Izu Peninsula Geopark

Ryugu Cave

This cave features a 50-meter-wide skylight. This fascinating formation looks like a huge gaping hole in the wall when viewed from below.
It is also popular as a spiritual hot spot due to its heart-shaped appearance when observed from the upper walkway in the cave.

Ebisu Island

These rock formations preserve the traces of an ancient underwater volcano that existed centuries ago. The gracefully curving rock walls convey the majestic beauty of Mother Nature.

Tsumekizaki no Tawaraiso (Tsumezaki Columnar Joints)

The columnar joint formations that stretch along the west side of Cape Tsumekizaki are a natural marvel formed when magma cooled and solidified beneath the soil surface. These formations on the shore are referred to as “Tawaraiso.”

Kawazu Seven Waterfalls

Apart from the Kawazu cherry blossoms, which are the first to reach full bloom in Japan’s Honshu region, Kawazu is home to seven renowned waterfalls. These beautiful valleys and cascades were formed by volcanic eruptions approximately 25,000 years ago. Thus, there are traces of lava flows here and there.
*Exploring all of Kawazu’s Seven Waterfalls takes about an hour. Thus, it is advisable to wear comfortable footwear.

Shirahama Beach

Why is the sand so white?
The white sand that gave Shirahama Beach its name is composed of volcanic ash, pumice, and shell fragments ejected by submarine volcano eruptions roughly 2 to 10 million years ago. These deposits surfaced around one million years ago when the Izu Peninsula collided with the Honshu, the Japanese mainland.

Surfing

Shimoda City has several popular surfing spots, including Shirahama Ohama, Shirahama Chuo, Tatado, Irita, Kisami Ohama, and Touji.
Beginners can take surfing lessons offered by the “Shirahama Marina” surf shop. * The lessons are held at Shirahama Ohama.
*Available year-round

Sea Kayaking

You can try out sea kayaking under the careful guidance of an ACA (American Canoe Association) certified instructor. * Sea kayaking is available at Sotoura Beach.
*Available during the summer from July to August.

Snorkel Tour of Southern Izu’s Atlantis at Hirizo Beach

In a 2018 survey, this area was selected as having the cleanest water in mainland Japan, offering stunning underwater vistas that captivates all who visit. The water is so astonishingly clear you wouldn’t believe it. The shallow rocky areas are home to various creatures, making rockpool exploration a delightful experience. The package includes transportation from the Hotel, boat tickets, and equipment rental. It’s even suitable for elementary students and up!
*Available during July and August.

On a full moon, the moonlight reflects on the surface of the water,
creating the so-called ‘Moon Road.’
You can occasionally witness this fantastic nighttime view.
*Recommended in the autumn from September to December.