To review this article, select My Profile and then View Saved Stories.
To review this article, select My Profile and then View Saved Stories.
By Jonny Bierman
We may earn a commission if you buy something from any affiliate links on our site.
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.
After my own transpacific trip to the region, I overcame jet lag by spending the night in Tokyo on the Shangri-La and then, in preparation for the next bike ride in Shizuoka, I took full advantage of the merit of the loose electric motorcycles so I could get away. the busy streets of the city. I then did a quick hour-long workout to Mishima, where I was greeted by my advisor Shannon Walker from Kodo Travel. (At this point, I also said goodbye to my electric motorcycle and I’m ready to continue my adventure on wheels powered by my own legs. )
Shizuoka has temporarily established itself as one of Japan’s cycling hotspots, even proudly serving as the venue for the road cycling events of the recent Summer Olympics. The region’s varied terrain caters to all cycling disciplines, from exhilarating downhill and cross-country trails to scenic routes, and the growing popularity of e-bikes makes those adventures more available to riders of varying skill levels. “Many first-time visitors come in search of the highlights of culture, food and history and temporarily realize that Japan is full of many enchanting herbal resources,” Walker explained as we strolled through lush green rice fields surrounded by lush mountains. “Slow biking and hiking are arguably the most productive tactics to learn about history and connect with local communities around those routes. »
But Shizuoka also boasts many other attractions, such as rejuvenating onsen, exquisite dining experiences, scenic hiking trails, rich ancient sites, colorful cultural offerings, and Mount Fuji. Whether you’re a cycling enthusiast or not, here’s why you deserve to take It’s time to make a stop at the area’s herbal wonders on your next trip to Tokyo or just enjoy a complete vacation in Shizuoka.
The Izu Peninsula was once an island until it joined the mainland after an eruption. Like other regions of Japan, the geological features and stunning landscapes we witness today have been sculpted through a long history of volcanic activity. Being a UNESCO Geopark is a testament to this, showcasing desirable geography meticulously sculpted over 20 million years of turbulent plant forces. Discover the formidable landscapes of Izu’s highest peak, Mount Amagi, and its Kawazu Nanadaru hike. A network of seven waterfalls is woven with trails and bridges through its terrain following several waterfalls, some of which cover impressive pillar-shaped lava formations that constitute a herbaceous monument to the region’s volcanic heritage. Known as “columnar joints,” they are sculpted by the cooling of ancient lava flows and are a geological wonder. (After the Kawazu Nanadaru hike, seven nearby onsen await your tired muscles. )
In the neighboring Izu-no-kuni region, road cycling and electric cycling are the most productive tactics for learning about historic cities and the origins of samurai culture. With majestic Mount Fuji as a picturesque backdrop and lush green rice fields gently swaying in the breeze, Kona Cycle’s guides tour the region in English. Passing through farms, villages, and along the Kano River, cyclists can make their way to the nationally identified Egawa Residence. This 900-year-old historic site was once a prominent samurai family home, whose influence had permeated the Izu region since the 15th century. The building’s beams, crafted from mature Japanese cypress trees employing centuries-old woodworking strategies and tools, tell a story of the Edo period, a time of dynamic expansion and innovation that particularly shaped and protected the rich tapestry of Japanese culture we know today.
The scenic adventure continues, by motorcycle or car, to the ancient city of Shuzenji. It owes its name to a temple built here in 807 AD. It is famous for its hot springs and is home to one of only two surviving schools of geisha in Japan. It is also one of the oldest resorts in Izu, with several ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) and public baths available. In addition to locating Zen in the Buddhist temple or onsen, the Shuzenji Bamboo Forest is an escape to some of Asia’s most famous plants and visitors. ‘ favorite forests. After the swim in the forest, it’s time to take a foot bath in the hot springs of Tokko-no-yu. Legend has it that with a touch of divine inspiration, Kobo Daishi gave rise to the famous hot water Tokko-no-yu. spring, a jewel nestled in the middle of the running waters of the river. Today, this spring offers a tranquil respite and serves as an unusually uncommon foot bath where weary travelers and locals alike dip their feet in the warm embrace of history.
By Vogue
By Hannah Jackson
By Christian Allaire
With the village of Matsuzaki as the next destination, road biking or scenic drives are now covered in blue shores, quiet fishing villages and verdant volcanic mountains. And in Matsuzaki, a new adventure tourism business has recently been launched. Jun Matsumoto of Yamabushi Trails first saw an opportunity in the area’s huge number of ancient deserted trails. During the Meiji period, from 1868 to 1912, coal was transported to the mountains on horses and sleighs to be burned in the city, creating half-pipe-shaped formations on the ground, the best for mountain biking. Matsumoto and his team set out to repair the trails, and now riders are taken to the more sensible ones and then descend, wheels hugging the dirt of the rejuvenated trails. that cuts through the whispers of bamboo forests and beyond to cities steeped in history. (For souls who crave serenity at sea, Yamabushi Trails also offers sea kayak fishing trips. )
Known as the birthplace of wasabi culture, Shizuoka has no shortage of opportunities to savor Japan’s spicy treasure. At Wasabi Village, visitors can even see how the plant is developed and prepared themselves. The farm is a living testament to founders Yuki and Chiyomi’s unwavering commitment to ancestral organic wasabi development techniques, preserving the culture in each and every colorful leaf and root. They lovingly restored ancient stone terraces and created a verdant amphitheater fed by the life-giving waters of Mount Fuji: an oasis that not only grows wasabi for Japanese culinary masters, but also opens its arms to visitors, inviting them to immerse themselves in the harvest. As the only organic wasabi farm that doubles as an agritourism experience, Wasabi Village offers an exclusive adventure from checkout to feast. Guided through Kodo Tours with English narration, visitors can take part in hands-on activities, from choosing their wasabi to cooking sessions to preparing dishes as new as the water that nourishes the plants.
By Vogue
By Hannah Jackson
By Christian Allaire
Of course, when you’re in Shizuoka, you should pay tribute to the influence of Mount Fuji, which has shaped the region’s art, agriculture, and sense of adventure for millennia. The most productive position to do this is northwest of Shizuoka. Izu, near the city of Fujinomiya. Fujinishiki Shuzo Sake Brewery has been a bastion of sake production since 1688, and like Wassabi Village’s prized wasabi, Mr. Sei’s sake takes advantage of the spring water of Mount Fuji and is highly prized nationwide. . Japan. (Sei’s three-century-old family recipes have also won praise abroad and won numerous awards around the world. ) Brewery tours include tours of the facility, its rice fields, and the brewery hall. tasting. In central Fujinomiya, the Mount Fuji World Heritage Center offers a five-story, interactive tribute to the world’s most iconic volcano, and don’t make a stop at the adjacent Fujisan Sengen Shrine. Nearby Shiraito Falls and its view of multiple waterfalls with Mount Fuji in the background create one of the most productive images of the volcano and is a domain that is sometimes overlooked by travelers.
For fashion
By Hannah Jackson
By Christian Allaire
The rooftop onsen at Fujisan Mishima Tokyu Hotel overlooks the city and is set in front of Mount Fuji as a backdrop. It’s also adjacent to Mishima Station, making it a perfectly comfortable and convenient location to start your Shizouka adventure. In the ancient city of Shuzenji, Arai Ryokan is a classic ryokan at its finest. Filled with carp ponds, various indoor and outdoor onsens, as well as a room with personal onsen, an exquisite restaurant, and geisha shows, never take off your kimono unless you’re soaking in an onsen. Meanwhile, Wasabi Village offers new-to-use-on-site American-style RVs with personal wood-burning hot tubs, but they’re limited to visitors with their own cars and are more productive 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.
By Fashion
By Hannah Jackson
By Christian Allaire
When you land in Japan, immediately get a Welcome Suica card at Haneda Airport for hassle-free exercise: it’s rechargeable and eliminates the need to buy individual tickets. Use Google Maps to get accurate public transportation routes, adding platforms and cars. main points for optimal transfers and fewer crowds (the Airalo eSim app allows for affordable knowledge plans in Japan and other parts of the world). Whenever possible, opt for advised tours to effortlessly explore and get an in-depth look at the rich tapestries Japan has to offer without being limited to language barriers and exercise and bus lines. Kodo Travel, an operator specializing in adventures in Japan, fuses decades of experience in New Zealand with the emerging Japanese adventure scene, offering personalized tours with English-speaking people. Consultants. The easiest way to get around is to have a consultant who can translate and explain, although self-consultation trips can be planned through platforms such as Japan. and Japan-consultant.
Naomi Biden on Her White House Wedding
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Hold Hands in Two Never-Before-Seen Portraits
Kim Kardashian Offers a Tour of Her Most Treasured Family Items
The Best Celebrity Wedding Moments in Vogue
The Most Unusual Celebrity Baby Names: Y, Gravity, Pilot Inspektor, and More
Sign up for Vogue’s wedding newsletter, an unlimited invitation to the exceptional and inspiration, plus tips and tricks for making plans.
By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Architectural Digest.. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
By Nicole Kliest
By Nicole Kliest
By Elise Taylor
By Mónica Mendal
By Liam Hess
By Elise Taylor
More from Vogue
See more stories