What to know
Shuzenji Onsen (修善寺温泉) is one of the oldest and most famous hot spring resort towns on the Izu Peninsula. Located in the hilly center of the peninsula, it lacks ocean views but charms visitors with its history and scenic setting.
The town is named after Shuzenji Temple (修禅寺) at its heart. Kobo Daishi, a key religious figure in Japan, founded the temple about 1,200 years ago. Today it is a Zen Buddhist temple.
Kobo Daishi is also credited with creating Shuzenji's most famous hot spring, Tokko-no-yu, situated in the middle of the river that runs through town. Now it serves as a foot bath.
Other highlights in the town center include a small bamboo grove, several historic ryokan, and tasteful shops and cafes. For onsen bathing, visit the public bath Hakoyu. Many ryokan also allow day visitors to use their baths for a fee (from around 1,000 yen).
Access: Take the Izuhakone Railway from Mishima Station to Shuzenji Station (35 minutes, 550 yen one way, frequent departures). Alternatively, a few direct JR limited express Odoriko trains run from Tokyo to Shuzenji (about 2 hours, 4,750 yen one way). The Japan Rail Pass does not cover trains between Mishima and Shuzenji.
From Shuzenji Station, it's a 5-10 minute bus or taxi ride to the hot spring town. Take a frequent bus bound for Shuzenji Onsen (修善寺温泉) or Nijino Sato (虹の郷) and get off at Shuzenji Onsen (260 yen one way). A taxi costs about 1,300 yen one way.
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- Closed
- Admission
- English name
- Original name
- Shuzenji Onsen
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.