Great Beach Resort Area in Izu Japan
Just a few hours south of Tokyo, on the Izu Peninsula, the onsens and beautiful beaches of Shimoda offer more than just a tranquil escape from the buzz of Tokyo. Shimoda also gives us a unique look into the development of modern-day Japan. In 1853, the U.S. Navy and Commodore Matthew Perry arrived on the shores of Shimoda and thus began Shimoda’s crucial role in the history of Japan. Shortly thereafter, at Shimoda’s Ryosenji temple, the Convention of Kanagawa was signed and Japan’s 200-year period of isolation was over. Shimoda soon found itself in the spotlight as one of Japan’s only ports open to international trade with the United States. Over 150 years later, western influence is still seen in the town’s 19th century buildings and in a quaint little cobblestone street that runs along the river (fondly named Perry Road). If you are looking for the ultimate getaway with a touch of history and culture this little seaside town is worth the trip from Tokyo.
To See & Do
Shirahama Beach – 4 kilometers north-east of Shimoda, 10 minutes by bus. Best white sand and surfing in the area. The beaches on the south-west side are more secluded. Shimoda Park – a 20-minute walk from the station or short bus ride (take the bus headed for Shimoda Aquarium). See the 1957 monument to US – Japan diplomatic relations and thousands of hydrangeas which bloom in June.
Shimoda Aquarium (next to the park) is best known as the world’s first floating aquarium. There are a variety of over 5,000 fish – most of which are unique to the Izu Peninsula. Visitors can also swim with dolphins (call for reservation Tel. 0558 22-3567).
Ryosen-ji – a 25-minute walk south from the station. Famous as the temple where Commodore Perry and the shogunate signed the Kanagawa Treaty.
Black Ship Cruises – 20-minute cruises around the bay depart every half hour daily (for reservation call 0558 22-1151)
Black Ship Festival – 3rd week of May, celebrates the arrival of Commodore Perry with a parade and other festivities.
Shimoda Taiko Matsuri – August 14th, Japanese drums and dashi (festival floats)
Access to Shimoda from Tokyo
By Car
The beaches and attractions of this remote location are best explored by car. Driving from Tokyo to Shimoda by car takes about 3 hours. From Tokyo, take the Tomei Expressway about 30 minutes to the Atsugi Interchange and head towards Odawara on the Atsugi Highway. After about 30 minutes, you will reach Odawara. From Odawara, take the Manazuru Highway to Atami and then R135 to Ito (about an hour). From Ito, drive down R136 for about an hour to Shimoda.
By Train
Izukyu-Shimoda station is the last stop on the Izukyu train line and Shimoda is as far south as you can go by train on the Izu Peninsula. The train station is the terminal of the Izukyu Railway, and is officially known as the "Getting to Shimoda" train.
Take the Odoriko or Superview Odoriko direct from Tokyo to Izukyu Shimoda station. By express train takes takes about 2.5 hours from Tokyo. There are also local trains which take longer and you will have to change trains at Atami but they are quite a bit cheaper.
Getting Around
For general information, check-in with the Shimoda Tourist Association which is just across the street from the station (Tel. 0558 22-1531). The main part of Shimoda town is great for a little tour on foot – it is all packed into an 8 block area. To get to some of the other sights and the beaches it’s a better idea to take a bus or a taxi. Bus stops and taxis can be found right outside the station. For access to hotels in the area, most hotels run free shuttle buses from the station. Check out the panaramic view of the bay area from the top of Mount Nesugata – it is 200 meters above sea level and accessible by a cable car close to the station.