All products featured on Vogue are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
The region encircling Mt. Fuji has always stood as one of Japan s premier tourist destinations, drawing countless visitors every year eager to capture its stunning, world-famous beauty. Yet just to the south, the Shizuoka Prefecture and its Izu Peninsula remain a hidden gem—offering both an idyllic sub-tropical retreat and a less crowded basecamp for Mt. Fuji.
Following my own trans-Pacific journey to the area, I conquered jet lag with an overnight stay in Tokyo at the Shangri-La—then, in preparation for the cycling ahead in Shizuoka, took full advantage of the complimentary e-bikes to weave through the city’s vibrant streets. Next was a swift one-hour bullet train ride to Mishima, where my guide Shannon Walker from Kodo Travel greeted me. (At that point, I also waved goodbye to my e-bike, and prepared to continue my journey on wheels powered by own two legs.)
Shizuoka has swiftly risen to prominence as one of Japan’s top cycling hotspots—even serving as the proud venue for the road cycling events of the recent Summer Olympic Games. The region’s diverse terrain caters to all biking disciplines, from exhilarating downhill and cross-country trails to scenic road routes, with the growing popularity of e-bikes making these adventures more accessible for riders of varying skill levels. “Many first-time visitors come for the highlights of culture, food, and history and soon realize that Japan is blessed with so many beautiful natural assets,” explained Walker as we cycled through verdant fields of rice enveloped by lush mountains. “Slow travel through cycling and hiking are definitely the best ways to learn about the history and connect with local communities around these routes.”
But Shizuoka is brimming with plenty of other attractions too, including rejuvenating onsen, exquisite culinary experiences, scenic hiking trails, rich historical sites, vibrant cultural offerings, and Mt. Fuji. Whether you’re a bike fiend or not, here’s why you should take time out to visit the region’s natural wonders on your next trip to Tokyo—or simply make a vacation of Shizuoka in its own right.
What to Do
The Izu Peninsula was once an island until bridged with the mainland after an eruption. Similar to other regions in Japan, the dramatic geological features and landscapes we witness today have been sculpted by a long history of volcanic activity. Being a UNESCO Geopark is a testament to this, showcasing a mesmerizing geography meticulously carved over 20 million years of turbulent natural forces. Experience the formidable landscapes at the Izu’s highest peak, Mt. Amagi, and its Kawazu Nanadaru hike. A network of seven waterfalls is woven by trails and bridges through its terrain following several cascades, some draping over impressive pillar-like lava formations that are a natural monument to the region s volcanic heritage. Known as “columnar joints,” they’re sculpted by the cooling of ancient lava flows, and are a geological marvel. (After the Kawazu Nanadaru hike, seven nearby onsen await your tired muscles.)
In the nearby Izu-no-kuni region, road biking and e-biking are the best ways to discover historic towns and the origins of samurai culture. With the majestic Mt. Fuji serving as a picturesque backdrop and lush green rice fields swaying gently in the breeze, Kona Cycle guides tours throughout the region in English. Weaving between farms, towns, and alongside the Kano River, riders can then make their way to the nationally recognized Egawa Residence. This 900-year-old historic site was once a distinguished samurai family dwelling, whose influence permeated the Izu region since the 15th century. The building’s beams, crafted from mature Japanese cypress using time-honored woodworking methods and tools, narrate a tale from the Edo period—an era of vibrant growth and innovation that significantly shaped and protected the rich tapestry of Japanese culture we are familiar with today.
The scenic journey continues—by bike or by car—to the ancient town of Shuzenji. Named after a temple built here in 807 AD, it’s renowned for its hot springs and is home to one of only two surviving Geisha schools in Japan. It’s also one of the Izu’s oldest resort towns, with several ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) and public baths available. Besides finding zen in the Buddhist temple or onsen, Shuzenji’s bamboo forest is an escape to some of Asia’s most famous plants and favorite forests among visitors. After forest bathing, it’s time for foot bathing in the Tokko-no-yu hot spring. Legend has it that with a touch of divine inspiration, Kobo Daishi gave birth to the famed Tokko-no-yu hot spring, a gem nestled in the middle of the flowing river waters. Now, this very spring offers a tranquil respite, serving as a communal foot bath where weary travelers and locals alike dip their toes into the warm embrace of history.
With the village of Matsuzaki as your next destination, more road biking or scenic driving is now bordered by azure coastlines, sleepy fishing villages, and verdant volcanic mountains. And in Matsuzaki, a new adventure tourism business was recently launched. Mr. Jun Matsumoto of Yamabushi Trails originally saw an opportunity with the sheer number of abandoned ancient trails in the area. During the Meiji period of 1868 to 1912, charcoal was carried down the mountains using horse and sled to be burned in the city, creating half-pipe-like formations in the earth that are perfect for mountain biking. Matsumoto and his team set about restoring the trails, and now cyclists are whisked to the summit only to weave their way down, wheels kissing the earth of rejuvenated paths that slice through whispers of bamboo forests and glide past towns steeped in history. (For souls yearning for serenity on the sea, Yamabushi Trails also offers sea kayak fishing tours.)
Renowned as the cradle of wasabi cultivation, Shizuoka offers no shortage of opportunities to savor Japan’s piquant treasure. At Wasabi Village, visitors can even try their hand at cultivating and preparing the plant themselves. The farm is a living tribute to founders Yuki and Chiyomi’s unwavering commitment to the time-honored techniques of growing organic wasabi, preserving the tradition in every vibrant leaf and root. They have lovingly restored age-old stone terraces, and created a lush green amphitheater nourished by the life-giving waters of Mt. Fuji: an oasis that not only cultivates wasabi for Japan’s culinary masters but also opens its arms to visitors, inviting them to immerse in the harvest. As the only boutique organic wasabi farm that doubles as an agri-tourism experience, Wasabi Village offers a unique journey from field to feast. Guided by Kodo Tours with English narration, guests can engage hands-on, from plucking their wasabi to culinary sessions, crafting dishes as fresh as the water feeding the plants.
Of course, when you’re in Shizuoka, you have to pay honor to the influence of Mt. Fuji, which has been molding the region’s art, agriculture, and sense of adventure for millennia—and the best spot to do so is northwest of the Izu, near the town of Fujinomiya. Fujinishiki Shuzo Sake Brewery has been a bastion of sake production since 1688, and much like the esteemed wasabi of Wassabi Village, Mr. Sei’s sake harnesses Mt. Fuji’s spring water and is highly regarded across Japan. (Sei’s three-century-old family recipes have also garnered international acclaim, winning numerous awards around the globe.) Visits to the brewery include tours of the facility, its rice fields, and the tasting room. In the center of Fujinomiya, the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Center offers a five-story interactive tribute to the world’s most iconic volcano—and make sure to pay a visit to the adjacent Fujisan Sengen Shrine. Nearby, Shiraito Falls and its view of several cascading waterfalls with Mt. Fuji towering in the background makes for one of the most beautiful photos of the volcano, and is an area often overlooked by travelers.
Where to Stay
The Fujisan Mishima Tokyu Hotel’s rooftop onsen overlooks the city and features Mt. Fuji as its backdrop. It’s also attached to the Mishima train station, making for a perfectly comfortable and convenient for starting your Shizouka adventure. In the ancient town of Shuzenji, meanwhile, the Arai Ryokan is a traditional ryokan at its finest. Stocked with ponds of carp, several indoor and outdoor onsen, as well as a room with private onsen, exquisite restaurant, and geisha performances, you’ll never leave your kimono—unless you’re dipping in an onsen. Wasabi Village, on the other hand, offers brand-new onsite American-style RVs with private wood-fired hot tubs, but these are limited to guests with their own car and are best if you speak Japanese.
Near Fujinomiya in the shadows of Mt. Fuji, Mt. Fuji EcoTours is a sustainable community-based ecotourism outfitter with chic glamping tents and a traditional washitsu room with a private hinokiburo (Japanese cypress wood tub). This property offers a unique experience where guests can enjoy the same breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji that once inspired the renowned woodblock artist Hokusai for his famous series 36 Views of Mt. Fuji while enjoying the BBQ area, a cozy firepit, and an outdoor lounge perfect for sunset viewings of the majestic mountain. Just a short walk from the Shiraito Falls, it also features a pop-up steam sauna for an especially relaxing retreat.
How to Get Around
Upon landing in Japan, immediately obtain a Welcome Suica card at Haneda airport for hassle-free train travel—it’s rechargeable and eliminates the need to purchase individual tickets. Use Google Maps for precise public transit directions, including platform and train car details for optimal transfers and less crowding (the Airalo eSim app allows for affordable data plans in Japan and elsewhere around the world). Whenever possible, opt for guided tours to effortlessly explore and deeply experience the rich tapestries Japan has to offer while not being limited to language barriers and train and bus lines. Kodo Travel, a specialized adventure travel operator in Japan, merges decades of experience from New Zealand with Japan s emerging adventure scene, offering tailored excursions with English-speaking guides. The easiest way to get around is with a guide that can translate and explain, but self-guided trips can be planned through platforms like japan.travel and Japan-guide.