Ito Onsen was first discovered during the Heian period and has been cherished for centuries as one of Japan's premier hot spring destinations. Located on the scenic east coast of the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture, this historic thermal resort town sits approximately 100 kilometers southwest of Tokyo. The area gained historical significance in the early 17th century as the site where Japan's first Western-style sailing ships were built under the supervision of Englishman William Adams.
Ito Onsen boasts over 700 natural spring sources with 713 hot spring spouts, making it one of the highest outputs of natural hot spring water in Japan. The town is considered one of Japan's three major hot springs alongside Beppu Onsen and Yufuin Onsen. The main spring types are pure springs and salt springs, with 9 public baths operating since ancient times. The mineral-rich waters are renowned for their skin-healing properties and therapeutic benefits.
Hotel Sun Hatoya stands as one of the area's established onsen hotels, offering visitors an authentic Japanese hot spring experience in traditional surroundings. The resort provides both indoor and outdoor thermal baths with natural spring water flowing directly from the source. Guests can experience traditional Japanese hospitality while enjoying panoramic views of Sagami Bay and the surrounding mountainous landscape. The seaside location allows visitors to enjoy freshly-caught seafood alongside their thermal bathing experience.
The town retains its Showa-era atmosphere, featuring traditional wooden buildings, narrow streets lined with ryokan inns, and historic public bathhouses. Visitors can participate in the Seven Lucky Gods hot spring tour, where each bath houses a statue representing good fortune. The area offers hiking trails leading to scenic viewpoints, coastal walks along the Pacific Ocean, and cultural sites including shrines and temples dating back centuries.
Ito Onsen is accessible via the JR Tokaido Main Line from Tokyo Station, with the journey taking approximately 2 hours. The Odakyu Romance Car provides direct service from Shinjuku to Ito in about 2.5 hours. Local buses connect the station to Hotel Sun Hatoya and other onsen facilities throughout the town. The hot spring town is centered around the area east of JR Ito Station, making most attractions easily walkable. Day-trip visitors can access public baths for fees ranging from 300 to 800 yen, while overnight accommodation at onsen hotels typically ranges from 15,000 to 40,000 yen per person including meals and bath access.
