Ito Onsen
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Ito Onsen

4.6
·491k reviews·, Japan

Ito Onsen: A tranquil Japanese hot spring town offering traditional ryokan stays, unique capybara onsen, and scenic beauty.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
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Ito Onsen

Ito Onsen

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ito Onsen: A tranquil Japanese hot spring town offering traditional ryokan stays, unique capybara onsen, and scenic beauty.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Experience the ultimate relaxation with private onsen baths and historic charm in Ito Onsen."

Vertical photo
TIP

♨️ Private Onsen Options

Many hotels like Laforet Club Ito Onsen offer private onsen rooms or family baths for a more intimate experience.

🧳 Budget-Friendly Ryokan

K's House Ito Onsen offers a unique stay in a historic ryokan, providing an affordable way to experience traditional Japanese lodging.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Capybara Onsen at Izu Shaboten Zoo

Capybara Onsen at Izu Shaboten Zoo

Izu Shaboten Zoo

Witness the adorable capybaras soaking in hot springs, a truly unique and heartwarming sight. A highlight for many visitors!

Mount Omuro

Mount Omuro

Near Ito

Hike or take a chairlift up this distinctive volcanic cone for panoramic views of the Izu Peninsula and surrounding ocean.

Tokaikan Historic Building

Tokaikan Historic Building

Ito Onsen

Step back in time at this beautifully preserved Taisho-era onsen building, offering a glimpse into historical Japanese architecture and bathing culture.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Onsen Culture

Ito Onsen is renowned for its hot springs. Many accommodations offer private onsen experiences, perfect for those shy about public baths. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for popular ryokans.

Day Trip vs. Overnight Stay

While Ito can be a day trip from Tokyo, staying overnight allows you to fully immerse yourself in the relaxing onsen atmosphere and explore more leisurely. Consider a ryokan for a traditional Japanese experience.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn evenings
Why
Pleasant weather, cozy onsen
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Here’s how to see the capybara onsen at the Izu Shaboten Zoo in Japan!! This was the highlight of my Japan trip. I’ve seen so many videos online with the capybaras and yuzu that I wanted to see it for myself. The capybaras here really do love the onsen as they all made their way into the hot spring once they heard the water turning on. If you love capybaras like me, I highly recommend coming here....
@greenonionbun
180.4K likes • 1.6M views

♨️ Private Onsen Options

Many hotels like Laforet Club Ito Onsen offer private onsen rooms or family baths for a more intimate experience. Instagram

🧳 Budget-Friendly Ryokan

K's House Ito Onsen offers a unique stay in a historic ryokan, providing an affordable way to experience traditional Japanese lodging. InstagramReddit+1

I have to thank @Emily for sharing this beautiful place #fyp #Japan #Izu #Asaba #ryokan #ryokanjapan
@jackienovielli
134.3K likes • 1M views
Day trip idea from Tokyo🇯🇵 Ito is a hot spring or onsen town with only 2 hours away from Tokyo. It’s worth staying overnight like we did but if not, day trip is feasible too👍🏻and here’s everything you can do in Ito! 🚅 Catch the early morning train to Ito Station, if you got a JR East Pass, you’re covered! ⛰️Go to Mt. Omuro and take the chairlift up to the top ♨️ Across the road is the Izu Sha...
nickandhelmi
5.9K likes • 380.8K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Town

Wander through the charming streets of Ito Onsen, discovering local shops and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. Instagram

🍜 Try Local Delicacies

Don't miss out on local specialties like dried fish (himono) at the town's izakayas. Instagram

♨️🛀PRIVATE ONSEN FOR FAMILIES 🛀♨️ 📍Laforet Club Ito Onsen If you are too shy to go to a public onsen, then this hotel’s would be great for you. We booked this hotel because you can enjoy onsen from your own hotel room, in addition there’s a family onsen you can book to accommodate more guests. Ito, Shizuoka would be a great weekend getaway from Tokyo, and there are many great activities you ca...
tracyslifetoday
201 likes • 1.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

♨️ Private Onsen Options

Many hotels like Laforet Club Ito Onsen offer private onsen rooms or family baths for a more intimate experience. Instagram

🧳 Budget-Friendly Ryokan

K's House Ito Onsen offers a unique stay in a historic ryokan, providing an affordable way to experience traditional Japanese lodging. InstagramReddit+1

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Town

Wander through the charming streets of Ito Onsen, discovering local shops and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. Instagram

🍜 Try Local Delicacies

Don't miss out on local specialties like dried fish (himono) at the town's izakayas. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Ito Onsen is praised for its relaxing atmosphere, traditional ryokan experiences, and unique attractions like the capybara onsen. Visitors appreciate the accessibility from Tokyo and the variety of onsen options, from private baths to historic public facilities. Some find the town a bit quiet outside of the main attractions, and certain accommodations might feel dated.

What People Like

Relaxing onsen atmosphere
Historic ryokan stays
Capybara onsen novelty

What People Dislike

Can be quiet
Some dated facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ito Onsen is easily accessible from Tokyo by train. The JR Ito Line from Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station will take you directly to Ito Station. The journey typically takes around 2 hours. If you have a JR East Pass, it may be covered. Instagram

Yes, Ito Onsen can be a feasible day trip from Tokyo, especially if you focus on a few key attractions. However, an overnight stay is recommended to fully enjoy the onsen experience. Instagram

Once you arrive at Ito Station, many accommodations and attractions are within walking distance or a short bus ride. Renting a car is also an option for exploring further afield on the Izu Peninsula.

Yes, the JR Ito Line offers direct services from major Tokyo stations to Ito Station, making it a convenient travel option. Instagram

The train journey from Tokyo to Ito Onsen typically takes approximately 2 hours, depending on the specific train and connections. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

For popular ryokans and private onsen rooms, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons or weekends. Instagram+1

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official websites of attractions like Izu Shaboten Zoo for the most up-to-date information before your visit. TikTok

Ito Onsen town itself does not have an entrance fee. However, individual attractions, accommodations, and specific onsen facilities will have their own admission or usage fees.

If you have a valid Japan Rail Pass, it can typically be used on JR lines, including the JR Ito Line, for travel to Ito Onsen. Instagram

Ryokan prices in Ito Onsen can vary widely. Budget-friendly options like K's House Ito Onsen can be around $40/night, while more luxurious ryokans can be significantly more. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Key attractions include the unique capybara onsen at Izu Shaboten Zoo, the historic Tokaikan building, and the scenic Mount Omuro. TikTokInstagram

K's House Ito Onsen is a historic ryokan transformed into a hostel, offering travelers a chance to stay in a heritage building with a unique atmosphere at an affordable price. InstagramReddit+1

While many accommodations offer private onsen, there are also public onsen facilities available. It's advisable to check local listings for specific public bathhouses. Instagram

Families can enjoy the capybara onsen, exploring Mount Omuro, and staying in hotels with family-friendly onsen options like Laforet Club Ito Onsen. TikTokInstagram

To truly experience Ito's onsen culture, consider staying at a traditional ryokan, booking a private onsen, or visiting a historic onsen building like Tokaikan. Instagram+2

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Ito Onsen is known for its himono (dried fish), which can be enjoyed at local izakayas. You can also find fresh seafood and other Japanese delicacies. Instagram

Many onsen hotels and ryokans in Ito Onsen offer dining services, often featuring traditional Japanese cuisine as part of the stay. Instagram

Given its coastal location, Ito Onsen offers opportunities to enjoy fresh seafood. Exploring local markets and restaurants near the coast is recommended.

While traditional Japanese cuisine can be meat and fish-heavy, some restaurants may offer vegetarian or vegan options. It's best to inquire directly with establishments.

Dining experiences can range from casual izakayas serving himono to more formal meals at ryokans, often featuring multi-course kaiseki dinners. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Photogenic spots include the historic Tokaikan building, the scenic views from Mount Omuro, and the charming streets of the onsen town. Instagram

Photography is generally not permitted inside public onsen bathing areas for privacy reasons. However, common areas, lobbies, and exteriors of ryokans are usually fine for photos. Instagram

Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) often provides beautiful lighting for capturing the town's atmosphere and scenic views. Instagram

While you can't photograph the bathing itself, you can capture the traditional architecture of onsen buildings, steam rising from hot springs (if visible), and the serene atmosphere of ryokan gardens. Instagram

A versatile lens for landscapes and street photography, along with a tripod for low-light conditions or capturing architectural details, would be beneficial. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ito Onsen offers several family-friendly attractions and accommodations. The Izu Shaboten Zoo is a major hit with kids, especially the unique capybara onsen experience. TikTok For lodging, hotels like Laforet Club Ito Onsen and Ito-en Onsen Hotel provide family onsen options, allowing everyone to enjoy the hot springs together comfortably. Instagram+1 Consider staying in accommodations that offer spacious rooms or family suites to ensure a comfortable stay for everyone.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, K's House Ito Onsen is an excellent choice. This hostel is located in a historic ryokan, offering a unique cultural experience at an affordable price, often around $40 per night. InstagramReddit Utilizing public transportation like the JR Ito Line can also help save on travel costs. Instagram Look for accommodations that offer shared facilities or basic amenities to keep costs down, and consider dining at local izakayas for more economical meals. Instagram

💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways

Ito Onsen is an ideal destination for a romantic getaway. Many ryokans and hotels offer private onsen rooms or couples' onsen baths, allowing for intimate and relaxing experiences. Instagram+1 Consider a stay at a ryokan with ocean views for added romance. Instagram Enjoying a traditional kaiseki dinner at your ryokan and strolling through the charming streets in the evening can create lasting memories.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of the Onsen Experience

Ito Onsen is a quintessential Japanese hot spring resort town, offering a tranquil escape. The primary draw is, of course, the onsen (hot springs), known for their therapeutic properties. Many visitors seek out private onsen experiences within their accommodations, providing a more intimate and relaxing soak. Hotels like Laforet Club Ito Onsen and Ito-en Onsen Hotel offer rooms with private baths or family onsen options, catering to those who prefer privacy. Instagram+2

Beyond private baths, the town boasts historic onsen facilities like Tokaikan, a beautifully preserved Taisho-era building that allows visitors to experience onsen bathing in a grand, historical setting. This offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the architectural beauty and bathing rituals of a bygone era. Instagram For a more budget-friendly yet historically rich onsen experience, K's House Ito Onsen provides lodging in a registered tangible cultural property, allowing travelers to live within Japanese history. InstagramReddit+1

When visiting an onsen, remember to familiarize yourself with the etiquette: showering thoroughly before entering the bath, not wearing swimwear, and keeping towels out of the water. This respect for tradition enhances the overall onsen experience for everyone.

Exploring Ito's Natural and Cultural Landscape

While Ito Onsen is famous for its hot springs, the surrounding area offers diverse attractions. A unique highlight is the Izu Shaboten Zoo, where visitors can witness the delightful sight of capybaras enjoying their own onsen, a truly memorable experience. TikTok For those seeking panoramic views, Mount Omuro is a must-visit. This distinctive volcanic cone can be ascended via a chairlift, offering breathtaking vistas of the Izu Peninsula and the Pacific Ocean. Instagram

The town itself has a charm that invites exploration. Wandering through the streets of Ito Onsen allows you to discover local shops, traditional eateries, and the general laid-back atmosphere of a Japanese resort town. Instagram For a taste of local cuisine, be sure to try himono (dried fish), a specialty often found in local izakayas, providing a delicious culinary experience. Instagram

For travelers interested in history and culture, Ito offers more than just its onsen. The town is a gateway to the wider Izu Peninsula, known for its scenic coastlines and natural beauty, making it a great base for day trips and further exploration. Instagram+1

Accommodation Options: From Historic Ryokans to Modern Hotels

Ito Onsen presents a spectrum of accommodation choices to suit various preferences and budgets. For an authentic Japanese experience, ryokans are highly recommended. K's House Ito Onsen stands out as a unique option, being a historic ryokan that has been converted into a hostel. This allows travelers to stay in a registered tangible cultural property, offering a glimpse into traditional Japanese architecture and hospitality at an affordable price. InstagramReddit+1

For those seeking more conventional hotel comforts with onsen access, Laforet Club Ito Onsen Yunoniwa and Laforet Ito Onsen offer modern amenities alongside hot spring facilities, with some rooms providing private onsen access. Instagram+1 Similarly, Ito-en Onsen Hotel provides family-friendly onsen options, making it suitable for group or family stays. Instagram Hotel New Okabe is another option for those looking for a comfortable stay with onsen facilities. Instagram

When choosing accommodation, consider whether you prioritize a traditional ryokan experience, the convenience of a modern hotel, or the unique charm of a historic building. Many places offer packages that include meals, enhancing the overall value and experience of your stay in Ito Onsen.

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