Ready to Discover the Charms of Izu?
We offer half, full and multi day tours/guide service throughout the entire Izu Peninsula tailored to your interests.
Small Group Tours
Click on a tour for a detailed description
Detailed Tour Descriptions
#1 Ike Village Tour
Theme: Uncovering Japan’s Roots – Rural Life, Spirituality, and Resilience
Welcome to Ike (pronounced like the letters E-K), a quiet village nestled in the heart of Izu, where the rhythm of life has remained connected to nature and tradition for generations. This is not a place of staged reenactments or tourist spectacles. It’s a real community where the legacy of Japan’s rural past is alive in the fields, the temples, and the stories that bind the village together.
What to Expect
Ryukeiin Temple: Begin your journey at this humble yet historic temple, founded over 500 years ago. Hear the story of the dragon lord of the pond, a mythical being transformed into the temple’s protector through the teachings of Buddhism. Explore the koi pond, bamboo grove, and intricately carved gates, and see how spirituality connects deeply with the natural world.
Nagasawa River: Stroll along this peaceful river, once part of a vast lake that shaped Ike’s history. Learn how the villagers, with the help of Izu Daikan (governor) Egawa Hidetatsu, transformed their flood-prone land into thriving rice fields by hand-digging a 1-kilometer tunnel—an extraordinary feat of resilience and ingenuity.
Historical Monuments: Visit the village’s historical landmarks, lovingly maintained by Ike’s historical society. These markers tell stories of the community’s perseverance and connection to its past, offering a window into the values that still shape rural Japan today.
Water Shrine (水神さん): Discover this small but significant Shinto shrine dedicated to the water kami, a protective spirit revered for bringing balance and harmony to the village. Learn how spirituality is woven into the fabric of everyday life in Japan.
Yama Jinja (Mountain Shrine): End your journey at Ike’s main Shinto shrine, the heart of its community. Here, locals gather for New Year’s hatsumode and seasonal festivals, celebrating the connection between people, nature, and the divine. You’ll experience the essence of Japanese spirituality and the role shrines play in fostering community bonds.
Why Visit Ike?
Ike is more than a destination—it’s a lens through which you’ll see the soul of Japan. This village illustrates the enduring importance of rural life in shaping Japan’s history, culture, and identity. From its spiritual landmarks to its agricultural heritage, Ike reveals how small communities have influenced even the nation’s largest cities.
Whether you’re visiting Japan for the first time or seeking a deeper understanding of its traditions, this tour offers a rare chance to connect with the quieter, authentic side of the country—away from the crowds, and closer to its heart.
Who Is This Tour For?
This experience is ideal for travelers who want more than sightseeing. If you’re curious about Japan’s roots, enjoy meaningful stories, and seek moments of reflection and connection, the Ike Village Tour is for you.
Tour Details
Times: Morning (9:30-12:00) | Afternoon (2:00-4:30 pm)
Days: Thursday-Monday (closed Tuesday & Wednesday)
Cost: Group of 1-3 people: ¥42,500 | Group of 4-6 people: ¥50,500
Cancellation Policy:
- Up to 10 days before tour date – 100% refund
- 9 days – 2 days before – 50% refund
- Less than 48 hours before tour date – No refund
- Refunds will be issued minus Stripe’s non-refundable 3.6% processing fee.
Difficulty: Easy/moderate – a flat 3-kilometer walk
Accessibility: 90% wheelchair accessible.
Transportation: We provide pick-up and drop-off for up to 3 guests (or 2 adults and 2 children) from Izu Kogen Station or nearby hotels.
For groups larger than this, there are two options:
- Provide your own transportation via bus, taxi, or car rental
- Request a quote for our premium service – we’ll rent a vehicle large enough for your group.
* Please contact us for any variations on these tours. We’ll do our best to make an itinerary that fits your needs.
#2 Jogasaki Coast Tour
Theme: Life in a Fishing Village, Coastal Plants, Japanese History.
The Jogasaki Coast is one of the most famous sightseeing spots in Japan’s Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. This rugged and scenic coastline was created 4,000 years ago by a single lava flow from nearby Mt. Omuro. Our leisurely 2-1/2 hour tour immerses you in the natural wonders and cultural/historical richness of this stunning coastal landscape.
What to Expect
Your journey begins near Boranaya, a 400-year-old fishing hut where you’ll see an ancient fishing lookout and nearby fishing hut that have been preserved as regional cultural treasures. You’ll hear the stories and envision life in this traditional fishing village. From here, we’ll take a leisurely, 1-kilometer walk along the Jogasaki Coast Picnical Course. You’ll see a cannon that was built during Japan’s sakoku (closed country) period and learn how it was built at a time when Japan began to fear frequent foreign encroachment.
Along the way, we’ll see, touch and smell indigenous plants that locals used for food and medicine. You’ll learn local and national history, culture, and the diverse ecosystem that thrives along this coastal trail while taking in stunning views of the Sagami Bay and Izu-Oshima islands.
Of course, the main attraction of the Jogasaki Coast is its beautiful scenery, and we’ll pause at scenic spots that provide the perfect backdrop for memorable photos. We’ll take a short tea break for questions, conversation and relaxation.
The tour ends near the breathtaking Kadowaki suspension bridge and lighthouse.
- Tour Highlights:
- Life in a classic Japanese fishing village.
- Learn about coastal plants used for food and medicine.
- Insights into local and broader Japanese history.
- Jogasaki Coast’s role in popular music and local folklore.
Tour Details
Times: Morning (9:30-12:00) | Afternoon (2:00-4:30 pm)
Days: Thursday-Monday (closed Tuesday & Wednesday)
Cost: Group of 1-3 people: ¥42,500 | Group of 4-6 people: ¥50,500
Cancellation Policy:
- Up to 10 days before tour date – 100% refund
- 9 days – 2 days before – 50% refund
- Less than 48 hours before tour date – No refund
- Refunds will be issued minus Stripe’s non-refundable 3.6% processing fee.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate – there are stairs and rocky paths to navigate.
Accessibility: Not handicapped accessible: This is an outdoor trail with stairs and rocky paths.
Transportation: We provide pick-up and drop-off for up to 3 guests (or 2 adults and 2 small children) from Izu Kogen Station or nearby hotels. For groups larger than this, additional guests can easily hire a taxi to join the tour locations. Taxi fares in the area are reasonable, with the highest fare being approximately ¥2500 one way (e.g., from Izu Kogen Station to Mt. Omuro).
If you are part of a larger group, please contact us in advance so we can help you plan the best arrangements. Our tours are still a great option for groups of 4-6!
Transportation: We provide pick-up and drop-off for up to 3 guests (or 2 adults and 2 children) from Izu Kogen Station or nearby hotels.
For groups larger than this, there are two options:
- Provide your own transportation via bus, taxi, or car rental
- Request a quote for our premium service – we’ll rent a vehicle large enough for your group.
* Please contact us for any variations on these tours. We’ll do our best to make an itinerary that fits your needs.
#3 Mt. Omuro Tour
Mt. Omuro
Theme: Japanese Mythology, Local Sustainability, UNESCO Global Geopark – Izu.
Mt. Omuro is one the Izu Peninsula’s most visible landmarks. From the top of this dormant volcano, you can look out at the islands in the Sagami Bay, the majestic mountains of central Izu, or beautiful Mt. Fuji. With your local guide, you will discover far more about this mountain than other visitors.
What to Expect
- Japanese mythology? Yes. Mt. Omuro is a sacred mountain dedicated to a goddess mentioned in the Kojiki, Japan’s oldest written text. Her story will give you a ew perspective on Mt. Fuji.
- Local Sustainable Economy? Mt. Omuro is privately owned, but in a way that benefits the village of Ike in its southern foothills. The story of how decidied to make it a sightseeing spot is a lesson in Japanese civics and community sustainability.
- Geology? The amount of lava that flowed from this small volcano in a single event about 4,000 years ago spread far and wide and created some of Izu’s most unique coastal formations.
Tour Highlights
- We’ll walk around the rim of Mt. Omuro known for its stunning panoramic views.
- You’ll see and hear about Mt. Omuro’s role in the practical and spiritual lives of nearby villagers.
- You’ll gain unique insights into Japanese history, culture, and the volcanic activity that shaped the surrounding landscape.
- Discover the place of Mt. Omuro in Japan’s ancient mythology.
The tour begins with a lift to the top of Mt. Omuro. We’ll visit the Shinto shrine in the center of the rim, and hear an important story of mythological sibling rivalry. We’ll walk around the rim of the volcano and learn about the monuments placed there long ago.
We’ll visit the shops and operations run by the village of Ike and talk with the locals who work there, offering an intimate look into a unique form of community-administered tourism.
Tour Details
Times: Morning (9:30-12:00) | Afternoon (2:00-4:30 pm)
Days: Thursday-Monday (closed Tuesday & Wednesday)
Cost: Group of 1-3 people: ¥42,500 | Group of 4-6 people: ¥50,500
Cancellation Policy:
- Up to 10 days before tour date – 100% refund
- 9 days – 2 days before – 50% refund
- Less than 48 hours before tour date – No refund
- Refunds will be issued minus Stripe’s non-refundable 3.6% processing fee.
Difficulty: Moderate – We will ride a simple chairlift to the top of the mountain. The walk around the rim includes uphill climbs and steep stairs.
Accessibility: Not handicapped accessible.
Transportation: We provide pick-up and drop-off for up to 3 guests (or 2 adults and 2 children) from Izu Kogen Station or nearby hotels.
For groups larger than this, there are two options:
- Provide your own transportation via bus, taxi, or car rental
- Request a quote for our premium service – we’ll rent a vehicle large enough for your group.
* Please contact us for any variations on these tours. We’ll do our best to make an itinerary that fits your needs.
#4 SHOGUN & Samurai Tour
Theme: Japanese Feudal History, SHOGUN the Novel/Film, Taisho Era Architecture, and Onsen Resort Culture.
What do you think of when you see the word “Shogun”? Maybe your favorite Japanese restaurant? After James Clavell’s 1975 novel SHOGUN and the 1980 mini series on which it was based, Shogun and Samurai became popular names for Japanese restaurants, and sushi took the world by storm.
What to Expect
A 2024 remake of the SHOGUN mini series has created a new generation of Japanese history fans. Serious fans of the story know that it is set in Izu. While the story is fiction and not many of the events portrayed actually took place in Izu, the reason the author chose Izu may be because of its connection to the real Anjin-san, known in Japanese as Miura Anjin.
The city of Ito, the largest city in Izu, has a strong connection to Miura Anjin. In 1604, Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu ordered Miura Anjin to build Japan’s first Western style ship right here in Ito, just like he did in the novel.
The Shogun & Samurai Tour takes you to the place where Miura Anjin built that first ship. These days, it’s surrounded by beautiful beach parks, jetties full of local fisherman, and the Ito Harbor. The scenery makes a delightful start to a tour that introduced you to the Miura Anjin and other samurai and Shogun who made big impacts on Japanese history.
You’ll learn why Ito was the perfect place to build a ship and the impact this had on Japanese history in the 1600s. For you real SHOGUN aficionados, we’ll compare truth and fiction. You’ll come away with a deeper understanding of the author’s story craft and of Japanese history.
We’ll continue the tour with another famous Shogun, Minamoto Yoritomo, Japan’s first Shogun. He was banished here as a teenager, and here he plotted his father’s revenge and his family’s return to power. Being a passionate young man, he also had a forbidden love affair with his enemy’s daughter.
The SHOGUN & Samurai Tour visits William Adams Memorial Park, Ito waterfront and harbor, the Matsukawa River Promenade, and Otonashi Shrine. Along the way, we’ll visit some of the beautiful old buildings and charming locations in the city, including the Tokaikan, a former luxury ryokan inn converted to a museum.
This tour is for those interested in Japanese history, the novel and film SHOGUN by James Clavell, and the charms of a seaside hot springs resort town.
Tour Details
Times: Morning (9:30-12:00) | Afternoon (2:00-4:30 pm)
Days: Thursday-Monday (closed Tuesday & Wednesday)
Cost: Group of 1-3 people: ¥42,500 | Group of 4-6 people: ¥50,500
Cancellation Policy:
- Up to 10 days before tour date – 100% refund
- 9 days – 2 days before – 50% refund
- Less than 48 hours before tour date – No refund
- Refunds will be issued minus Stripe’s non-refundable 3.6% processing fee.
Difficulty: Easy – The course is on flat ground with sidewalks. The entire course is handicapped accessible.
Accessibility: Handicapped accessible.
Transportation: This tour is a 100% walking tour that starts and ends at Ito Station.
Transportation: We provide pick-up and drop-off for up to 3 guests (or 2 adults and 2 children) from Izu Kogen Station or nearby hotels.
For groups larger than this, there are two options:
- Provide your own transportation via bus, taxi, or car rental
- Request a quote for our premium service – we’ll rent a vehicle large enough for your group.
* Please contact us for any variations on these tours. We’ll do our best to make an itinerary that fits your needs.
#5 Wasabi & Waterfalls Tour
- Waterfalls, Waterfalls, Waterfalls
Theme: Mountain villages, agriculture, Forest Bathing (Shinrinyoku), local sustainability.
Our “Wasabi & Waterfalls Tour” takes place in Naka Izu, the birthplace of a unique cultivation technique that produces the world’s finest wasabi. You may think you know wasabi — the bold, green condiment that spices up your sushi — but do you really? On this tour, you’ll uncover the true story behind this mysterious aquatic plant, learning how it thrives only in areas with a constant supply of clean, cool water. Izu’s unique geography, with its volcanic soil and abundant springs, provides the perfect environment for wasabi to flourish.
What to Expect
When you finish this tour, you will be able to impress even the most avid sushi aficionados.
But wasabi is just the beginning. As you explore this beautiful region, you’ll take a rejuvenating walk along the Jizodo River trail. You’ll experience the Japanese practice of forest bathing (森林浴), immersing yourself in nature through all five senses. The sound of the river’s gentle flow, the sight of sunlight filtering through lush foliage, the scent of fresh mountain air, the cool touch of water on your skin—it’s a sensory journey that refreshes both mind and body.
Your experience wraps up with an exploration into the daily life and culture of Warabo, a small mountain village with friendly people, ancient traditions, and an abundance of farm grown products. You’ll learn about the resilient community that calls this place home, gaining new insight into the culture and rhythms of life in rural Japan.
Tour Highlights:
- The world of Wasabi: Begin with a visit to the Izu Wasabi Visitor’s Center, where you’ll dive into the fascinating history and cultivation techniques of wasabi.
- Forest Bathing along the Jizodo River: Enjoy a peaceful walk along Waterfall Lane, where you’ll encounter three distinct waterfalls and immerse yourself in the calming beauty of the forest and river.
- Experience Village Life: Savor a moment of tranquility at a shrine surrounded by wasabi fields that has served this close-knit community for centuries.
This tour isn’t just a journey through nature and tradition — it’s an invitation to reconnect with the essentials of life. Perfect for those who crave an experience that opens your mind, nourishes your spirit, and provides a deeper understanding of one of Japan’s most iconic foods.
Tour Details
- Times: Morning 9AM – 1PM (9:00-13:00) | Afternoon 2PM – 6PM (14:00-18:00)
- Days: Thursday-Monday (closed Tuesday & Wednesday)
- Cost:
Group of 1-3 people: ¥54,700
Group of 4-6 people: ¥75,750
Group of 4-6 (without transportation*) ¥63,500
* The “without transportation” rate is for guests who have their own car/rental car.
* Cancellation policy:
- Up to 10 days before tour date – 100% refund.
- 9 days – 2 days before – 50% refund.
- Less than 48 hours before tour date – No refund.
- Refunds will be issued minus Stripe’s non-refundable 3.6% processing fee.
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate – The course has stairs equal to 3-4 floors of a building. The walking course is mostly unpaved with lots of tree roots crossing the path.
Accessibility: Not handicapped accessible.
Transportation: This tour starts and ends at Izu Kogen. Transportation is included from Izu Kogen Station or nearby hotels.
* Please contact us for any variations on these tours. We’ll do our best to make an itinerary that fits your needs.
Transportation: We provide pick-up and drop-off for up to 3 guests (or 2 adults and 2 children) from Izu Kogen Station or nearby hotels.
For groups larger than this, there are two options:
- Provide your own transportation via bus, taxi, or car rental
- Request a quote for our premium service – we’ll rent a vehicle large enough for your group.
Private Custom Izu Peninsula Tours
#6 Full-Day Private Tour – Explore Izu Your Way
Enjoy a fully private day exploring the Izu Peninsula with your own driver-guide. I’ll help you discover hidden gems, local stories, and the authentic spirit of Izu at your own pace.
Jimmy’s Izu Tours emphasizes quality over quantity. Instead of rushing from place to place, we’ll craft a relaxing, memorable day that lets you truly savor Izu.
Still exploring ideas?
Not sure yet what you’d love to see? No problem!
Not sure where to go?
Here are some ideas for your private tour:
For History & Coastal Charm
Heda
A hidden fishing village with breathtaking scenery, known for giant spider crab (taka-ashi-gani), maritime history, and a ‘lost in time’ atmosphere.
Toi
Once a booming gold mining town, Toi’s coastal streets, historic shrines, and cultural secrets tell the story of a fascinating past.
Matsuzaki
Once a major center of silk production, a town of timeless beauty, where black-and-white namako-kabe walls line the streets. Visit Kumomi Shore for amazing views of Mt. Fuji, explore Muroiwa Cave, or in spring, see cherry blossoms along the Naka River.
For Breathtaking Coastline & Hidden Wonders
Dogashima
Famous for dramatic rock formations and the Tensodo Sea Cave Tour, where boats glide beneath naturally lit caverns in crystal-clear waters.
The West Coast’s Wild Beauty
Less visited than the east, this rugged coastline is a paradise for hidden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and spectacular sunsets.
For Lovers of Nature and Rural Villages
Naka Izu
Enjoy hidden waterfalls, a peaceful riverside trail where misty mountains meet tiered wasabi fields.
Kawazu
Famous for early-blooming cherry blossoms, but equally charming off-season with quiet river walks, hidden hot springs, and scenic coastline.
Slow Travel Tip:
Travel should be about connecting deeply with the places you visit. I encourage you to take your time — soak in the scenery, interact with local people, enjoy local food, and truly experience the beauty of Izu.
Private Full Day Tour Costs:
- Full day Izu Peninsula tour for 1-3 guests. ¥92,600
- Full day Izu Peninsula tour for 4-6 guests. ¥117,835
- Half day private guide within Ito City for 1-3 guests. ¥50,500
- Half day private guide within Ito City for 4-6 guests. ¥75,750
Tours include a car with driver/guide.
* Cancellation policy:
- Up to 10 days before tour date – 100% refund.
- 9 days – 2 days before – 50% refund.
- Less than 48 hours before tour date – No refund.
- Refunds will be issued minus Stripe’s non-refundable 3.6% processing fee.
Pickup and Drop-off Services
Our standard pickup and drop-off area includes Izu Kogen and Ito City at no extra charge. For other locations, the following additional fees apply to cover extra time and transportation costs:
- Shimoda, Atami, Mishima, other parts of Izu: ¥20,000
- Shuzenji: ¥10,000
- Please state your pickup/drop off location in the “Notes – Special Requests – Custom Tour:” field of the booking form.
- If you have specific requests or need assistance with transportation, feel free to contact us
Book Your Tour Here
1. Choose a date from the calendar . . .
Please book at least 2 days before your tour date. We may be able to accommodate next day bookings. Please contact us.
2. Fill out the form below the calendar
- Days with a dark background are unavailable.
- Our days off are Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
- If those are the only days that work for you, please send us a message. We’ll try to accommodate.
Hi Jimmy, it seems that I can pay for 2 days but I could book only May 19th.
Dear Chantal, thank you for your comment. We’ve already communicated via email, but for those of you who cannot book Tuesday or Wednesday on the calendar, it’s because those are our scheduled days off. However, if those are the only days available for you, please send us a message via the contact page and we’ll be happy to work with you if possible.