Ito is a representative hot spring resort town in Shizuoka Prefecture. With good access from the city center, it’s a popular area where rich nature coexists with the charm of a nostalgic hot spring town. However, when planning a trip, many might wonder, ‘Where can I best experience Ito’s true charm?’
This article introduces carefully selected ‘must-visit tourist attractions in Ito’ for everyone, from short-term visitors to those looking for a leisurely stay. Beyond mere historical explanations, we delve deep into the best times to visit, the authentic local atmosphere, and hidden gems loved by locals.
Jogasaki Coast
📍 Address: Futo, Ito, Shizuoka 413-0231, Japan
A visit to Ito wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the powerful force of nature at ‘Jogasaki Coast.’ Approximately 4,000 years ago, lava from the eruption of Mt. Omuro flowed into the sea, and over long years, the waves eroded it, forming the rugged yet beautiful cliffs seen today.
The main highlight is the ‘Kadowaki Suspension Bridge,’ spanning 48 meters long and 23 meters high. The thrill of crossing the bridge is undeniable, and the contrast between the deep blue sea below and the white spray of the waves is simply breathtaking. On a clear day, you can even see Izu Oshima island and the Amagi Mountain Range in the distance. Climb to the observation deck of the nearby ‘Kadowakisaki Lighthouse’ for a 360-degree panoramic view, offering an even grander spectacle.
While it’s a tourist destination, nature itself is the star here, with walking trails like the Picnic Course and Nature Study Trail maintained along the coast. However, the rocky areas have very uneven terrain and ups and downs, so wearing comfortable sneakers is essential. Take your time to stroll through the dynamic geosite landscape, feeling the sea breeze.
Ito Orange Beach
📍 Address: 2 Chome-4 Yukawa, Ito, Shizuoka 414-0002, Japan
‘Ito Orange Beach’ is Ito’s flagship beach, boasting excellent access—just a 5-minute walk from Ito Station. Palm trees line the coast, creating an open, tropical resort atmosphere right in front of the hot spring town.
During the summer high season, it bustles with many swimmers, but the sea is very calm thanks to the breakwater blocking waves. This is a great advantage for families with small children, who can safely play here. If you visit slightly outside the season, you can enjoy the quiet and calm sea all to yourself, feeling like it’s a private beach. Additionally, on Sunday mornings from May to June, free net fishing experiences are sometimes offered to guests staying in Ito City, allowing visitors to experience local vibrancy.
Locals and repeat visitors recommend a stroll at sunset. The beautifully maintained sandy beach, where you can walk while quietly listening to the sound of the waves, helps you forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Offshore, you might occasionally see not only ferries but also Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force training support vessels anchored. It’s a spot where you can enjoy a luxurious time unique to Ito, where the sea and the hot spring town seamlessly connect.
Ippekiko Lake (Oike)
📍 Address: 815-360 Yoshida, Ito, Shizuoka 414-0051, Japan
Ippekiko Lake, beautifully nicknamed the ‘Eye of Izu,’ is a ‘maar’ or crater lake formed by a violent phreatomagmatic eruption approximately 100,000 years ago. This gourd-shaped lake, with a circumference of about 4 kilometers, is known as a scenic spot cherished by the poets Yosano Tekkan and Akiko.
The lakeside is incredibly tranquil, a healing space filled with the chirping of wild birds. Peering into the clear water, you’ll see friendly, colorful koi carp swim right up to greet you. It’s also famous for its autumn leaves and cherry blossoms, with the reflection of the Amagi Mountain Range on the lake’s surface creating a mirror-like beauty. It’s perfect for enjoying time at your own pace, whether taking a rental boat to enjoy the view from the water or relaxing with a book at a lakeside cafe.
Please note that due to environmental conservation efforts, some parts of the promenade are currently closed, making it impossible to walk completely around the lake. When visiting, please check the local 안내マップ (information map) before strolling. This hidden gem is highly recommended for travelers who wish to take a deep breath in nature and genuinely refresh their minds, rather than those seeking flashy attractions.
Matsukawa Promenade
📍 Address: 1 Chome-1 Higashimatsubaracho, Ito, Shizuoka 414-0022, Japan
The ‘Matsukawa Promenade’ stretches for about 1 kilometer along the Matsukawa River (Ito Okawa River), which flows through the central urban area of Ito. It’s a picturesque path where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll while feeling the charm and history of the hot spring town.
Along the cobblestone path, weeping willows sway, and antique-style streetlights stand. On the opposite bank, old wooden buildings, such as the former ryokan ‘Tokaikan’ which preserves the architectural beauty of the early Showa period, line up, creating a scenery that feels like stepping back in time. In spring, full-blooming cherry blossoms color the river surface, and in early summer, fresh greenery is vibrant. The path isn’t very wide but has enough space for strollers to pass, making it safe for families to walk.
The night illumination is particularly unmissable. During times when illuminations like ‘Ito Onsen Takeakari’ (bamboo lights) are lit, the area is enveloped in a magical atmosphere, transforming into an excellent photo spot. After checking into a nearby inn, strolling in a yukata, feeling the pleasant night breeze, is one of the most luxurious ways to spend a trip to Ito Onsen.
Nagisa Park (Kenji Shigeoka Open-Air Sculpture Park)
📍 Address: 2-178-36 Higashimatsubaracho, Ito, Shizuoka 414-0022, Japan
Located along the coast extending from Orange Beach, ‘Nagisa Park’ is an expansive seaside park developed to commemorate Ito City’s 30th anniversary. This is not just a park but an ‘open-air museum’ where numerous bronze sculptures by Kenji Shigeoka, a sculptor who worked from Ito City, are exhibited for free.
A significant feature of the sculptures, themed around ‘family bonds’ and more, is that you can freely touch them. The sculptural beauty set against the blue sky and sea creates a stunning contrast, revealing completely different expressions depending on the viewing angle and time of day. The spacious lawn is beautifully maintained, and you can see as far as Hatsushima Island and the Boso Peninsula in the distance.
The municipal ‘Nagisa Tourist Parking’ is adjacent to the park, making car access very convenient. You can park your car here, enjoy the sculptures at Nagisa Park, then walk along Matsukawa Promenade to Tokaikan, and enjoy lunch in Ito town. It serves as an excellent starting point for an efficient sightseeing route. Enjoy the fusion of art and nature while watching the magnificent kites soaring overhead.
Tips for 120% Enjoying Ito Tourism
Ito is a city where diverse attractions—sea, mountains, rivers, and hot springs—are compactly gathered. To explore efficiently, the trick is to decide on a base for each area. For example, the downtown area (Orange Beach, Matsukawa Promenade, Nagisa Park) is concentrated within walking distance, so parking near the station or at Nagisa Tourist Parking and exploring on foot is the smoothest approach.
On the other hand, natural spots like Jogasaki Coast and Ippekiko Lake are a bit further from the downtown area, so it’s recommended to travel by car or Tokai Bus. Visiting natural spots early in the morning allows you to enjoy clearer air and more beautiful scenery. A schedule that involves returning to the downtown area from noon to savor local cuisine and experience the hot spring town’s atmosphere is particularly recommended for travelers. Please find your own favorite spots and fully immerse yourself in Ito’s deep charm.
