Thinking about where to go in 2025? If you’re tired of seeing the same old spots on your social media, I get it. There’s a place that’s been on my mind, a little corner of Japan that feels like it’s at the very edge of the world. It’s called Nummazaki. It’s part of the Izu Peninsula but it has this whole different feeling to it, you know? It’s not perfectly polished for tourists, which is exactly why it’s so good. It is the kind of place that sticks with you.
This isn’t your typical travel guide with a minute-by-minute plan. It’s more of a feeling, a collection of moments and spots that make Nummazaki what it is. It’s for people who want to see something real. The air just feels different down there, salty and a little bit wild. It’s generally a place you go to slow down, to look at the ocean and just sort of… be there.
So, What’s the Big Deal with Nummazaki Anyway?
Nummazaki is this cape that sticks out from the very southern tip of the Izu Peninsula. It’s a bit of a drive to get to, which is part of its charm.
This isolation means it’s stayed pretty undeveloped. You won’t find huge hotel chains or flashy stores here.
What you will find is a coastline that’s raw and beautiful. Think dramatic cliffs, weirdly shaped rocks, and deep blue water.
The whole area is covered in this thick, almost jungle-like greenery. It makes the walks and hikes feel like a small adventure.
It is considered to be a spot for people who like nature more than nightlife. That’s the main draw here, for sure.
The Main Event: Cape Irozaki and That Lighthouse
If you go to Nummazaki, you have to go to Cape Irozaki. This is kind of the main point of the whole area.
The walk out to the tip of the cape is half the fun. It’s not a hard walk but it feels a world away from a city sidewalk.
The sounds of the waves crashing below are with you the whole time. It’s a really great sound, very powerful.
The Walk to the Lighthouse
The path there winds through some thick trees. You can smell the salt and the plants, it’s a very specific smell.
Then you get your first look at the Irozaki Lighthouse. It’s this clean white structure against the wild green and blue.
It’s been there forever, guiding ships around this tricky part of the coast. A classic lighthouse doing its job.
The lighthouse itself you can’t normally go in, but that’s okay. The view from around it is what you came for.
Iro Shrine – A Shrine on a Cliff?
This was a surprise for me. Tucked right into the cliff face, there’s a small Shinto shrine. It’s called the Iro Shrine.
It’s just kind of hanging there, which feels a little wild. The location is definitely one of the most unique I’ve seen.
They say sailors and fishermen have prayed here for safety for a very long time. You can feel that history.
Looking out from the shrine’s viewpoint, you get this massive open view of the Pacific Ocean. It’s just huge.
Beaches and Coastline Stuff You Can’t Miss
While the cape is the main draw, the coastline around Nummazaki has other cool things to see. It’s not all sharp cliffs.
There are some beaches and coves that are perfect for a quiet afternoon. The water here is amazingly clear.
Yumigahama Beach
A short drive from the cape is Yumigahama Beach. Its name means “bow-shaped beach” because of its long, gentle curve.
This beach is the opposite of the wild cliffs. The sand is soft, the water is normally calm, and it’s a great place to relax.
It’s a good spot for families or anyone who just wants to sit by the water without any drama. It feels very peaceful.
There are a few small inns and restaurants nearby, but it never feels super crowded. It’s all very low-key.
The area is also good for a few other water activities if you’re feeling a bit more active. You can usually find places that offer:
Sea kayaking to check out the little coves and caves.
Snorkeling in the clear water near the rocky areas.
Just walking the length of the beach at sunset, which is a really simple but great thing to do.
Fishing from the shore, a lot of locals do this.
Eating in Nummazaki: It’s All About the Sea
You can’t come to a place like this and not eat the seafood. It’s basically pulled right out of the water in front of you.
The local specialty is kinmedai, or splendid alfonsino. It’s a bright red fish that is really delicious.
You can have it as sashimi, simmered in soy sauce, or grilled. Any way you get it, it’s going to be fresh.
Also, look for Ise-ebi, the Japanese spiny lobster, especially in the autumn and winter months. It’s a real treat.
The best places to eat are the small, family-run spots. They aren’t fancy, but the food is honest and so good. You just point at what looks good.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nummazaki
What are the top highlights of Nummazaki?
The main things to see are definitely the Irozaki Lighthouse and the Iro Shrine right on the cliff. Also, the beautiful Yumigahama Beach and just the general wild coastal scenery are big draws.
Is Nummazaki a good place for families?
Yes, it can be. Yumigahama Beach is very family-friendly with its calm water and soft sand. The walks might be better for slightly older kids, but the overall quiet and natural setting is great for a family trip away from the usual tourist traps.
What is the best time of year to visit Nummazaki?
Spring and autumn are fantastic because the weather is mild and comfortable for walking. Summer is great for beach time, but it can be hot and humid. Winter is clearer and you can see some amazing starry skies, plus it’s the season for spiny lobster.
How do you get to Nummazaki?
Getting there is part of the experience. The easiest way is by car, as it gives you the freedom to move around the southern Izu area. You can also take a train to Shimoda and then a local bus down to the cape, but the bus service is not super frequent, so you have to plan your time.
Key Takeaways
Nummazaki is at the southern tip of the Izu Peninsula and offers a raw, natural coastal experience.
The main attraction is Cape Irozaki, with its historic lighthouse and the unique Iro Shrine built into a cliff.
For a more relaxed time, Yumigahama Beach is a beautiful, calm, bow-shaped stretch of sand.
The food is a big part of the visit, with fresh seafood like kinmedai (splendid alfonsino) being a local favorite.
This is a destination for 2025 that is perfect for escaping crowds and seeing a less-traveled, more authentic side of Japan.
