Explore the cultural and culinary treasures of Shuzenji Temple

Easily accessible from Tokyo, Shuzenji is home to an abundance of beautiful spring waters and is one of the Izu Peninsula’s most popular hot spring destinations. While many people come to this resort town in search of a relaxing soak, the area’s abundant waters offer more than just hot springs. At Shuzenji Temple, you can experience Edo period straw crafts with your own hands Mugihara Saikotake a look at the area’s vast mustard fields Or make traditional washi to take home as a souvenir. With endless cultural immersion options, this resort town is ideal for travelers who want to experience the full range of rural Japan.

From Shuzenji, it’s a short drive to the town of Toi on the west side of Izu, overlooking the vast Suruga Bay with a clear view of nearby Mount Fuji. The best way to enjoy the water views is to sample the bay’s freshly caught seafood paired with local mustard.

The abundant springs and rock formations of the Izu Peninsula have shaped the history and culture of Shuzenji and Toi. At the following locations, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the region’s craftsmanship, gastronomy and heritage and fully enjoy the wealth it brings.

Folk art Mugihara no Mingtomorrow

Not far from the antique Shuzenji Station Akitaa small mugiwara zaiku studio with an incredible legacy. The owner, Kyoko Tsuji, is a third-generation straw craftsman who runs the shop with her mother. Akita has several workshops for curious visitors to try out traditional Japanese crafts.

In the cozy studio, where warm sunlight shines on hundreds of intricate straw crafts on display, guests methodically wind damp barley straw into baskets, garlands or animal figurines. Since it is the only workshop in Japan that carries on the tradition of Omori weaving, straw craftsmen come from far and wide to learn these techniques passed down from generation to generation.

Idaba Wasabi Field and Tasting

Wasabi is a staple in Japanese cuisine and requires a constant and controlled supply of water to grow. Thanks to its abundant year-round cold mountain spring water, the Izu Peninsula has been a source of Japan’s highest quality wasabi for centuries.

Ikadaba has beautiful mustard fields that use mustard tatami stonecultivation method. This globally important agricultural heritage system consists of terraces built from layered rock and sand, ensuring a steady supply of temperature-controlled, nutrient- and oxygen-rich water to each mustard plant. As well as being an ingenious and sustainable farming system, these terraces are awe-inspiring with their flowing, mineral-rich waters and lush greenery.

Of course, fresh mustard is much better than tubed mustard from the supermarket, and it would be a serious mistake to miss out on sampling the spicy local specialty while in the area. stop at Izuwa Visitor Center Learn more about the incredible history and health benefits of mustard, and taste fresh mustard with varying spice levels.

Shuzenji Kamiya Washi Factory

Japanese washi Paper is renowned around the world for its beauty, sustainability and softness, and Shuzenji has a long history of papermaking craftsmanship. Although Shuzenji’s Japanese paper was once the official paper of the Tokugawa Shogunate, it became obsolete by the 20th century due to the arrival of Western paper production.

Recently, the local community has begun to fight for the revival of Shuzenji crafts –mixvisitors can now Shuzenji Kamiya Washi Factory. Keep the tradition of using three branches Mitsumata The factory uses trees as raw materials and grows them by itself. From peeling bark to removing defects, to pressing and drying, every step is done by hand.

Make your own Japanese paper in the papermaking workshop and experience the long tradition of Shuzenji. There is even an option to decorate your handmade paper with flowers and plants collected from the garden outside. After drying is complete, the factory delivers the Japanese paper to your home.

Chengyou Terrace

After exploring Shuzenji, the nearby seaside town of Doi is well worth a visit. For a taste of the local flavors with ocean views, head to terrace orange youOpening in July 2024. This unique complex of buildings stands beside towering pine trees and is Japan’s only tourist center that doubles as a tsunami evacuation site.

Overlooking Suruga Bay, Terrasse Orange toi has a foot bath for guests who want to soak their toes in local hot springs. Meanwhile, other regional delicacies are on the menu at Arigato, a charmingly named third-floor restaurant that utilizes Izu’s fresh ingredients to create and serve succulent seafood bowls and the popular local wasabi bowl.

The gift shop and café on the ground floor offer further opportunities to sample local delicacies, e.g. hit Loquat candied ice cream, from Friday to Sunday from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm, the dining area transforms into an Orange-time bar, serving alcoholic beverages.

lover’s cloak

Attracting 250,000 visitors annually, lover’s cloak – “Lovers’ Cape” in Japanese – is a famous “love energy spot” in Toi Prefecture. Fukutaro and the King, the star-crossed soulmates, would ring bells on the ocean to express their love for each other. This place is closely related to the legend of Fukutaro and the King. It is a place for couples who want to deepen their relationship. Very popular destination.

Couples write their wishes on paper while admiring the stunning views of Suruga Bay and Mount Fuji, immersed in a romantic mood. Emma Ring the bell on the observation deck and watch the bay turn red with the setting sun.

Starting from Tokyo Station, take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Mishima Station, then transfer to the Izu-Hakone Shuzu Line. It only takes 1.5 hours to reach Shuzenji Temple. You can also take the limited express “Maiko”, which takes about 2 hours.