Izu: Cherry Blossom Paradise
The Izu Peninsula offers a truly unique experience with a sakura season that spans several months—from October to April.
Izu Culture
Izu: From Exile to Empire
The Izu Peninsula . . . onsen (hot springs) resorts and amazing natural scenery. However, few people think of Izu as a place that shaped Japanese history.
Discovering Izu: Nishi Izu
But to find these smaller treasures in unexpected places way off the beaten path adds a great measure of wonder and awe.
Matsuzaki: One of Japan’s 100 Most Beautiful Villages
The quaint little village of Matsuzaki, on Izu’s west coast, is a dream destination for folks seeking the charm of old Japan.
Matsuzaki: One of Japan’s 100 Most Beautiful Villages Read More »
Shogun: A Back Story
People born after 1980 may not realize the impact that the book and the original TV drama had on the Western image of Japan. I can confidently say that only World War II had a bigger impact — at least on the American psyche.
Izu’s Long Cherry Blossom Season
For a few fleeting moments in spring, cherry trees bloom in ephemeral splendor and people turn out in droves before the blossoms disappear. At least that’s what people believe.
Izu’s Top Three Strange Festivals
The Izu Peninsula has many festivals, and many take place in the summer and fall. Three festivals are among the most unusual in all of Japan.
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.
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.
History of Ito Onsen
The history of Ito’s onsen dates back well over a thousand years. According to legend, the onsen were discovered during the Nara period…