Hosono Heights

Not far from Atagawa is the Hosono Highlands. A big open space that offers panoramic views of the Izu Penninsula and walking routes. The highlands is accessible all year round, but in the autumn months the locals hold a susuki festival. Susuki is a type of flowering grass that is native throughout east Asia. 

During this time of year, there are buses that run from Izu-inatori station to the entrance of the highlands and then free shuttles that wisk you right to the top of the mountain from the information kiosk. 

Entrance to the highlands at this time of year costs 500 yen per person which includes the free shuttle ride to the top and they offer a few food stalls and guided tours as well. 

It can get cool up there, so it's best to take a light jacket. 

I recommend taking one of the free shuttles to the top and walking back down to the information center. It takes about 30-40 minutes to walk down. 

The Susuki event flyer showing the various walking routes. 

Naramoto Keiyaki Park

About 2kms off route 135 is the Naramoto Keiyaki Park. There's a foot bath area and a small shop that serves light lunches. Lunches are sometimes limited, so you may miss out if you come late in the day.

There is sakura to be seen in spring and fireflies during the rainy season.

The park also holds a market on weekends during high season.

There's car parking and toilet facilities.

Recommend drink: Shiso juice.

The foot spa

The Banana Crocodile Park

One of the main tourist attractions of Atagawa, apart from the hot springs, is the Banana and Crocodile Park. (Banana-Wani-en.)

Unfortunately the crocodiles don't have much space.

The park houses various kinds of crocodiles and caimans from all over the world, lesser pandas, a manatee, giant tortoises, flamingos and numerous hothouses containing various tropical plants and of course, bananas.

The park is divided into three separate locations, with the third zone accessible by a free shuttle bus. There are a few small refreshment stalls in the park with limited menus. The park is a minute walk from Izu Atagawa station and entry costs 1500 yen. Before you go, try to find the park's brochure at information centers for the 100 yen off ticket inside.

The pandas and the crocodiles will entertain the kids, but the hot houses will probably bore them. Worth a visit if you have time on your hands. You could easily spend an hour or even two strolling around the park, especially if you start talking to the chatty parrot, Obatan.