A scenic drive from Dogashima Park to Izunokuni along the Izu Peninsula.
July 9, 2023
“Dogashima (堂ヶ島, Dōgashima) in western Izu is famous for its dramatic stone formations, cliffs and caves formed by the lava flow of past volcanic eruptions and shoreline erosion. The best way to see the coast is from one of the frequently departing sightseeing boats, which briefly enter one of the larger caves. The cruises around Dogashima take about 20-25 minutes, although longer tours are also available.
On the small peninsula south of the boat pier is the Sawada Park Open Air Bath (Sawada Koen Rotemburo), a cliff-side hot spring bath with beautiful views over the ocean. The baths are gender-separated.
The Futo Coast, about 2.5 kilometers northwest of Dogashima, is a small bay with a stony beach and a hiking trail that leads to rock formations known as magmatic dikes. These dikes were formed when magma rose to the surface and solidified along the vent of a volcano. The outer layers of the volcano eroded over time, leaving just the volcanic neck – a magmatic dike.”
–https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e6312.html
“Izunokuni is in the northern part of Izu Peninsula just a few minutes from Mishima on the Izu Hakone train line.
Izunokuni has a long and storied history and, over the centuries, has been a strategic location for many powerful Japanese Samurai – at first glance not much of this history remains today but dig a bit deeper and you will find a fascinating backstory.”
“Izunokuni is known for its Mt Fuji views, geisha school, delicious strawberries, and, in recent years, as a cycling and hiking destination.
Blessed with hot spring waters the Izunokuni area in its heyday was a thriving onsen destination.
There are only 2 surviving Geisha schools in Japan – one in Izunokuni and the other in Kyoto meaning you can get a once-in-a-lifetime authentic Geisha experience in Izunokuni.
For those looking to explore the history of Izunokuni, Nirayama Cannon Smelting facility Nirayama reverberatory furnaces and Ganjojuin Temple are popular sites.”
–https://www.explore-izu.com/destinations/izunokuni/