Complete Guide to Ito Onsen: What to Do and Where to Stay

Situated along the eastern coast of the Izu Peninsula, Ito Onsen is a coastal hot spring town known for its combination of soothing onsen (hot spring) waters, charming historical streets, and ocean views that will take your breath away. Beyond the relaxation of its hot springs, Ito Onsen offers easy access to some of the Izu Peninsula’s most notable attractions, such as the rugged Jogasaki Coast and awe-inspiring Mount Omuro. Join us as we explore this must-visit destination and cover what to do and where to stay during your next visit.

Ito Onsen is easily accessible by train, making it a popular holiday destination for weekend getaways from Tokyo.

From Tokyo Station: Board the JR Odoriko Limited Express for a direct, 100-minute ride to Ito Station. Alternatively, take the Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station and transfer at Atami Station to the Ito Line, which will take you to Ito Station in a grand total of around 80 minutes.

From Shin-Osaka Station: If you’re coming from Shin-Osaka Station, you can take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen to Atami Station, then transfer to the Ito Line to reach Ito Onsen. This journey takes about four hours, so be sure to leave early.

What sets Ito Onsen apart from other hot spring towns is its unique blend of oceanfront views and classic onsen traditions. The town is home to some of the largest and most abundant hot spring sources in the Izu Peninsula, providing a variety of public baths to enjoy. The town’s proximity to the sea allows for a rare opportunity to experience open-air baths with ocean views, combining the healing properties of the hot spring water with the calming presence of the ocean.

Ito Onsen offers a mix of relaxation and exploration. From the soothing waters of its mineral-rich hot springs to the scenic beauty of its landscapes, visitors will find both rejuvenation and adventure.

1. Enjoy the soothing waters of Ito Onsen

Ito Onsen is renowned for its mineral-rich hot springs that flow generously throughout the town. In fact, Ito Onsen has one of the biggest outputs of hot springs within Shizuoka Prefecture, with over 700 natural spring sources. Visitors wishing to experience traditional Japanese hot spring bathing can explore seven public bathhouses, each featuring a statue of one of the Seven Gods of Good Fortune. You can try one of the free footbaths in town, but for a more intimate experience, consider staying at a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) that offers private baths overlooking the ocean.

2. Stroll along Ito’s historical streets

Take a leisurely walk through Ito’s historic town center, where old wooden buildings, narrow streets, and traditional shops give you a glimpse into the town’s rich history. Be sure to visit Tokaikan, a former ryokan preserved as a public museum, and step back in time as you explore its beautiful rooms and architecture.

3. Explore the Jogasaki Coast

Just a short drive from Ito Onsen is the stunning Jogasaki Coast, where rugged cliffs, beautiful rock formations, and a scenic suspension bridge offer fantastic views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can hike along the coastal trail or enjoy a boat tour to experience the dramatic coastlines of the sea.

4. Take in the views from Mount Omuro

Mount Omuro is a dormant volcano offering one of the most breathtaking views of the Izu Peninsula. The perfectly rounded mountain is an iconic feature of the landscape, and visitors can take a chairlift to the summit 1,900 feet (580 meters) above sea level. From the top, enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding areas, including the Pacific Ocean, Izu Islands, and even Mount Fuji on a clear day. The crater is walkable, offering a unique scenic trail around its rim and making Mount Omuro a must-visit summit for hikers and photographers alike.

5. Visit Izu Shaboten Zoo

For a day of family fun, Izu Shaboten Zoo is a must. Located near the base of Mount Omuro, this unique zoo is home to a variety of animals and cactus gardens. The park is famous for its capybara hot spring baths, where visitors can see these adorable animals enjoying a soak from November to April. It’s a fun and unique experience for all animal lovers!

6. Take a break at Ito Marine Town

Ito Marine Town is a roadside station featuring numerous restaurants, shops, and a hot spring facility. Food options include soba noodles, fresh seafood, and pasta, with some items available for takeout such as pizza, Izu Kogen Pudding, and ice cream. You can also get some souvenir shopping done or take a break at the free footbath — including one dedicated for dogs.

7. Take instagrammable photos at Komuroyama

Komuroyama or Mount Komuro is a scenic volcanic hill stretching 1,053 feet (321 meters) tall. It’s renowned for its panoramic views, which include Mount Fuji and the Izu Islands. Visitors can either take the chairlift or a leisurely 20-minute walk up to the top. At the top of Komuroyama, there's a 544-foot (166-meter) circular path, a cafe, and a shrine.

8. Enjoy activities and stunning illuminations at Grandpal Park

For those traveling with kids, Granpal Park is a great option offering a wide range of activities and attractions. The park features thrilling zip lines, go-karts, rides, and more. The park is famous for its seasonal "Granillumi" illumination event, transforming the park into a dazzling wonderland of lights.

For a classic ryokan experience, Ito Onsen Ryokufuen Hotel is a popular choice. Located near the heart of town, it offers indoor and outdoor hot spring baths, allowing guests to enjoy the therapeutic waters in a peaceful setting.

The ryokan also boasts traditional Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring and futon bedding, transporting you back to the Showa era (1926–1989) and providing an authentic experience of Japanese living and hospitality.

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