A warm welcome awaits in Ito City, a haven on the east coast of Izu Peninsula. This city boasts a gentle climate and lush natural beauty, but its true treasure lies beneath the surface - Ito is renowned for having some of Japan's most abundant natural hot springs, perfect for soaking and relaxation. The city's hilly landscape and dramatic coastline framed by Sagami Bay offer scenic wonders, while a portion of Ito falls within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.
Beyond relaxation, Ito beckons with fresh seafood caught right off the Pacific and cultural gems like the Tokaikan, a former ryokan reborn as a museum. For the adventurous, a chairlift awaits to whisk you to the peak of Mount Omuro, an extinct volcano, or you can explore the scenic Jogasaki Coast with its rugged cliffs. With its warm climate year-round and easy access from Tokyo (just 90 minutes by train!), Ito makes the perfect escape for any season. Explore further using the Bus 1-Day Pass for affordable travel to top attractions like Mount Omuro and the Izu Shaboten Zoo.
Ito offers a variety of options for getting around, catering to different needs and budgets. Local trains on the JR Ito Line connect major points within the town, while buses provide access to more remote areas like the Jogasaki Coast and Mount Omuro.
Absolutely! Ito sounds like it would be right up your alley if you're looking for a relaxing and unique getaway. If you're visiting from overseas, Ito is a welcoming place. They cater to international tourists. Beyond the hot springs, Ito has some unusual and interesting sights to explore.
There are a few ways to get to Ito from Tokyo depending on your budget and time constraints. For the fastest option, you can take a Shinkansen bullet train from Tokyo station to Atami (50 minutes) and then transfer to a local train on the JR Ito line (20 minutes) to Ito station. This option costs around ¥4,800.
If you prefer a direct train with slightly less travel time, there's the JR Odoriko Limited Express Train departing from Tokyo station hourly, reaching Ito in 100 minutes for ¥3,890. The most economical option is to take local trains on the Ueno-Tokyo Line from Tokyo or Shinagawa station to Atami station and then transfer to the Ito line. This route takes about 2 and a half hours but costs only ¥2,310. Finally, if you're driving, the distance between Tokyo Station and Ito is 124 km and takes approximately 1 hour and 43 minutes.
Ito offers a surprising variety of experiences for a town so close to Tokyo. It caters to those who crave a nostalgic, retro atmosphere while simultaneously boasting natural wonders like volcanic landscapes and scenic coastal hikes. Beyond relaxation, Ito's famous hot springs, or onsen, are a must-do for any visitor. It even has beautiful beaches for soaking up the sun.
Ready to immerse yourself in Ito's vibrant culture by exploring its charming shopping districts? Stroll along Icho Dori or Yu-no-Hana Dori, where you'll find a delightful mix of shops and restaurants. Take a break from shopping to delve into Ito's rich history at Tokaikan, a former ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) that has been transformed into a museum. To learn more about the area's maritime heritage, head to Ito Marine Town. This fascinating area offers a glimpse into the town's deep connection to the sea.
Tokaikan is a unique place that bridges the gap between past and present. Built in 1928, it started its life as a grand ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn known for its hot springs. Tokaikan was a popular destination for relaxation and rejuvenation for many years.
Today, after undergoing restoration, Tokaikan has been transformed into a museum. Visitors can wander through the historic building and admire the intricate woodwork, a testament to the skill of Japanese craftspeople. It serves as a window into the architectural style of the early Showa period and offers a glimpse into what a ryokan experience might have been like in the past.
Travel Tips for Ito-shi