Shuzenji

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Shuzenji's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival and Exploration
morning
:

Arrive in Shuzenji and settle into your ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn. Enjoy a serene walk through the picturesque streets of Shuzenji, taking in the beautiful scenery and quaint shops. Visit the Shuzenji Temple, a historic site surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil gardens.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a local soba noodle restaurant, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the riverbank where you can witness the charming beauty of Japan’s countryside. Explore the nearby bamboo forest, immersing yourself in nature's peaceful ambiance. Visit the Shuzenji Onsen to experience a rejuvenating soak in the mineral-rich hot springs.

evening
:

Savor a traditional kaiseki dinner at your ryokan, where you'll be served a multi-course meal showcasing seasonal ingredients. Spend the evening relaxing in the onsen, allowing the warm waters to soothe your body and mind. Consider taking a night walk to enjoy the quiet charm of Shuzenji under the stars.

day 2
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Partake in a traditional tea ceremony, where you will learn about the art of preparing matcha tea and its cultural significance in Japan. Bask in the tranquility of the tea garden, surrounded by meticulous landscaping and the soothing sounds of nature. Finally, don traditional clothing such as a yukata for an immersive cultural experience.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Izu Akuyatsuyama Park, where you can hike and admire panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature before diving into some leisure activities available in the park, such as cycling or bird watching. Capture the scenery with stunning photographs to remember your journey.

evening
:

Return to Shuzenji and unwind at the onsen, reflecting on your day's experiences. Choose a cozy izakaya for dinner, sampling various local dishes while mingling with friendly locals. End the night practicing some calligraphy or origami at the ryokan, embracing the arts that reflect Japan’s rich heritage.

day 3
Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Embark on an early morning hike along the scenic trails of the nearby mountains, taking in the fresh air and stunning views of the valley below. Visit the enchanting waterfalls nestled within the forest, where you can listen to the gentle rushing of water. Return to your ryokan for a revitalizing breakfast featuring seasonal Japanese dishes.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at the local hot spring source known for its therapeutic properties, indulging in various types of baths for relaxation. Afterward, visit the local pottery workshop, where you can try your hand at making traditional Izu pottery. Immerse yourself in the local craft culture and take home a unique souvenir.

evening
:

Enjoy a quiet evening back at your ryokan, where you can participate in an evening yoga session to unwind after a day of activities. Feast on another delightful meal, this time exploring fusion dishes that blend traditional Japanese flavors with modern techniques. Wrap up the day by enjoying a calming soak in the onsen under the starry sky.

day 4
Culinary Delights
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to a local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and taste fresh produce. Participate in a cooking class where you will learn how to make authentic Japanese dishes, guided by a local chef. Relish the flavors and techniques of Japanese cuisine as you prepare a hearty breakfast.

afternoon
:

After your culinary experience, venture out to explore the nearby coastline, indulging in fresh seafood for lunch at a local beachside restaurant. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore, soaking in the ocean breeze and scenic views. Consider taking part in beach activities or simply relax as you watch the waves crash.

evening
:

Return to Shuzenji and explore a hidden gem of a restaurant that specializes in traditional izakaya fare. Engage with chefs and locals, learning about unique dishes paired with regional sake. Conclude the night with an after-dinner walk through the softly lit streets, enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the town.

day 5
Adventure and Discovery
morning
:

Gear up for an adventurous day as you head to the Izu Peninsula for outdoor activities like kayaking or zip-lining in the lush landscape. Enjoy the thrill of nature and experience the stunning views from a different perspective. Stop for a hearty breakfast at a café before diving into these exciting activities.

afternoon
:

After a morning full of adrenaline, enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring the nearby coastal landmarks and breathtaking cliffs. Take in the beauty of the scenic coastline and enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant. Capture unforgettable photos of Izu’s stunning vistas and features, such as natural rock formations.

evening
:

Return to Shuzenji in the evening for a well-deserved relaxation session at your ryokan's onsen. Savor a final delectable dinner that celebrates the culinary art of Izu, focusing on seafood and local vegetables. Reflect on your adventurous day as you soak in the soothing waters, finding peace before retiring for the night.

day 6
Hot Springs Exploration
morning
:

Immerse yourself in the therapeutic experience of visiting various onsen in the region, each offering unique mineral compositions and settings. Enjoy a traditional breakfast served at your ryokan to fuel your day of relaxation. Start your journey at a serene outdoor onsen surrounded by meticulously groomed gardens.

afternoon
:

Continue your onsen tour, stopping at various locations known for their healing properties, while indulging in a light lunch between visits. Learn about the history and rituals associated with each hot spring, enhancing your understanding of this essential part of Japanese culture. After a full day of soaking, take a short hike in the nearby hills.

evening
:

Wind down with an exquisite dinner featuring traditional Izu cuisine at a local restaurant. Afterward, visit a unique open-air onsen under the stars, allowing the cool night air to enhance your relaxation. Reflect on the day's indulgences as you unwind in the calming waters, surrounded by nature.

day 7
Art and Relaxation
morning
:

Embrace a leisurely morning at one of the local art galleries, enjoying the works of contemporary Japanese artists. Engage with gallery hosts to learn about the inspiration behind each piece, deepening your appreciation for Japanese art. Afterward, enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café filled with artisanal pastries.

afternoon
:

Participate in a craft workshop to create your personalized art, whether it's watercolor painting or a form of traditional Japanese craft like wagashi (Japanese sweets) making. Enjoy lunch at a nearby eatery focused on locally sourced ingredients. Spend the remainder of your afternoon strolling through the scenic gardens, embracing the tranquility of the environment.

evening
:

In the evening, enjoy a calming dinner at a restaurant that focuses on seasonal ingredients and health-conscious cuisine. Participate in a meditation session or calm your mind with a gentle yoga class provided by your ryokan. End your day reflecting on your artistic experiences and what you learned during your creative endeavors.

day 8
Final Discoveries
morning
:

Savor a final breakfast at your ryokan before checking out and heading to any remaining sites on your list. Consider visiting the nearby Shuzenji Nature Park for a morning hike, offering beautiful views and untouched nature. Capture the morning light with your camera as you explore the richly diverse flora.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon visiting any local shops or art galleries you may have missed, taking the opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs or artisan crafts from the region. Additionally, you may want to visit a nearby historical site, immersing yourself in the local culture before your departure. Enjoy a farewell lunch at your favorite local eatery, reminiscing about your memorable experiences.

evening
:

As your journey comes to a close, head to the train station for your departure, reflecting on the unforgettable moments spent in Shuzenji. Consider completing your trip with a final stroll through the charming streets, allowing the light of dusk to guide you back. Depart with your heart full of memories and a renewed spirit from your various adventures.

Discover Shuzenji

Read more in our Shuzenji 2025 Travel Guide.

Shuzenji Travel Guide