Izusan Shrine (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Izusan Shrine?
What makes it 56% Kids-Friendly: Older children may enjoy the hike, dragon motifs, and small museum, but 837 uneven steps lack rails, toilets are basic squat style, and there is no play area or stroller access, so supervision is constant.
Positives:
- Lower slope access: The lower shrine is only 200 steps from the road, ideal for younger children.
- Free entry and parking: Shrine grounds are free and 30 parking spaces near the lower lot make arrival easy.
Challenges:
- Steep uneven steps: The 837 stone steps are irregular in height; watch children carefully on each step.
- Limited baby facilities: No changing tables or nursing rooms on-site; plan diaper changes at Atami Station.
What is Izusan Shrine?
- A venerable Shinto shrine complex on the slopes of Mount Izusan in Hakone, venerating water and hot spring deities
- A cedar-forested precinct composed of multiple shrine buildings, stone torii gates, and ornate dragon-carved details
- A sacred site with roots in the Nara period, historically linked to the legendary union of Minamoto no Yoritomo and Hōjō Masako
What is so special about Izusan Shrine for with kids?
- Ascend historic stairway for sea views and family challenge
- Visit free museum with child-friendly entry
- Draw omikuji and hang ema for fun souvenirs
- Picnic at the lower shrine with scenic surroundings
- Choose lower vs upper routes to suit children’s ages
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Time to climb, explore the museum, draw fortunes and enjoy a picnic without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Izusan Shrine
Climb the 837 stone steps:
Ascend from the lower torii gate up to the main hall on the historic stairway.
Tip: Let older kids rest at the pavilion halfway; hold younger children’s hands on steep sections.
Explore Izusan Folk Museum:
View local artifacts and learn the shrine’s history in the museum on site.
Tip: Elementary children enter free; museum open 9:00–16:00, closed Wednesdays.
Draw omikuji fortunes and hang ema:
Pick fortune slips and write family wishes on wooden plaques.
Tip: Allow each child to choose their own; small fee of about ¥100 per slip.
Picnic at the lower shrine:
Set up snacks in the flat area near the lower parking lot with sea views.
Tip: Bring a picnic mat and pick up treats at Atami Station before you arrive.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Izusan Shrine
- Visit early: Arrive before 10:00 to secure parking and avoid peak crowds.
- Mix routes: Use the lower slope for little ones and tackle the full climb with older kids.
Reviews of Izusan Shrine
Rick Itabashi
The upside parking was available to visite the izusan shrine. On 12/21/2025,have visited again.
Greg Planeta (Silver)
One of those places where the history of Japan, deep spiritual experience and breathing taking views are packed in one place. A must see spot for anyone visiting onsen in Atami, Shizuoka prefecture, but it's also very close to other onsen resorts e.g. Yugawara or Hakone.
Ashli S
One of the most beautiful shrines I’ve been to. The grounds of this shrine were spectacular, with incredible views over the coast, a large koi pond, beautiful trees including cherry blossom trees and benches to sit and enjoy the view. There are over 150 stairs you’ll need to climb to reach the top but it’s definitely worth it. The shrine shop sells ema and omamori and there’s also a small area you...
Rory Rosszell
After a long climb up many stairs, you reach the inner sanctuary - which provides some beautiful views of Atami, but to reach the main shrine you must continue along a trail up the mountain for an hour or so - which we didn't do, but hope to on a future visit. So for a complete visit, make sure you have at least a couple hours in your schedule, wear comfortable shoes, and be ready for some cardio!
Thoa Nguyen
The view from the top is beautiful! We went on New Year’s Day around 10am and there weren’t too many people. An hour later though, it got crowded really quickly. Still, definitely worth going if you’re in the area!
When is the best time to visit Izusan Shrine (Hakone, Japan)?
Visit April 14–16 to see the Grand Festival’s mikoshi descent and shrine-maiden dances.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Bus fare (Atami Station round-trip) | JPY 1,200 |
| Izusan Folk Museum (2 adults) | JPY 360 |
| Omikuji fortunes (4) | JPY 400 |
| Snacks and picnic supplies | JPY 500 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 2,460 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Izusan Shrine
Address: 708-1 Izusan, Atami, Shizuoka 413-0002, Japan
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About Izusan Shrine
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+81 557-80-316410 BEST nearby Activities
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