Higashiizu: Inatori Onsen, Tradition and Landscape

Inatori Onsen is a hot spring resort on the edge of the Izu Peninsula. Once a fishing village, the town combines this history with hot springs, a distinctive hanging doll tradition and a volcanic landscape. If you are looking for a holiday rental in Higashiizu, it is worth choosing Inatori based on the focus of your trip: seasonal culture, nature watching, fishing history or a stay with hot springs.

Getting There and Local Character

Izu-Inatori Station serves Inatori Onsen; the journey from Atami takes about an hour. As this is an approximate journey time, check the train timetable for your travel date. A traditional inn in Inatori Onsen offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean while you bathe.

Hanging Dolls and a Distinctive Tradition

The Hanging Doll Festival usually takes place from mid-January to the end of March; the exact dates may vary each year. At 文化公園 雛の館, the main venue for 雛のつるし飾りまつり, decorated Hina dolls are displayed alongside hanging fabric dolls. Visitors can make their own hanging dolls in workshops.

雛のつるし飾り is a distinctive traditional custom from Inatori. Its exact origins are uncertain. The custom is said to have already existed during the childhood of a woman born in the Meiji period.

Views and Nature at Inatori Ryugu Cape Park and Hosono Kogen

Inatori Ryugu Cape Park is home to Dontsuku Shrine and a viewpoint overlooking Izu-Oshima. Inatori Hosono Kogen offers a different natural attraction: the area covers about 125 hectares and is considered rich in animal and plant species in a volcanic landscape. At Hosono Kogen, you can walk freely and observe wetland plants in four wetlands designated as cultural properties by Shizuoka Prefecture.

The two places appeal to different interests: at the park, the view is directed towards Izu-Oshima; at Hosono Kogen, wetlands and plant watching take centre stage. When planning your trip, you can therefore choose between a viewpoint and a natural area with designated wetlands.

Fishing and Local Produce

The town’s former identity as a fishing village is evident at the harbour through 稲取キンメ. The name refers to golden-eye rockfish caught by handline and brought ashore at Inatori Fishing Port after a day at sea. Fishing begins at sunrise; the boat returns to port by 4 p.m. at the latest.

The fishing port’s direct sales outlet, こらっしぇ, sells 稲取キンメ, fresh fish caught that same morning with set nets, and fresh vegetables and fruit from the Izu region. In addition, Inari-maru offers sightseeing trips by fishing boat from Izu-Inatori. If you plan to take this trip, check departures and reservations separately.

Discover More Destinations

Atami, Fukuroi, Gotemba, Mishima, Kamo District, Iwata, Minamiizu, Midaka

For the main travel overview: Shizuoka Prefecture.