Toi, Shizuoka

Toi, Shizuoka – A Quick Guide to Japan’s Hidden Gem If you’re looking for a hidden gem in Japan, Toi, Shizuoka should be on your list of must-visit destinations. This small town, located in the Izu peninsula, offers a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and gastronomic delights. Whether you’re into hot springs, hiking, or seafood, Toi has something to offer for everyone. Located about two and a half hours from Tokyo by train, Toi is a scenic coastal town that is surrounded by lush greenery and the beautiful Pacific Ocean. The town boasts of many hot springs or onsen, which are a big attraction for tourists. In fact, Toi is known for its healing hot springs, which are believed to have medicinal properties that can cure various ailments. The water in these hot springs is rich in minerals that are good for the skin and body. One of the most popular hot springs in Toi is the Toi Kinzan hot spring, which is known for its unique black water. This hot spring is said to have healing effects on the body and is particularly popular among Japanese tourists. According to folklore, the water in this hot spring was formed over 300 years ago when copper miners accidentally struck a hot spring full of minerals. The minerals combined with the copper to give the water its distinctive black color. Today, this hot spring is a popular tourist attraction in Toi, and visitors come here to relax and soak in its therapeutic waters. Apart from the hot springs, Toi is also known for its seafood. The town has a rich fishing culture, and visitors can sample some of the freshest and most delicious seafood in Japan here. The most famous seafood dish in Toi is the Ise-ebi, which is a type of lobster that is only found in the waters around the Izu peninsula. This delicacy is so prized that it is often served at high-end restaurants in Tokyo and other major cities in Japan. If you’re into hiking, Toi has plenty of trails that offer spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding mountains. One of the most popular hiking trails in Toi is the Jogasaki Coast, which runs along the rugged coastline of the Izu peninsula. This trail is not for the faint-hearted as it can be quite challenging, but the views are well worth the effort. Another popular hiking trail in Toi is the Amagi Ridge, which runs through the Amagi mountains. This trail offers a challenging climb and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The Amagi Ridge is particularly popular during the autumn months when the leaves on the trees change color, creating a stunning contrast against the blue sky and the green mountains. In terms of cultural heritage, Toi has plenty to offer as well. The town has several shrines and temples that are worth a visit, including the Amagi Jinga Shrine, which is dedicated to the goddess Amaterasu. Visitors can also visit the Toi Gold Mine, which was once one of the largest gold mines in Japan. The mine has been well-preserved and visitors can take a tour of the underground tunnels and learn about the history of mining in Japan. In conclusion, if you’re looking for a hidden gem in Japan that offers a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and gastronomic delights, Toi, Shizuoka should be on your list of must-visit destinations. This small town has a lot to offer, from hot springs to hiking trails, from seafood to cultural heritage. So why not book a trip to Toi today and discover this hidden gem for yourself?