IZU Motorcycle Touring in Winter: Explore the Warmth of East Izu and Shimoda

Winter in Izu is particularly ideal for motorcycle touring, especially in the relatively warm regions of East Izu and Shimoda. Not only can you enjoy the mild climate, rich nature, and stunning coastal scenery, but you can also savor your journey in a relaxed atmosphere. Here, we will introduce the unique charms of winter touring in Izu and recommend must-visit spots in East Izu and Shimoda.

What Makes Winter Touring in Izu Special?

Izu offers a mild climate and beautiful scenery, making it a perfect location for touring. While Izu is a popular tourist destination, you can experience the comfort and tranquility that comes with the winter off-season. Here are three key points that highlight the allure of winter touring in Izu.

Recommended Motorcycle Touring Routes in Winter-Warm Minami-Boso, Chiba

Mild and Comfortable Winter Weather

While winter in Japan can bring harsh cold to some regions, the Izu Peninsula enjoys a relatively mild climate throughout the year due to warm ocean currents. Temperatures often hover around 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit), and the risk of road freezing or snow accumulation along the coast is low, creating an ideal environment for touring. Even during colder periods, riding along the coast allows you to enjoy the gentle sea breeze, making it a comfortable experience that embodies the charm of Izu.

It’s important to be cautious in higher altitude areas like the Izu Skyline, where freezing conditions can occur.

Enjoy Less Crowded Tourist Spots

During the summer and autumn tourist seasons, Izu attracts many visitors. However, winter is considered the off-season. As a result, famous tourist attractions, popular restaurants, and breathtaking viewpoints are relatively uncrowded, allowing for a more relaxed atmosphere. For solo riders who wish to enjoy leisurely rides while taking in the scenery, winter is the perfect time to avoid crowds.

Affordable Accommodations

Another advantage of winter touring in Izu is that accommodations are offered at off-season prices. Many ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) and hotels provide attractive lodging plans and discounts, allowing for budget-friendly stays. Especially in ocean-view hotels or those with onsen (hot springs), enjoying a soak after a long day of riding is one of the winter highlights. The ability to experience a luxurious stay at reasonable rates is a significant benefit of visiting Izu in winter.

Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Winter Izu

Izu is dotted with historical and natural sites, as well as relaxing onsen resorts that offer unique charm, particularly in the winter season. Here are three recommended spots to visit during your winter tour of Izu.

Ito Marine Town: Relax by the Sea

A great place to unwind during your Izu touring is Ito Marine Town. Located along the coast, you can enjoy stunning ocean views while taking a break. Soaking your feet in the free foot bath while feeling the pleasant sea breeze in winter is the ultimate relaxation. Additionally, the area offers fresh local seafood and souvenirs, making it a convenient stop during your ride.

Ito Marine Town

Address: 571-19 Yukawa, Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture, 414-0002

Phone: 0557-38-3811

Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (varies by store)

Websiteito-marinetown.co.jp

Shirahama Shrine and Shirahama Beach: A Spot for History and Scenic Views

If you want to enjoy both the history and nature of Izu, Shirahama Shrine and Shirahama Beach are highly recommended. Shirahama Shrine is one of the oldest shrines in Izu, with a history of about 2,400 years, and it is a power spot dedicated to the sea god. Many visitors come to pray for safe travels and good fortune. Parking is free for worshippers, making it easy to stop by on your motorcycle. You can enjoy a moment of peace and tranquility in this serene environment.

Right next to the shrine, Shirahama Beach is renowned for its beauty and remains stunning even in winter. The contrast of the blue sea and white sand is breathtaking, allowing you to enjoy a quiet moment gazing at the ocean in the crisp winter air.

Words of encouragement along the approach to the shrine
Shirahama Shrine

Address: 2740 Shirahama, Shimoda City, Shizuoka Prefecture

Access: About a 70-minute drive from Ito Marine Town

Parking: Free for worshippers

Shirahama Beach
White sandy beach and emerald green sea
Parking available at the observation area
Shirahama Beach

Address: Shirahama, Shimoda City, Shizuoka Prefecture

Shimoda View Hotel: An Affordable Onsen Resort

If you’re considering accommodations during your winter Izu tour, the Shimoda View Hotel is an excellent choice. Located close to Uraura Beach, this resort hotel offers stunning ocean views and is especially appealing in winter when off-season discounts are plentiful. The hotel provides secure covered parking for motorcycles, making it a safe choice for touring riders. After relaxing in the onsen, you can enjoy the tranquility of Uraura Beach the next morning, indulging in a spectacular view just for yourself.

In winter, Sotora Beach is almost deserted compared to the lively summer crowds, giving you a sense of a private beach. The sound of the waves creates a serene ambiance, making it a unique winter experience.

Ocean view from every room; stay with a last-minute discount on a room-only plan
The sunrise visible from the window is breathtaking
Covered motorcycle parking is a bonus for riders
Touring-friendly plans, including covered garage storage options
A 3-minute walk from Shimoda View Hotel to Sotoura Beach
Shimoda View Hotel

Address: 633 Kakiizaki, Shimoda City, Shizuoka Prefecture, 415-0013

Phone: 0120-289-489

Lodging Rates: Various last-minute deals available (rates may vary by season)

Covered motorcycle parking available

Websiteviewhotel.co.jp

Culinary Delights to Savor in Winter Izu

Izu is rich in fresh seafood and local delicacies, providing plenty of delicious dishes to enjoy along your touring route. Here are three must-visit spots where you can experience the culinary charm unique to winter Izu.

Izutaro: Savor Exquisite Seafood Bowls

Izutaro is famous for its seafood bowls made with fresh local fish. The restaurant uses fish that has just been caught in local ports, offering a variety of dishes, including sashimi, seafood bowls, and grilled fish. Winter is the perfect time to enjoy the rich flavors of fish that are particularly fatty and delicious during this season. It’s an ideal stop to refuel with a fresh seafood bowl before heading to your next destination.

Izutaro Kawana Branch

Address: 1257-97 Kawana, Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture

Phone: 0557-45-5234

Hours: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM (last order 2:30 PM), 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM (last order 8:00 PM)

Closed: Tuesdays

Websiteizutaro.co.jp/kawana-izutaro

Shimoda Burger: Enjoy Local Flavors

While touring in Shimoda, you must try the local delicacy, Shimoda Burger. This unique burger features fried Kinmedai (red snapper) from Izu and wasabi, utilizing plenty of local ingredients, making it a favorite among visitors. The soft bun perfectly complements the fresh vegetables and sauce, creating an addictive flavor. It’s a convenient option for solo riders looking for a quick lunch, and takeout is available, so you can enjoy it while taking in the views.

Local gourmet specialty: Shimoda Burger (made with red snapper)
Cafe & Hamburger Ra-maru

Address: Ra-maru Cafe & Hamburger, 1-1 Sotogaoka, Shimoda City (inside the Kaikoku Shimoda Minato Road Station)

Phone: 0558-27-2510

Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last order 4:30 PM)

Open: Year-round

Websitekaikokushimodaminato.co.jp/ra-maru

Kadoya Wasabi Farm: A Stop for Unique Flavors

When you think of Izu, wasabi is one of the local specialties. At Kadoya Wasabi Farm, you can stop by during your tour and indulge in the wasabi delicacies Izu has to offer. Their popular dish, the “wasabi bowl,” uses fresh wasabi grown on their farm. The spiciness of the wasabi, enjoyed in the crisp winter air, provides a delightful kick that invigorates your tired body from touring. Additionally, they have a souvenir corner where you can pick up some Izu flavors to take home.

A popular restaurant featured in the drama “Kodoku no Gurume”
Wasabi rice bowl and zaru soba set for ¥1,300
Kadoya Wasabi Farm

Address: 371-1 Nashimoto, Kawazu Town, Kamo District, Shizuoka Prefecture, 413-0501

Phone: 0558-35-7290

Hours: [Dining Room] 9:30 AM – 2:00 PM (until sold out), [Store] 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Websitewasabien-kadoya.com/menu

Conclusion

Winter touring in Izu offers a captivating journey with its mild climate, rich nature, beautiful tourist spots, and affordable accommodations. You can avoid the crowds of the off-season and enjoy your time at various sightseeing locations and savoring local cuisine. Particularly in winter Izu, you can indulge in a luxurious experience of relaxation while rejuvenating your spirit at historical shrines and stunning coastlines.

Moreover, tasting fresh seafood and regional delicacies adds another layer of enjoyment to your tour. This winter, why not set out for a trip to Izu and discover the unique charm it has to offer?。

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