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Scenic Winter Escape on Japan's Izu Peninsula: December to January Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrival & Hot Springs

Ito, Japan on December 28, 2025

9:00am

Travel from Tokyo to Ito

Take the JR Ito Line from Tokyo Station directly to Ito station; this scenic train ride takes approximately 2 hours showcasing coastal views.
JPY2000, 2h0m

11:30am

Breakfast at Komuro-an

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast featuring fresh local seafood and seasonal vegetables in a cozy setting near Ito station. Open from 7am to 11am.
JPY1500, 0h45m

12:30pm

Visit Ito Onsen

Relax in one of Ito's famed hot springs, such as the Tamatsukuri Onsen. It offers therapeutic waters perfect for unwinding after the journey. Facilities are open from 10am to 9pm.
JPY1200, 2h0m

3:00pm

Izu Shaboten Zoo

Visit the Shaboten Zoo known for its unique capybara hot spring experience and diverse cactus gardens. Open 9am-4:30pm during winter months.
JPY1200, 1h30m

5:00pm

Dinner at Izuyone

Dine on fresh local seafood including sashimi and grilled fish at this highly rated izakaya open until 9pm.
JPY3000, 1h0m
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Day 2: Historic Town & Coastal Views

Shimoda, Japan on December 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pico Cafe

Start your day with hearty coffee and Japanese-style pancakes at a popular local cafe open from 7am to 12pm.
JPY1200, 0h45m

9:00am

Travel to Shimoda

Catch the JR train or highway bus south to charming Shimoda; the journey takes about 1 hour.
JPY1500, 1h0m

10:15am

Visit Perry Road

Explore the beautiful historic Perry Road lined with old samurai houses, shops, and cafes, a must-see for cultural insight.
Free, 1h0m

11:30am

Shimoda Aquarium

Discover local marine life at this family-friendly aquarium open 9am to 5pm, featuring dolphin shows and interactive exhibits.
JPY2300, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Umibe no Kissa

Enjoy fresh seafood rice bowls and tempura with views of the ocean at this popular casual eatery near the aquarium.
JPY1800, 1h0m

3:00pm

Niji-no-Sato (Shimoda Park)

Wander through the scenic rainbow-themed park offering panoramic coastal views and seasonal flower displays, open till sunset.
JPY500, 1h30m

5:30pm

Dinner at Maru-chan

Savor Shimoda's famous kinmedai (golden eye snapper) dishes at this local favorite restaurant, open until 8pm.
JPY3500, 1h0m
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Day 3: Nature & Relaxation

Nishi-Izu, Japan on December 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Shimoda Central Hotel

Enjoy a Japanese-Western style buffet breakfast featuring traditional dishes and fresh fruit in a relaxing hotel setting, served from 7am to 9:30am.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Travel to Nishi-Izu coast

Take a local bus or taxi to the scenic Nishi-Izu coastal area, about 1 hour west of Shimoda.
JPY1000, 1h0m

11:00am

Jogasaki Coast Walk

Enjoy a breathtaking 3km cliffside hike along the Jogasaki Coast featuring dramatic rock formations and suspension bridges. The trail is open year-round and accessible until sunset.
Free, 2h0m

1:15pm

Lunch at Cafe Irozaki

Relax with coffee and a light lunch in a cozy cafe overlooking the ocean, open 10am to 5pm.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Dogashima Ropeway and Caves

Take the ropeway for spectacular views over the bays and explore the famed Dogashima sea caves. Open 9am to 4:30pm.
JPY1500, 1h30m

5:00pm

Check-in & Onsen at Nishi-Izu Ryokan

Stay overnight at a traditional ryokan featuring indoor and outdoor onsen (hot springs) with ocean views.
JPY15000, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at Ryokan

Enjoy a kaiseki multi-course dinner showcasing seasonal local ingredients, typically included with your stay.
Included, 1h30m
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Day 4: Cultural Heritage & New Year's Eve

Shuzenji, Japan on December 31, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ryokan

Have a nutritious Japanese style breakfast served at ryokan, preparing for your day in Shuzenji.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Travel to Shuzenji

Take a direct bus or taxi to Shuzenji, a historic town known for its serene temple and bamboo forests, about 1 hour northeast.
JPY1200, 1h0m

10:30am

Visit Shuzenji Temple

Explore this tranquil historic Buddhist temple, famous for its moss garden and beautiful autumn/winter scenery. Temple open 8am to 5pm.
JPY300, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Ukishima Garden

Enjoy healthy vegetarian and vegan dishes with fresh local produce in this stylish cafe, open 11am to 3pm.
JPY1800, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore Bamboo Forest Path

Take a peaceful walk through the renowned bamboo forest nearby, a great way to experience Japan's natural beauty in winter.
Free, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Izu Nagaoka Onsen

Relax at one of the oldest onsen towns in Izu, soaking in natural mineral springs to rejuvenate before New Year’s celebrations. Open till 8pm.
JPY1000, 1h30m

5:00pm

New Year's Dinner at Kappo Akane

Celebrate New Year's Eve with an authentic Japanese multi-course meal at a popular local kappo restaurant offering seasonal specialties.
JPY8000, 2h0m

8:30pm

Visit Shuzenji New Year Festival

Experience traditional Japanese New Year's celebrations at Shuzenji town, including bell ringing and street festivities.
Free, 2h0m
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Day 5: Relax & Return

Tokai Region, Japan on January 1, 2026

9:00am

New Year's Morning Visit to Shuzenji Temple

Optionally attend the first temple visit of the year (Hatsumode) for good luck and blessings; temple opens early on January 1.
JPY300, 1h0m

10:30am

Brunch at Shunju-an

Enjoy a light, traditional Japanese brunch featuring seasonal ingredients at this peaceful restaurant in Shuzenji, open from 9am.
JPY2000, 1h0m

12:00pm

Travel back to Tokyo

Take the Odoriko Limited Express train from Shuzenji station back to Tokyo station; journey takes about 2.5 hours.
JPY4970, 2h30m

3:00pm

Arrival in Tokyo

Conclude your rejuvenating and culturally rich Izu Peninsula winter trip back in Tokyo.
N/A, N/A
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