West Coast of Izu
I rode the west coast of Izu taking Hwy 414 out of Numazu and turning onto Hwy 17 which runs along the coastline all the way to Toi. The west coast of Izu is much wilder than the east coast. The waters are also much clearer providing superb snorkeling. One of my first stops was Osezaki, where I have been on previous snorkeling trips.
The coastline of Izu is very hilly which can be humbling but it also offers gorgeous views of the ocean. On clear days you get stunning views of Mt. Fuji. There are so many great viewpoints and overlooks, often with the Giant in the background.
At Toi you intersect Hwy 136 which continues down the coast passing several beautiful beaches and coves. The traffic gets a little heavier but after Matsuzaki it thins out as much of the traffic goes onto Hwy 15. I was impressed with the rock formations in the sea at Dogashima. It kind of reminds me of the Oregon coast.
The longest and highest climb of the day came at the southern tip from Kunomi up past Seaside. The grade is fairly steep and, just when you are expecting a long downhill coast it rises again.
I was running out of daylight and took Hwy 136 all the way into Shimoda but, had I had the daylight, I would have ridden Hwy 16 all the way around the southern tip. I have been snorkeling down there at Hirizo Beach and it is fantastic. It has a very relaxing laid-back atmosphere. Izu has pleasant weather; cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter than the Tokyo area. It’s a great place to ride on summer days.
The ride from Numazu to Shimoda was an even 140 km. My Strava showed 3300 meters of elevation gain with the highest point being under 300 meters, so you get some idea of the hilliness. It is a jewel of a ride that I highly recommend.
Izu West Coast Gallery
