Izukogen Station

Izukogen Station serves as a gateway to the Izu Kogen plateau region on the eastern coast of the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. The station opened in 1961 as part of the Izu Kyuko Line, a private railway connecting Ito to Shimoda along the scenic coastline. This line was developed to support tourism growth in the Izu Peninsula, transforming the area from a remote coastal region into an accessible resort destination.

The station sits approximately 580 meters above sea level on a plateau offering sweeping views of Sagami Bay and, on clear days, the Izu Seven Islands. The surrounding Izu Kogen area is renowned for its volcanic landscape, characterized by rugged coastlines, lava formations, and over 3,000 cherry trees that bloom spectacularly each spring. The region's geothermal activity supports numerous hot spring resorts, making it a popular onsen destination. Cultural attractions include the Izu Teddy Bear Museum, the Izu Music Box Museum, and various art galleries that have established the area as an artistic community.

Visitors typically use Izukogen Station as a base for exploring coastal attractions like Jogasaki Coast, a dramatic 9-kilometer stretch of cliffside walking trails formed by volcanic lava flows approximately 4,000 years ago. The Kadowaki Suspension Bridge, spanning 48 meters in length and suspended 23 meters above the ocean, offers thrilling views of the rocky coastline below. The area also provides access to secluded beaches, lighthouse viewpoints, and forest trails through the plateau's wooded interior.

The station is served by the Izu Kyuko Line, with limited express trains connecting directly to Tokyo Station via the JR Tokaido Line in approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes. Local trains from Ito Station take about 25 minutes. The JR Tokyo Wide Pass and similar rail passes cover this route. From the station, local buses connect to major attractions, though many visitors rent cars for greater flexibility exploring the scattered coastal and mountain sites. The station area has basic facilities including coin lockers and a small tourist information counter.