Shuzenji Onsen
The oldest hot spring on the Izu Peninsula, discovered by Kobo Daishi in 807 AD and later a place of tragic exile for the young Kamakura shogun Minamoto no Yoriie. The bamboo-forested Katsura River valley, its covered walking bridges, and centuries-old inn district create a remarkably complete traditional hot spring atmosphere.
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Shuzenji is the most atmospheric onsen town on the Izu Peninsula — a small river valley with a 1,200-year-old temple, traditional ryokan, and a simple foot bath on the riverside. The Tokko-no-Yu, reputedly the first onsen in the area (discovered by Kobo Daishi in 807 AD), stands in the river. Walk the bamboo forest path (Chikurin-no-Komichi) for a peaceful 10-minute circuit.
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