6 popular tourist spots in Izu Kogen that can be enjoyed by both children and adults!

Located in the central part of Itō City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Izu Kogen is a nature-rich resort area. The surrounding area is dotted with museums, amusement parks, and spots where visitors can fully enjoy nature, making it a popular tourist destination for a wide range of age groups, from children to adults. With easy access from Tokyo Station—just about two hours on the limited express "Odoriko" train—it's a great getaway! This time, we will introduce six popular sightseeing spots in Izu Kogen.

1. Izu Shaboten Park

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Izu Kogen is the Izu Shaboten Zoological Park. As the name suggests, the park features over 1,500 species of cacti and succulents collected from around the world, displayed across five greenhouses. Interestingly, this is the only place in the world where you can experience "cactus picking".

Beyond the five greenhouses, you'll find a workshop where cactus picking takes place. The process involves selecting your favorite cactus or succulent from approximately 270 species cultivated in the workshop and carefully picking it up with chopsticks. Afterward, you choose a pot, hand it to the staff, and they will plant your selected cactus in a cute pot—making it a great souvenir!

Animal lovers should check out the "Animal Boat Tours," where you can explore nine islands by boat. One of the highlights is the Monkey Island landing course, where you can feed squirrel monkeys and ring-tailed lemurs. These monkeys are quite familiar with humans, so be prepared—they might jump onto you the moment you arrive!

And, of course, you can't forget about the park's iconic capybaras! Today, many zoos across Japan feature capybara hot springs, but the original was right here at Izu Shaboten Zoological Park. Incredibly, this tradition has been around for 35 years!

The park also features a restaurant serving unique cactus-themed dishes such as cactus steak, cactus ice cream, and cactus burgers. Additionally, there's a shop selling adorable capybara merchandise. With activities for all ages, this is an ideal destination for families.

2. Mount Omuroyama

Omuroyama, a symbol of Itō City, is known for its unique silhouette, which resembles an overturned bowl. This volcanic mountain, formed by an eruption about 4,000 years ago, is designated as a National Natural Monument. The reason it remains covered in lush green vegetation year-round is due to the annual mountain burning event in February.

Hiking is not allowed, so visitors must take a scenic chairlift ride to the summit. Once at the top, you can enjoy a 1-kilometer walking path that encircles the crater, known as the "Ohachi-meguri" trail. The crater, which is about 70 meters deep, is home to a paid archery range, and only those participating in archery are allowed to descend into the crater.

Throughout the year, Omuroyama offers seasonal beauty, from cherry blossoms in spring to lush greenery and silver grass in summer and autumn, and a snowy white landscape in winter. In addition to the traditional mountain burning ritual, the area hosts seasonal events such as the Sakura-no-Sato Festival and Children's Day celebrations.

3. Izu Teddy Bear Museum

Teddy bears have been beloved worldwide across all generations, and the Izu Teddy Bear Museum houses an impressive collection of over 1,000 teddy bears. The teddy bear was first created in 1903, and this museum even features a rare teddy bear made in 1904, making it a priceless historical artifact.

One of the most famous exhibits is the world-renowned "Teddy Girl." This teddy bear belonged to the late British Army Colonel Bob Henderson, who cherished it since childhood. In fact, his love for Teddy Girl was so strong that he even took her to war during World War II!

In addition to its permanent collection, the museum hosts special exhibitions, with one of the most popular in recent years being the "My Neighbor Totoro Plush Exhibit." This exhibit features a giant Catbus you can enter, a replica of Satsuki and Mei’s house, and a collection of early Totoro figurines. A must-visit for Studio Ghibli fans!

4. Jogasaki Coast

Formed by lava flowing from Omuroyama, Jogasaki Coast is a hidden gem of breathtaking scenery in Izu Kogen. One of the most spectacular views can be enjoyed from the Kadowaki Suspension Bridge, which spans across the rugged cliffs. Standing 48 meters in length and 25 meters high, this bridge offers a thrilling experience as you gaze down at the sea below while surrounded by stunning landscapes.

Another notable bridge, the Hashidate Suspension Bridge, is longer at 60 meters but only 18 meters high, with a sandy beach below. This makes it an ideal spot for those who prefer to take in the scenery at a more relaxed pace. Since it is located a bit further from the main parking lot, it tends to attract fewer tourists, making it a hidden spot within Jogasaki Coast.

Other highlights of the area include the natural pools "Ōyodo-Koyodo," the Kadowaki Lighthouse offering views of the Izu Seven Islands, and the rare sight of Tajima Falls, if you're lucky. Additionally, there is Manaita-iwa, a rock where the Buddhist monk Nichiren was once stranded. With so many scenic and historical spots to explore, Jogasaki Coast is truly not to be missed.

5. Izu Granpal Park

Spanning an area five times the size of the Tokyo Dome, Izu Granpal Park is filled with various attractions, making it a must-visit family-friendly amusement park for those traveling to Izu Kogen with children.

The park offers thrilling rides, athletic courses, a giant maze, water balloons, and even a zipline that soars 9 meters above the ground, providing excitement not only for kids but also for adults. There are also play areas and rides specifically designed for toddlers, ensuring that children of all ages can find something they enjoy.

One of the park’s most famous attractions is its illuminations, which have won first place in Japan’s illumination rankings. The dazzling lights create a fairy-tale-like atmosphere, making visitors feel as if they have stepped into another world. Be sure to check out the "Light and Sound Show" and the "Full-Color Laser Show", both of which are truly mesmerizing.

6. Usami Farm

Blessed with a mild climate, Itō City is well-known for its mandarin orange cultivation. The eastern coastal area is home to numerous mikan (mandarin) farms, where visitors can enjoy mandarin picking from autumn to winter. Among these, Usami Farm is especially popular, boasting over 100 years of mandarin farming history.

Usami Farm, one of the largest in Itō City, offers visitors a chance to pick four different types of mandarins. In addition, during the early spring, visitors can also enjoy bamboo shoot harvesting. Impressively, the farm even produces its own craft beer in an on-site brewery. At the barbecue garden, you can pair this local craft beer with fresh seafood from Itō City, making for a delicious and unique experience. While mandarin picking and bamboo shoot harvesting are seasonal activities, the barbecue experience is available year-round.

◎ Summary

With its abundant natural beauty, comfortable climate, and numerous attractions, Izu Kogen is a fantastic destination not only for couples and families but also for visitors of all ages. The area also features local seafood markets and day-trip hot springs, making it a great place for an impromptu getaway. In recent years, due to the growing popularity of pet-friendly travel, the number of hotels and facilities that welcome dogs has also increased. So, whether you're traveling solo, with family, or even with your furry friend, Izu Kogen is a wonderful place to visit!

6 popular tourist spots in Izu Kogen that can be enjoyed by both children and adults!