The best time to visit is during the annual Autumn Pampas Grass Festival, held from early to late October, when the entire plateau transforms into golden waves of pampas grass. Early November also offers excellent viewing conditions with shuttle bus services available. Spring, particularly in April and May, attracts visitors for mountain vegetable foraging including bracken and osmund. Winter in the Higashiizu area features stable weather with plenty of blue sky days and is sheltered from harsh west winds, making it suitable for year-round visits, though autumn remains the peak season.
From Tokyo, take the JR Izu Kyūkō Line to Izu-Inatori Station, which takes approximately two to two and a half hours. From the station, the plateau is located around 10 minutes by taxi. During the Pampas Grass Festival period, shuttle buses operate between the station and the plateau. Having a rental car is highly recommended for flexibility in exploring the area. Alternatively, the Higashiizu-cho Tourism Association offers electric bike rentals for ¥2,000 per day, though the 8-kilometer journey involves hilly terrain.
At the entrance of Hosono Kogen, there is a sign showing a walking map with representative routes, including distance and required time. Visitors should plan for at least half a day to explore the 125-hectare plateau properly. Camera stands are available at scenic spots along walking paths for photography. The site features walking trails and observation decks that are open during the festival season. For more adventurous hikers, trails lead to the 821-meter summit of Mount Misuji, which offers 360-degree panoramic views.
Yes, Hosono Kogen is famous as a paragliding destination, offering tandem flight classes with experienced instructors so even beginners can fly safely. The plateau's elevated position and open grasslands create ideal conditions for paragliding year-round. The experience allows visitors to enjoy aerial views of the pampas grass fields, Sagami Bay, and the surrounding Izu Peninsula. Tandem flights are suitable for participants aged six and above, making it accessible for families.
Four marshes within Hosono Kogen—Nakayama Marsh No.1, Nakayama Marsh No.2, Shibahara Marsh, and Momono Marsh—are designated as natural monuments by Shizuoka Prefecture. These wetlands formed due to poor drainage and harbor rare plant species. While you are allowed to walk freely in the Hosono Kogen area, you must stay on designated walking paths as many precious plants inhabit the marshes. Visitors should respect these protected areas and not venture off marked trails to preserve the fragile ecosystem.
