Discover Izu

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Discover Izu: Japan’s Geologic Marvel

That’s some pretty wild stuff when you think about it. In fact, the Philippine Sea Plate continues to subduct under the Eurasian Plates at a rate of at least 4 centimeters per year! All that tectonic activity explains why two of the three highest volume of onsen (hot spring) sources are here in Izu – the cities of Atami and Ito.

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Anjinsai – A Local Izu Festival

The Anjinsai Festival in Ito, Shizuoka, is a captivating local festival on the Izu peninsula that draws locals and tourists alike to experience a fusion of traditional customs and exhilarating festivities. Known for its breathtaking fireworks display, energetic yosakoi dances, thrilling taiko competition, and lively outdoor Wakuwaku-ichi market and beer garden at Fuji no Hiroba, the Anjinsai Festival is a true celebration of the rich cultural heritage and lively spirit of Ito.

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Shimoda Black Ship Festival

Shimoda’s biggest annual festival commemorates that era with the Kurofune Matsuri (Black Ship Festival). The first festival was held in 1934 as a way to honor the five crew members of Admiral Matthew Perry’s expedition to Japan who died at sea or during their time in Japan. Today, the festival also honors the friendship between Japan and the US.

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