The Izu Peninsula (伊豆半島, Izu Hantō) juts out into the ocean about 100 kilometers southwest of Tokyo. The Amagi Mountain Range rises in the center of the peninsula with Mount Amagi peaking at over 1,400 meters above sea level. The high ground provides spectacular views of the rugged landscape and coastal areas below. Mount Fuji, which lies about 60 kilometers to the north, can be seen from numerous points around the peninsula on a clear day. The peninsula’s natural beauty, numerous onsen, fresh seafood, and the fact that it can be reached from the capital in about two hours are reasons the area is a popular weekend getaway.
Generally speaking, the eastern side of the peninsula is more developed and is home to the regions three main towns (Atami, Ito, and Shimoda), while the western coastline is less populated, dotted by small coastal fishing villages.
The winding roads which relatively little traffic are also popular with motorcyclists. Many head towards the south of the peninsula via the Izu Skyline which runs, uninterrupted by traffic lights, for over 40 kilometers with multiple rest stops and viewpoints along the way.
Things to Do
A 40 kilometer stretch of traffic light-free highway that begins near Atami and winds its way over the mountains to end mid-way down the peninsula. The road is typically less busy than the coastal roads, and on a clear day Mount Fuji can be seen from the various parking areas and viewpoints.
Nature park on the western coastline of Izu Peninsula famous for its sunsets and viewpoints from which Mount Fuji can be seen on a clear day. The park is also famous for Horse Rock, a rock with a straight diagonal ridge and small patch of vegetation on the top which looks—with a bit of imagination—like the head of a horse.
