We enjoy Izu peninsula so much that we go there several times a year. Izu has lush green forests, rivers, beaches, seafood and most importantly... onsen hot springs! We've stayed overnight at many different Inns but we seem to gravitate back to Atagawa. So, last weekend back to Atagawa we went.
It was a rainy Saturday morning and our route took us through rice paddies.
Through bamboo forests.
Along rivers with lush grassy banks.
And, even to several roadside vegetable stands; we always stop at vegetable stands.
By mid afternoon the rain had stopped and we arrived at the seaside village of Atagawa.
Before checking into the hotel it's always fun to go for a walk along the seacoast.
That's Oshima island on the horizon.
This is the sand beach that is the centerpiece of Atagawa village.
Since it's early June there's not a lot of activity. It'll be very crowded here in July and August.
This is where the Atagawa river meets the sea.
While walking in the town we passed by a dried fish shop.
And, a liquor shop. In Atagawa, unless one is at the beach all roads are hills.
As we walk back to the seaside there is a hot spring water pump on the right side of the road.
Large hotels line the road; all have a beautiful view of the ocean.
We decided to go to the jetty at the far end of the beach and see what's what.
Everyone was fishing, although I didn't see anyone actually catch a fish.
The best thing that ever happened to me.
And, the worst thing that ever happened to her.
At the top of the green hill is a low profiled white building. That is the Atagawa Heights Hotel where we will be spending the night.
Moving on from the jetty and working our way back to where we parked the car.
Somebody's great idea gone bad. A seaside swimming pool.
Even though the day started out cold and rainy it certainly is ending well with beautiful weather for walking.
A parting shot before we motor on up to the hotel.
Emi gets us checked in at the front desk.
The view from our room.
Another view from our room. Again, Oshima island on the horizon.
Let the party begin!
Fetzer wine - inexpensive and never disappointing. What more could one ask for?
The view from our room the next morning.
On the way home we took the Izu - Hakone skyline route so that we could swing by Lake Ashinoko.
On a clear day one can see Mt. Fuji from here; today was not such a day. After stopping at this view point it was time to put down the camera and grind out the kilometers to get back home.
All pictures were taken with a Panasonic GX7 micro 4/3 camera and a 20mm lens.
Thanks for stopping by!
Mike
