Ito (伊東) is a city located on the eastern coast of the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. The city is renowned for its hot springs, which are considered one of the three most famous hot spring resorts in Japan, alongside Beppu and Atami. The city is home to many ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) and hotels that offer hot spring baths, as well as public hot spring facilities. The history of Ito Onsen dates back over a thousand years, and its popularity grew during the Edo period when it was favored by Tokugawa Ieyasu’s concubine, Oman no Kata.
Ito is also known for its beautiful beaches, including Ito Beach and Irozaki Beach, which offer opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The city is surrounded by scenic mountains, including Mount Omuro, a national natural monument with a 360-degree panoramic view from its summit, and Mount Komuro, which offer hiking trails and breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Another popular attraction in Ito is the Jogasaki Coast, a rugged and dramatic coastline formed by lava flows from the eruption of Mount Omuro about 4,000 years ago. The coast features unique rock formations, sea cliffs, and scenic overlooks. Visitors can hike along the well-maintained coastal trail to enjoy stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscape, including the iconic Kadowaki Suspension Bridge.
In addition to its natural beauty, Ito is also known for its traditional crafts and local cuisine. The city is home to many shops and restaurants that offer local specialties such as Ito seaweed, a type of seaweed known for its nutritional value and delicious flavor. One notable historical landmark is Tokaikan, a former wooden ryokan that is now open to the public as a cultural property.
Getting there and around
By Train
- About 1 hour 5 minutes from Tokyo Station by limited express “Odoriko” or “Izu Craile”, 4,070 yen
- About 20 minutes from Atami Station on the JR Ito Line
By Bus
- Direct highway bus from Tokyo Station Yaesu South Exit to Ito Station
By Car
- About 2 hours 16 minutes from Tokyo, 128.6km
- Main route: Metropolitan Expressway → Tomei Expressway → Odawara-Atsugi Road → Seisho Bypass → Manazuru Road → Atami Kaigan Toll Road
- Highway tolls: About 4,900 yen
Local Transportation
- City buses operate from Ito Station
- Numerous buses to Izu Kogen area and tourist spots
