Izu Jogasaki Coast: The Ultra-Healing Klein Blue That Stunned Me for Ages!

Here’s an in-depth guide to Izu Jogasaki Coast, where volcanic geological wonders meet oceanic romance, covering transportation, activities, cuisine, and seasonal exclusives: ### 1. Core Geography & Transportation Guide **Location**: Situated in southeastern Izu Peninsula, Shizuoka Prefecture, famed for its 9km volcanic lava cliff coastline. Together with Mt. Omuro and Atami Hot Springs, it forms the "Three Scenic Wonders of Izu." **Transport (2025 Updates)**: 1. **From Tokyo (Best Options)**: - *Limited Express Odoriko Train*: Tokyo Station → Izu-Kogen Station (1h40m). Only a few daily departures; reserve window seats in advance via official website. - *Scenic Train Bonus*: Transfer to the **Izu Kyuko Kinmedai Line** for panoramic ocean-view seats. Watch the Pacific blue merge with lava cliffs as the train races along the coast. 2. **Local Transit in Izu Peninsula**: - *Izu Kyuko Pass*: 1-day pass (¥1,500) for unlimited rides on local trains between Ito Station and Izukyu-Shimoda Station, ideal for exploring Jogasaki Coast and Mt. Omuro. - *Buses/Taxis*: Izu-Kogen Station → Jogasaki Coast (10min bus, ¥240; last bus at 16:30) or 15min taxi (¥3,000) for luggage or tight schedules. ### 2. Must-Experience Volcanic Coast Wonders 1. **Matsuzaki Suspension Bridge & Lava Caves**: - *Cloud Walk*: The 23m-high bridge sways gently over cliffs with crashing waves below. Visit at dawn/dusk for golden light and fewer crowds. - *Lava Exploration*: Hike down to tidal pools to observe columnar basalt from ancient eruptions. Spot hermit crabs and sea anemones at low tide. 2. **Matsuzaki Lighthouse Panorama**: - *360° Viewpoint*: Free access until 16:00. From the top, see the Pacific and Izu Islands; Mt. Fuji is visible on clear days. - *Photo Tips*: Use telephoto lenses to capture waves hitting reefs or contrast the red lighthouse against blue seas. 3. **Seasonal Highlights**: - *June Hydrangea Tunnel*: Blue-purple blooms along the trail to Jogasaki Park, framed by black lava—a fantasy-like scene. - *Summer Fireworks*: Atami Fireworks Festival (e.g., July 25, Aug 5). Book nearby ryokans 2 months ahead for oceanfront views. ### 3. Nearby Attractions 1. **Mt. Omuro Crater**: - *Matcha Pudding Lookalike*: Ride the cable car to this dormant volcano (589m). Walk the 20min crater rim for Pacific and mountain views—lush green in spring, golden in fall. - *Hidden Gem*: The summit restroom has floor-to-ceiling windows for unobstructed crater photos. 2. **Izu Shaboten Zoo**: - *Animal Therapy*: Feed capybaras and miniature horses. The cactus greenhouse (1,500 species) hosts summer night illuminations. 3. **Ito Marine Town**: - *Mediterranean Vibes*: Colorful buildings, seafood restaurants, and a promenade. Try grilled whitebait rice and citrus gelato, then soak your feet in free hot springs at sunset. ### 4. Food & Stays 1. **Local Flavors**: - *Volcanic Rock BBQ*: **Kazumura** serves abalone and Kurobuta pork grilled on lava stones, paired with local citrus wine. - *Seafood Hotpot*: **Kanigohan** in Ito offers crab and scallop miso nabe. - *Dessert Alert*: **Jogasaki Orange Village** near the station sells fresh citrus juice and summer-only jelly cups. 2. **Accommodation**: - *Luxury*: **Tsukino Usagi Hotel** (open-air baths under stars) or **Aburaya Soshu** (private yacht tours). - *Budget*: **Izu-Kogen Country Hotel** (¥12k/night, free shuttle) or **Vance Resort Jogasaki** (hostel beds from ¥1,630). ### 5. Pro Tips - **Footwear**: Wear grippy shoes for rocky trails; bring bug spray in summer. - **Weather**: June temps 20-30°C; pack sunscreen and windbreakers. - **Culture**: Visit the **Izu Craft Market** (Saturdays) for lava carvings and citrus oils. - **Crowd Hack**: Avoid 10:00-15:00; explore early morning or before closing. ### 6. Itinerary Ideas - *1-Day Highlights*: Tokyo → Izu-Kogen → Mt. Omuro → Shaboten Zoo → Jogasaki Bridge → Lighthouse → Marine Town → Return. - *2-Day Deep Dive*: **Day 1**: Atami Hot Springs → Atami Coast → Plum Garden (spring) → Seaside ryokan. **Day 2**: Scenic train → Jogasaki Coast → Mt. Omuro → Zoo → Ito dinner → Return. Izu Jogasaki Coast—where volcanic fury and ocean serenity collide—offers hikes, starlit onsens, and citrus-infused seafood for a journey that’s both healing and awe-inspiring.