Shuzenji (Izu City)｜An historic Shuzenji temple and hot spring resort in Izu's little Kyoto

Shuzenji, the Little Kyoto of Izu, surrounded by history and hot spring atmosphere

Shuzenji (Izu City), also known as "Little Kyoto" in Izu, is a recommended destination where you can enjoy history, nature, and hot springs all at once. Shuzenji Temple, located in the center of the city, is an ancient temple founded by Kobo Daishi in the Heian period (794-1185). Along the Katsura River, which flows nearby, there is an elegant hot spring resort area with stone-paved paths and emotional bridges that deepen the feeling of traveling. The most popular of all is the bamboo grove pathway, which is cloaked in a fantastic atmosphere, and the walkway surrounded by lush bamboo is a great photo opportunity. Shuzenji is the perfect place for those who want to spend a relaxing and grown-up time. The scenery changes from season to season, from plum blossoms and cherry blossoms in spring to fresh greenery and autumn leaves in fall, and is picturesque just by walking along the path.

Key points for photography

In the Shuzenji area, I used the flow of the Katsura River, cobblestones, and bridges in the foreground to create depth and express the atmosphere of a hot spring resort town, and in the bamboo grove, I used a vertical composition to emphasize the height and rhythm of the bamboo and the sunlight filtering through the trees, and I used a wide-angle shot to create a sense of space. In the Shuzenji area, the flow of the Katsura River, cobblestones, and bridges are placed in the foreground to create depth and express the atmosphere of the hot spring resort area. In the bamboo grove path, the vertical composition emphasizes the height and rhythm of the bamboo, and the sun shining through the trees is used to slightly compensate for the exposure.

Best viewing and photography timing

Best Season

year-round

Recommended times

昼

Access & Basic Information (Check Before Shooting)

The day I visited this place in the past