Izu tours

Things to do in Izu

In Izu, where lush mountains touch the blue sea, you enter a sanctuary of natural charm and enduring tradition. Izu's rhythm is a calming symphony, as gentle as the ocean waves caressing its rocky shores. With your guide, venture beyond the common paths into the heart of this tranquil haven. Participate in private tours that reveal Izu's hidden wonders: a walk through the enchanting bamboo groves of Shuzenji, or a culinary tour sampling the area's renowned wasabi offerings. Skip the line at secluded hot springs, where peace warms you. Your guide's personal stories and local expertise turn your journey into a personal exploration of Izu's essence, where each moment echoes with the island's captivating appeal. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Izu. Explore Izu your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Izu tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Izu for every interest, including: Nature and Wildlife tours: Trace the lava cliffs on the Jogasaki Coast with tide-pool stops and the Kadowaki Suspension Bridge, watching for seabirds and seasonal wildflowers. In early summer, your guide can time an evening walk along a Kawazu riverbank to spot fireflies. Boat tours: Ride a Dogashima sightseeing boat into the Tensodo sea cave to see sunbeams pour through the open ceiling, then cruise past sea arches and rugged islets. Prefer something active? Kayak calm coves near Matsuzaki or join a glass-bottom boat in Shimoda to view reef fish. History tours: In Shimoda, follow Perry Road to Ryosenji Temple and Gyokusenji, where early U.S.–Japan diplomacy unfolded, and hear stories that bring the Black Ships era to life. Continue to the UNESCO-listed Nirayama Reverberatory Furnace to explore Meiji-era ironmaking and coastal defences. Getting around: Town centres like Shuzenji and parts of Shimoda are walkable, and the Izu Kyuko Line plus local buses link key areas, but waterfalls and coastal viewpoints are far apart. For easier logistics, you can book chauffeured tours or ask your local guide to arrange private transportation. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Izu inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Explore Izu's charming neighborhoods on a private walking tour with a local guide to show you the hidden gems of this beautiful region. It's the perfect way to discover what makes each area special. - Shuzenji: Known for its historic onsen and picturesque bamboo grove, this area is perfect for those seeking relaxation and a glimpse into traditional Japanese spa culture. - Izu Kogen: Art lovers will appreciate this neighborhood, home to various galleries and museums. It's a great place to explore for cultural tourists and those interested in the creative arts. - Jogasaki Coast: Offering stunning ocean views and dramatic cliffs, this area is ideal for nature enthusiasts and anyone looking to experience the rugged beauty of Izu's coastline. Day trip ideas from Izu Staying in Izu puts you close to coastal cliffs, hot spring towns, and clear views of Mount Fuji, so it makes sense to stretch your time with a few nearby cities and nature spots. These day trips from Izu mix easy travel with strong scenery and local food, and your tour can lean more to hiking, soaking, or history. - Hakone: Soak in classic onsen districts, look across Lake Ashi to Fuji on clear days, and walk short forest paths between small shrines and art stops. Good for hot springs, mountain views, and a gentle pace, with your tour choosing viewpoints that fit the weather. - Fuji Five Lakes: Trace the shores of Kawaguchiko and quiet lanes around Oshino’s spring ponds for big Fuji scenes and simple noodles at local shops. Ideal for photos, easy walks, and learning how the volcano shaped the region, with your tour tuned to your time and energy. - Jogasaki Coast and Ito: Follow the seaside trail along lava cliffs to the suspension bridge and lighthouse, then dip into Ito’s retro streets and seafood spots. Great if you like ocean air, light hiking, and coastal geology, and your tour can keep it relaxed or add extra viewpoints. - Shimoda and Cape Irozaki: See white sand beaches, traces of Japan’s opening to the world along Perry Road, and wave-carved cliffs at the peninsula’s tip. Best for a blend of beach time, sea views, and local history, with your tour timing tides and traffic for a smoother day. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Izu most travellers miss.