7 Recommended Tourist Spots Around “Atagawa Onsen” in Higashiizu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture

1. Oyukake Benzaiten

"Oyukake Benzaiten" is a popular power spot in Atagawa. Legend has it that the former ship captain and landowner once dreamt of Benzaiten appearing and saying, "If you dig here, a rich hot spring will gush forth. Erect my statue there and, while splashing hot water, make your wish—and it will come true." Believing in this prophecy, a hole was dug and a hot spring indeed burst forth from 200 meters underground. It is said that if you make a wish while splashing hot water on Benzaiten, it will come true, so be sure to give it a try.

There is also a "money-washing pond," where there is a saying, "Washing your money will increase your fortune." As long as you watch out for burns, your financial luck might just get a boost.

For those more interested in love than money, head to the nagi tree right in front of the hall. The nagi tree is believed to be inhabited by a deity and is considered a sacred tree often planted in love-connection spots. Since the leaves of the nagi tree are not easily torn horizontally, carrying them is thought to bring good luck in love.

While visiting, you can try making onsen eggs. The hot spring here continuously bubbles vigorously, with a source temperature of around 100°C. Using this heat, you can cook eggs into onsen eggs—but be careful not to get burned. The eggs are also sold by the Atagawa Onsen Tourist Association and local inns.

2. Atagawa Banana Crocodile Park

Home to around 140 crocodiles of 15 endangered species, the "Atagawa Banana Crocodile Park" is notable not only for its variety but also for using the heat from Atagawa Onsen. The park includes both a crocodile garden and a botanical garden, connected by a free shuttle bus to a branch park about a 3-minute drive away. Besides the crocodile garden, the botanical garden features baby crocodiles, and the branch park even has a large release area for crocodiles.

A must-see event is the crocodile feeding, held every Sunday at 1:00 PM. Watch in amazement as crocodiles chomp on an amount of chicken meat roughly equivalent to the size of your head. It is a wild and impressive event that you shouldn’t miss.

At this park, it’s not just crocodiles you can see. Red pandas and the Amazon manatee (known as the Amazon mermaid), which can only be seen here in Japan, are also on display and are a must-see!

Throughout the park, about 9,000 species of tropical flowering plants and fruit trees are exhibited. With vibrant displays of orchids, catare, and hibiscus, and tropical water lilies that can be enjoyed year-round, the tropical atmosphere is truly delightful.

Moreover, the bananas, a representative tropical fruit, are exceptional when tasted here! The “banana soft serve” sold at the juice stand near the entrance is very popular. Be sure to try it when you visit.

3. Narahon Keyaki Park

As the name suggests, "Narahon Keyaki Park" is a quiet park marked by a large keyaki (zelkova) tree. Although the park itself is not very large, it offers a spacious lawn area perfect for relaxation.

This keyaki lawn also features a foot bath. With a size that can accommodate 15 people at the same time, the foot bath uses hot spring water with just the right temperature and volume, warming your feet and soothing your fatigue from strolling. It is effective for relieving muscle pain and fatigue.

The water is very clear, and from late May to June, you can see fireflies. The park is famous as a firefly viewing spot, with an annual "Firefly Viewing Party" held every year. Enjoy the nostalgic scenery created by the rural landscape and the glow of fireflies.

Do not miss the "Keyaki Cafe" that opened in September 2022!

4. Atagawa Onsen Sakurayama Park

"Sakurayama Park" offers a panoramic view of Atagawa Onsen. Located on a hill overlooking the hot spring town, nothing obstructs the view, and from the deck-style observation platform, you can enjoy a sweeping panorama of the surrounding scenery.

On the two-story observation deck, a telescope is available for a fee. From here, you can see not only the hot spring town but also the Izu Peninsula. On clear days, you can even see Toshima, Niijima, Kozushima, and Miyakejima, so it is recommended to visit on a sunny day.

The season to visit is undoubtedly spring when the park is filled with blooming cherry blossoms, alongside the sea and the hot spring town scenery. Just by enjoying the view, you can experience a cleansing of the soul.

5. Atagawa Herb Terrace

"Atagawa Herb Terrace" is a tourist spot located on the hillside of the Izu Peninsula near Atagawa Onsen. It is the only herb garden of its kind on the Izu Peninsula. The expansive site covers about 2,000 tsubo and is home to a wide variety of herbs.

Surrounded by forests and bamboo groves, you may also spot squirrels and wild birds, immersing yourself in nature. The aroma of the herbs drifting in the wind offers a relaxing experience. Here, you can not only enjoy the scent but also touch and taste the herbs! 　

In addition, there are unique items for sale such as flutes, herb soap, incense, lavender sticks, and fruit pomander-making workshops. When made with fresh herbs, the aroma is guaranteed! It is a rare opportunity for a hands-on experience, so be sure to give it a try.

Within the park, there is also a cafe where you can enjoy original blended herbal teas and juices made from organic fruits.

A popular product is olive oil available in various types for both culinary and cosmetic uses. Aromatherapy oils such as lemon myrtle oil, imported directly from Australia, are also popular.

This herb garden boasts the earliest blooming cherry blossoms in Japan, and in February, the park is dyed pink with Kawazu cherry blossoms.

6. Ichigo Land Nakani

"Ichigo Land Nakani" is a spot where you can enjoy strawberries to your heart’s content for 30 minutes. Strawberry picking is available from early December. All greenhouses use raised beds (so that strawberries are at the eye level of children), allowing kids to enjoy strawberry picking while standing. The facility consists of 15 houses, providing a sense of exclusive use that is popular with families. The strawberry varieties grown here are Shōhime, a Shizuoka-born variety known for its large, sweet berries, and Benihoppe, famous for its rich aroma and juiciness. 　

The entrance fee includes a cup of condensed milk, so if you love condensed milk, you’ll be more than satisfied! In addition to enjoying strawberries on site, you can also purchase strawberry souvenirs, additive-free homemade jam, and strawberry confections. Although the operating hours are until 4:00 PM, the park may close once the day’s strawberries run out, so it’s best to arrive early. Also, depending on the growth conditions, there may be unscheduled closures, so it’s advisable to contact them before visiting. The facility is also fully accessible for wheelchair users.

7. Takaiso no Yu [Closed]

"Takaiso no Yu" was a hot spring facility located at the edge of the Atagawa Onsen town, along the coast, offering only an open-air bath. Its location right by the sea allowed you to enjoy a luxurious onsen time with a view of the vast ocean and, on clear days, the entirety of the Izu Seven Islands.

The baths were separated by gender and could accommodate 30–40 people at a time. The spring water, with its bicarbonate and mildly saline qualities, is known for its many benefits, including treating skin diseases and neuralgia. Being right on the seashore, the facility would sometimes close during bad weather or high waves. Next to it was a pool, so during the summer season, you could enjoy both the hot spring and the pool. Enjoy a luxurious hot spring experience on a rugged seaside.

Note: Takaiso no Yu ceased operations at the end of August 2021. The reopening date is yet to be determined.

◎ Summary of Recommended Tourist Spots Around Atagawa Onsen

In Higashiizu, Atagawa Onsen offers a plethora of tourist spots where you can experience a wide range of activities and gain a lot of inspiration. Wherever you go, you are sure to have a fulfilling time. Enjoy a wonderful trip at Atagawa Onsen with your friends, family, and loved ones.