its rugged shoreline, hot spring culture, and abundant seafood. The region blends scenic cliffs, clear waters, and tranquil onsen towns that are perfect for a relaxed island-like escape. Visitors can experience traditional Japanese hospitality, fresh ocean flavors, and breathtaking seascapes all within a compact, easy-to-navigate area.
In every season, Higashiizu offers a relaxed pace, nature-filled adventures, and cultural glimpses of rural Shizuoka.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the historic town of Ito, known for its charming old streets and traditional ryokans. Stroll through the early morning market, where local vendors offer fresh seafood and handmade crafts, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. Stop by the Ito Marine Town to enjoy the sea breeze and a cup of freshly brewed green tea.
After lunch, head to the nearby Ito Orange Beach for a leisurely afternoon of sunbathing and swimming. Take a moment to explore the coastal walking trails that offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, dotted with picturesque rock formations. As the sun begins to set, consider trying your hand at beach volleyball or renting a kayak to explore the calm waters.
Wrap up your day with dinner at a local izakaya, where you can sample fresh seafood dishes and local sake. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as locals mingle and share stories over drinks. After dinner, take a stroll along the beach to watch the stars twinkle over the ocean, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Start your day with a rejuvenating soak in one of Higashiizu’s famous onsen, such as the Izu Kogen Onsen, known for its mineral-rich waters. Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at your ryokan, featuring fresh fish, miso soup, and seasonal vegetables. After breakfast, take a leisurely walk around the scenic gardens that surround the onsen, immersing yourself in the tranquil atmosphere.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby Izu Shaboten Zoo, home to a unique collection of cacti and capybaras. Wander through the beautifully landscaped park while enjoying the interactions between animals and visitors, including feeding the gentle capybaras. Afterward, stop at a local café for a refreshing matcha ice cream to cool off.
As the sun sets, return to your ryokan for another soak in the onsen, allowing the warm waters to soothe your muscles after a day of exploration. Enjoy a kaiseki dinner, a multi-course meal showcasing seasonal ingredients and culinary artistry. After dinner, relax in the communal lounge with a book or engage in conversation with fellow guests.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥗Lunch in mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🥢Dinner for two in mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🧃Soft drink | $2-3 |
| 🏨One-night hotel | $70-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and clear waters
- Relaxed pace with abundant onsen options
- Fresh, seasonal seafood and local produce
- Compact area easy to explore in a few days
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Some rural spots are cash-only or have limited English
- Seasonal weather can affect coastal activities (typhoons, wind)
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you very much
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
- "この場所はどこですか？" - Where is this place?
Places to Visit in Higashiizu
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic cape with a historic lighthouse and expansive ocean views, perfect for sunrise or golden-hour photography.
Coastal cliffs, suspension bridge, and sweeping sea panoramas ideal for wide-angle landscape shots.
Crystal-clear water, fishing boats, and seaside textures make for vibrant seascape photography and candid portraits.
Accessible viewpoints along the coast offering color-rich sunrises or sunsets over the Pacific.
Food in Higashiizu
Higashiizu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A generous bowl of fresh sashimi over rice, often featuring seasonal catches like tuna, whitefish, and whitebait, best enjoyed at seaside markets or seafood restaurants.
Must-Try!
A light, flavorful bowl topped with tiny, delicate whitebait harvested from local waters, commonly served with condiments and pickles.
Salt-grilled mackerel or saury, highlighting simple, hearty flavors that pair well with rice and miso soup.
Izu’s wasabi and matcha-based sweets or teas you’ll find at farm-stay spots and tea houses around Higashiizu.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Early-morning markets near the harbor where you can sample fresh sashimi, small snacks, and seasonal seafood bites directly from dealers.
Market-side stalls offering ready-to-eat bites like grilled seafood skewers, tamagoyaki, and seasonal street snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Remove shoes when entering homes, traditional inns (ryokan), temples, and some restaurants.
Maintain a respectful, quiet demeanor on trains and in public areas; avoid loud conversations and phone calls.
Wash before entering baths, follow towel rules, and respect others’ space; tattoos may be restricted in some onsens.
Safety
Tipping in Higashiizu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan. A polite thank-you and rounded bills are appreciated, but don’t feel obligated to tip in most establishments.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in rural or smaller venues. Major credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but some local shops and markets may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blossoms along the coast; great for coastal walks and coastal viewpoints. Expect fresh seafood with seasonal spring catches.
Warm and humid with sunny days, ideal for outdoor coastal activities and beach visits, but typhoon risk can affect plans; water-based activities shine.
Comfortable temperatures and clearer air; sea remains inviting for diving and fishing; harvest flavors are prominent in markets.
Cool but typically mild for Japan; hot springs become especially appealing; seafood remains fresh and restaurants may offer warm, hearty dishes.
Higashiizu at Night
Hiking in Higashiizu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal trail with dramatic sea views, cliffs, and a suspension bridge; moderate difficulty.
Cape-side loop with lighthouse views and scenic ocean panoramas; suitable for a half-day hike.
Trail to a series of seven waterfalls in Kawazu, offering a refreshing nature walk a short drive away.
Airports
How to reach Higashiizu by plane.
Shizuoka Airport serves domestic flights and connects to Tokyo; access to Higashiizu typically involves rail or car transfer from nearby train stations.
Oshima Airport offers limited services and can be a gateway for travelers coming from Tokyo via ferry or air routes, with onward travel by road or rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A strong cultural heritage centered on the sea and traditional fishing practices.
Residents who value the relaxed lifestyle, onsen culture, and coastal scenery.
Visitors drawn to seafood, onsens, and natural beauty throughout the year.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular activity along summer beaches with rental shops and local instructors.
The clear coastal waters near Higashiizu attract divers seeking vibrant marine life.
Local inshore fishing is common, with opportunities for charters and catches tied to seasonal availability.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Higashiizu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable-focused dishes, tofu, and rice-based meals; communicate clearly with chefs about avoiding dashi or fish-based broths; many places can accommodate with careful preparation.