After a long climb up many stairs, you reach the inner sanctuary - which provides some beautiful views of Atami, but to reach the main shrine you must continue along a trail up the mountain for an hour or so - which we didn't do, but hope to on a future visit. So for a complete visit, make sure you have at least a couple hours in your schedule, wear comfortable shoes, and be ready for some cardio!
One of the most beautiful shrines I’ve been to. The grounds of this shrine were spectacular, with incredible views over the coast, a large koi pond, beautiful trees including cherry blossom trees and benches to sit and enjoy the view. There are over 150 stairs you’ll need to climb to reach the top but it’s definitely worth it. The shrine shop sells ema and omamori and there’s also a small area you can go “fishing” for a fortune.
One of those places where the history of Japan, deep spiritual experience and breathing taking views are packed in one place. A must see spot for anyone visiting onsen in Atami, Shizuoka prefecture, but it's also very close to other onsen resorts e.g. Yugawara or Hakone.
The view from the top is beautiful! We went on New Year’s Day around 10am and there weren’t too many people. An hour later though, it got crowded really quickly. Still, definitely worth going if you’re in the area!
The best time to visit is from late January through early March during the plum blossom season when the shrine's 300 plum trees are in full bloom. This is one of the earliest plum viewing opportunities in the Kanto region. The shrine is also beautiful during other seasons, offering tranquil forest walks and ocean views year-round.
The climb involves ascending over 800 stone steps through a forested path, which takes most visitors 15 to 20 minutes. While the climb is moderately strenuous, the stone stairway is well-maintained and shaded by cedar trees. Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes and take breaks as needed. The effort is rewarded with scenic views and the peaceful shrine grounds at the top.
From Atami Station, take the JR Ito Line one stop to Kinomiya Station, then walk approximately 15 minutes uphill to reach the shrine entrance. Alternatively, you can take a local bus from Atami Station that stops near the shrine area. The train journey takes only a few minutes and is the most convenient option for most visitors.
No, admission to Izusan Shrine is free. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, view the plum blossoms, and enjoy the scenic overlooks without paying an entrance fee. However, donations are welcomed and appreciated to help maintain the shrine and its historic grounds.
Beyond admiring the famous plum blossoms, visitors can explore traditional wooden shrine buildings that reflect Edo-period architecture, view cultural artifacts housed within the shrine, and enjoy panoramic views of Atami city and Sagami Bay from the elevated grounds. During the plum blossom festival, there are traditional performances and food stalls. The peaceful cedar-lined approach and surrounding forest also offer a serene escape from the nearby hot spring resort town.
