Charming Shuzenji among highlights

Unique Japanese fusion cuisine at Grill and Dining G; Mishima Skywalk is one of Izu Peninsula’s famous attractions; Tuna auction in action! CHARM OF SHUZENJI

The next day, we go on an excursion to see the town of Shuzenji which is less than 20 minutes from the resort. The town was named after the Shuzenji Temple, a well-known zen temple with a deep history.

Founded by Kobo Daishi, one of Japan’s most important religious personalities, the temple, which was built in 807 AD, has a picturesque private garden inside the compound, open for visitors to explore only during autumn season.

Fortunately for us, the day is as stunning as yesterday, perfect for a walk in the autumn garden. The temple garden is an Insta-worthy

Tranguil Shuzenji town during late autumn.

place to capture a few shots.

Besides that, visitors can also join in zazen meditation class (early bookings are required). The resident priest will ring a bell before and when it ends. The essential thing is not to become distracted while you meditate.

To do the zazen meditation, you must concentrate only on your thoughts and maintain your posture and breathing which I find quite hard!

Finished with zazen, we still have time to explore the charming Shuzenji town. While some opt to go for the onsen bath house available there, I decide to walk around.

My first impression is that the town feels like a mini Kyoto, but calmer. I love the fact that the place is not crowded. I stumble upon a mini bamboo forest, which is almost similar to Arashiyama but shorter, and calm streams and red bridges surrounded by autumn trees all over the town.

Also, there are several historical ryokan and a few tastefully designed shops and cafes. Most importantly, don’t forget to try out the local ice cream — vanilla with a zest of fresh wasabi!

HIGH WALK

Another attraction in the Izu Peninsula is Mishima SkyWalk where you can get the best view of Mount Fuji.

It is one of the longest pedestrian birdges in Japan with a total length of 400m, and a height of 70.6m along the slope of Mt Hakone.

Admission is 1,000 yen (RM36). For those who are afraid of heights, you can challenge yourself by walking across the bridge. It’s not as scary as doing a bungee, but the long bridge does sometimes wiggle. Don’t worry, it is totally safe to walk across it.

Once, you get over your fear of heights, you’ll be amazed by the beauty of the panoramic view. My advice is if you come during the cooler season, be prepared as it is a bit windy.

Once you have crossed the bridge, you can visit the observation deck where you can see more rich natural settings overlooking Saruga Bay. The landscape changes based on seasons.

There are small booths selling all sorts of local delicacies you can try including a sweet dessert called mitarashi dango, round dumplings skewered onto sticks made of rice flour covered with a sweet soya glaze. Yummy!