Text by Lai Peixuan | Photography by Chi Binghui
Cruising along this blue highway nestled against the Pacific Ocean, Suruga Bay is embraced by these azure waters while also being overlooked by Japan’s sacred mountain—Mount Fuji. The Suruga Bay Ferry, gliding through this uniquely blessed expanse of blue, has become a must-visit destination for travelers. As Japan’s deepest coastal bay, Suruga Bay allows passengers to enjoy a full 360-degree panoramic view of the bay during the 65-minute ferry ride from Shimizu Port in Shizuoka to Toi Port in Izu. On sunny days, the majestic presence of Mount Fuji adds to the breathtaking scenery.
The Suruga Bay Ferry (Dream Ferry) is a local sightseeing and transport ferry. Spanning 83 meters in length with a gross tonnage of approximately 1,554 tons, the ship offers comfortable private compartments and scenic seating areas, divided into “Ocean Room” and “Guest Room.” It can carry up to 450 passengers and also transport vehicles such as buses and cars. Inside the ferry, large window designs allow passengers to gaze out at the sweeping views of the entire bay.
When taking the Suruga Bay Ferry, consider spending a night at an Izu hot spring hotel to enjoy the therapeutic baths and local cuisine.
How can travelers make the most of their visit to the Izu Peninsula? Before boarding at Shimizu Port in Shizuoka, don’t miss the nearby Chibi Maruko-chan Park. And as you set off for Izu, a renowned hot spring destination, you can start planning a relaxing journey of rejuvenation through hot springs and gourmet delights.
Additionally, the “Izu Dream Ticket,” introduced to celebrate the opening of Shizuoka Airport near Mount Fuji, is a convenient service for visitors. The ticket includes one ride on the Suruga Bay Ferry and unlimited rides on Tokai Bus and Izu Kyuko Railway for three consecutive days. Travelers can also choose between the red “Golden Route” and the green “Wasabi Route,” depending on their itinerary.
In spring, the Kawazu Seven Waterfalls are blanketed with cherry blossoms, making it a famous sightseeing spot on the Izu Peninsula. (Image provided by JNTO)
In the hot spring town of the Izu Peninsula, aside from soothing baths and delicious food, the famous Kawazu Seven Waterfalls—a small village filled with hot spring inns, restaurants, and souvenir shops—is also covered in cherry blossoms in spring. If you’re looking for the most poetic spot in Izu, head to Shuzenji, an ancient mountain hot spring town that feels like a step back into the Heian period. These are some of the most captivating attractions in Izu. Now, let’s hop on the ferry for a dreamy vacation in Izu.
Shuzenji is filled with quaint old-style houses and lush green bamboo forests. (Image provided by Phoenix Travel Agency)