If you're in Izu Taga for its lovely beach or for the Ikeda Masuo Art Museum, it's worth poking around the town first to take in the peaceful atmosphere, created partly by the number of temples and shrines. Keitoku-in isn't as restful as some, as it's next to a fairly busy road, but it has some interesting statues and an expansive hillside graveyard; climb to the top and you can both escape the noise of the traffic, and enjoy a fine view out over the town and coastline.
Peter Sidell @peter.sidell
I came to Japan from Manchester, England in 2003, and have travelled a lot since then, around Japan and in Asia. When I'm not working, I write satire and perform stand-up comedy in and around Tokyo. Check YouTube for a taste.
