Ito, Japan, is a place where natural beauty and local culture blend seamlessly, making it ideal for a variety of guided tours. Whether you’re craving an active outdoor experience, a deep dive into marine life, or a cultural day trip, Ito’s tours deliver authentic experiences that go beyond the usual sightseeing. We’re especially fond of the Half Day Izu Kogen Highlands Downhill Cycling Tour for its small-group intimacy and stunning views, and the Scuba Diving in Izu Peninsula adventures which bring you eye-to-eye with vibrant marine creatures. Whatever your interests, Ito offers something memorable, all within easy reach.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the best tours in Ito—each with its own unique appeal. From cycling and diving to full-day excursions with local guides, these options let you explore at your own pace and style.
1. Half Day Izu Kogen Highlands Downhill Cycling Tour
At number 1, this half-day cycling tour takes you through the scenic Izu Kogen Highlands, starting with a chairlift ride up Mount Omuro. Once at the top, you’ll enjoy a gentle downhill bike ride toward the Jogasaki Coast, stopping along the way to soak in vistas and local scenery. The small-group format, limited to four participants, offers a more personalized experience, and riders of all levels will appreciate how accessible and enjoyable this tour is.
What makes this tour stand out is its perfect blend of physical activity and sightseeing—without the exhaustion. The highlight is the scenic ride from Mount Omuro, with the optional short hike along the Jogasaki Coast adding a touch of adventure. The tour includes a visit to Sakura no Sato, a charming park near Mt. Omuro, giving you a glimpse of local flora and a chance to relax. The guide provides insightful commentary on the area’s volcanic landscape and coastal beauty.
This experience offers exceptional value at just over $55 per person, especially considering the included chairlift ride and personalized small-group setting. It’s suitable for those looking for a light outdoor activity with stunning scenery and easy access. The only downside might be the limited time, so it’s best suited for travelers with a half-day available.
Bottom Line: A breezy, scenic cycling adventure that’s perfect for active travelers wanting a relaxed but memorable taste of Ito’s natural highlights.
2. Let’s enjoy Scuba diving in Izu Peninsula for certificate Diver
Number 2 on our list is the scuba diving experience at Izu Oceanic Park, tailored for certified divers. This tour offers an intimate look at Izu’s underwater world, packed with colorful fish, moray eels, pufferfish, and even occasional sightings of dragon moray eels. The experience is carefully designed to suit your skill level, making it ideal for those already certified and comfortable underwater.
The tour includes a packed lunch, perfect for refueling after your dive, and the option to rent all necessary diving gear if you don’t have your own. The guides speak both English and Japanese, ensuring clear communication and safety. Reviewers consistently praise the professionalism of the dive guides, especially the patience and knowledge of Morita San, who is celebrated for his careful instructions and eye for marine life.
This six-hour adventure costs about $114, providing good value considering the quality of the marine environment and personalized guidance. The marine biodiversity, including sightings of multiple fish species and shrimps, makes it a must for underwater enthusiasts. It’s best suited for certified divers who want to explore Izu’s vibrant waters, but non-divers will need to look elsewhere for land-based activities.
Bottom Line: A top choice for certified divers eager to explore Izu’s rich underwater life in a safe, well-organized setting.
3. Ultimate View Izu Car Tour with Hotel Pickup and Local Guide
At number 3, the full-day car tour with a local Japanese guide takes you through East Izu’s most scenic spots. This private experience is perfect for travelers who prefer a flexible, personalized itinerary. The tour covers highlights like the impressive Jogasaki Suspension Bridge, Mount Omuro, and the Kawazu Seven Waterfalls, along with visits to Shuzenji Onsen Town for a taste of local hot springs.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility—your guide can tailor stops based on your interests and pace. The tour also includes a visit to Izu Kogen Beer, where you can sample local craft beers and fresh seafood, though food and drinks are at your own expense. The seven to eight hours allow ample time to explore without feeling rushed, and the private vehicle ensures comfort and convenience.
Travelers rave about the knowledgeable guide and the variety of sights, especially the panoramic views from Mount Omuro. The price, at around $460 for up to five people, offers excellent value for a personalized, all-day experience. This tour is ideal for small groups or families wanting a curated day with insider insights.
Bottom Line: A versatile, private tour perfect for those who want to see Izu’s highlights at their own pace with expert guidance.
4. Enjoy Diving In Izu Discover Scuba Diving for Nondiver
Number 4 features a Discover Scuba Diving experience designed specifically for non-divers or those new to scuba. This full-day tour offers an introduction to underwater exploration, complete with a rental equipment package. While it’s primarily aimed at beginners, the guide ensures safety and comfort throughout, making it a fantastic way to test the waters—literally.
The guide Morita San is praised for his patience and clear instructions, creating a calming environment even for first-timers. One reviewer highlighted how much fun they had snorkeling and diving with Morita San, wishing they could do it again. The experience includes a briefing, equipment, and the opportunity to explore Izu’s marine life in a controlled, friendly setting.
At roughly $144, this tour delivers good value, especially considering the personalized instruction and the memorable experience of seeing Izu’s underwater world without previous diving experience. It’s ideal for travelers curious about diving but hesitant to commit to certification or complex gear.
Bottom Line: A beginner-friendly day of underwater fun, perfect for those wanting their first taste of diving with expert supervision.
$144.05 per person
5. Kansai 10-hour chartered day trip – Kobe
Number 5 offers a private day trip to Kobe, customized for your interests. This full-day charter is perfect for travelers who want to explore beyond Ito, with highlights like the stunning night view from Mt. Rokko, the historic Arima Onsen, and the lively Kobe Port.
The itinerary includes a pickup in Osaka and a scenic drive with plenty of stops for photos, shopping, and sightseeing. The flexible schedule allows you to focus on specific sites or enjoy a leisurely day with your own pace. For about $562, you get a private vehicle and the ability to craft your perfect day, making it a good investment for groups or couples wanting a bespoke experience.
Reviews emphasize the professionalism of the guide and the ease of the private transportation. This tour is best suited for travelers with a full day to spare who want a personalized, hassle-free Kobe experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a private, flexible day trip to Kobe, especially if you’re coming from Osaka and want to avoid crowded tours.
$562 per group up to 4
6. Kanto 10-hour chartered day trip – Kawagoe
Finally, number 6 is a full-day private tour to Kawagoe, famous for its Edo-period architecture and small streets that seem frozen in time. This tailored experience is great for history and culture enthusiasts eager to see the Kawagoe Tibetan Old House Street and the Nagatoro rock formations.
The tour includes a pickup in the Kanto region, with a flexible itinerary that can focus on cultural spots, local crafts, or scenic natural sites. With a cost of about $491 for up to four people, it offers good value for a personalized day exploring one of Japan’s charming historic towns. Reviewers comment on the knowledgeable guide and the ease of customizing the day.
This tour suits travelers who want an in-depth look at traditional Japan without the crowds and are comfortable with a full-day commitment. It’s particularly good for small groups or families interested in cultural exploration.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, private cultural day trip perfect for history lovers wanting an authentic glimpse of Edo-era Japan.
$491 per group up to 4
How to Choose the Best Tour in Ito
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. If you love outdoor adventures, the cycling tour offers scenic views with minimal effort. For underwater fans, the scuba diving experiences are unmatched for marine life encounters. Those seeking culture might prefer the full-day private car tour exploring East Izu, or the Kawagoe day trip for historical charm.
Think about how much time you have—half-day adventures are perfect for a quick taste, while full-day private tours suit travelers wanting an in-depth experience. Booking early can secure spots, especially for popular activities like scuba diving or private charters.
Final Thoughts
Ito’s diverse offerings mean there’s a tour for everyone, whether you’re after a scenic ride, underwater discovery, or cultural exploration. The Half Day Izu Kogen Highlands Downhill Cycling Tour is a superb choice for active travelers craving stunning landscapes, while the Scuba Diving in Izu is perfect for underwater enthusiasts. For those wanting a personalized, flexible experience, the Ultimate View Izu Car Tour or Kobe day trip provide tailored itineraries with comfortable logistics.
Whatever your preference, these tours open doors to authentic experiences that will stay with you long after you leave. Remember to book early, and enjoy your time in this beautiful part of Japan.