Discovering the Beauty of Mount Ōmuro and Shirahama Beach: A Day Trip Adventure from Atami

I woke up in my cozy ryokan in Atami, and just knew that today would be a day full of adventure. I decided to embark on a day trip to Mount Ōmuro and Shirahama Beach, two stunning destinations located just a short drive away.

As I drove through the winding roads of Izu Peninsula, I was in awe of the beautiful scenery around me. The lush green forests and crystal clear waters of the Pacific Ocean created a picturesque landscape that I couldn't take my eyes off of.

Finally, I arrived at Mount Ōmuro, a dormant volcano that stood tall at 580 meters high. The hike to the top was steep, but the breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape were worth the effort. As I reached the top, I felt a sense of accomplishment and wonder at the unique crater that greeted me. Walking around the rim, I was amazed by the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, dotted with small villages and rice paddies.

At the foot of the volcano I visited the Izu Cactus Zoo, or Zu Shaboten Dōbutsukōen. As the name suggests, this zoo is dedicated to cacti and other succulent plants, and visitors can expect to be surrounded by an impressive array of different species from all around the world.

One of the most striking features of the Izu Cactus Zoo is its vast collection of cacti and succulents, which are displayed in a variety of creative and artistic ways. The plants are arranged in colorful patterns and shapes, creating a stunning visual experience that is truly unique.

In addition to the cacti and succulents, the Izu Cactus Zoo is also home to a variety of animals, including meerkats, capybaras, tortoises, and more. Visitors can watch these adorable creatures as they go about their daily activities, adding an extra layer of charm to the zoo.

The Izu Cactus Zoo also features a number of exhibits and interactive experiences for visitors to enjoy. There is a greenhouse where visitors can learn about the different growing conditions required for cacti and other succulents, as well as a desert-themed area that showcases the unique flora and fauna of arid environments.

One of the most popular attractions at the Izu Cactus Zoo is the Cactus Cafe, where visitors can enjoy refreshments and snacks while surrounded by the beautiful cacti and succulents. The cafe also serves a variety of cactus-based dishes, such as cactus juice and cactus ice cream, providing a truly unique culinary experience.

After my visit, I made my way to Shirahama Beach, a stunning white sand beach with calm, turquoise waters. The beach was a peaceful oasis, and I spent some time relaxing under the sun, listening to the sound of the waves crashing on the shore.

One of the highlights of Shirahama Beach was the Shirahama Jinja Sanctuary, a beautiful Shinto shrine located right on the beach. Its unique architecture, with a mix of traditional Japanese design and modern touches, made it a truly special place. I took my time exploring the shrine, admiring its beauty and soaking up the peaceful atmosphere.

As the day went on, I was up for more adventure and decided to go to the Dogashima Caves, located on the western coast of Izu Peninsula. The boat ride through the narrow passages and hidden chambers of the caves was a thrilling experience. The unique rock formations, including the "Turtle Rock" and "Lover's Cave," left me in awe, and I couldn't believe how beautiful and untouched the area was.

As the sun began to set, I headed back to my ryokan in Atami, feeling fulfilled and grateful for the unforgettable experiences of the day. The stunning natural beauty of Mount Ōmuro, Shirahama Beach, and Dogashima Caves had left an indelible impression on me, and I knew that I would carry the memories of this day trip with me forever.