Numazu and Mishima, the gateway to the Izu Peninsula, are closer to Tokyo than most people expect. You can go by bullet train, by limited express or by car. Here are the options, with rough travel times and a suggestion for each style of trip.
By Shinkansen (the fastest)
Take the Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo or Shinagawa to Mishima Station, about 45 to 60 minutes depending on the train. For Numazu, change to the JR Tokaido Line for one stop (about 5 minutes). For Shuzenji, take the Izuhakone Railway Sunzu Line from Mishima, about 35 minutes.
- Heading to Numazu or Uchiura: Mishima → Numazu (JR) → bus or car
- Heading to Shuzenji: Mishima → Shuzenji (Izuhakone Railway) → bus
- Not every Shinkansen stops at Mishima, so check the timetable for trains that do
By limited express Odoriko (no changes)
A limited express called Odoriko runs from Tokyo to Shuzenji without a change. It takes a little longer than the Shinkansen plus a transfer, but it suits days with luggage or when you simply want to sit back. Check the schedule in advance for times and frequency.
By car
Via the Tomei or Shin-Tomei Expressway, Numazu is about 2 hours from central Tokyo depending on traffic. From Numazu to Shuzenji, allow roughly 40 to 50 minutes. On holidays and in peak seasons, plan for congestion.
Host's tip: If you want to explore small coastal villages such as Uchiura, Mito and Osezaki, a car widens your range a lot. Many visitors rent one at Mishima Station.
From the airports
- From Haneda: take a train such as the Keikyu Line to Shinagawa, then change to the Shinkansen
- From Narita: go toward Tokyo Station and change to the Shinkansen. Allow extra time
Suggestions by travel style
- Light train trip: Shinkansen to Mishima, then buses and bicycles around Numazu
- Families and groups: rent a car at Mishima and stay in a spacious private house
- A relaxed hot-spring trip: the Odoriko to Shuzenji
Two fully renovated traditional houses for up to 8 guests each, with free parking for 3 cars at each. Self check-in with a door code, so you can arrive at your own time.