Researched guide · Checked on Oct 20, 2026
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Shuzenji Onsen, in the middle of the Izu Peninsula, is often called the oldest hot spring town in Izu. It grew up around Shuzenji Temple, said to have been founded by the monk Kukai (Kobo Daishi) in 807, along the Katsura River. With a bamboo forest path, riverside bridges, a public bathhouse and some of Izu’s best autumn leaves, it is a classic onsen town for an overnight stay from Tokyo.
Quick answer
Getting there: change at Mishima (Tokaido Shinkansen or JR Tokaido Line) to the Izuhakone Railway, about 32 minutes to Shuzenji Station, then a 10-minute bus.
Public bath: Hakoyu, adults ¥700, 10:00–21:00.
Autumn leaves: mid-November to early December. Niji-no-Sato light-up November 7 – December 13, 2026.
The story of the hot spring
Legend says that Kukai, traveling through the country, saw a boy washing his sick father in the cold Katsura River. Moved, he struck a rock in the river with a tokko (a Buddhist ritual tool), and hot water gushed out. This spring, Tokko-no-Yu, is said to be the origin of Shuzenji Onsen. Today it is a symbol of the town, but you cannot bathe in it or use it as a footbath.
Where to bathe: Hakoyu
The town once had seven public baths along the river. Hakoyu was built to bring back that bath-hopping culture, with a 12-meter lookout tower beside it. Its name comes from a legendary bath said to have been used by Minamoto no Yoriie, the second Kamakura shogun. It is a simple indoor bath with a wooden interior and a stone tub.
| Visitor | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults (junior high school and older) | ¥700 |
| Children (elementary school) | ¥400 |
| Guests at member inns in Shuzenji | ¥350 |
- Hours: 10:00–21:00 (last entry 20:30). Closed irregularly.
- On the second Thursday of each month (except August), it opens at 15:00 because of maintenance.
- Body soap, shampoo and conditioner are provided. A towel costs ¥200.
- There is no parking. If it is your first Japanese bath, read our onsen etiquette guide.
Things to see
- Shuzenji Temple: the temple at the heart of the town. Its treasure hall displays items linked to Minamoto no Yoriie, who was confined and died here. The water basin pours hot spring water from a dragon’s mouth. Treasure hall: 8:30–16:00 (until 16:30 from April to September).
- Bamboo Forest Path (Chikurin no Komichi): a walking path along the Katsura River through bamboo, with a large round bamboo bench. It is lit up after dark.
- Katsura River bridges: Katsura Bridge and Kaede Bridge are good spots for autumn colors along the river.
Autumn leaves (November – December)
| Place | Best time |
|---|---|
| Shuzenji Maple Forest, Niji-no-Sato, Shuzenji Temple | Mid-November to early December |
| Hot spring town | Mid-November to mid-December |
| Niji-no-Sato light-up | November 7 – December 13, 2026, 17:00–21:00 |
The Shuzenji Maple Forest is said to be the largest maple grove in Izu. During the season, extra shuttle buses run.
How to get there
- Train: take the Tokaido Shinkansen or JR Tokaido Line to Mishima, then the Izuhakone Railway to the last stop, Shuzenji (about 32 minutes).
- From Shuzenji Station: bus for “Shuzenji Onsen” to the last stop (about 10 minutes), or a taxi (about 10 minutes).
- Luggage can be sent from the station to your inn on the same day with the “IZUPON” service, and electric share bikes are available.
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FAQ
How do I get to Shuzenji Onsen from Tokyo?
Take the Shinkansen or JR Tokaido Line to Mishima, then the Izuhakone Railway to Shuzenji (about 32 minutes), and a 10-minute bus to the hot spring town.
Can I bathe at Tokko-no-Yu?
No. It is the symbol of the town, but bathing and foot soaking are not allowed.
Where can day visitors bathe in Shuzenji?
At Hakoyu, a public bath in the town. Adults pay ¥700.
When are the autumn leaves in Shuzenji?
From mid-November to early December. The Niji-no-Sato light-up runs from November 7 to December 13, 2026.
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Sources
History, prices, hours, autumn dates and access come from the official website of the Shuzenji Onsen tourism association and inn cooperative (checked October 20, 2026). Please check before you go.
