Tokyo:Izu Penisula Train Mt Omuro, Capybara Sightseeing Trip

Exploring Japan’s Izu Peninsula: A Day Trip Full of Nature and Unique Experiences

Taking a break from Tokyo’s hustle can be tricky, but a well-curated day trip to the Izu Peninsula offers a refreshing change of pace. This tour, priced at $87 per person, promises a blend of breathtaking coastal scenery, volcanic landscapes, and delightful animal encounters—all in one manageable day. While it’s not a private journey, the small-group format (max 9 guests) ensures plenty of personalized attention, which seriously elevates the experience.

What we love about this trip? First, the chance to see Mt. Omuro, the volcano from the anime Your Name, gives an authentic Japanese touch. Next, the scenic train ride along the coast is perfect for those wanting stunning photo opportunities without the crowds. Lastly, the capybaras at Cactus Park are surprisingly charming and make for fun, memorable moments. A potential drawback? The tour’s flexibility can sometimes be limited by weather or maintenance schedules, particularly with Mt. Omuro’s cable car. Still, this experience suits those seeking a relaxed, nature-focused escape that’s easy to fit into a day from Tokyo.

Good To Know

• Small-group intimacy ensures a more relaxed and personable experience.
• Scenic coastal views are a highlight, especially during the train ride.
• Visiting Mt. Omuro offers a volcanic adventure with panoramic vistas.
• The capybaras and cactus gardens provide playful animal encounters and colorful scenery.
• The tour’s flexible pacing allows for exploring at your own rhythm.
• Cost-effective, considering transportation, train tickets, and guide service are included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

How the Tour Works: From Tokyo to Izu’s Natural Wonders

Starting Point and Ease of Access

Our journey begins with a hotel pickup if you choose that option, or a meet-up at Tokyo Station’s Marunouchi North Exit. The convenience of being picked up from central Tokyo is a big plus, especially after a busy morning. The guide, whose contact details are sent the night before via WhatsApp or LINE, ensures a smooth start. The group is small, so it’s easy to ask questions and get personalized recommendations.

Traveling South: Comfort and Scenic Views

Once on the road, the scenery shifts quickly from Tokyo’s urban sprawl to the greener, coastal landscapes of Izu. The drive is comfortable, and the guide will point out interesting sights along the way. We loved the way the scenery changed as we left the city behind—suddenly, we were surrounded by rolling hills and ocean views that made the 2-hour trip fly by.

First Stop: Izu Jogasaki Coast & Kadowaki Suspension Bridge

Our first stop is the Izu Jogasaki Coast, a striking stretch of rugged cliffs and shimmering waters. It’s perfect for stretching your legs and taking photos. The quick walk from the parking area to the Kadowaki Suspension Bridge reveals jaw-dropping views of the ocean below. The bridge’s slight sway added a thrill, and the panoramic vistas from the suspension point are worth every step. Our guide shared insights about the area’s geology and how the coast’s unique landscape shaped local legends.

Reviewers note that this is a “great introduction to Izu’s natural beauty,” with some mentioning how “the scenery is truly stunning.” It’s a great way to set the tone for the rest of the day.

The Scenic Train Ride: Coastline Views on Rails

One of the trip’s main highlights is the scenic train ride along the coast. Due to maintenance, the original Izu Ocean Train is temporarily replaced with a regular train, but even then, the panoramic windows offer views of the Pacific that are hard to beat. The 25-minute journey from Izu-Kogen Station to Izu-Inatori Station is filled with photo ops—waves crashing against cliffs, rocky coves, and distant mountains.

Travelers who love photography will appreciate how the train’s windows frame the stunning scenery, and many say it’s a peaceful, almost meditative experience. The slight change in train type doesn’t detract from the overall atmosphere, and some reviews mention that “the views alone are worth the price of admission.”

Choose Your Adventure: Mt. Omuro or Cactus Park & Capybaras

The tour offers a flexible option to tailor your day—a rare feature for such short excursions. You can pick Mt. Omuro or the Cactus Park & Capybaras, depending on your interests.

Mt. Omuro is a short cable car ride (¥1,000 round-trip for adults) up to a volcanic crater that’s just 580 meters tall, but packed with dramatic scenery. The volcano appears in Your Name, giving fans a chance to stand in the same spot as their favorite characters. From the summit, on clear days, you can glimpse Mount Fuji and enjoy 360° views of the Izu Peninsula. Walking around the crater rim reveals interesting volcanic terrain, and the guide shares facts about the volcano’s history.

However, the cable car can be closed due to weather or maintenance, which some travelers mention as a disappointment. If that happens, you’ll still get a decent view from the base, but it’s not quite the same as standing at the crater’s edge.

Cactus Park & Capybaras is a colorful Mexican-themed garden with thousands of cactus plants and a lively animal area. The highlight? Meeting friendly capybaras, which are surprisingly adorable and curious. Guides explain fun facts about these social creatures while guests can feed and photograph them up-close. The Mexican zones are lively with music, snacks, and bright decor, making it a playful, relaxing stop.

A reviewer described this part as “an unexpected delight,” especially noting how “the capybaras are surprisingly gentle and fun to interact with.” This option is perfect for animal lovers and those wanting a more laid-back atmosphere.

More Great Tours Nearby

Return Journey and Final Thoughts

After exploring your chosen activity, the group reconvenes for the journey back to Tokyo. The return trip is usually relaxed, giving everyone a moment to reflect on the day’s highlights. Arriving back around 7:00 PM, it’s a long but fulfilling day.

Given the mix of natural beauty, playful animals, and cultural references, this tour offers good value for its price. The transportation, guide service, and included train tickets make it a hassle-free way to explore Izu without the stress of planning every detail.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re craving a day surrounded by nature, dramatic coastlines, and volcanic landscapes, this trip delivers. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate scenic views over structured museums or crowds. The small-group setting and flexible schedule make it suitable for those who prefer a more intimate experience. Animal lovers and Your Name fans especially will find this tour memorable.

It’s worth noting that the tour’s pace is relaxed, so it suits travelers who want to enjoy each spot without feeling rushed. If weather conditions delay Mt. Omuro’s cable car, the experience still remains worthwhile, thanks to the other scenic highlights.

Final Verdict

This experience strikes a nice balance between sightseeing and leisure. It’s particularly strong in offering authentic natural scenery and unique animal encounters that you can’t easily find elsewhere. The inclusion of scenic coastal views and a volcanic crater gives it a special edge, especially for those interested in Japan’s geological features or pop culture references from Your Name.

While certain elements like the train ride can be affected by maintenance schedules, the overall value remains high thanks to the variety of sights and the ease of logistics. The small-group format ensures you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd, and the guide’s insights add meaningful context to every stop.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small family, this trip offers a fun, immersive way to experience some of Japan’s most picturesque landscapes just a short ride from Tokyo.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, you can choose the option for hotel pickup in central Tokyo. The guide will send details the night before.

How long does the trip last?
The tour departs in the morning and returns around 7:00 PM, making it a full-day experience.

What is included in the price?
Transportation from Tokyo, hotel pickup if selected, a ticket for the scenic train, and the guide are included. Entrance fees and food are not.

Can I choose between Mt. Omuro and Cactus Park?
Yes, the tour offers flexibility to pick your preferred activity, depending on weather and personal interests.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, cable car rides at Mt. Omuro (¥1,000 round-trip) and entry to Cactus Park (2,800 JPY for adults) are extra.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 3 can join for free but won’t occupy a seat. The tour is generally kid-friendly, especially the animal encounter.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since there’s walking involved, especially at scenic spots.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Certain activities like Mt. Omuro’s cable car could be canceled; the guide will inform you in advance. Alternative sightseeing options are often included.

Is there free time at each stop?
Yes, the tour allows for enough free time to explore each location without rushing.

How do I confirm my booking?
You can reserve with the option to pay later, and the provider will send confirmation details and contact info before the trip.

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Izu’s natural beauty and playful character, making it a fantastic day trip for anyone wanting to escape Tokyo’s busy streets and explore Japan’s scenic side.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby