Things To Do
in Itō
Itō is a scenic coastal city on the Izu Peninsula known for its hot springs and rugged shoreline. The town offers a relaxed seaside atmosphere with easy access from Tokyo by rail, making it a popular escape from the capital. Visitors enjoy fresh seafood, citrus fruits, and panoramic ocean views from Mt. Omuro and the Jogasaki coast.
Itō serves as a gateway to the Izu scenic routes and a tranquil base for exploring the peninsula.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Itō Historical Museum, where you can learn about the rich cultural heritage of this coastal town. Stroll through the quaint streets lined with traditional wooden houses and charming shops, soaking in the morning sun. Don't forget to stop by a local café for a taste of freshly brewed Japanese coffee paired with a delicious pastry.
After lunch, head to the beautiful Itō Onsen area, famous for its hot springs. Take a relaxing soak in one of the public baths, indulging in the therapeutic waters that have been cherished for centuries. Spend some time exploring the surrounding gardens and parks, which are perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at a local ryokan, where you can savor seasonal dishes beautifully presented. Take a walk along the coastline, watching the waves crash against the shore while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere. End your evening with a visit to a local izakaya, where you can experience the vibrant nightlife of Itō.
Start your day with a visit to Itō’s stunning beaches, known for their soft sands and crystal-clear waters. Engage in some beach activities such as swimming or beach volleyball while the sun is still low in the sky. For breakfast, grab a bento box from a nearby shop to enjoy a picnic on the beach.
In the afternoon, take a guided kayaking tour along the coast, exploring hidden coves and marine life. Discover the breathtaking views of the Izu Peninsula from the water as you paddle through calm waves. Afterward, relax on the beach with a good book or rent a paddleboard to enjoy some more time on the water.
As the day winds down, find a beachside restaurant where you can feast on fresh seafood caught that morning. Enjoy the stunning sunset views while dining al fresco, with the sound of the waves accompanying your meal. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🚆Public transport ride | $2-5 |
| 🍣Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic coastal scenery and easy access from Tokyo
- Relaxed, less crowded than major cities
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some areas are tourist-friendly but signage may be limited in English
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "いくらですか" - How much is this?
- "トイレはどこですか" - Where is the bathroom?
- "英語を話せますか" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Itō
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic coastal bridge with sweeping ocean views.
A volcanic crater capped by a grassy lawn offering panoramic views of the Izu Peninsula.
Golden sands with palm trees and a scenic seascape, ideal for golden-hour shots.
Food in Itō
Itō Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Delicate whitebait served over warm rice with a light soy tare.
Must-Try!
Seafood donburi featuring a variety of fresh catches from the coast.
Desserts and sweets featuring local mandarin oranges from the Izu area.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning markets near Ito offer fresh seafood, dried fish, citrus snacks, and seasonal bites.
Casual stalls along the shore sell grilled seafood skewers and warm soups in cooler months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a bow or nod; speak softly in public spaces to respect others.
Remove shoes when entering homes or traditional accommodations and certain temples.
Safety
Tipping in Itō
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; a polite thank-you and good service is appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted; credit cards are common in towns, though some small shops may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather with blooming flowers along the coast and in parks; great for walking tours.
Hot and humid; enjoy beaches and water activities; typhoon risk brings rain and strong winds at times.
Pleasant temperatures and less humidity; foliage in hillsides and rural routes makes for beautiful photography and walks.
Mild by many standards with occasional sea fog; clear days offer excellent visibility of Mount Fuji on the horizon.
Itō at Night
Hiking in Itō
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate walk around the crater rim with sweeping views of the peninsula.
Coastal trail along cliffs, sea caves, and viewpoints including the suspension bridge.
Airports
How to reach Itō by plane.
A regional airport about 60–90 minutes by road from Ito; good for domestic flights.
Major international gateway; quick rail links to Ito via Tokyo and the JR network.
Another major gateway with convenient rail connections to Ito through Tokyo.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Japanese families and seniors, with a steady year-round community.
A growing number of travelers from elsewhere in Japan and abroad due to the Izu coastline and onsen towns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Coastal beaches offer reliable waves and local lessons for beginners and experienced surfers.
Clear waters around the Izu coast provide good visibility and marine life encounters.
Scenic routes along the coast and inland hills are popular with cyclists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Itō.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in many eateries; request non-meat dishes, tofu, vegetables, and avoid fish stock (dashi) if needed.