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3-Day Shimoda Itinerary
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Wanderlog staff
Updated • updatedAug 20, 2025
Updated • updatedAug 20, 2025
Shimoda in 3 days
If you only have 3 days to spend in Shimoda, we’ve narrowed down the top places you should check out to get the best experience of your time here.
Shimoda is a historic port town on the Izu Peninsula known for its scenic coastline, white-sand beaches, and clear water popular for swimming and snorkeling. It played a key role in Japan’s opening to the West, marked by sites such as Ryosenji Temple and monuments related to Commodore Perry’s arrival. Visitors can enjoy the Shimoda Ropeway for views over the harbor, explore rugged coastal formations like those at Tsumekizaki, and relax in nearby hot springs. In early summer, the town’s hydrangea festival adds colorful hillside displays to the seaside setting.
With favorites like Madogahama Seaside Park, Ryugu Sea Cave, and Shirahama beach, we’ll make sure you don’t miss out on all the must sees. We even included some of our favorite food spots around the area, like ジョナサン 下田店 and Tsuji so you can get the best taste of Shimoda while you’re here. To see our full list of food recommendations, check out our best restaurants post. If you're traveling on a budget, you can check out our cheap eats post.
Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Shimoda?
Visiting Shimoda? See our Shimoda Trip Planner.
Feel free to follow our itinerary exactly or tailor it to your own needs — happy wandering!
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Table of contents
Day 1
Most popular attractions
For day 1, we strategically grouped the most popular attraction, Shirahama beach, with surrounding point of interests to start your trip off with a bang. Combining the average time spent at each location and traveling time in between, it should fill up about 8 hours of your day.
1
•Jesse C — Google reviewDaniel W — Google reviewBenjamin Z — Google reviewAlesya — Google reviewThomas O — Google reviewAGUSTIN L — Google reviewJohn P — Google review
Shimoda Floating Aquarium
4.1
(4854)
4.0
(332)
Aquarium
Nature & Parks
Zoo
Shimoda Underwater Aquarium, also known as the Shimoda Floating Aquarium, is a unique sightseeing spot in Shimoda City. It stands out for its distinctive floating structure on the water. Visitors can enjoy dolphin shows and penguin feeding while observing marine life from an underwater viewing deck. The aquarium's main attraction is the Aquadome Perry, a large cylindrical tank that replicates the Izu Sea environment.
If you're planning on coming here, try to reserve some of the dolphin show add-ons. They're only available by advance reservation, and up-close interaction with the dolphins is pretty much the main selling point of this aquarium, especially if you have children.
This facility is a bit small, very old, and not the best maintained, but it has a very smart construction and is well-designed for the dolphin shows, which are clearly the main attraction for the aquarium.
There are shows roughly twice an hour. The dolphin shows (Wonder Ocean) are definitely the main event, but all of the other shows are worth seeing as well. It takes around two hours to catch everything.
It's not the most well-kept or modern aquarium but the animals are extremely well-trained and some of the tricks they do are genuinely impressive. If you're already in the area, this is worth the money.
Edwin L — Google review
Pretty nice attraction. It’s a small setting but in a gorgeous spot inside of a natural alcove. We were lucky to visit during off season. Still, there were plenty of opportunities for up close encounters with the lovely marine animals who all seem very well cared for and protected. An English guide (brochure) is provided. All shows are in Japanese only, but animal expression requires no translation! The animals here are happy and made us happy.
It's okay. It needs a serious cash injection to bring it up to more modern standards. There is a lot of rust on the floating walkways.
It's a bit on the smaller side. I think you could spend about 3 to 4 hours there max but anything more than that and you really have to be a sea animal lover.
The dolphin and sea lion shows are fun but a bit short. The penguin march was a bit overrated a lot of people gathered around to watch it but let's face it penguins our penguins.
If you have young kids I think they will enjoy this park but if you're just a couple of adults I think you should go elsewhere.
A nice regional aquarium famous for its dolphin show, the show lasts about 10 minutes you can pay more for premium seating in the water!
It's not huge but decent for Japan standards.
Small aquarium, the dolphin show was great, there are special places to watch, you need to book in advance. And there is also the opportunity to swim with dolphins, you also need to book in advance. I recommend it, you can also have lunch here and have a good time!
Great small aquarium with plenty of free shows. Go in the morning and they line up back to back nicely.
Even if you don't speak Japanese the enthusiasm from the trainers and animals is a joy to experience. Even the 3 dolphins had a clear preference for different tricks (spins, flips, posing) - very cute.
Awful place that should not be open at all, they keep animals in the worse conditions and have no conservation purpose. PLEASE DO NOT COME TO PLACES LIKE.
It's so sad. We came across the place while on a walk and saw the dolphins in small enclosure and two turtles by the entrance in a tank as big as my bathtub. SHAME ON YOU!
Two adult turtles going around in a circle in a tile tub. Just sad. This alone made me not want to enter. They need more space and to be in proper environment. This felt like I was in North Korea and not Japan.
22-31 Sanchome, Shimoda, Shizuoka 415-0023, Japan•
3 min · 0.17 mi
2Chung K — Google reviewA M — Google reviewPiggly W — Google reviewCamel P — Google reviewAaron T — Google reviewJapan C — Google reviewClayton M — Google review
Shimoda Park（Shiroyama Park）
4.2
(1130)
Park
Nestled on a hill, Shimoda Park, also known as Shiroyama Park, is a picturesque destination that offers breathtaking views of the bay and ocean from its three observatories. This scenic park is particularly famous for its stunning hydrangeas that bloom in vibrant shades of purple and blue each June, attracting flower lovers and photographers alike. Beyond its natural beauty, Shimoda Park serves as a historical landmark reflecting the town's significant role in Japan's relations with the Western world.
hydrangea is in full bloom in the Ajisai park in Shimoda city now. The market in the plateau has a good selection of specialty coffees and in-season local summer orange juices that satisfy different sizes of purses. A statue of a good American is fondly remembered among colourful blossoms.
Yibin ( — Google review
We visited on 2nd July and it was very hot. Parking is convenient. The park is not so big but full of flowers still. It is quiet & some roads are hard to walk. Overall experience was excellent!
Very beautiful garden located on a hill with lot of Ajisai(hydrangea). Located very close to the Perry road. You can walk to Izukyu Shimoda station from here. There is some monument for Japan US friendship also here but didn’t see a crowd there.
Beautiful summer flower after June (went there end of May so it’s too early)
V impressive amount of blooming flowers. An unforgettable experience
Nice park to walk through during the summer with many view points but would probably be best in the spring when the hydrangeas are in full bloom. There are several bathrooms in this park which comes with free wifi.
Park and sleep with harbour view. Clean toilet. 5min to Perry road. Nice to sleep!
It’s a good historical site and great street food all around this area!
3-1174 Sanchome, Shimoda, Shizuoka 415-0023, Japan•
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Where
When
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Travelers
2
Travelers
2
8 min · 4 mi
3•Ellen — Google reviewSunii — Google reviewRiSa — Google reviewHerr D — Google reviewKJ — Google reviewRichie H — Google reviewMd. M — Google review
Shirahama beach
4.5
(2033)
4.3
(234)
Beach
Outdoor Activities
Bodies of Water
Shirahama Beach is a popular destination on the Izu Peninsula, known for its bustling atmosphere and stunning natural beauty. The beach features white sand and turquoise waters with picturesque mountain views. It is a part of Shimoda, a charming beach town that offers various attractions such as hotels, restaurants, and beach shacks. While Shirahama Beach is the most popular choice for many visitors, some opt for the neighboring and less crowded Shirahama Ohama.
Very beautiful white sand beach that was not crowded. You can rent sunbeds and a parasol for the day for a reasonable price. Beach security and a few locals ladies were going around keeping the beach clean. There is a 7/11 just across the street, offering ice cold drinks, snacks and beach necessities. All in all a very relaxing experience.
Stephan K — Google review
Nice beach! Water is great but the sand is getting a bit darker.
We noticed a lot of jellyfish so be careful! Many dead in the sand, we saw 2 in the water.
Beautiful sand and great waves! Doesn’t have a fresh water shower, but has a creek + at the surf rental shop you can pay for a shower🌊🏄♀️🌞
Shirahama Beach — just wow!
White soft sand, crystal clear turquoise water and gorgeous views. The beach is well maintained, has everything you need. The atmosphere is calm, especially in the morning. A bit crowded in season, but still one of the best places to relax by the sea in Japan. Highly recommended! 🌊☀️
Beautiful beach. I guess I like it because I will never ever set my foot there in season! Love walking along the shore in October - November when sand barriers has been set up. Parking is a bit of a drag though.
Tattoo Friendly! We saw so many people with them and no one minds.
Its an amazing beach! Great quality sand and parking is on the beach.
A side note about parking, they close the lots at 1600. We tried to find 24hr parking but had no luck. So try searching before you arrive!
Very much worth the hype. Crowded in the summer, of course. Separate space for surfers and swimmers. Multiple shower spots (paid). Busses cone and go, but they're often late due to traffic. Wear sunscreen! Rent an umbrella if no tent!
On July 6, 2025, I visited the beautiful Shirahama Beach with some of my Bangladeshi brothers — and it was truly unforgettable!
The scenery was breathtaking — crystal-clear blue water and lively waves made the entire beach feel vibrant and full of life. We spent almost 4 hours enjoying the beach and joyfully playing balloon ball.
#There’s no free shower facility. But, coin-operated showers are available near the beach entrance — 10 minutes for 300 yen.
#You can also rent swimming rings nearby to enjoy the water and waves more comfortably.
#Convenient stores like 7-Eleven and Lawson are also available near the beach, making it easy to grab snacks, drinks, or essentials.
It was an amazing tour — full of relaxation, games, and shared laughter. The beach was clean, the atmosphere peaceful, and the memories priceless.
Definitely a spot I’d recommend visiting!
Shirahama, Shimoda, Shizuoka 415-0012, Japan, USA•
3 min · 2.3 mi
4•TAHIR C — Google reviewTsurichan釣りちゃん — Google reviewFun E — Google reviewSteve M — Google reviewMichael K — Google reviewJahan T — Google reviewEdwin A — Google review
Madogahama Seaside Park
4.0
(1033)
3.6
(19)
Park
Sights & Landmarks
Piers & Boardwalks
Madogahama Kaiyu Park is a leisure spot located within the historic Port of Shimoda, which played a significant role in Japan's opening to foreign trade. Visitors can relax and shop at the park while enjoying views of Shimoda Bay. The park features the Kaiyu no Ashiyu footbath, offering free relaxation with stunning bay views. It also provides good parking facilities and allows fishing.
It's a nice paved open space that gives you a clear and close view of the Bishako Island. Can't really say much as I visited it during the cold January in heavy rain, but I'm sure it's a great place to sit and relax in better weather. To note is that the roofs over the benches are porous so don't expect to take shelter there from rain.
M. Y — Google review
Nice and wide sea front park with views of small islands. It also has the docking point for the Black Ship SUSQUEHANNA tour on the sightseeing pier. Great for a walk even if you are not taking the cruise ship. Further going down, there is a walking pathway to one of the islands.
🌳Clean park,🌼fresh air,🌞plenty of parking lots
Have foot bath,historical at the same time you can enjoy the ocean breeze🌊
Fantastic place to relax in an otherwise crowded city. Good parking facilities. I think the parking is from 8:30 to 17:00 but the park itself is open 24 hours. It has a nice warm foot bath but you have to be patient and lucky to get a spot there. Fishing is allowed. Nice walking area. Good location. Jonathan’s is just opposite. A museum is nearby. The Black Ship ferry ride is nearby as well.
Lovely park, but disappointed that last year (2018), they closed off the parking area to overnight car campers. That is a shame because it is a short walking distance to family restaurant, public toilets, and a hotel hot-spring bath.
Relaxed park next to the sea. There are some statues here to see and also some islands in the bay, but the best thing for me was the foot onsen, please give it a try if you are passing by. Tanoshikata desu!
An incredibly beautiful place. I have been many timestimes.❤️❤️
Beautiful area and close by a museum and restaurant
Japan, 〒415-0013 Shizuoka, Shimoda, Kakisaki, 字間戸ケ浜７−９•
11 min · 4.7 mi
5Tsukasa M — Google reviewAdventure B — Google reviewAnnie S — Google reviewMatthijs — Google reviewSayuri ( — Google reviewPiggly W — Google reviewMitchell A — Google review
Ryugu Sea Cave
4.2
(2722)
Scenic spot
Ryugu Sea Cave is a stunning natural wonder located in Shimoda, at the southern tip of the Izu Peninsula. This round sea cave boasts a large hole in its roof, offering panoramic ocean views from the crater edge. The area surrounding the cave is heart-shaped when viewed from above, making it a popular spot for romantic outings. The cave has been eroded over centuries by the ebbing waves and has become a well-known tourist attraction, featured in commercials and television dramas.
Nice place to visit. The stairs is narrow so it's best to anticipate others movements in order to pass. There's a rope across the cave to avoid people entering the beach area, but still the view is mesmerizing to take a few pics and videos to revive the moment later on.
Juan M — Google review
The Longgong Grotto is a cave formed by natural forces with an expansive skylight of 50 metres in diameter.
It is a compact, enchanting spot that can be enjoyed in less than an hour.
Just a few steps down to the beach cave from the parking above (costs ¥500) which also has toilet facilities. There’s no access to the water or beach, as a chain blocks access. On the day we visited, there was a lot of red seaweed. You can walk around the top for some great views of the ocean. Nice for photos but not ideal for beach access.
The sea cave was a hidden gem and pleasantly unexpected. Walking down the stairs into the tunnel brings you to the beach and the uniqueness of the cave itself. You can also follow the trail up and above the sea cave for a 360 view which only took about 10 minutes and was a moderate hike. This place is mostly for picture taking and not for swimming. Expect to pay ¥500 for parking.
A small cave you can walk to from the 500 yen parking lot. They have plenty of parking available. There are also rest rooms here so it makes for a nice stop on a drive around the Izu coast.
You can also walk to the top of a small hill from where you can look into the cave and see the nearby sand dunes.
It was a beautiful place but the cave was smaller than I expected. A parking lot man told me there is a heart shape spot but I couldn’t find it.
I paid 500yen to park my car but I don’t know it’s worth it.
Beautiful view 15-20 to walk around there not too much to do after that.
Very cool! Neat stuff, exquisite.
Worth an individual trip? Probably not.. Worth it if you're already there? For sure!
Touji, Shimoda, Shizuoka 415-0029, Japan•
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Where to eat
Even the most seasoned adventurers need a break to chow down some food. Close to Madogahama Seaside Park, these restaurants are about a 2-minute walk away.
ジョナサン 下田店
3.6
(817)
3.9
(17)
affordable
Family restaurant
On a quiet Sunday morning, a close companion visited ジョナサン 下田店, a family restaurant known for its cleanliness. Although the booth's seat was damaged and patched up, placing orders and receiving food was effortless. The establishment even had a robot waiter assisting with various tasks. The garlic steak, accompanied by delicious bread and coffee, received positive reviews. The wait staff were kind and one particularly attentive young waitress stood out with her exceptional service.
Jonathon's was a nice place for an early dinner. We had a spaghetti, pizza, dessert set which included the drink bar (unlimited coffee including cappuccino) selection of teas and juices. Very good value and food was ordered on a tablet and then delivered by a robot. The food was delicious!
Colleen R — Google review
Our first experience in Izu and loved it. Was a cool concept with the robot delivery. The food was also really good!! Would recommend the French toast!
There a friendly waitress I wish I took a picture she treated us as queens 😂
Went to Jonathan’s for dinner and the experience was exactly what I expected. The food came out quickly and the service was smooth and efficient, making it an easy choice for a casual meal. The restaurant is conveniently located on Beach Avenue and also offers parking, which is a big plus if you are driving. The menu has a wide variety, but one dish that really stood out was the Gaopao rice, which I would definitely recommend trying. Overall, it is a reliable spot for a quick and satisfying meal with good service and easy access.
Really awesome seasonal autumn dessert. The Muscat and grapes are so tasty. A must try.
Great value. Clean. Comfortable booth seats. Great choices for beverages, even a wide variety of tea leaves and mugs with filters to brew tea in. Only wish the Expresso machine had buttons with English indications.
The food was decent and the staff were polite. The robot was nice too. On the whole a decent restaurant in the suburbs of shirahama beach. Would definitely recommend if you are in the area. They have ample parking spaces. They accept cash and card.
I ate thai gapao rice at that time. It tasted like thai and indo curry. Not too much thai style but I love the taste. And I had beef curry rice and forgot to take a photo for this. I recommend you to try beef curry rice bcoz it's tasty and fair price. I went there when I visited Mount Oumuro. The only sad thing that we couldn't use the GoTo Travel coupon.
5-14 Kakisaki, Shimoda, Shizuoka 415-0013, Japan•
Tsuji
4.6
(386)
4.4
(19)
affordable
Seafood restaurant
Tsuji is a restaurant that is worth the detour for lunch. Despite its plain exterior, the interior has a traditional and uncomplicated design solely dedicated to providing exceptional cuisine of the highest quality. Every aspect, from the welcoming hostess to the focused chef behind the scenes, aims to create an outstanding gastronomic experience. The menu includes two courses and an additional option of fresh lobster sashimi that rivals catching it yourself in pristine waters nearby.
Had a truly amazing dinner at this place.. seafood was so fresh, soft and delicious. The braised sea bream and aburi sea bream were stand outs. Loved the sauce of the braised sea bream, it goes so well with rice! The chef is a master chef, saw some photos and it seems like he’s been doing this for decades! Will 10000% recommend it to everyone to try.
Make sure to ask your hotel to call them to make a reservation. You won’t regret eating here!
Sarah L — Google review
Perched opposite a green islet in a peaceful cove, the restaurant is run by an industrious couple who can present gourmet dishes with local produces. Deep-frying is one culinary skill that the Japanese rank the best, no matter what’s being fried is fish or chicken. The whole middle-sized fish can be chewed with little to spit out. The Ise lobster was precious enough to worth my prying open each of its tunic leg for its sweet meat.
I was very sad today because my dive got cancelled so I went to Tsuji to try to lift my spirits and I can tell you that after that beautiful meal I was very happy again!!!! The food and attention was so special that it made me feel at home!!! Really recommend this place and I thank them for that beautiful food made with a lot of love!
This place is a must visit when in Shimoda. The food is exquisite, super fresh seafood, the sashimi platter was unbelievable! We had the Ajisai course and were so full! The grilled lobster at the end was outstanding, I can still feel it.
The staff is super nice, they made us feel like at home. I hope we can go back soon. Our best place in Shimoda for sure
Dining at Tsuji was not in a plan, it was recommended by the hotel concierge. It was a rainy day on 3 Jun, we came Shimoda for the annual hydrangeas festival. Everything offer by Tsuji is perfect, 烤鮑魚, 金目鯛Oishi, we love it and will defeintely recommend to everyone. Thankyou for your hospitality.
Wow. Wow. WoWW!
We truly enjoyed the entire course menu!
The kinmedai - Alfonsino dish was additional dish from a-la-carte.
Despite we were a bit full,
we would like to try Shimoda’s speciality.
We are glad that we ordered - Kinmedai!
It was just INSANELY amazing! Speechless.
The owners are very kind with warm smile.
Thank you very much 👏👏👏!
We had a great meal here. Iso lobster grilled and sashimi, plus tuna and mixed sashimi, seaweed salad and miso soup. Beautifully presented and prepared. They only do reservations. A nice 1km walk along the coast from Shimoda
Lunch set is good value for money, the sea food tastes so good!!!
19-36 Sanchome, Shimoda, Shizuoka 415-0023, Japan•
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Travelers
2
Travelers
2
Papas
3.8
(164)
3.8
(12)
affordable
Italian restaurant
Initially, I visited Papas as it was the sole open restaurant nearby, but it pleasantly surprised me. Opting for the catch of the day, I found it to be skillfully prepared and presented. The overall value for money was excellent, and the owners were also amiable. The cuisine at Papas impressed me greatly - it deviated from the typical "local" take on Italian food and maintained an authentic taste.
Fresh, thoughtful, and highly recommended
Although we didn’t dine at Papas ourselves, some fellow hotel guests did — and they couldn’t stop talking about it. They showed us photos of beautifully presented dishes and praised the freshness and attention to detail in every bite. The kitchen clearly puts a lot of heart into their food. Just note: last orders are taken by 7:30 PM. Since they don’t use Google, I’m sharing this review on their behalf. Definitely worth a visit!
Oh E — Google review
We came for lunch and were the only ones there. We had pizza/pasta (forgot to take a photo of the pasta but we cleared the plate!) and they were both about 1,200yen. We read the reviews afterwards however we didn't have any issues. The owners were very nice. The menu is also in English so it would be strange to have an English menu but not want foreigners according to other reviews - perhaps it is just a misunderstanding!
I wasn't sure where to eat, it was fark and late in the town
The couple so welcoming. Great food, service. Even provided me a umbrella and cork screw for my bottle of wine to take with me. The shrimp w garlic toast very flavorable. I would absolutely visit again! Thank you for being ao welcoming to the community
Nice local restaurants run by an old couple. The house is very old but clean. Food is tasty. We had fried potato, sardin salad, octopus salad, margarita pizza and shrimp veggie spaghetti. Everything was delicious.
Really good vibes and food!! What a gem. Check this place out you will be pleasantly surprised:)
We (2 persons) wanted to stay for dinner. The man behind the counter immediately told us roughly, that they were full, no table available. Obviously it wasn't so crowded and there were tables nobody was sitting at. So we both had the feeling of not beeing welcome. We left the place...
6 of us just walked in at 6:30pm and was gladly accomodated, my 3 kids loved the pizza and I personally like the spaghetti in tomato sauce with shrimps.
The shrimp pasta was delicious ! The owners were both really sweet and welcoming. I will come again
South Cafe
4.3
(440)
4.4
(33)
affordable
Cafe
South Cafe offers a delightful pepperocino pasta, best enjoyed with some bread to soak up the flavorful garlic at the bottom of the bowl. Nearby eateries like Cub Star and Maru Cafe also serve delicious options such as paninis, pasta, French toast, and margherita pizza. For those seeking vegan options, convenience stores offer vegan onigiri (rice balls).
Delicious food, great portions and an even greater price! Dog friendly (with outdoor dining available!) 🐕 Keep in mind the busy times for visiting because the parking lot size is small. Worth visiting if around the area!
Jaricel R — Google review
Some of the most delicious meals with French flair and best coffee. The honey bee latte is a must try. Lots of options for families with picky eaters. Pizza was so delicious. They have a picture menu and English menus. The staff was kind and friendly. It is a very family friendly restaurant.
They are extremely generous with their food. The pasta that was eggplant and tomato, the salad was great and the shrimp! And we got a pizza which was great too! And the fish avocado burger was great too! Highly recommend this place and the vibe is super chill! The women waiter was very nice too!
Love this place, every time we visit Shimoda we make sure to eat here at least once and it never disappoints!
lovely place and great view.
you cant go wrong with their food.
all are delicious and massive portion!
high quality of food and good price.
best cafe in the area for me.
good and fast service.
nice and friendly staffs.
will always go back to this place everytime im in the area.
they are serving bottomless coffee!! :)
Only restaurant open all day and in the off-season. We were lucky to find them, because the Pizza and Salads were fantastic! I am glad no one else was open so we had the opportunity to visit. Great staff, fast service.
As a family of four we had a great meal here - just stumbled along it on our drive to the beach. Try the hot honey latte! Delicious! 🫶🏼
Staff wasn’t so welcoming at first. We got take-out. The avocado burger was delicious! The banana berry smoothie was tasty. The apple pie which I made a la mode was also great! Very cinnamon tasting. Great food. Need to work on customer service.
918-2 Kisami, Shimoda, Shizuoka 415-0028, Japan•
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Day 2
Northeast side of town
For day 2, we recommend exploring the northeast side side of town. Start the day off with Izu Animal Kingdom, then wind down and take it easy by the time you get to Ogasaki Wing. All together, your day would be filled with about 7 hours of non-stop fun.
1•Noor A — Google reviewTheJackball1986 — Google reviewAngela — Google reviewPaul S — Google reviewBen B — Google reviewハナさん — Google reviewBlanka K — Google review
Izu Animal Kingdom
4.1
(4355)
4.0
(268)
Zoo
Outdoor Activities
Amusement park
Golf course
Izu Animal Kingdom is a unique African savanna-themed park located in Izu Inatori, offering visitors the chance to interact with animals and enjoy walking safaris amid giraffes, zebras, and other herbivores roaming freely. Divided into three zones - Animal Zone, Play Zone, and Sports Zone - the park features attractions like a petting zoo, Ferris wheel, go-carts, and a dinosaur-inhabited forest.
The villa I stayed in had a giant ferris wheel up on a mountain nearby. I was very curious and upon asking the hotel staff said was part of the Izu animal kingdom.
With just a 5 min walk to arrive, I felt compelled to go and see what I could find.
In the zoo, I was greeted many fun animals. There was a large open area where many different animals lazed about. Giraffes were walking by and asking for food. The zebra and bison were off enjoying the sun.
As I walked around, I found lots of other fun enclosures like a hare, cappybara and alpaca enclosure; a birds enclosure, and a small little animal petting enclosure.
The parrots in the cappybara enclosure enjoyed a good laugh when I accidently dropped my veggies for the cappybaras into the water.
Lastly, as I headed down the route back to the entrance, I was greeted to a small little theme park with many a rides to play on.
A very fun park to spend the day in.
Stash P — Google review
I found this zoo visit to be extremely disappointing. It appears the animals are not well-fed—many of them approached visitors as if expecting food. At each enclosure, there was only a tiny portion of food available for purchase at 200–300 yen. The zoo has very few animal exhibits overall, and the entry ticket is quite expensive. They also don’t inform you at the entrance that major animals like elephants and bears are no longer in the zoo. The chimpanzee was kept in a very small, stressful-looking cage, which was upsetting to see. Overall, it felt like a complete waste of time and money. I strongly recommend visiting a public zoo instead—they usually offer larger, better-maintained spaces with a greater variety of animals.
An absolutely delightful zoo with amusement park attractions as well as a driving range and much more! As far as the animal attractions there’s a lot of interactive elements. You can feed a great many of the animals to include the more pedestrian options such as the capybara, giraffes, zebras, & more. Then there’s the more exciting options for feeding which is the white tiger, the bear, and the baboons. You’ll also find plenty of food and drink options throughout the park with both on the move options as well as a restaurant. A place to take the family and loose yourselves for the day in the environment that is the Animal Kingdom.
One of the saddest places I’ve ever been.
I visited Animal Kingdom Japan while traveling with my family — I don’t like zoos, but my 3-year-old really wanted to see animals, so we went. Unfortunately, it turned out to be a deeply upsetting experience for all of us.
Many animals were kept in small, barren enclosures and looked either sedated, sick, or extremely stressed. Several had visible skin problems and appeared unwell. It was hard to watch. Even my child, who was so excited to go, ended up feeling sad and confused.
Nice place.
Tigers are white and you can feed them for an extra 500 yen.
Lots of animals, from rabbits to elephants, owls to capybara.
Appears that COVID lockdowns have had quite a big impact on the playground area and activities, don't think it was just a quiet Monday afternoon.
High on a hill, not a place to easily walk to from the station, recommend car, taxi or bus to get there.
I dislike zoos at the best of times, this was no exception. Cramped concrete enclosures are not suitable places for wild animals. As a result many of the animals here looked depressed, lonely and mentally challenged. Japan continues to disappoint with its lack of animal welfare and this place is not helping that image. Avoid if you find animals in distress a depressing sight.
Izu Animal Kingdom is a family-friendly wildlife park in Higashiizu, Shizuoka Prefecture, offering an immersive experience with a variety of animals and interactive exhibits. The park features a walking safari where visitors can observe giraffes, zebras, and rhinoceroses in a savannah-like setting. Additionally, the Animal Touch Square allows guests to pet and feed small animals such as capybaras, guinea pigs, and armadillos. For those seeking more excitement, the park offers feeding experiences with white tigers, bears, and baboons for an additional fee. Amusement park attractions, including a Ferris wheel and merry-go-round, add to the fun. The park is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:00 PM) and is closed during inspections in late June and mid-December. Admission is ¥2,200 for adults and ¥1,100 for children aged 4 to junior high school students. Visitors can reach the park by a 10-minute bus ride from Izu-Inatori Station.
Great fun. This zoo is not big, but it’s fun to walk through and they offer a lots of activities.
Today, we got to feed many of the animals and even touched a rhyno!
Well worth the stop if you’re in the area
3344 Inatori, Higashiizu, Kamo District, Shizuoka 413-0411, Japan•
6 min · 2.2 mi
2•Gary H — Google reviewCarmen L — Google reviewMatt C — Google reviewSamuel Y — Google reviewNut K — Google reviewFlatnose T — Google reviewYass U — Google review
Morning Market “Asaichi” of Port Inatori
3.9
(1759)
3.0
(3)
Seafood market
Fresh food market
The Morning Market of Port Inatori is a must-visit spot in Higashi-Izu Town, offering a rich variety of seafood including kinmedai (splendid alfonsino), Japanese spiny lobster, abalone, horse mackerel, and mackerel. Open on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, this market also features locally caught fresh seafood, agricultural produce, and processed goods.
A variety of local fish and vegetables are available. I bought dried Aji fish, Wasabi-zuke (paste) and Summer Sweet Orange juice. All are fresh and tasty. A regret was Kamameshi had been sold out. I should have visited earlier by 10am.
Taro T — Google review
A very small but interesting morning market. The setting in a car park undercover is not ideal but it is good for all weather conditions. The grilled fish for breakfast was a popular choice amongst the locals and the rare tourist.
It's a morning market selling local products, such as fish, vegetables and cakes etc., it's just like a wet market. Many local mother will get there for shopping.
A mice little market with great seafood for breakfast and amazing OJ & strawberry milk!
Superlocal place to visit. There’s a delicious claypot rice place with an incredible seafood soup that costs just 30 yen, but i burned my hands and the styrofoam bowl melted from the heat so take caution
They serve free fish bone miso soup( of red bream) .and the red bream kamameshi was 700yen but it takes 25min to be cooked. It’s open only in the morning. Small market but not bad for a breakfast. Always fun to communicate with locals !
Morning Market at the port of Inatori.
New to traditional Japanese food and groceries? Then this is your place to go.
Place filled with local vegetables and of course, fishery. You can also have confectioneries like manju and mochi to take home, or have "Grilled Himono" , better known as "dried fish" & a.k.a. 'steak of the sea'. Have a seat with your complentary bowl of the local Arajiru (miso soup with chunks of local splendid alfonsino). GENEROUSITY seems to be the key theme in this market; everyone is smiling and giving away free tasters. Even for a guy like me, it's not the most difficult thing to content.
Personal favourites are "Sushi-Gennari"(sushi with mackerel fish flakes toppings) and the "Tokoro-punch" (tasty Agar-agar jello put into a flavourful frui punch mix soda)
Most likely somerthing will make you go "wafoo!(和風wafū)"
A market offering fresh vegetables, dried fish, ice cream & fresh juice etc. We couldn't find any fresh fish including Sashimi due to the bad weather.
3354 Inatori, Higashiizu, Kamo District, Shizuoka 413-0411, Japan•
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Travelers
2
Travelers
2
30 min · 10 mi
3•Who O — Google reviewC Z — Google reviewMoe F — Google reviewOliver T — Google reviewTrey T — Google reviewLuke L — Google reviewAnthony G — Google review
Kawazu Seven Waterfalls
4.3
(1911)
4.2
(304)
Scenic spot
Nature & Parks
Hiking area
Waterfalls
Nestled in the mountains above Kawazu Town in southeastern Izu, the Kawazu Seven Waterfalls (Kawazu Nanadaru) offer a delightful forest walking trail spanning approximately 1 kilometer. The trail takes about an hour and a half to complete and leads visitors past seven waterfalls ranging from 2 meters to 30 meters tall.
The hike around the waterfalls was wonderful. It’s well kept and you can take the route from either end. We took a bus to the top of the trail and did it backwards. The falls are various sizes with a couple of them busting very tall and majestic.
They had a couple rock throwing challenges along the hike that were fun. You’d pay 100円 to an honesty box and then take three tries to toss the rock into a basket a ways out.
Julian L — Google review
Wonderful walk along the river, gorgeous waterfalls. Mostly easy walking but some areas with lots (lots) of stairs. Can dip feet to cool down, one fall has a spring to help cool down. If you enjoy yourself at a leisurely pace, will take several hours. Or can be done quickly in probably just over an hour. If you find the hidden restaurant, go have barracuda or snapper!
A nice walk in the woods past 7 waterfalls. Most of the waterfalls are fairly small, and river access is prohibited in most areas. Not wheelchair friendly, but not a strenuous hike either. It was a nice enough stop, but wouldn't recommend going out of your way to see it either.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Absolutely breathtaking!
Kawazu Seven Waterfalls is one of the most beautiful and peaceful spots in Izu. The trail is easy to walk and perfectly maintained, winding through lush forest and crystal-clear streams. Each of the seven waterfalls has its own charm — from small cascades hidden among mossy rocks to the majestic final fall that feels straight out of a movie.
The sound of rushing water, birds singing, and the fresh mountain air make it such a relaxing experience. Along the way, there are lovely cafés and small onsen inns where you can stop and enjoy a break with coffee or soft-serve ice cream.
It’s also a great place to visit year-round — vibrant green in summer, fiery red leaves in autumn, and tranquil beauty in winter. If you’re in Izu, this is a must-see destination. Highly recommended for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone looking to unwind in Japan’s natural beauty. 🌿💧
Its very beautiful and serene but its quite a treck.
Lovely views overall and quite a nice shift from the busy citylife.
The village where the waterfalls are is also quite cozy with a very friendly shop and an amazing udon/soba restaurant serving cheap and amazingly delicious food.
If you have physical limitations or similar it could be dificult to treck through but its very beautiful for those who apreciate nature.
A wonderful series of waterfalls that are very easy to access. The trail is very well kept mostly concrete and very easy for almost any one to complete. There are a few areas with some steep steps and a wooden bridge. The falls and river are beautiful and make this well worth a visit. You can complete it easily in under an hour even if you linger a while. There is a cool area where you can attempt to land some small stones on a rock out in the river for your wish to come true. Each fall has an associated diety a story and a stamp so be sure to bring a notebook to collect the stamps! You cannot get in the water though while we were there a tour group walking the river and going over some of the falls was going by. If you are in Shimoda or any nearby town this would make an excellent trip.
It was nice to walk through the path visiting the 7 waterfalls and the volcanic rocks. I visited the walk from uphill to down starting from north toward south. It seems easier than the reverse.
I read reviews that recommended taking the bus to the top fall and walking the trail backwards/down. This is good advice for most people. The tourist office guide in Kawazu at the bus stop saw my cane. I am 76 and have knee and hip replacements. She told me to get off at the first stop, see falls 1 to 3, backtrack and see falls 4 and 5. I did NOT follow her advice and went to the top fall to walk down. I was wrong: she was correct. The upper trail starts out nice but then there are a million steps down. I spent all my concentration on not tripping or falling. It interfered with my ability to enjoy nature. My wife and i made it. But if you are elderly with mobility issues do what the Kawazu tourist lady tried so hard to communicate to me. You are old and impaired. Accept it and enjoy what you can. Multiply picture by at least 30 times.
Nashimoto, Kawazu, Kamo District, Shizuoka 413-0501, Japan•
24 min · 10.8 mi
4•Ryusei H — Google reviewWalter — Google reviewTAHIR C — Google reviewWodala M — Google reviewTahir C — Google reviewJerry B — Google reviewDonald T — Google review
Ogasaki Wing
4.1
(1033)
4.0
(34)
Toll road rest stop
Sights & Landmarks
Vista point
Observation Decks & Towers
Ogasaki Wing Lookouts is a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and photography lovers. It offers stunning panoramic views of the sea, surrounding lands, and the beautiful white sand beach of Shirahama in Shimoda. The lookout provides a great vantage point to capture wide-angle shots and observe the beauty of the ocean. Visitors can take advantage of the small free parking area, restrooms, benches, and vending machines available at this picturesque location.
Great place for a quick pitstop on the way to Shirahama Beach. Absolutely stunning views
Vending Machine and toilets are available
Kurt D — Google review
You have a good view of the sea and also the cliffs here.
if you pass here alongside the road is a beautiful lookout viewpoint with a parking lot attached . Restroom is here as well and you get some drinks out of the machine. the view is amazing and worthwhile a rest
A must stop-by view point to see beautiful white sand beach of Shirahama in Shimoda. There is a small free parking lot with facility of toilets and some benches. Right on the roadside when you are traveling from Inatori to Shimoda.
The most beautiful heaven I have ever seen
This is a must stop-by view point for Shirahama Beach - a white sand beach in Shimoda. There is a small free parking area with toilets and some benches.
There's a view deck that you can the long beach line and beauty of the ocean. There isn't so many parking spaces, if you're unlucky you have to wait for others to leave.
Great views along the national route. Good weather is crucial.
3346-4 Shirahama, Shimoda, Shizuoka 415-0012, Japan•
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Where to eat
When you need a food break from visiting all the attractions today, these fan favorite restaurants are about a 8-minute walk away from Morning Market “Asaichi” of Port Inatori.
Tokuzomaru Flagship Shop
4.0
(458)
4.0
(82)
affordable
Seafood restaurant
Tokuzomaru is a seafood restaurant located near Inatori station, offering fresh and reasonably priced dishes. It's recommended to arrive early to secure a window seat. Visitors can enjoy delicious and affordable seafood, making it an excellent choice for lunch.
Solid place, had the ebi sashimi set.
TBH a bit disappointed with the food, it didn't really taste of anything, kinda bland, alright if you just want to fill your stomach
許有宜 — Google review
Pretty good. If you come early, you can pick a window seat. Price is not expensive from a tourist perspective.
We went on a Sunday night. Food was ok, not bad. Staff made an effort to communicate with us even though our Japanese was not great. The shop also sells sauces - one of the sauces was really good.
The sashimi look fresh but just does not taste nice. I would not say it is not fresh as it do not have any fishy taste but not sure why it is just not tasty. Really can't describe it. I think maybe it taste a bit bland and do not have the sweetness of a really fresh fish. And I don't like the soy sauce as it is on the salty side. Maybe just my personal taste. But this is so far the most under whelming dinner in this Japan trip.
Sashimi is fresh, other than that, it’s merely an OK restaurant. Lobster miso soup was too salty, grilled lobster was just okay. They keep advertising sea bream so i guess it’s their famous fish? Sashimi was good but the grilled one was dry and i doubt its freshness. I felt like i wasted a dinner opportunity in Japan. Not recommended if your stay in japan is short, I hope you find a better restaurant somewhere else and share with the rest of us on google.
Fresh and very reasonable seafood restaurant near the Inatori station.
Great food and amazing view.
Great place for lunch!!! And so so delicious!!!!
徳造丸 2F, 798 Inatori, Higashiizu, Kamo District, Shizuoka 413-0411, Japan•
Ebi-man
3.6
(495)
4.0
(23)
Temporarily Closed
affordable
Seafood restaurant
Japanese restaurant
Ebi-man Restaurant is a seafood dining spot located at the northern tip of Shirahama, offering stunning ocean views. The menu features freshly caught local seafood, including specialties like kinme croquette and butter-grilled scallops. Diners can enjoy generously portioned main dishes such as sashimi, tempura, or fish simmered in broth. The restaurant provides a warm welcome and attentive service, with an English menu available for easy ordering.
We had the restaurant to ourselves. We arrived just after 2 pm on a wet windy Wednesday. Warm greeting and attentive owner (?). We naturally chose seat by the window and selected the tempura set and sashimi bowl set, 1750 and 2350 respectively. No English menu but enough pictures on the table menu. Also assisted to the tempura set on the menu so knew ¥ before committing. Both very fresh, very tasty.
After eating, we could open the window and experience the breeze and sounds of the water on the rocks below.
Cary B — Google review
This restaurant has a very nice ocean view by the sea shore, you can sit close to the window while eat your meal. The food was fine but I think there is no much clients cause the restaurant seen to be a little abandoned. Unfortunately the food was nothing exceptional but the experience was good overall.
We thought it will be super fresh and delicious, given the name and being in Shimoda, but seafood wasn't so fresh, it was actually pricey (9.900¥ for lunch for 3, no alcohol) and even the service wasn't the best.
They have nice view though and are very clean
Nice atmosphere, but service was bad, waitress was rude, telling us once we entered that they close at 8pm and we arrived at 7pm. Told us that we can’t order sukiyaki because it was 1 hour away from their closing time and it will take too long to consume. Told us many of the items on the menu are unavailable, maybe they didn’t want to prepare them close to their closing time. Miso soup was cooked with fish innards and fish skin, too fishy and soup contained many fish scales and bones. Kaisen don contained fish that was not fresh. Overall a bad experience.
Ebi-man restaurant. Nice easy parking (limited). Accepta credit card. Simple english menu. Good view of the ocean. Friendly staff. Great food.
A restaurant with a nice view while having a japanese meal.
It's a lovely place, with an amazing view of the ocean! The menu has a good variety of dishes! Today I enjoyed a bowl of rice with Sashimi. The presence of so many fishing boats nearby and the delicious food suggests to me that the fish is quite fresh, just what I wanted for lunch! No tourists around, a jewel of the locals. I suggest any passers by to drop in and enjoy!! Moreover, they offer beer (with and without alcohol for the drivers)!!
Great view, friendly staff, fresh seafood with reasonable price (¥1800-¥3000)
409-1 Shirahama, Shimoda, Shizuoka 415-0012, Japan•
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Day 3
Proximity is everything
For day 3, we bundled attractions like Cape Irozaki and Kisami Ohama beach and other places within a close range, so that the time it takes to travel between all of them is less than one hour. Combined with the average time people spend there, your day should take about 8 hours.
1•S Z — Google reviewJace L — Google reviewSte B — Google reviewExplore M — Google reviewAmit G — Google reviewMatthijs — Google reviewJoy I — Google review
Cape Irozaki
4.4
(1613)
4.2
(157)
Scenic spot
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Irozaki Cape is located at the southern end of the Izu Peninsula and boasts a rugged promontory adorned with a Shinto shrine and lighthouse. The area offers breathtaking views and the calming sound of crashing waves. Accessible by bus from Izukyu Shimoda station, visitors can purchase a 2-day Shimoda Irozaki bus pass for easy transportation to various points of interest along the way, including beautiful beaches.
Breathtaking view of the ocean. Spent 30 mins here which is enough for the lighthouse and cape view unless you’re an influencer maybe an hour.
Didn’t pay to be on the rock but it’s alright as the views are still amazing
Ridzuan A — Google review
There is a large paid parking lot - cost about 500 yen to stop there. 10 min walk to the lighthouse and shrine. There is a small cafe, gift shop and eating area at the entrance.
Good place for those who enjoy walking near the cliff or seeing the ocean scenery from the lighthouse. The place is open from 9am - 4pm. You will also find the 1st shrine build at cliff since 701Ad and the 2nd shrine that was build in 1903. You may get a charm from the shrine from 300yen onwards. The wind is pretty strong at the cliff so do take care while walking around it. The welcome centre have a cafeteria whine serve lunch and snack and a gift shop for you to buy souvenir from the park. You may travel to this location by purchasing a tokai bus pass from the tokai bus terminal opposite Izu shimoda train station.
There is a big welcome center next to the parking lot with food and drink options (seemed to be newly built). The edges at the cape are quite steep, so be careful. However I found the views from nearby Yusuga Park more impressive. Also note as of May 2024 closing time was already 16:00.
Fantastic place. Worth visiting as the view from the southern most top of Izu peninsula is just amazing. The ocean in front of you, the waves crashing down on the rocks, beautifully colored water, the high wind / breeze, cute little lighthouse-,can’t go up though, the shrine at the cliff end and at the tip - it is absolutely fantastic. Parking lot has many spots available (500 JPY). We saw a bus there as well but not sure about its frequency. There is a souvenir shop, a small restaurant with select few dishes, a few tables and chairs to settle down, toilets etc - all of which seems like pretty new, so sparklingly clean. The staff was standing right at the front gate of the small building (adjacent to parking spot) and graciously offered free umbrellas to carry till the end of Iro cape as it was drizzling a little bit. The hike is just 10 mins simple walk from parking spot. Kids can easily go.
Fun fact: As is the practice with many Shinto shrines, the Iro shrine also has a mirror installed where one would keep deity. The understanding being that “A shrine’s mirror on an alter is often angled for the effect that the spirit of the kami is reflected within the person looking in the mirror.”
Fantastic place. Worth visiting as the view from the southern most top of Izu peninsula is just amazing. The ocean in front of you, the waves crashing down on the rocks, beautifully colored water, the high wind / breeze, cute little lighthouse-,can’t go up though, the shrine at the cliff end and at the tip - it is absolutely fantastic. Parking lot has many spots available (500 JPY). We saw a bus there as well but not sure about its frequency. There is a souvenir shop, a small restaurant with select few dishes, a few tables and chairs to settle down, toilets etc - all of which seems like pretty new, so sparklingly clean. The staff was standing right at the front gate of the small building (adjacent to parking spot) and graciously offered free umbrellas to carry till the end of Iro cape as it was drizzling a little bit. The hike is just 10 mins simple walk from parking spot. Kids can easily go.
Fun fact: As is the practice with many Shinto shrines, the Iro shrine also has a mirror installed where one would keep deity. The understanding being that “A shrine’s mirror on an alter is often angled for the effect that the spirit of the kami is reflected within the person looking in the mirror.”
Very nice place by the water. Cute lighthouse. We'll worth a visit if you're in the area.
Wonderful scenery. Ocean views from the lighthouse. It was an awesome place to visit and appreciate more the beauty of nature. There is a shrine, spacious parking area and restaurant. There is no entrance fee, you only have to pay for the parking area.
Irozaki, Minamiizu, Kamo District, Shizuoka 415-0156, Japan•
21 min · 9.9 mi
2•Rainer M — Google reviewBlanka K — Google reviewSaurabh K — Google reviewZaw K — Google reviewJuan G — Google reviewKen T — Google reviewBenjamine H — Google review
Kisami Ohama beach
4.5
(734)
4.3
(105)
Beach
Outdoor Activities
Kisami Ohama beach is a popular destination for surfers due to its long, undeveloped white-sand beach. It is considered one of the best beaches in the world and can be completely empty at certain times of the year. Free parking is available but subject to fees during summer season. Visitors should beware of high tides which can sweep away belongings. There are some restaurants nearby and vending machines in the parking lot.
This is literally the best beach in the world. If you come at the right time of year it’s completely empty. There’s free parking available although subject to fee during the summer season. Watch out for the high tide as I’ve personally seen people’s belongings get swept away. There are a some restaurants around and the parking lot has a few vending machines.
Alex Y — Google review
This is quite a nice beach. There is plenty of space, nice sand, and nice ocean. There are only a few food options nearby, though. Also, there is not really much in terms of facilities (toilets, showers, water, etc).
Great beach, easy access to water, it's shallow for a long stretch so you can really enjoy it. Still has some rocks so you can also take nice pictures. No shower as far as we know.
Superb Beach. Not much crowded. White sand and beautiful. Easily accessible.
For swimming is a little bit dangerous but the beach is very beautiful. I recommend this beach if you have time please visit there
Lovely beach with white sand. Went on a Friday during the summer so it was not very busy. Quite a few surfers here. Plenty of parking space and you can rent parasols and body boards
Great beach in Shimoda. Wide, clean, and on good days, there are some good waves to do boogie boarding and surfing etc. Tend to get crowded on summer weekends (and Japanese school holidays), but far better than those much closer to Tokyo.
More beautiful with solitude. Nice for loner like me.
1900-13 Kisami, Shimoda, Shizuoka 415-0028, Japan, USA•
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Travelers
2
Travelers
2
25 min · 1.3 mi
3•Sa Y — Google reviewAibi Y — Google reviewTim H — Google reviewBilly W — Google reviewAnders F — Google reviewKatarzyna H — Google reviewSteve J — Google review
Irita Beach
4.5
(726)
4.7
(63)
Public beach
Outdoor Activities
Beaches
Bodies of Water
Irita Beach is a hidden gem that offers an ideal setting for both surfing and swimming enthusiasts. Nestled between rocky outcrops, this beach boasts soft sand and crystal-clear waters, making it perfect for families looking to enjoy a day in the sun. While it may not be as visually stunning as some other beaches in Izu, its waves are excellent for boarding—just remember to bring flippers if you plan on using a bodyboard during lifeguard hours.
visited this beach to wait for someone.Nice place for walking around,nice atmosphere and colder in the evening.
Chutikarn S — Google review
We come here every year, but this time the water felt the warmest it’s been in the past 10 years. The kids could enjoy swimming without shivering from the cold!
Such a beautiful beach. The view was so mesmerizing. Would love to visit this place again someday.
Great beach for families. Not to busy and lots of space to put up a tent or cover. Also very clean. Would be nice if there were some more places to eat/drink.
Beautiful beach,
Great for swimming,and just chilling out
Simply superb beach not overcrowded great waves even when there is little wind. Highly recommended! It is not easy to get to without a car.
the most beautiful beach I have been to, not far from Tokyo.
Not busy usually, and the beach is very clear and clean.
Kisami, Shimoda, Shizuoka 415-0028, Japan•
3 min · 1.5 mi
4•Ariel L — Google reviewRowan — Google reviewYzh Y — Google reviewJames F — Google reviewAlberto M — Google reviewZuzana S — Google reviewChristina B — Google review
Shimoda Kaikoku Museum
3.5
(780)
3.6
(69)
Local history museum
Museums
History Museums
The Shimoda Kaikoku Museum, also known as the Shimoda Opening-of-the-Country Museum, is a small but fascinating museum that commemorates the arrival of the American 'black ships' in 1854. It also features exhibits related to Townsend Harris, the first American consul, and Russian Count Yevfimy Vasilyevich Putyatin. The museum showcases waxworks and offers Japanese language books for sale.
I didn't expect before visiting here, but i recommend because i could learn the history. There were a lot of things i've never known.
Ocean B — Google review
¥1,200/adult: Over priced for a small museum with run down facilities. There’s not that much on display in terms of Admiral Perry’s landing in Shimoda. The majority of signs are only in Japanese so wouldn’t recommend it at all if you don’t understand Japanese. Essentially it’s 2 small buildings with 2 floors. Building 1, 1/F is a bunch of run down/old figures of old Japan, 2/F is very small and still about Japan. Then you need to walk down a flight of stairs *outdoors*, cross the street to holding 2, and walk up more stairs. The 2/F of building 2 is split to 2 sections with Perry’s landing and the Russians landing. Then the 1/F of the 2’d building is the shop so it isn’t even really a display. It’s quite disappointing and I feel ripped off. Personally I’d pay maybe ¥300 and definitely not more than ¥500 for a museum of this quality. It’s not maintained well, and the information was so light. You’d learn more with a quick Google search, many wonderful articles about Shimoda which are much more informative.
Exactly as other reviews have said:
- 1200 yen is too expensive.
- Very few signs in English.
There is English information available via QR, but who wants to visit a museum only to stare at their phone? With very little effort, they could print English signs. Then it would be more worth it.
That said, other reviewers have made the same points 3 years ago, so I wouldn’t hold out hope for improvement.
Shimoda was a city of importance when Japan opened the Shimoda port to the US and Russia in 1854, renouncing the long lasting national seclusion policy.
So this museum exhibits things mainly of the Bakumatsu period (1850s to 60s), though there are also some other things about the Shimoda's history before that.
I'm interested in the history of that time so found many interesting facts I hadn't known.
This local history museum provides some background to the history of Matthew Perry’s mission to Japan and early US Japan relations.
Very interesting, it really needs to improve the English description of the exhibits, otherwise us westerners will only enjoy half of it.
Nice museum. We were surprised to find information about the US-Japan relations. Worth the visit.
Interesting dioramas. Could use a bit more English translation. Otherwise fascinating. Looks run down from the outside.
8-13 Yonchome, Shimoda, Shizuoka 415-0024, Japan•
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Where to eat
Under a 4-minute walk from Shimoda Kaikoku Museum, here are a few close by recommendations for when you get hungry exploring around.
Naminami
4.3
(433)
3.9
(7)
affordable
Izakaya restaurant
Naminami is a delightful gem located in Shimoda, perfect for those seeking an authentic Japanese dining experience. During my visit over Golden Week, I was pleasantly surprised by the serene atmosphere and minimal crowds, allowing for a relaxed meal. The restaurant offers generous portions of delectable dishes like sashimi and tempura at reasonable prices. The friendly staff are eager to provide recommendations, making it easy to navigate their unique menu that features local specialties such as kimedai and innovative uni-based creations.
Tourist friendly. I had the yuzu sour and the assorted seafood bowl.
Both were amazing.
The fish melted in my mouth like butter.
The music was 90s style and the stuff friendly.
I highly recommend.
Tifany S — Google review
Very fresh local fishes and extra big clam soup. Better stick to seafoods as the chicken dish was not to my taste. The grill mackerel was juicy and much softer than what I have had in Hong Kong.
The vibe is good, the staff almost does not speak English, but you can write orders yourself and see the pictures of the dishes on the meniu. We felt welcommed. The food is delicious. We would come back.
An incredible izakaya, original dishes and fresh ingredients. We can flavor the sea while eating. I recommend the rice soup with fish “ochazuke”
Visited this place during Golden Week and it did not disappoint! There were very few people there and my friends ands and I were the only foreigners. We were quickly seated and served.
Excellent food for reasonable prices. The portions were quite big for Japan. Lots of great options for sashimi, tempura and local fish.
If you are in the area, I would definitely recommend making a stop here. You won’t regret it.
1st class izakaya joint, very cozy, family run place. The dishes are amazing, the vibe is great. The menu has English description as well.
The cuisine, which mainly uses local Izu ingredients, is fresh, with both seafood and meat dishes and a wide selection of sake. Reservations are recommended during peak seasons.
Great place for a quick but delicious dinner in Shimoda. Small cosy restaurant with not many tables. Friendly staffs that give good recommendations. Had a very enjoyable meal there. If driving, there is a small carpark just beside the restaurant.
3-26 Sanchome, Shimoda, Shizuoka 415-0023, Japan•
Akatsukitei
4.3
(281)
3.5
(4)
affordable
Tonkatsu restaurant
Akatsukitei, a family-friendly establishment, boasts attentive and pleasant staff who provide exceptional service. The cuisine is outstanding, with their steak dish being particularly popular due to its delectable tenderness, flawless preparation, and presentation on heated rocks at the table. The restaurant's authenticity and high quality are further evidenced by the numerous celebrity autographs adorning its walls. Finding any faults with this place proves challenging.
Impressive service. Very kid friendly (baby & toddler) with high chair, kid set meal (with kid cutlery & dishes), and lots for them to look at. They included a paper Canadian flag toothpick on our daughter’s rice presentation! Our meals were very well presented with sizzling beef on rocks. Enjoyed a cold beer. We were all served a scoop of ice cream for dessert. Would definitely recommend walking here from Shimoda Tokyu Hotel as it is right near the beach.
Britta T — Google review
The delicious food, warm atmosphere and an ice cream after the meal cured the fatigue of the day. Highly recommended and I will definitely come again next time.
Baby and child friendly.
Lovely attentive staff.
Food was great. Easy to see why their most popular dish is the steak. Very tender, cooked beautifully and served table side on hot rocks.
A wall covered with celebrity autographs attests to the quality of the restaurant.
Hard to find any faults with this place..
I got the 200g and hubby got the 250g. The steak was so tender, not too fatty, and cooked to perfection. We were very full and happy after this. Sides were good too!
To be honest, the food was really expensive for the amount that was given, but the young steak was really good. The fried shrimp is bigger than I thought.
Really good food. A little bit pricey, but the atmosphere was nice and the staff was amazing. Great meal for our relaxing vacation. 🏖
Delicious meal. The pork was fatty and indulgent. The breading was thick and buttery. Great flavors all around. The restaurant atmosphere was very inviting and warm. The waitstaff was so attentive and friendly and helpful. The entire meal was so delicious and the experience was a highlight of Shimoda for our visit.
Big portion. Good taste. Limited parking
11-14 Gochome, Shimoda, Shizuoka 415-0025, Japan•
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Yamaya
4.3
(947)
4.2
(18)
affordable
Seafood restaurant
下田海鮮 やまや is a roomy eatery that specializes in delectable seafood dishes such as kaisendon rice bowls and fried cutlets. It offers a pleasant ambiance, amiable service, and an extensive menu featuring flavorful options like rice bowl domburi with fresh seafood. Additionally, patrons can enhance their miso soup by adding the shrimp's head if they opt for the kaizendon dish.
Great Find this weekend. Food was excellent, fresh, & filling. Filled with locals,but they had an English menu for us too. Cash only
Derek N — Google review
Amazing. Super fresh, beautifully served, big portions and we were surprised how inexpensive it was for this quality and taste. Highly recommended!
Great!
Tip: if you order kaizendon you can remove the head of the shrimp and put it in your miso soup for added flavor.
Fantastic fresh kaisendons with simmered kinki. Good value and prices. English menu available
Awesome
Good place for fresh seafood (rice bowl domburi), good atmosphere and friendly service.
Tasty!
Vibey and happening
1013-2 Kisami, Shimoda, Shizuoka 415-0028, Japan•
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Best-of categories in Shimoda
Restaurants
Attractions
Cafes
Family restaurants
Seafood restaurants
Japanese restaurants
Beaches
Fun things to doPopular road trips from Shimoda
What's the weather like in Shimoda?
It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Shimoda for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.
- Weather in Shimoda in January
- Weather in Shimoda in February
- Weather in Shimoda in March
- Weather in Shimoda in April
- Weather in Shimoda in May
- Weather in Shimoda in June
- Weather in Shimoda in July
- Weather in Shimoda in August
- Weather in Shimoda in September
- Weather in Shimoda in October
- Weather in Shimoda in November
- Weather in Shimoda in December
All road trips from Shimoda
- Shimoda to Tokyo drive
- Shimoda to Kyoto drive
- Shimoda to Osaka drive
- Shimoda to Hakone-machi drive
- Shimoda to Nagoya drive
- Shimoda to Kamakura drive
- Shimoda to Kanazawa drive
- Shimoda to Taito drive
- Shimoda to Fujikawaguchiko-machi drive
- Shimoda to Nikko drive
- Shimoda to Hiroshima drive
- Shimoda to Matsumoto drive
- Shimoda to Sapporo drive
- Shimoda to Shizuoka drive
- Shimoda to Takayama drive
- Shimoda to Narita drive
- Shimoda to Hamamatsu drive
- Shimoda to Fukuoka drive
- Shimoda to Karuizawa-machi drive
- Shimoda to Busan drive
- Shimoda to Ise drive
- Shimoda to Nagasaki drive
- Shimoda to Hakodate drive
- Shimoda to Himeji drive
- Shimoda to Hokuto drive
- Shimoda to Nagano drive
- Shimoda to Sendai drive
- Shimoda to Kobe drive
- Shimoda to Minato drive
- Shimoda to Matsuyama drive
Explore nearby places
All related maps of Shimoda
- Map of Shimoda
- Map of Minamiizu-cho
- Map of Kawazu-cho
- Map of Higashiizu-cho
- Map of Nishiizu-cho
- Map of Izu
- Map of Ito
- Map of Oshima-machi
- Map of Izunokuni
- Map of Numazu
- Map of Atami
- Map of Mishima
- Map of Yugawara-machi
- Map of Shizuoka
- Map of Hakone-machi
- Map of Fuji
- Map of Fujinomiya
- Map of Odawara
- Map of Gotemba
- Map of Shimada
- Map of Miura
- Map of Hiratsuka
- Map of Hadano
- Map of Yamanakako-mura
- Map of Kakegawa
- Map of Narusawa-mura
- Map of Oshino-mura
- Map of Isehara
- Map of Fujisawa
- Map of Kamakura
- Map of Tateyama
Shimoda throughout the year
Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Shimoda?
Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:
Day itineraries for nearby cities
- 3-Day Shizuoka Itinerary
- 3-Day Kamakura Itinerary
- 3-Day Ito Itinerary
- 3-Day Odawara Itinerary
- 3-Day Numazu Itinerary
- 3-Day Gotemba Itinerary
- 3-Day Hakone-machi Itinerary
- 3-Day Atami Itinerary
- 3-Day Izu Itinerary
- 3-Day Fujisawa Itinerary
- 3-Day Fujinomiya Itinerary
- 3-Day Kakegawa Itinerary
- 3-Day Miura Itinerary
- 3-Day Fuji Itinerary
- 3-Day Hiratsuka Itinerary
- 3-Day Mishima Itinerary
- 3-Day Izunokuni Itinerary
- 3-Day Tateyama Itinerary
- 3-Day Minamiizu-cho Itinerary
- 3-Day Higashiizu-cho Itinerary
- 3-Day Shimada Itinerary
- 3-Day Yugawara-machi Itinerary
- 3-Day Hadano Itinerary
- 3-Day Kawazu-cho Itinerary
- 3-Day Isehara Itinerary
- 3-Day Nishiizu-cho Itinerary
- 3-Day Yamanakako-mura Itinerary
- 3-Day Narusawa-mura Itinerary
- 3-Day Oshima-machi Itinerary
- 3-Day Oshino-mura Itinerary
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