Inatori Hosono Highlands Autumn Susuki Viewing Event
A vast 125-hectare field of silver grass turns into a silvery to golden carpet from October 31 to December 1 (Monday), creating a spectacular panoramic spot. You can take in sweeping views of the Amagi mountain range and the Izu Islands, and it’s guaranteed to be photogenic!
See the event page for details
https://hosonokougen.com

Hello! This is 🤗 Hokule'a Shonan
This time, I went diving in Futo, a popular Spot in Higashiizu! Tomito is a place that can be reached by Day trip from the Kanto region, There is a it is ✨ one of the most popular beaches in the Higashi-Izu diving Spot

On this day, we were 👍 divided into an OW (Open Water) training team and a fun dive team.
The transparency, which was a little down, was recovering quickly and I was able 😄 to dive very comfortably.

August is coming to an end, but the midsummer days are still ongoing.
After all, the sea looks best 🏝 in summer.
Of course, the coolness of the air conditioner is comfortable, but the time to jump into the sea in front of you and cool off while soaking up the sun is the most luxurious moment 🐠 of all.

The moment you put your face on the surface of the water, it is a blissful time.
In the sparkling water, a flock of Solas damselfish unique to Higashi-Izu Unfolds.
The scene is a healing space that you will want to look at forever, and it will make you 🤿 feel the charm of diving again.

And what I would like to recommend in Tomito is "Tomito Hall".
The terrain is like a small cave, and on a clear day, the light shines through, making you 🌟 feel like you're exploring a small cave.

If you were too busy to go diving in the summer, don't worry!
Tomito, which can be reached on a day trip from the Kanto region, is the perfect sea for the upcoming hot season.
It is a diving Spot that even beginners can participate in with confidence, so it is recommended to start obtaining Sense and fun dives at this time.

🌈 Hokule'a Shonan is a PADI 5 Star diving center located in Hiratsuka, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan.
The theme is "Let's go on a journey to a world we haven't seen yet!"
We help you discover the wonders and joys of Nature through diving.

Held in diving courses and tours for more than 300 days a year in Izu, Okinawa, overseas, etc., and the small group system makes beginners feel safe.
We can also make a plan according to your request, so please feel free to contact us 🫧.

Even if you missed the summer, the residual heat continues.
Why don't you take this opportunity to experience diving in Higashi-Izu and Tomito? 🌊

#DiveJapan #JapanDiving #FutoDiving #EastIzu #DayTripFromTokyo
#BeginnerFriendly #SmallGroupDiving #EnglishFriendly #DiscoverScuba
#ExploreTheBlue #OceanLovers #UnseenWorld

🎆[The 13th Stone-Dragging Dōkan Festival Fireworks]🎆
Izu was once a quarry for the stones used to build Edo Castle.
This event recreates the transportation of those castle stones.

We are recruiting the first 250 volunteers on site to pull the stones.
With 250 people, we are more than twice as strong as a hundred! We welcome both strong volunteers and those who aren’t.

After the stone-dragging, enjoy the fireworks display.

[Date]
Sunday, September 28th, 2025
6:30 PM–9:00 PM

[Location]
Atagawa Coast Street (road closed to vehicles during the event)
[Access]
5-minute walk from Izu-Atagawa Station
Temporary free parking at Atagawa Tropical & Alligator Garden (about 100 spaces)
https://www.isibikidoukan.com/?

Savor Higashiizu’s seasonal specialty: Inatori kinme.
Kinmedai, or splendid alfonsino, is a beloved local specialty in Higashiizu. The fish landed at Inatori Port, known as Inatori kinme, stand out for their exceptional freshness and quality.

Inatori kinme are caught with careful single-hook fishing and returned the same day thanks to boats that leave before dawn and come back in the afternoon. This day-trip fishing method keeps the flesh firm and full of fat.

The recommended way to enjoy kinmedai is simmered in a savory broth, a preparation that brings out the fish’s rich flavor. In winter the higher fat content makes it especially delicious and a perfect match with steamed rice.

When you visit Higashiizu, be sure to try the local taste of Inatori kinme!

✨Experience a magical early-summer evening at Izu Ōkawa Onsen✨
[23rd Firefly Viewing Evening]
Dates: Friday, May 30, 2025 – Sunday, June 8, 2025 | 7:30 PM–9:00 PM

At Ōkawa Onsen’s Takegasawa Park, whose water runs so pure it even grows wasabi, spend a special night wrapped in the gentle glow of fireflies.
Strolling the lantern-lit “Chōchin Walk” feels like a scene from a picture book.
After your walk, enjoy lively moments at the “Hotaru Market,” where local gourmet food and festival stalls line up.

🌟[Weekday Special]🌟
Visitors wearing yukata or kimono will receive one bottle of the Higashiizu-exclusive craft beer “Moon Road Beer” per person (weekdays only).
▶If you’d like one, please come to the festival square headquarters wearing the applicable attire.
Enhance the nostalgic mood of the event with traditional dress and savor a Japanese summer evening🌙🍺

📍Venue: Takegasawa Park, Ōkawa, Higashiizucho, Kamo District, Shizuoka Prefecture
🚌Free shuttle bus available (operates from Izu-Ōkawa Station and temporary parking areas)
💡Firefly conservation donation: from 300 yen per person (your support is appreciated)

Yukata, lanterns, firefly light, and the bustle of festival stalls.
Why not experience this unique, soothing night tucked away in the mountains of Izu?

Would you like to enjoy an evening stroll and gourmet treats among lantern-lit scenes in Atagawa, Higashiizucho during Golden Week?

Currently, about 1,200 Taiwanese lanterns decorate Atagawa Onsen, lighting up the town and creating a magical landscape of warm lights and rising steam. On the day, food trucks and night stalls will sell local specialties and Taiwanese dishes. Enjoy the evenings of Higashiizu!

The venue is a 7-minute walk from Izukyu-Atagawa Station. Please come to the event by the convenient, comfortable train.

Venue: Atagawa Hana Hanapa-ku
Contact: "Atagawa Lights Up Like Jiufen." Town Development Council (Higashiizu Chamber of Commerce)
TEL: 0557-95-2167

Enjoy the wreck and terrain in Higashi-Izu and Irisawa!
Spectacular dive experience with 20 meters of transparency

Hello! This is 😊 Hokule'a Shonan
This time, I went to the popular diving spot "Shobusawa" in Higashi-Izu!

"Irisawa" is famous for wreck diving, but actually... It's ✨ not just wrecks.
The dynamic terrain is also full of highlights!

There's 🏖️ even a cave
The arches and tunnel-like rock formations created by nature are like an adventure course in the sea. The mysterious scenery where the light shines in is perfect for photos 📸

Moreover, the transparency on this day exceeded 20 meters!
The blue world that I could see in the distance was truly breathtaking... ✨
The fish are swimming freely, and just looking at them is soothing.

🏝️ You can go to the HOT point right now! That is the charm of Hokule'a Shonan

At Hokule'a Shonan, we are very good at not only Sense acquisition courses and experience diving, but also guide you to diving spots that are "in season now!"
"I want to dive into a wreck!"
"I want to try cave diving!"
"I want to enjoy the sea in the best conditions of the day!"

Such requests are also welcome 😄
Please let us know ☝ how you feel, "I want to go to this sea!"
We will propose and guide 🏃 ♀️💨 you to the best place according to the sea conditions of the day and seasonal highlights

🏠 Station Chika, small number of people, a dive shop that is safe for beginners

Hokule'a Shonan is conveniently located just a 30-second walk from the south exit of JR Hiratsuka Station.
Our strength is our small group size and careful diving style that is close to each person.
First-timers, blanks, and one person are welcome!
We will do our best to support 😊 you in creating safety first and fun memories

This Spring and Summer, together with Hokule'a Shonan
Why don't you go and experience the expression of the sea "Only now"?
Now it's ✨ your turn to discover a new blue world

#DiveJapan #ScubaAdventure #ExploreTheBlue #OceanLovers #SmallGroupDiving #HokuleaShonan #HiddenGemsJapan

Spring at Inatori Hosono Highlands in Higashiizucho is full of bracken! Right from the parking area, you can step out into the highlands and enjoy gathering wild mountain vegetables. Why not harvest spring flavors with the whole family?

During the season, a cafe open on irregular days will serve kuromoji tea 🍃 and coffee ☕, and a hands-on event with animals 🐰 is scheduled for April 27.

A temporary parking area has been prepared, making it easier to stroll around Hosono Highlands.

📍Location
Inatori Hosono Highlands, Higashiizu, Kamo District, Shizuoka Prefecture

⏰Period
From Friday, April 11 to Tuesday, May 6
8:00–15:00

⛰Admission
Adults (junior high school and older) 500 yen
Children 200 yen

✉Inquiries
Higashiizu Town Tourist Association TEL: 0557-95-0700

https://www.e-izu.org/?p=we-page-entry&spot=572583&cat=23649&pageno=3&type=spot

"Haruiro Shoku Night Market"
https://atagawa-kyuhun-tomoru.jimdofree.com/

On Saturday, April 5, 2025, the "Haruiro Shoku Night Market" will take place across the entire Atagawa Onsen area!!

About 1,200 Taiwanese lanterns now decorate Atagawa Onsen, coloring the streets with warm light and steam to create a magical scene. Thanks to everyone, it will be one year since the 2024 lighting ceremony!

From 12:00 to 21:00 on the day, more than 20 stalls will offer local delicacies and Taiwanese street food, along with Taiwanese goods and cultural items you can feel and enjoy!

You can experience Taiwanese traditional culture with performances like Chinese lion dance, erhu music, and sky lantern releases—there is plenty to see and do! The local Atagawa Dokan Taiko drum performance will be beautifully lit red by the lanterns, creating a perfect atmosphere.

Enjoy the soothing nights of Atagawa Onsen.

*Parking around the area is limited, so please take the Izu Kyuko Line and relax while you enjoy the event♪
https://atagawa-kyuhun-tomoru.jimdofree.com/

A row of someiyoshino cherry trees stretching about 400 meters announces the arrival of early spring.

🌸 Welcome to Higashiizu Town, Inatori Highlands “#Sakura Corridor”! 🌸
https://www.e-izu.org/?p=we-page-entry&spot=422834&cat=23649&pageno=3&type=spot

The “Sakura Corridor” that spreads across Inatori Highlands in Higashiizu Town is a hidden hanami spot known to those in the know. The straight avenue of someiyoshino trees is breathtaking, and their pale pink petals color the grassy plaza. One of its charms is the spacious setting where you can relax and enjoy the cherry blossoms at leisure.

The cross-country course also features a playground and walking paths, so you can feel the coming of spring while getting light exercise. It’s also a welcome point that families with children can spend time freely without worry.🌿✨

Why not spend a soothing moment gazing at cherry blossoms swaying in the spring breeze?🌸

📍 Location
Inatori Highlands Cross-Country Course, Higashiizu Town
Postal code 413-0411
Inatori Cross-Country Course, Higashiizu Town, Kamo District, Shizuoka Prefecture

⏰ Season
Blooming is forecast around March 25
The peak viewing period is expected to be from March 28 onward.
(These are forecasts, so the timing may vary.)

✉ Inquiries
Higashiizu Town Industry Association Liaison Committee (Secretariat: Higashiizu Town Tourist Association TEL: 0557-95-0700)

#Higashiizu #Inatori Highlands #Sakura Corridor #Hidden Spot #Hanami #Spring Scenery #Family Outing
#Izu Trip #Sightseeing Spot

March 3rd is Hinamatsuri. At Susanoo Shrine in Higashiizucho, the country’s largest 118-step hina display is on view from February 15th to March 9th. The dolls line the steps so densely that you have to tilt your head well back to take them all in. Cherry blossoms are also at their peak in Higashiizucho, so please come and visit.

For details, check the Inatori Onsen Ryokan Cooperative Association website.
https://inatorionsen.or.jp/%e7%b4%a0%e7%9b%9e%e9%b3%b4%ef%bc%88%e3%82%b9%e3%82%b5%e3%83%8e%e3%82%aa%ef%bc%89%e7%a5%9e%e7%a4%be%e9%9b%9b%e6%ae%b5%e9%a3%be%e3%82%8a/

♨ Atagawa Yukemuri Night Market ♨

Under the glow of Taiwanese lanterns in Atagawa, why not enjoy local gourmet dishes?
The venue is a 7-minute walk from Izu Kyuko Atagawa Station. For your visit to the event, please arrive by the convenient and comfortable train service.

[Atagawa Yukemuri Night Market]
Date: Saturday, March 1st, 5:00 PM–8:30 PM
Venue: Atagawa Hana Hanapa~ku
Contact: "Atagawa Lights Up Jiufen" Town Development Council (Higashiizu Chamber of Commerce and Industry)
TEL: 0557-95-2167

“Kitagawa Onsen Moon Road”
Kitagawa Onsen Moon Road was selected as one of Japan’s One Hundred Famous Moon Views as a moon to be treasured for generations. For three days around the full moon, on nights when the moon shines especially bright, a lunar path—the Moon Road—appears as moonlight paints a path across the sea. This scene is unique to Higashiizu, where the town’s entire east coast faces the ocean. On the night of the full moon many visitors come with cameras to capture the view.
Experience a mysterious moment long spoken of in local legend: “If you pray on the Moon Road under a shining moon, your wish will come true…” Come and see it for yourself.

At Izu Kitagawa Onsen, a representative spot for viewing the Moon Road, the “Nekosai Day” event is held on every full moon. “Nekosai” refers to a fixed-net fishery, and Nekosai Day offers prayers for the safety and big catches of fixed-net fishermen, with free charcoal-grilled fish served to visitors. Enjoy this full-moon hospitality in Izu Kitagawa, Higashiizu. (In 2025, Nekosai Day begins on the full moon of February 12.)

For details about “Kitagawa Onsen Moon Road” and “Nekosai Day,” please check the Kitagawa Onsen Ryokan Association website.
https://www.hokkawa-onsen.com/mangetsu_nekosainohi

“From the Sea to Izu! From Izu to the Sea!” Inatori–Izu Oshima Route Operation Information

In spring, when plums and Kawazu cherry blossoms bloom in Izu, high-speed ferries will run from Inatori to Oshima to coincide with Oshima’s camellias.

Route
"Inatori–Oshima Feb. 3 (Mon)–Feb. 28 (Fri)"
Oshima departs 10:45, 13:35
Arrive Inatori 11:20, 14:10

Depart Inatori 11:30, 14:20
Arrive Oshima 12:05, 14:55

"Tokyo–Tateyama–Oshima–Inatori Feb. 8 (Sat)–Feb. 28 (Fri)"
Tokyo departs 8:10
Tateyama arrives 9:25
Departs 9:35
Oshima arrives 10:30
Departs 10:45
Inatori arrives 11:20

Inatori departs 14:20
Oshima arrives 14:55
Departs 15:10
Tateyama arrives 16:05
Departs 16:10
Tokyo arrives 17:25

During the period, you can reach Higashiizucho and the eastern Izu coast by sea from the Kanto region!
For timetables and details, please check the Tokai Kisen Co., Ltd. website below.
https://www.tokaikisen.co.jp/

Also this year, on weekends from Feb. 8 (Sat) to Feb. 23 (Sun) we will operate a complimentary shuttle bus for passengers:
"Inatori–Kawazu Free Sightseeing Bus"
Enjoy the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival and the Hina no Tsurushi Kazari (hanging hina doll decorations) festival.
For details, see the URL below
https://www.tokaikisen.co.jp/news/618222/

Access to Inatori Port boarding point
From Izu-Inatori Station to Inatori Port…
On foot about 15 minutes
By car about 3 minutes (parking available)


Special fares and tour information
Round-trip by ferry from Tokyo to Izu!
"Tokyo ⇔ Inatori Round-Trip Ticket (valid up to 4 days)"
Adult ¥10,800 Child ¥5,400
For details see the URL below
https://www.tokaikisen.co.jp/news/618222/

"Inatori ⇔ Oshima Round-Trip Ticket"
Normally ¥8,820, now
Day trip Adult ¥3,000 Child ¥2,000
With overnight stay (up to 4 days) Adult ¥3,900 Child ¥2,400
For details see the URL below
https://www.tokaikisen.co.jp/news/618222/

"From Oshima to Inatori: Shopping and Cherry-Viewing Cruise"
Feb. 3 (Mon), Feb. 19 (Wed), Feb. 28 (Fri)
This tour offers a bus sightseeing loop around the Higashiizu area departing from Oshima!
Adult ¥5,500 Child ¥4,000
On the first sailing of the Inatori route in 2025, Feb. 3 (Mon), adults receive ¥1,000 off and children ¥500 off!
For details see the URL below
https://www.tokaikisen.co.jp/news/502387/

"Inatori Departure Rapid Bus Tour to Izu Oshima"
Feb. 8 (Sat), Feb. 15 (Sat)
It’s truly rapid—takes less than three hours!? It’s practically a one-stop stay on the Izu Peninsula!
The tour from Inatori includes a boxed lunch and bus on Oshima.
Adult ¥4,000 Child ¥2,500
For details see the URL below
https://www.tokaikisen.co.jp/news/620883/

The 3rd Hosono Highlands Yamayaki Experience

🏔 What Hosono Highlands Is Like 🏔
Hosono Highlands spreads across the slopes of Mt. Amagi, which erupted between 800,000 and 200,000 years ago. The plateau covers about 125 hectares—roughly the size of 26 Tokyo Domes—and offers a majestic expanse of grassland. It is said to be a treasure trove of flora and fauna nurtured by volcanic terrain.
In spring, you can forage for mountain vegetables such as bracken amid fresh greenery. In autumn, vast stands of golden susuki (silver grass) create a spectacular display. From the summit you can see Sagami Bay and the Izu Islands, where meadow and seascape combine into a unique panorama.

Inatori Hosono Highlands has been recognized among the 100 Grassland Villages We Want to Preserve for the Future for the value of local knowledge, awareness, and skills accumulated through long interaction between people and nature.
Hosono Highlands conducts an annual yamayaki (controlled burn) to maintain the grassland. During walks you can observe grass-cutting work performed in preparation for the burn.
⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰
🔥⛰ What “Yamayaki” Means ⛰🔥

Yamayaki is an essential annual practice to keep Hosono Highlands as open grassland.
By burning overgrown grasses and shrubs, the area is prevented from turning into forest, and the burned vegetation returns nutrients to the soil to sustain a rich grassland.

This yamayaki has continued every year at Hosono Highlands since the Edo period.

Because the plateau borders neighboring Kawazu Town, preventing fire from spreading across boundaries is critical, and the work must address elevation changes and steep slopes, so seasoned experience and

advanced fire-management know-how are required.
⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰ ⋱⋰

● Event Overview

Yamayaki is an activity necessary to keep Hosono Highlands as grassland and has continued annually since the Edo period.
As a first trial in February 2023, we opened the yamayaki on a very limited basis and offered it as a guided tour for observation.
To help more people learn about this tradition in greater depth, we will hold the Yamayaki Experience again in 2025.
Please come and witness the overwhelming sight of the landscape ablaze.

● Event Schedule — Saturday, February 8, 2025
Date and time: Saturday, 2/8, 10:30–15:30 (scheduled)
10:30: Assemble and register at Inatori Hosono Highlands Parking Lot No. 2
11:00: Yamayaki viewing (guided yamayaki explanation, lunch provided)
14:00: Post-yamayaki walk (guided)
15:30: End of program and dismissal (Program order may change depending on yamayaki progress; please understand in advance.)
Meeting/registration location: Inatori Hosono Highlands Parking Lot No. 2 (parking spaces available)
➡ On the day of the yamayaki, general vehicles are not allowed into Parking Lot No. 1. Please park at the foothill Parking Lot No. 2.
There is no public transportation to the venue. Please use your own means of transport to access the site.

Participation Conditions
・Capacity is limited to 30 participants.
・Participants who are junior high school age or younger must be accompanied by a guardian.
・Please apply only if you fully understand the safety notes and on-site hazards.

Participation Fee
3,500 yen per person. Includes admission, consumption tax, local guide, lunch, insurance, and grassland management fee (1,000 yen).
※The participation fee is payable on site on the day of the event.
※We will contact you by email in advance and on the day about the event. Please note you cannot apply without an email address.

How to Apply
Please apply by entering the required information on the Higashiizu Town Tourist Association event page.
https://www.e-izu.org/?p=we-page-entry&spot=568220&cat=23649&pageno=3&type=spot
Or call the Higashiizu Tourist Association (TEL: 0557-95-0700) to register by phone.

● Notes and Precautions
About Participation in Work
This event is for observing the yamayaki. You may not take part in fire-starting or other operational tasks.
Cancellation Decisions
Yamayaki may be canceled on the morning of the event due to weather conditions (wind, humidity, rain, etc.). If yamayaki is canceled, this event will also be canceled. There are no substitute events. Please register only if you accept these cancellation conditions.
What to Wear on the Day
Yamayaki is a very dangerous operation, and flying embers or smoldering debris may be present.
Please wear flame-resistant clothing with minimal exposed skin.
All activities at the site are outdoors, so please prepare for cold weather.
Guide Language
Guidance is provided in Japanese only. Thank you for your understanding.

Cancellation Policy
If the event is canceled or you cancel, we will charge cancellation fees as follows.

If yamayaki itself is canceled due to severe weather (strong wind, dry conditions, rain, etc.), no payment will be charged.
If you cancel for personal reasons:
・Cancellation on the day or the day before → 100% of the event fee will be charged.
・Cancellation two days or more before → 0% cancellation fee.
・No-show without notice → 100% of the event fee will be charged.
*We may also claim actual communication costs or other damages where applicable.
For cancellations due to unavoidable events such as disasters, please contact the organizer.

If the organizer cancels for reasons other than weather, we will consult with participants and refund an appropriate amount.


Items to Bring
・Flame-resistant (fire-retardant) and warm clothing
・Clothes you don’t mind getting stained by sparks or soot
・Well-broken-in shoes
https://www.e-izu.org/?p=we-page-entry&spot=568220&cat=23649&pageno=3&type=spot

Hina dolls prayed to ward off misfortune from children and bring good fortune in life.
On the Izu Peninsula, hina dolls are displayed with various wishes tied into hanging decorations on both sides of the tiered doll platform.
This is a long-standing custom.

The 28th Hanging Hina Decorations Exhibition
🌞 January 20 (Monday) – March 31 (Monday) 🌞

🍑 In the Inatori area of Higashiizucho, there has been a custom since the Edo period of hanging a pair of suspended decorations on either side of the hina platform for the Girls’ Festival. 🍑

The Inatori Onsen hanging decorations have been passed down through generations. A charming sight unfolds as many types of hangings—such as crawling-baby dolls modeled on infants, sanbaso performers, and rabbits—link together and drape down. This scene, a winter-to-spring specialty of Inatori Onsen, invites you with a parent’s loving thoughts for their child.



Venue Information

Main venue / Cultural Park Hina Museum [Admission: 500 yen]
Sponsored exhibition venue / Naburatoto (February 15 – March 9) [Admission: 100 yen]
Futatsubori [Free admission]
Hachiman Shrine [Free admission]

Details
Address: 1729 Inatori, Higashiizu Town, Kamo District, Shizuoka Prefecture 413-0411
Phone: 0557-95-2901
Access: 20-minute walk from Izu-Inatori Station
Hours: 9:00–17:00 (last admission 16:30)
Parking: Cultural Park parking lot / flat rate 500 yen
Organizer: Inatori Onsen Ryokan Association
Event start date: 2025/01/20
Event end date: 2025/03/31

“Jiufen lights up in Atagawa.”

#Atagawa hot spring town...
A night where steam from the baths blends with the glow of lanterns.

We introduce a lighting ceremony event at Atagawa Onsen that lets you savor the magical scenery of Taiwan’s world-famous tourist spot, Jiufen.

#Taiwan street food stalls, #Chinese lion dance, Atagawa Dokan taiko drumming, fireworks and other festival attractions weave together in a lavish lighting ceremony.

■Special offers!
➀Free tapioca milk tea served by the Atagawa Onsen Ryokan Association!

②Vouchers usable at event stalls and shops within Atagawa Onsen will be distributed (first 300 visitors).

③Guests staying at Atagawa Onsen on the day will receive a handheld lantern (assembly-type LED lantern featuring a dragon motif) at participating accommodations on a first-come, first-served basis!

■Lighting ceremony event details

Date and time: April 6 from 7:00 PM

Location: Izu-Atagawa Station front rotary (lighting ceremony site), Onsen Lantern Road (provisional name) (main venue)

From April 6 onward, Taiwan lanterns will be lit every day so you can enjoy strolling the streets any time.

(*For more detailed information, check the Atagawa Onsen Ryokan Association website and Instagram!)

■Lighting ceremony schedule

7:00 PM Lighting ceremony starts, guest greetings

7:30 PM Countdown and simultaneous lighting

7:40 PM Performances by Atagawa Dokan taiko and Chinese lion dance

■Main venue schedule

From 3:00 PM – food stalls open

Enjoy Taiwan gourmet, crepes, local specialties and traditional fair games♪

From 8:00 PM –
・Hot spring source cleaning observation
・Photo sessions with local mascots
・Street performances
…and more are planned!

■Notes

Traffic restrictions will be in effect in various areas for this event.
(See the event flyer for details)

There is no parking available until 6:00 PM. Guests staying overnight should walk from their accommodations.

After 6:00 PM, the Atagawa Tropical & Alligator Garden main parking lot will serve as a temporary parking area.

[Inquiries]
Organizer: Atagawa Onsen Ryokan Association

Supported by: Taiwan Tourism Bureau, Taiwan Visitors Association, Izukyū Corporation, Atagawa Onsen Shopping Association, the people of Atagawa, Higashiizu Town

Cooperation: Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in Japan, Yokohama Office

#Atagawa Onsen
#Hot spring
#Lighting
#Illumination
#Izu sightseeing
#Izu travel
#Izu spots
#Izu hot springs
#Izukyū
#Izu Peninsula
#Higashiizu Town
#Taiwan

Spring in Full Bloom! Experience the Moving 400-meter "Sakura Corridor" in Higashiizu!

The "Sakura Corridor" is a 400-meter row of cherry trees lining the Higashiizu Town cross-country course (Inatori Highlands). We provide updates on peak viewing conditions starting in late March.

⏰ Best time to visit: Late March to early April 2024
🅿 Parking: Free (10–15 spaces)
🚌 Access: About a 10-minute bus ride from Izu-Inatori Station

Feel the fresh breath of spring and enjoy a beautiful, memorable time that will stay with you.
Along with cherry blossom viewing, come and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of the Sakura Corridor event with your family and friends.
We look forward to seeing you.

This year also features the 1st
"Higashiizu SPRINGFESTA."
The Regional Revitalization Team leads efforts to celebrate the cherry blossom season.

"Kids Festa"
Free participation event: "Let’s Make a Cherry Tree in Full Bloom!"
Write your wishes and thanks on cherry blossom petals to help complete the tree!
Children who write a message will receive a gift.

Dates: Saturday, March 30, 2024; Saturday, April 6, 2024; Sunday, April 7, 2024 (canceled in case of rain)
Time: 10:00–15:00
Prizes and participation gifts available
Stalls will offer ring toss, fishing games, and more!

"Hanami Beer Terrace"
Food and drink stalls will be available
How about enjoying tasty food and drinks under the cherry trees? ☺️
You may consume items purchased at the stalls at the terrace seats.
Dates: March 30 (Sat), April 6 (Sat), April 7 (Sun) (canceled in case of rain)
Time: 10:00–15:00

#Sakura
#Izu
#Hanami
#Izu Sightseeing
#Izu Spots
#Izu Travel
#Izu Drive
#Izu Inatori
#Higashiizu Town

＼Hosono Highlands Yamayaki Experience／

"Yamayaki" is a practice continued every year since the Edo period to keep Hosono Highlands as grassland.
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In February 2023, as a first effort, the yamayaki was opened in an ultra-limited way and offered as a tour for visitors to observe.
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To let more people learn more deeply, we will hold the "Yamayaki Experience" again in 2024.
Please come and witness the overwhelming sight of the landscape blazing to life.
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【Date and Time】
Saturday, February 10 — 11:00–16:00 (scheduled)
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【Meeting / Viewing Location】
Inatori, Higashiizucho, Shizuoka Prefecture
Inatori Hosono Highlands
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【Pickup】
Higashiizu Town Hall (3354 Inatori, Kamo District, Higashiizucho, Shizuoka Prefecture, 413-0411)
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➡ On the day of the yamayaki, general vehicles are prohibited from entering Hosono Highlands. Please refrain from coming to the site by private car.
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【Event Schedule】
11:00
Meet at Higashiizu Town Hall, transfer to Hosono Highlands
11:30
Arrive at Hosono Highlands
12:00
Yamayaki viewing (guided explanation and lunch included)
13:30
Participate in the serving event
14:30
Post-yamayaki walk (guided tour available)
15:30
All activities end, return to Higashiizu Town Hall
(Please note the program order may change depending on the progress of the yamayaki.)
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【Participation Requirements】
・Capacity: around 20 people
・Participants under 15 years old must register with a guardian in attendance.
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【Participation Fee】
4,000 yen per person
Includes admission fee, goods and service tax, local guide, lunch, insurance, and grassland management fee (1,000 yen)
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(If the event is cancelled, we will refund the amount after deducting the grassland management fee of 1,000 yen, i.e. 3,000 yen.)
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For details, access the reservation page from the Higashiizu Town Tourist Association official website!
Please check the notes before applying.

Hello to everyone watching Cool Japan Videos, nice to meet you.
We are the Higashiizu Town Tourism Association in Shizuoka Prefecture!

Higashiizucho, Kamo District, Shizuoka Prefecture, is a town rich in nature on the east coast of the Izu Peninsula.
Along the coast, six hot spring areas—Okawa Onsen, Hokkawa Onsen, Atagawa Onsen, Katase Onsen, Shirata Onsen, and Inatori Onsen—have developed the town as a hot spring destination.

For this first post on Cool Japan Videos, we bring you a taste of what makes Higashiizucho in Shizuoka Prefecture special, including recommended sights and activities!

◎ Tourist information for Higashiizucho, Shizuoka Prefecture

◆ Izu Animal Kingdom (formerly Izu Biopark)
Perched on a hill above Izu Inatori Onsen, this is a full-scale leisure park.
Often called "Anikin," it is beloved by visitors.
At Izu Animal Kingdom you can see animals up close and even enjoy feeding experiences with giraffes and tigers (including a white tiger)!

The area around Restaurant Animal Kingdom is also part of the zoo, letting you dine while watching large predators.
The park also includes an amusement area, sports facilities, a plum garden called Umezono, and "Dinosaur Forest," featuring various dinosaur sculptures.
There are so many attractions that a full day of fun awaits.

◆ Atagawa Banana Crocodile Garden
This tropical botanical garden houses about 100 crocodiles across 16 species.
Beyond crocodiles, it is the only place in Japan to keep the white-handed gibbon and the Amazonian manatee.

The greenhouse uses Atagawa’s hot spring heat to grow roughly 5,000 tropical plants, including banana trees and tropical water lilies—an absolute must-see.
Bananas and papayas harvested on site are served at the attached fruit parlor.

◆ Kitagawa Onsen Moon Road
With its magical atmosphere, Kitagawa Onsen Moon Road was selected as one of the One Hundred Moon Views of Japan.
"Moon Road" refers to the path of moonlight reflected on the sea surface.

Kitagawa Onsen Moon Road ranked first in the "I want to visit" category of the Fujinokuni Angel Power Spot poll, voted on by Shizuoka residents.
Some say wishes made at the Moon Road come true.
The best time to see the Moon Road clearly is on and around the full moon.

◆ Lion Rock
Lion Rock is a large rock at the water’s edge on the coast of Okawa Onsen.
It is named Lion Rock because it looks like a lion lying down and roaring into the distance.
You can see it while driving down Japan National Route 135.
*Because you cannot park and view it, please avoid looking away from the road while driving.*

◎ Leisure and activity information for Higashiizucho, Shizuoka Prefecture

◆ Coastal town cycling
The Higashiizu Town Tourism Association offers an electric-assist bicycle rental service.
We provide full-day private plans and time-based plans.
Enjoy a relaxed cycling trip while feeling the sea breeze.

◎ Event information for Higashiizucho, Shizuoka Prefecture

◆ Inatori Onsen Hanging Hina Doll Festival
This traditional event at Inatori Onsen has been passed down since the Edo period.
"Hanging hina decorations" are ornaments hung beside the hina doll display.
These hanging decorations come in many shapes, including flowers, rabbits, peaches, purses, and the sanbanko (three-tiered pull).
It is a popular spring event.

◎ Furusato tax-deduction (hometown tax) information for Higashiizucho, Shizuoka Prefecture

Through Higashiizucho’s hometown tax program you can receive local specialties and more.
A popular return gift is a stay plan at a hot spring inn with an exceptional location.
We also recommend the regular delivery of luxurious seafood feasts and the branded dried Inatori Kinme red bream.
Please check the variety of Higashiizucho specialties on each hometown tax site.

Higashiizucho, Kamo District, Shizuoka Prefecture, offers seasonal scenery, abundant hot springs, and delicious gourmet food—there is plenty to enjoy.
We will continue to share tourist and event information here, so please stay tuned!