A Day Exploring Ito Marinetown, Shuzenji, and the Scenic Heights of Mt. Omuro

Mt. Omuro stands at 580 meters in Itō City, Shizuoka Prefecture, an extinct volcano prized for its geometrically perfect cone shape. Grasslands blanket the entire peak, creating striking seasonal displays and earning it recognition as the "Natural Landmark of the Izu Peninsula." The ropeway fee is included. Should severe weather force ropeway closure, the itinerary shifts to the Itō Cactus & Animal Park instead, with the ropeway fee refunded (zoo admission not included). Ito Marinetown is Itō's premier seaside leisure complex along National Route 135, overlooking Sagami Bay. The roadside station combines hot springs with ocean views, specialty restaurants, sightseeing boat tours, and a souvenir marketplace—making it ideal for self-driving travelers and families seeking a half-day stop. Lunch is not included. Shuzenji anchors the northern Izu Peninsula as its oldest and most serene hot spring resort. Rated two stars by Michelin Green Guide Japan, this tranquil town has attracted celebrated writers and intellectuals for centuries, including Ryūnosuke Akutagawa and Sōseki Natsume. Its reputation earned the designation "Little Kyoto of Izu," and it inspired Yasunari Kawabata's classic novel The Izu Dancer. A complimentary bathing experience at Shuzenji Takitei Onsen Hotel—an open-air hot spring facility—provides access to rejuvenating waters. From November 15 to December 10, autumn foliage viewing at Shuzenji Natural Park is complimentary, with the Shuzenji stay extended to 90 minutes and return time shifted to 16:30. Outside this autumn window, standard return time is 16:00.