Shuzenji Onsen 修善寺温泉

A gorgeous temple and onsen spot in the heart of Izu , famed for its peaceful atmosphere and contemplative setting, Shuzenji has long been popular with writers, artists and intellectuals seeking solitude to help them channel their creative energy.

Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen Line to Mishima Station. From there take the Izu-Hakone Sunzu Line for about 40 minutes to Shuzenji Station.

On the banks of the Katsuragawa River and enclosed by mountains on all sides, legend has it that Kukai, a famous 8th-century monk, induced a rock to produce hot water, resulting in the establishment of the Shuzenji Onsen resort.

Nearby is Shigetsuden, a library of Buddhist sutras and the oldest wooden building in Izu. The grave of Minamoto no Yoriie (1182-1204), the second Kamakura shogun, stands in the grounds. He was imprisoned in Shuzenji and executed for the apparent crime of intelligence—such was his reputed brilliance that others felt threatened by him.

Also in the area is Niji-no-Sato, an oddly placed theme park with English and Canadian villages, a steam train and Japanese gardens. The Cycle Sports Center also has a cycling center, mini golf, and a swimming pool, perfect for those with children.