Introduction to Instagram-Worthy Photos in Shizuoka Prefecture
A long-standing tourist destination, the Izu Peninsula is renowned for its numerous hot springs and offers fresh seafood and unique local cuisine. The area is also home to many museums and art galleries, providing cultural and artistic experiences. Additionally, Mount Fuji, a UNESCO World Heritage site and Japan’s highest active volcano, stands as an iconic symbol both within Japan and internationally. Formed about 100,000 years ago through repeated eruptions, Mount Fuji’s majestic appearance has been revered as a sacred mountain since ancient times, with the Asama Shrine located at its summit. Today, many tourist attractions surround Mount Fuji, and it is a popular destination for climbing during the summer.
Atami Onsen
Atami Onsen is Japan’s largest hot spring resort, beloved by historical figures such as Tokugawa Ieyasu, as well as literary and artistic figures. It is conveniently accessible from Tokyo by Shinkansen in about 50 minutes, offering summer beach activities and marine sports. The area was once a villa resort, attracting many cultural figures. The spring water is mildly alkaline, making it very gentle on the skin. Accommodations are available for day trips, and there are retro public baths and bathhouses retaining the atmosphere of the Meiji era. This diversity of hot spring facilities is one of Atami Onsen’s attractions.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: Atami Station
Jogasaki Coast
Formed by lava flow from the eruption of Mount Oomuro about 4,000 years ago, Jogasaki Coast features a 9 km long picnic course and nature trail. The grand ria coastline was shaped by sea erosion, characterized by steep cliffs and intricate rock formations. The spectacular view from cape to cape is a must-see.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: Limited public transport, car required
Mount Oomuro
Mount Oomuro, standing 580 meters high, is currently inactive, allowing visitors to take a lift to the summit. From the top, you can see Mount Fuji and the Izu Islands, with especially stunning views on clear days. The surrounding area offers hot springs, making it an ideal spot for nature, tourism, and photography.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 40 minutes by bus from Ito Station
Yumigahama Beach
Yumigahama Beach, located at the southern tip of the Izu Peninsula, is a beautiful beach with white sand and clear blue water. The Izu Islands can be seen in the distance. The calm waves and shallow waters make it safe for children to play. The beach is also known as a nesting site for sea turtles.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 19 minutes by bus from Shimoda Station
Ryugu Cave
Ryugu Cave, created by the power of the waves, has a ceiling that has fallen in, creating a skylight about 50 meters in diameter. The interior of the cave is beautiful, with layers of yellowish volcanic rock. The contrast between the rocks and the blue seawater shining through the skylight is stunning and gives a mystical atmosphere.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: Limited public transport, car required
Joren Falls
The most famous waterfall on the Izu Peninsula, Joren Falls, has a height of 25 meters and a width of 7 meters, with a beautiful cobalt blue basin. Traces of volcanic activity can also be seen around the waterfall.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 35 minutes by bus from Shuzenji Station
Tensodo Cave in Dogashima
Tensodo Cave in Dogashima can be visited by sightseeing boat. The light shining through the skylight reflects on the sea surface, creating a fantastic scenery, often called the Blue Cave of Dogashima. There are also walking trails, allowing you to enjoy nature while walking.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 1 hour and 30 minutes by bus from Shuzenji Station
Autumn Leaves in Shuzenji
Shuzenji is the best spot in Izu for viewing autumn leaves. The peak season is from mid-November to early December, during which the “Momiji Stroll” event is held, featuring many street vendors. The hot spring town of Shuzenji also offers beautiful autumn foliage, making it an ideal place to enjoy both autumn leaves and hot springs.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: Mid-November to early December
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 4 minutes by bus from Shuzenji Station
Atami City Sea Fireworks Festival
This fireworks festival has been held since 1952 and takes place more than ten times a year. The splendid fireworks blooming in the night sky, their reflection on the sea, and the finale, “Niagara,” are must-sees. This festival is a highlight of Atami, offering an unforgettable experience.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: ▶Event days
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 10 minutes by bus from Atami Station
Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji, a UNESCO World Heritage site and Japan’s highest active volcano, stands as an iconic symbol both within Japan and internationally. Formed about 100,000 years ago through repeated eruptions, Mount Fuji’s majestic appearance has been revered as a sacred mountain since ancient times, with the Asama Shrine located at its summit. Today, many tourist attractions surround Mount Fuji, and it is a popular destination for climbing during the summer.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: Spring, summer, autumn (closed in winter)
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 2 hours by bus from Tokyo Station, walking
Sunrise from Mount Fuji
Watching the sunrise from the summit of Mount Fuji is known as “Goraiko.” Overcoming the pre-dawn cold to witness the eastern sky glowing red and the sea of clouds shining is a sacred experience for climbers and very popular. As a result, the Fuji climbing routes are very crowded from midnight to early morning.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: Spring, summer, autumn (closed in winter)
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 2 hours by bus from Tokyo Station, walking
Ohachimeguri
Ohachimeguri is Japan’s highest trekking course, circling the large crater of Mount Fuji. The 2.6 km route takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete. The latter part of the route brings you close to the crater, offering a unique perspective of Mount Fuji’s scenery different from the usual climbing experience.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity:Spring, summer, autumn (closed in winter)
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information:2 hours by bus from Tokyo Station, walking
Shinkansen and Mount Fuji
For those who want to view Mount Fuji from the Shinkansen window, it is recommended to book a seat in row E. You can enjoy a magnificent view of Mount Fuji from the window. The Shinkansen has five rows of seats labeled A to E, and when purchasing a reserved seat ticket at the station, you can request row E.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: Tokaido Shinkansen
