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Izu Peninsula: Japan's Wasabi Haven & Waterfall Wonderland
2 Dec
Summary
- The Izu Peninsula is the birthplace of wasabi, enjoyed in unique ways.
- Visitors can hike through stunning coastal cliffs and seven waterfalls.
- Traditional inns offer hot springs with relaxing Pacific Ocean views.
Japan's Izu Peninsula is celebrated as the origin of wasabi, a unique plant that enhances local cuisine, from soba noodles to vanilla ice cream. Beyond its culinary fame, the peninsula offers stunning natural landscapes, including dramatic coastal cliffs and a series of captivating waterfalls known as the Kawazu Seven Waterfalls.
Explorers can hike through diverse scenery, from wasabi terraces to gorges, with opportunities to glimpse Mount Fuji on clear days. The area is also rich in traditional Japanese inns, called ryokans, where guests can relax in onsen (hot springs) overlooking the vast Pacific Ocean, experiencing a slower pace of life.
The region's proximity to the sea influences its cuisine, featuring fresh seafood prepared in traditional kaiseki-style meals. Visitors also have the unique chance to witness traditional katsuobushi production, a testament to the peninsula's enduring cultural heritage and dedication to artisanal craftsmanship.
