Discover the Heart of Izu’s Natural and Culinary Delights
Tucked along the serene middle reaches of the Kano River in Izu no Heso, this vibrant roadside station is more than a pit stop—it’s a gateway to adventure and local culture. Surrounded by lush forests and ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, it serves as a vibrant hub for fishing, kayaking, hiking, and cycling, with friendly staff ready to guide your next escapade.
What sets Izu no Heso apart is its seamless blend of nature, flavor, and comfort. Explore the Strawberry BonBonBERRY factory, where inventive Japanese and Western-style strawberry treats delight every palate. Nearby, the Izu no Sato Market offers over 2,000 local specialties—from fresh vegetables and shiitake mushrooms to wild salmon and premium green tea. Stay overnight in the charming Nordic-inspired HESO Hotel, featuring one of Shizuoka’s finest hot springs, renowned for its powerful alkaline mineral waters. Whether you're sampling sweet treats, shopping for regional treasures, or unwinding in a tranquil retreat, Izu no Heso delivers a full sensory journey.
Why Visit
Visit Izu no Heso to experience the only roadside station in the region where you can enjoy authentic Ayu fishing from the very river where the sport originated—Haginogawa River. Here, you’ll find the exclusive "Ichigo BonBonBERRY Izu no Kuni Factory," offering handmade strawberry desserts made from locally grown, sun-ripened berries, including rare seasonal matchesu mochi with fresh strawberry paste. The station also hosts a unique film memorabilia museum showcasing props and scripts from TV dramas and movies filmed in Izu, a collection found nowhere else.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh, local flavors at Izu no Heso’s cozy cafés and specialty eateries.
Ichigo BonBonBERRY Izu no Kuni Factory
いちごBonBonBERRY 伊豆の国factory
Specialty
Specializing in Japanese and Western-style strawberry desserts
A dedicated strawberry-themed shop offering a wide variety of desserts, from traditional wagashi to modern Western pastries, all centered around fresh local strawberries.
Shopping Highlights
Discover a vibrant marketplace bursting with regional treasures and handmade goods.
Izu no Mura no Eki Izu no Heso Store
伊豆・村の駅 伊豆のへそ店
A popular food theme park featuring fresh local produce, seafood, specialty items, and souvenirs from Shizuoka and Izu regions.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh local strawberries
Featured Products
Explore signature treats like premium strawberries and locally crafted delicacies.
Izu Local Strawberries
伊豆の地元いちご
Fresh, locally grown strawberries from the Izu region, known for their sweetness and vibrant flavor.
Izu Wasabi
伊豆わさび
High-quality wasabi root harvested from the mountain streams of Izu, known for its sharp, authentic taste.
Sakura Ebi (Cherry Shrimp)
桜エビ
Dried cherry shrimp from the Izu coast, prized for their delicate sweetness and use in traditional dishes.
Izu Green Tea
伊豆お茶
Premium green tea grown in the shaded fields of Izu, offering a smooth, fresh taste with a hint of umami.
Izu Shimeji Mushrooms
伊豆しいたけ
Fresh shimeji mushrooms cultivated in the cool, forested areas of Izu, known for their tender texture and rich flavor.
Izu Country Eggs
日の出卵
Free-range eggs from local farms, known for their rich yolks and superior taste.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, and relaxing休憩 spaces.
Parking Area
The roadside station has parking for 22 large vehicles and 68 ordinary vehicles.
General area
Restroom
Male toilets have 5 large and 16 small fixtures; female toilets have 15 fixtures. The restrooms include ramps for accessibility.
General area
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available at the roadside station.
General area
Information Center
The station serves as an information hub for outdoor activities such as canoeing, fishing, cycling, and hiking. Staff provide guidance and information about local attractions and events.
General area
Play Area
The station supports outdoor recreation and serves as a base for family-friendly activities such as walking and cycling.
General area
EV Charging Station
The parking area includes EV charging facilities, available 24 hours a day.
Parking area
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors' convenience.
General area
Nursing Room
A private nursing room is available for parents with infants.
General area
Information Corner
An information corner provides details about local attractions, events, and tourism in the region.
General area
Insider Tips
Maximize your visit with local insights on timing, events, and hidden gems.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM on weekends to catch the fresh batch of strawberry shortcakes at ichigoBonBonBERRY伊豆の国factory, which are made daily and often sell out by 12:30 PM
- Hidden Gems: At the IchigoBonBonBERRY伊豆の国factory counter, ask for the seasonal "Yuzu & Strawberry Mochi" — it’s only available from late January to early March and not listed on the standard menu
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the food truck "Kanu Kitchen" sets up near the bicycle rental counter between 11:30 AM and 2:00 PM, serving grilled fish skewers made with local ayu caught in the Kano River
- Information Counter Tip: When visiting the tourism information desk, ask for the free "Kano River Fishing Access Map" — it includes details on restricted zones and permits needed for ayu fishing, which are not available online
- Parking Strategy: Use the designated "Bike & Car Shared Parking" area near the entrance if you're arriving by bicycle and car — it’s the only spot with direct access to both the rental shop and the river trail
- Spa Access Timing: If staying at HESO Hotel, book your visit to the onsen between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM on weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds and enjoy the full view of the surrounding hills from the private bath area
- Local Product Hack: Purchase the "Izu Mountain Shimeji Mushroom Bites" at the Izu no Mura no Eki shop — they’re only stocked in the morning and are a limited-run product made from mushrooms harvested that same day from nearby forests
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Peak season for fresh bamboo shoots and local strawberries at the market, with strawberry-themed events running from late March.
Summer (June-August): Ideal for canoeing on the Kano River and enjoying fresh sea urchin and summer vegetables.
Autumn (September-November): Prime time for harvesting shiitake mushrooms and locally grown tea, with scenic hiking along the Izu no Heso trail.
Winter (December-February): Cozy visits to the Nordic-style hotel and warm local hot springs, perfect for relaxation.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a children's play area, kid-friendly food like strawberry treats, stroller-accessible paths, and interactive elements such as fishing and outdoor activities. Safe and family-oriented with ample parking.
Food Lover Review
Features a dedicated strawberry café, diverse local specialties like wasabi and sakura shrimp, fresh produce from regional farms, and a wide selection of high-quality artisanal goods.
Car Camping Review
Provides clean restrooms, vending machines, and ample parking. Quiet during evenings, though no explicit overnight camping policy is listed. Suitable for short stays but not designed as a full campsite.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located along the mid-reach of the Kano River with scenic river views, photo-worthy spots, seasonal beauty in spring and autumn, and a peaceful, natural atmosphere.