Izu Peninsula Day Trip from Tokyo: Mt. Omuro & Jogasaki (2026 Guide)
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The Izu Peninsula, southwest of Tokyo in eastern Shizuoka, is known for hot springs, volcanic landscapes, rugged coastline, and Japan's earliest cherry blossoms. The perfectly round "matcha-hill" of Mt. Omuro, the lava cliffs of Jogasaki Coast, and capybaras soaking in onsen at the Cactus Park make it a uniquely rewarding day trip from Tokyo. Here's how to plan it.
Recommended Route (private charter, 10 hours)
- Mt. Omuro — a dormant volcano with a smooth, bowl-like summit, made famous by the anime "Your Name." A chairlift takes you to the top for 360° views of Mt. Fuji and Sagami Bay.
- Jogasaki Coast — a dramatic lava coastline formed by an eruption ~4,000 years ago. The Kadowaki Suspension Bridge hangs above crashing waves — one of Izu's most spectacular photo spots.
- Izu Shaboten Zoo (Cactus Park) — tropical greenhouses and a zoo, famous for capybaras bathing in outdoor hot springs in winter. Great for families.
- Kawazu Cherry Blossoms (Feb–Mar) — one of Japan's earliest-blooming varieties; pink tunnels line the river in Kawazu.
Why a Private Charter Beats the Train
Izu's sights are scattered — from Mt. Omuro down the coast to Jogasaki and the onsen towns means winding along the sea and over hills. Public transit (JR Odoriko + Izu Kyuko) reaches Ito from Tokyo in about 2 hours, but buses between sights are infrequent, limiting you to 1–2 stops a day. A private charter lets you cover 3–4 sights, stop flexibly along the scenic coast, and travel in a licensed vehicle with a driver.
Best Season
- Feb–March: Kawazu's early cherry blossoms — unique to Izu.
- Spring / Autumn: mild weather, Mt. Omuro at its greenest.
- Winter: capybara onsen season; the best time for hot-spring bathing.
- Avoid the rainy season (mid-June–July).
FAQ
How far is Izu from Tokyo?
About 120–150 km. 2–2.5 hours by car, ~2 hours by train to Ito.
How much is the Mt. Omuro chairlift?
About ¥1,000 round-trip; closed in bad weather.
Book Your Izu Day Trip
A private charter lets you explore Izu's volcanoes, coastline, and onsen at your pace. Book the Izu Peninsula day trip from Tokyo — 10 hours, flexible itinerary, from ¥68,000 per vehicle.
TOUSIN offers private day tours across Japan. See all day tours or request a custom itinerary.
