Mt. Omuro is a 580-meter-high extinct volcano, formed by a massive eruption around 4,000 years ago. Shaped like an upside-down rice bowl with a crater at its center, it’s not only a designated Natural Monument of Japan but also part of the UNESCO Global Geoparks. No wonder it’s one of the most iconic spots in East Izu!
A Fun Ride to the Top
At the base of the mountain, you’ll find local eateries and souvenir shops using fresh regional ingredients. The chairlift to the summit costs just ¥1,000 (about USD 6.50) round-trip for adults.
A six-minute ride takes you soaring through the air, legs dangling freely, as the fresh mountain breeze sweeps through your hair. Look up—it’s a stunning two-tone canvas of deep blue sky and lush green meadows. Refreshing doesn’t even begin to describe it!
Turn around, and you’ll see the endless Pacific Ocean stretching across the horizon.
“I wanna fly freely in the sky~ 🎵”
Please, Doraemon, give me a Take-copter!
Crater Walk With 360° Views
At the summit, you can enjoy a walk around the crater’s rim—a scenic 1km trail known as Ohachi Meguri. It offers panoramic views in all directions: Hakone, the Izu Islands, the Amagi Mountains, and even Mt. Fuji on a clear day—completely unobstructed.
You’ll also find stone statues dedicated to fishermen’s prayers for safety and a bountiful catch. Thank you, dear guardians, for always watching over us—and for the delicious seafood!
One special site is the Gochi Nyorai Jizo statue, believed to bring safe childbirth and romantic luck. The many stone Buddhas lining the path tell of Mt. Omuro’s long history as a sacred place of worship.
With so many photogenic spots, you’ll find yourself completing the loop before you know it!
Try Archery in a Volcanic Crater!?
In the wide, bowl-shaped crater, you can even try archery—no gear or experience needed.
Archers have always been cool: Minamoto no Tametomo, Robin Hood, DC’s Green Arrow, Marvel’s Hawkeye… All legends. Let your inner hero shine!
Sweet Rewards After the Walk
Burned some calories walking? Time to refuel—with dango (sweet rice dumplings)!
Forget “mountains or sweets”—why not both? But if I had to choose… I’d go with the dango.
The Fiery Spectacle of Yamayaki
Mt. Omuro’s Yamayaki (Mountain Burning) is a spectacular event held every February, a spring ritual with over 700 years of history. Flames race up the mountain as the entire slope is set ablaze in a dramatic display. It’s a fiery dance you won’t forget.
But beware: While Mt. Omuro is usually a calm and healing place, event days can turn into total chaos—traffic jams, illegal parking, and shoulder-to-shoulder crowds. A true inferno of excitement—or frustration, depending on how prepared you are.
Check local info in advance, follow the rules, and help keep Mt. Omuro beautiful and peaceful for everyone.
Enjoy your Izu vacation—with great views, great food, and great memories!
🚗 How to Get to Mt. Omuro
By Train & Bus:
- Take the JR Tokaido Line to Ito Station.
- From Ito Station, transfer to the Izu Kyuko Line and get off at Izu-Kogen Station.
- From there, take a bus bound for Shaboten Park / Mt. Omuro (about 20 minutes).
- Get off at Shaboten Zoo / Mt. Omuro Iriguchi bus stop. It’s a short walk to the lift station.
By Car:
- About 2.5 hours from Tokyo via the Tomei Expressway and Route 135.
- Free parking is available at the base of the mountain.
Comments