RENT & RIDE JAPANWest Coast of Izu Peninsula (Matsuzaki & Dogashima)
West Izu Coastal Ride
Matsuzaki & Dogashima
A one-day round trip along West Izu's cliff-lined coast, taking in Matsuzaki's namako-wall streets, Dogashima's dramatic rock formations, and Mt. Fuji across Suruga Bay.
- DISTANCE
- 350 km
- DURATION
- 12 h
- LEVEL
- Intermediate
Starting from Tashilog Garage in Hachioji, this one-day tour traces the coastline of West Izu. The cliff-side winding road along Route 136 offers sweeping views of a glittering Suruga Bay and Mt. Fuji.
Course Highlights
- Koibito-misaki (Lovers' Cape): a scenic viewpoint framing Mt. Fuji across the bay.
- Dogashima: sea-carved rock formations and the famous Tensodo skylight cave, best seen by pleasure boat.
- Matsuzaki namako walls: a quiet port town lined with preserved Meiji-era merchant houses.
Riding Tips
Expect plenty of coastal ups, downs and curves — enjoy the scenery, but ride safely. Set off early to avoid evening congestion on the way home from West Izu.
- 1START
Tashilog Garage
Start point. Head to West Izu via the Chuo, Tomei and Izu-Jukan expressways.
TIPSThis is a long day — an early start is recommended. Check fuel and tire pressure before departure.
- 2VIEW~40 min
Koibito-misaki (Lovers' Cape)
A viewpoint south of Toi, looking out over Suruga Bay toward Mt. Fuji.
HISTORYLegend tells of a Toi fisherman and a farmer's daughter who, though separated, rang bells from sea and shore to affirm their love. The Love Call Bell here recalls that tale.
TIPSThe lookout is about a 700 m walk from the parking area. There is a shop and café; hours are roughly 9:00–17:00.
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Photo: Aimaimyi / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0 - 3VIEW~40 min
Dogashima
One of West Izu's finest scenic spots, with jagged rocks and sea caves. The clifftop promenade offers superb views.
HISTORYThe coast is formed of white tuff shaped by the sea. Its centerpiece, the Tensodo cave, was designated a Natural Monument in 1935 and is tied to a legend of the warlord Minamoto no Yoritomo hiding from pursuers.
TIPSThe Dogashima promenade is free to walk, and you can view the Tensodo skylight from above on foot.
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Photo: Mti / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0 - 4SPOT~40 min
Dogashima Cave Cruise (Dogashima Marine)
A popular ~20-minute pleasure boat that enters the Tensodo 'blue cave' and passes Sanshiro Islands.
TIPSThe blue is most vivid around midday. Cruises are cancelled on windy or rough days, so check the Dogashima Marine website for the latest operating status.
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Image - 5FOOD~60 min
Ajimasa
A sushi restaurant in Matsuzaki serving local West Izu seafood as nigiri and rice bowls.
TIPSKnown for sushi made with local fish. As it can be busy, it's wise to phone ahead to confirm hours and closing days.
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Image - 6SPOT~40 min
Meiji Merchant House Nakase-tei
A Meiji-era merchant house that serves as the gateway for exploring Matsuzaki's namako-wall streets, doubling as a tourist information center.
HISTORYBuilt in 1887 as the residence of kimono merchant Naokichi Yoda. The main house is open as a museum, and its black-plaster namako-wall storehouse is a rarity found nowhere else in Matsuzaki.
TIPSAdmission is free; hours are roughly 9:00–17:00, open daily. The nearby namako-wall street around the Kondo house is a great photo spot.
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Photo: TANAKA Juuyoh (田中十洋) / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0 - 7GOAL
Tashilog Garage
Return. Head back to Hachioji from Matsuzaki via Route 136 and the Izu-Jukan, Tomei and Chuo expressways.
TIPSThe return leg is long, so take regular breaks. Watch for cooler temperatures and road conditions on mountain sections after dark.