Tokyo:Izu Penisula Train Mt Omuro, Capybara Sightseeing Trip

Tokyo: Izu Peninsula Train, Mt. Omuro, Capybara Sightseeing Trip — an Authentic Day Out in Nature

When we think of escaping Tokyo’s hustle, the Izu Peninsula offers a breath of fresh air with its rugged coastlines, volcanic landscapes, and peaceful parks. This particular tour, priced at $87 per person and led by a knowledgeable guide, is a well-balanced blend of scenic beauty, fun animal encounters, and cultural flavor. With a small group limited to nine guests, it promises a more intimate experience—and less of that rushed feeling you often get on bigger tours.

We especially appreciated the variety of highlights packed into one day: from standing atop Mt. Omuro, the volcano that features in the anime “Your Name,” to riding the Izu Ocean Train along the coast, offering panoramic views that make your camera work worthwhile. The chance to interact with capybaras at Japan’s largest cactus park adds a playful and memorable element.

However, a potential consideration is the current replacement of the scenic train with an ordinary train due to track maintenance, which might slightly lessen that iconic journey. Still, the views and overall experience remain compelling.

This tour is perfect for travelers who love nature, unique landscapes, and animal encounters, as well as those seeking a relaxed pace without feeling rushed. If you enjoy authentic, off-the-beaten-path moments combined with scenic vistas, this day trip is worth considering.

Key Points

• Small-group size ensures a personalized experience and easier interaction.
• Scenic coastal views from the train and Kadowaki Suspension Bridge are breathtaking.
• Mt. Omuro’s volcanic crater offers stunning panoramic vistas and a chance to explore volcanic terrain.
• Capybara encounters at the cactus park provide a fun, hands-on experience.
• Flexible pacing allows more time at each stop for photos and exploration.
• Weather-dependent activities like cable car rides may be closed, so flexibility is key.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Izu Peninsula Day Trip

Starting Point: Tokyo’s Convenient Meeting Options

We began our adventure either with hotel pickup in central Tokyo or by meeting our guide at Tokyo Station’s Marunouchi North Exit. The communication was smooth—the guide sent a WhatsApp message the evening before with a photo of the meeting spot, which we appreciated for peace of mind. This small detail highlights how organized and considerate the tour provider is.

Getting out of Tokyo’s busy streets and into the countryside is a relaxing transition, and the air definitely felt fresher as we headed toward Izu. The drive takes around two hours, during which we could unwind, chat, or simply enjoy the changing scenery.

First Stop: Izu Jogasaki Coast and Kadowaki Suspension Bridge

Our first glimpse of the natural beauty of Izu came at the Jogasaki Coast, famous for its dramatic cliffs and clear blue waters. The quick walk to the Kadowaki Suspension Bridge provided stunning views—perfect for photos—and set the tone for the day. It’s a brief but impactful stop, giving us that “wow” moment early on.

This part of the trip is ideal for those who appreciate rugged coastlines and scenic overlooks. The trail is easy enough for most, but do wear comfortable shoes for the short walk.

The Scenic Train Ride: Coastline Views or an Alternative Route

Next, we boarded the Izu Scenic Train, which is typically known for its panoramic windows and coastal vistas. However, from August 17 onward, due to maintenance, the tour replaces the scenic train with a regular train. While this change might seem like a letdown, the journey still offers unobstructed views of the Pacific, and the 25-minute ride is a highlight for many.

Traveling from Izu-Kogen to Izu-Inatori, the train offers perfect photo opportunities of cliffs, beaches, and the sea. For those who love trains or just value the leisurely experience, it’s a relaxing way to see the coastline.

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Mt. Omuro or Cactus Park & Capybaras: Your Choice

Here’s where the tour offers flexibility. You can choose to visit Mt. Omuro, the short but active volcano that’s connected via a cable car. We loved the thrill of riding the cable car (¥1,000 round-trip), which quickly brought us to a crater rim with panoramic views of the Izu Peninsula. On clear days, you might even glimpse Mt. Fuji.

If weather or maintenance closes the cable car, you’ll enjoy views from the base, still impressive. The crater walk is relatively quick but rewarding, especially if you’re interested in volcanic landscapes.

Alternatively, the Cactus Park & Capybaras offers a more playful vibe. The cactus garden, Japan’s largest, is a surprisingly lush and colorful space with thousands of plants, and the star residents—friendly capybaras—are easy to approach. Feeding and photographing them becomes a highlight, especially for animal lovers or families. The Mexican-themed zones add a casual, festive atmosphere with music and snacks, making it a fun spot to relax.

Final Leg: Return to Tokyo

After a full day of exploring, we settled in for the return trip. The drive back offers a chance to unwind, reflect on the day, and enjoy the scenery one last time. We arrived back at Tokyo Station around 7:00 PM, just as promised.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

The tour’s value lies in its carefully curated stops that combine natural beauty with a touch of Japanese culture. The small group ensures more personal attention, which makes asking questions and taking photos easier. The inclusion of hotel pickup adds convenience, especially if you’re staying centrally in Tokyo.

Pricing at $87 includes transportation, the train ticket, and the guide, making it quite reasonable for a day-long adventure. Extras like the cable car (¥1,000 for adults) and admission to the cactus park (2,800 JPY for adults) are optional but enhance the experience, especially if you’re keen on the volcanic rim or capybara encounters.

Timing is well-paced, with enough free time to explore each stop without feeling rushed. The flexible itinerary means you might find yourself lingering longer at the coast or with the capybaras, which many reviews praise as a delightful aspect.

A Note on Weather and Maintenance

Some activities, like the cable car, are weather-dependent. During maintenance from June 11-20, the cable car will be unavailable, but the tour adjusts accordingly. This flexibility is beneficial, but it’s worth checking the weather forecast before booking.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This trip is ideal for nature lovers who enjoy scenic coastlines, volcanic landscapes, and animal encounters. It’s also suitable for families or couples looking for a relaxed, visually stunning day outside Tokyo. The tour’s small size and flexible pace make it perfect for those who prefer a more intimate and unhurried experience, rather than large, rushed group tours.

If you’re keen on photography, the panoramic views from the train and Mt. Omuro are sure to satisfy. Those who enjoy learning about local flora and fauna, as well as experiencing authentic Japanese parks, will find this trip engaging.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded day exploring some of Izu’s most striking natural features. From the rugged coast and volcanic crater to playful capybaras—there’s a little bit of everything that makes a day outside Tokyo memorable. While the change in train scenery might disappoint train enthusiasts, the overall experience remains engaging and scenic.

The value is quite good considering the included transport, guide, and unique stops. It’s best suited for travelers who want a taste of Japan’s diverse landscapes without the hassle of planning each detail themselves. The relaxed pace, small group setting, and authentic encounters make it a worthwhile choice for anyone craving a peaceful yet scenic escape.

FAQs

How long is the overall trip?
The trip lasts approximately from around 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, including travel between Tokyo and Izu.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 3 join for free without occupying a seat, and the fun animal interactions at the cactus park make it family-friendly.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as there are walks at the coast and volcanic crater. Weather can vary, so consider bringing a hat or light rain jacket.

Can I choose between Mt. Omuro and Cactus Park & Capybaras?
Yes, the tour offers a flexible option to pick your preferred activity, depending on your interests or weather conditions.

What if the cable car is closed?
If closed, views of Mt. Omuro are available from the base, so you can still enjoy the volcanic terrain and scenery.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are opportunities to buy snacks and lunch at various stops.

Is the scenic train ride always included?
Not during maintenance periods from August 17 onwards. An alternative train is provided, but the scenic aspect may be less emphasized.

How many people are in the group?
A maximum of 9 guests, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

How do I meet the guide?
You’ll meet at Tokyo Station’s Marunouchi North Exit, with instructions and a photo sent via WhatsApp or LINE the night before.

What if my plans change?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

This journey from Tokyo to Izu balances scenic wonders, cultural touches, and animal fun, all at a reasonable price. Whether you’re snapping photos of rugged cliffs or giggling at capybaras, it’s a trip that leaves you with lasting memories of Japan’s beautiful outdoors.

You can check availability for your dates here: