“Grand Blue” Sacred Site Pilgrimage Complete Guide to Shizuoka Prefecture | Izu Location Tours and How to Enjoy Them
“Grand Blue,” the popular manga written by Kenji Inoue and illustrated by Kōi Yoshioka, is a youth comedy series set at a university diving club. It was adapted into an anime in 2018 and a live-action film in 2020, captivating many fans. The stage of this work is the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture, blessed with beautiful seas and nature.
In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide to sacred site pilgrimage in Shizuoka Prefecture for “Grand Blue” fans, with detailed explanations of actual filming locations, visiting tips, access methods, and how to enjoy the surrounding areas.
About the Setting of “Grand Blue” – Izu, Shizuoka Prefecture
The story of “Grand Blue” depicts the protagonist Iori Kitahara staying at his uncle’s diving shop “Grand Blue” in Izu while attending a local university and being active in the diving circle “Peek-a-Boo.”
Why Izu Was Chosen
The Izu Peninsula is known as one of Japan’s premier diving spots, featuring high water transparency, abundant marine life, and diverse terrain. Its proximity to Tokyo—about two hours away—makes it popular with weekend divers. The choice of Izu as the setting for the work was likely due to the diving culture that has taken root in this area.
Geography and Characteristics of the Izu Peninsula
The Izu Peninsula is located in the eastern part of Shizuoka Prefecture and is surrounded by Sagami Bay and Suruga Bay. It is famous for its warm climate, rich nature, and hot springs, attracting many tourists throughout the year. The setting of “Grand Blue” is thought to be mainly modeled after the east coast area of the Izu Peninsula.
Major Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots
Around Ito City
Ito City is the most likely candidate for the setting of “Grand Blue.” Ito is the central city on the east coast of the Izu Peninsula and is home to numerous diving shops.
Model Diving Shop Location
While there is no official announcement about which diving shop served as the model for “Grand Blue” in the series, there are several diving shops scattered throughout Ito City, and the seaside atmosphere overlaps with the work’s worldview.
Taking a stroll through the diving shop area in Ito City, you can find shops with ocean views as seen in the series and shops displaying diving equipment. Be sure to obtain permission from the shop staff when taking photos.
Ito Coastline
The Ito Coastline is a perfect location that matches the image of scenes in “Grand Blue” where characters enjoy diving. It features clear waters and beautiful scenery and is actually visited by many divers.
Visiting Tips:
- Early morning beaches have fewer people, making them ideal for photography
- The scenery at dusk is exceptional and captures the work’s atmosphere
- The views from the promenade along the coast are recommended
Around Atami City
Atami City, located north of Ito, is another area where relevance to the work’s setting has been pointed out.
Atami Sun Beach
Atami Sun Beach is an artificial beach featuring beautiful sandy shores and blue sea—a popular spot. You can enjoy scenery reminiscent of seaside scenes in the series.
Atami Town Atmosphere
The atmosphere of Atami as a hot spring town has similarities with the town scenery in the work. Walking through the shopping streets and the town with its many slopes allows you to imagine the roads where the characters walked.
Around Shimoda City
Shimoda City in the southern part of the Izu Peninsula is also known as a diving mecca.
Shirahama Coast
Shirahama Coast is one of the most beautiful beaches on the Izu Peninsula, characterized by its clear waters. It is worth including in your sacred site pilgrimage as a place where you can have an experience similar to the diving scenes in “Grand Blue.”
Shimoda Aquarium
The Shimoda Aquarium, where you can learn about marine life, is a facility that can inspire an interest in diving. You can deepen your understanding of diving and marine life, which are themes of the work.
Izu Oshima
While technically part of Tokyo Metropolis, Izu Oshima in the Izu Islands is an interesting spot for “Grand Blue” fans. If there are episodes involving training camps in the series, experiencing offshore diving can become a particularly special memory.
About University Models
The “Izu Science and Technology University” that appears in the series is a fictional university, but let us consider which educational institutions may have served as models.
Educational Institutions in the Izu Region
While there are no large comprehensive universities in the Izu Peninsula, there are vocational schools and junior colleges. To experience the atmosphere of the work, visiting the student town feel of the entire Izu Peninsula, as well as cafes and izakayas where university students are likely to gather, is also recommended.
Universities in Surrounding Areas
There are several universities in Shizuoka City and Numazu City, and there are actually many students from these universities who come to Izu for diving. The realism of the work may be based on such actual student culture.
Access Methods and Transportation
Access by Train
From the Tokyo Area
Using the JR Ito Line:
- From Tokyo Station, the limited express “Odoriko” reaches Ito Station in about 1 hour 40 minutes
- It’s also possible to take the Shinkansen to Atami Station and transfer to the Ito Line (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes)
Using the Izu Kyuko Line:
- From Ito Station, the Izu Kyuko Line provides access to the Shimoda direction
- Major stations include Izu Kogen Station, Izu Atagawa Station, and Shimoda Station
From the Nagoya and Osaka Areas
- Take the Shinkansen to Atami Station or Mishima Station
- From Atami Station, use the JR Ito Line; from Mishima Station, use the Izu Hakone Railway
Access by Car
Using the Tomei Expressway
- From Atsugi IC, via the Odawara-Atsugi Road and Route 135, approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to Ito
- Via Numazu IC, using the Izu Longitudinal Expressway and Route 136 is also possible
Parking Information
There are several public parking lots in Ito City. During tourist season, congestion is likely, so early arrival is recommended. Various paid parking lots are scattered along the coast.
Local Transportation
Route Buses
Route buses connecting Ito City and various parts of the Izu Peninsula are operated. “Tokai Bus” is the main transportation operator.
Car Rentals and Bicycle Rentals
For efficient sacred site pilgrimage, renting a car is convenient. Car rental shops are available near Ito Station. Electric-assist bicycle rentals are also available, allowing you to enjoy cycling along the coast while doing your pilgrimage.
How to Enjoy Sacred Site Pilgrimage and Etiquette
Photography Tips
Comparison Photography Techniques
To fully enjoy the essence of “sacred site pilgrimage” by photographing the same angles as scenes in the series:
- Prior Preparation: Save screenshots of relevant scenes from the series
- Timing: Choosing the same time of day as the scenes in the series enhances the atmosphere
- Angle Adjustment: Confirm the positional relationships of buildings and scenery before deciding on your shooting position
Cautions When Posting on Social Media
- Use hashtags such as “#GrandBlueSacredSite” and “#GrandBlueIzu”
- Sharing information with other fans can lead to new discoveries
- Be cautious about sharing location information (especially in the case of private property)
Etiquette During Pilgrimage
Consideration for Residents
- Avoid loud voices or noise early in the morning or late at night
- Never trespass on private property
- Always take your trash with you
- Do not disturb residents’ daily life
Etiquette When Visiting Shops
- When visiting diving shops or other operating businesses, always obtain permission
- Do not take photos in areas where photography is prohibited
- Avoid prolonged stays if you have no intention of making a purchase
- Ideally, spend money locally and contribute to the local economy
Recommended Pilgrimage Routes
One-Day Course (Centered on Ito)
9:00 Arrive at Ito Station
9:30 Ito Coastline stroll and photography
11:00 Visit diving shop areas
12:30 Lunch (seafood cuisine)
14:00 Visit Ito Marine Town
16:00 Hot spring bath
17:30 Return journey from Ito Station
One-Night, Two-Day Course (Izu Peninsula Tour)
[Day 1]
10:00 Arrive at Atami Station, sightseeing in Atami
13:00 Move to Ito, coastal stroll
15:00 Visit diving shop areas
18:00 Check in to accommodation, hot spring bath
[Day 2]
9:00 Move toward Izu Kogen
11:00 Visit Jogasaki Coast
13:00 Move toward Shimoda
15:00 Visit Shirahama Coast
17:00 Begin return journey
Diving Experience Recommendations
To experience the world of “Grand Blue” more deeply, why not try diving yourself?
Beginner-Friendly Experience Diving
Many shops on the Izu Peninsula offer experience diving programs for beginners.
Flow of Experience Diving
- Pre-Dive Briefing: Learn how to use equipment and underwater breathing techniques
- Shallow Water Practice: Practice basic movements in a pool or shallow sea
- Ocean Diving: Dive to depths of 5-10 meters with an instructor
- Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours (including briefing and preparation)
- Cost: Around 10,000-15,000 yen is typical
Required Items
- Swimsuit
- Towel
- Change of clothes
- Health confirmation documents (provided by each shop)
About License Acquisition
If you want to pursue diving seriously, obtaining a license (C-card) is recommended.
PADI Open Water Diver
The most common entry-level certification allows you to dive up to 18 meters in oceans worldwide after obtaining it.
- Training Period: 3-4 days
- Cost: Around 50,000-80,000 yen
- Content: Classroom training, pool training, ocean training
Recommended Diving Spots
Futo (富戸)
A popular diving spot located south of Ito City. Its terrain and abundant marine life are appealing to both beginners and advanced divers.
Yawatano (八幡野)
A spot near Izu Kogen, characterized by relatively calm sea conditions. It is frequently used for beginner instruction.
Osezaki (大瀬崎)
A representative diving spot on the west coast of the Izu Peninsula. You can enjoy different environments in the inner bay and outer sea.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
We introduce tourist attractions worth visiting alongside sacred site pilgrimage in Izu.
Ito Hot Springs
Ito City is also famous as a hot spring destination, with numerous hot spring facilities throughout the city.
Day-Trip Hot Spring Facilities
- Ito Marine Town: A day-trip hot spring where you can bathe while viewing the ocean
- Ito Onsen Wada Jurou-no-Yu: A public bathhouse used by locals
- Tokaikan: A hot spring facility using a historic building (viewing is also available)
Jogasaki Coast
A scenic spot in Izu Kogen known for its steep cliffs and suspension bridge. Hiking courses allow you to enjoy magnificent ocean views.
- Kadowaki Suspension Bridge: A 23-meter-high and 48-meter-long suspension bridge with spectacular views
- Jogasaki Picnic Course: Enjoy coastal beauty on a roughly 3-kilometer promenade
Izu Shaboten Zoo
A zoo and botanical garden in Izu Kogen featuring unique exhibits such as capybaras enjoying an outdoor bath.
Shuzenji Hot Springs
A historic hot spring located in the central part of the Izu Peninsula. It is characterized by a picturesque streetscape including the Bamboo Grove Path.
Dining Information
Izu’s cuisine is another enjoyment of sacred site pilgrimage.
Seafood Cuisine
Kinmedai (Golden Eye Bream) Dishes
Speaking of Izu’s specialties, kinmedai is a must-try. Enjoy it in various preparations including simmered, hot pot, and sashimi.
Recommended Shops:
- Seafood restaurants near Ito Station
- “Bora Naya” in Izu Kogen
- “Kinmei-tei” in Shimoda
Seafood Rice Bowl
Seafood rice bowls made with fresh local fish are a must-eat when visiting Izu.
Local Izakayas
“Grand Blue” is memorable for its izakaya scenes. Enjoy Izu’s local sake and seafood delicacies at local izakayas.
Izu Local Sake
- Mandai Brewery: Shochu from Izu Islands
- Mandai Brewery: Izu local sake
- Hakui Masamune: Sake from Numazu
Cafes and Sweets
Cafes in Izu Kogen
The Izu Kogen area has numerous stylish cafes with ocean views.
- Café La Pace: Popular for its terrace seating overlooking the sea
- Izu Kogen Beer Head Shop: Local beer and restaurant
Tokuten (Agar Noodles)
Tokuten, made from agar from Izu seaweed, is a specialty of Izu. Its refreshing flavor is popular.
Accommodation Information
Hotels and Ryokans
Accommodations in Ito Hot Springs
- Hoshino Resorts Kai Ito: A luxury hot spring inn
- Yokikan: A long-established hot spring inn
- Hatoya Hotel: A large hotel famous from commercials
Accommodations in Izu Kogen
- Pensions and Minshuku: Relatively affordable with a homey atmosphere
- Resort Hotels: Rooms with ocean views are popular
Guesthouses and Hostels
If you want to keep costs down, guesthouses and hostels are also recommended.
- Ito Onsen Guesthouse K’s House
- Many diver-friendly accommodations with storage for diving equipment and washing areas
Campgrounds
If you want to fully immerse yourself in nature, the Izu Peninsula’s campgrounds are another option.
- Ito Marine Town Auto Campground
- Izu Shizen-Mura Campfield
How to Enjoy by Season
Spring (March-May)
- Climate: Mild and comfortable
- Highlights: Kawazu cherry blossoms (late February-early March), azaleas, fresh greenery
- Diving: Water temperature is still low, but transparency is high
Summer (June-August)
- Climate: Hot, peak beach swimming season
- Highlights: Fireworks displays (Ito Hot Springs Sea Fireworks Festival, etc.)
- Diving: Most comfortable season as water temperature rises
- Note: High tourist traffic and congestion
Autumn (September-November)
- Climate: Lingering heat gradually cooling down
- Highlights: Autumn foliage (around November)
- Diving: Water still warm; comfortable if typhoons pass
- Gourmet: Autumn flavors, fresh seafood
Winter (December-February)
- Climate: Mild, snow rarely falls
- Highlights: Hot springs, winter seascapes
- Diving: Requires drysuit, but high transparency
- Events: Popular as a location for watching the first sunrise of the year
Events and Festival Information
Ito Hot Springs Sea Fireworks Festival
Held multiple times yearly, centered around summer. Fireworks launched from the sea are spectacular.
- Held: Roughly 10 times yearly, mainly July-August
- Venue: Ito Coastline
Ito Suketomo Festival
A festival honoring Suketomo Ito, a historic figure from Ito City. Features samurai parades.
- Held: Late May
Anjin Festival (針祭)
A festival commemorating William Adams (Anjin Miura). A major event in Ito City.
- Held: Early August
- Content: Fireworks display, parade, lantern floating, etc.
“Grand Blue” Related Merchandise Purchase Information
Animate and Tora no Ana
You can purchase “Grand Blue” manga and merchandise at large bookstores and anime shops in Shizuoka Prefecture.
- Shizuoka Parco: Animate Shizuoka Shop
- Around Numazu Station: Animate Numazu Shop (also a sacred site for “Love Live! Sunshine!!”)
Local Bookstores
Bookstores in Ito City also carry “Grand Blue” comics. Purchasing them locally during your pilgrimage is also a fun way to commemorate your visit.
Online Shopping
Purchasing related merchandise in advance and bringing it during your sacred site pilgrimage is another way to enjoy the experience.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Preparation Checklist
Essential Items
- [ ] Smartphone/Camera (don’t forget chargers)
- [ ] Image data from the series (for comparison photography)
- [ ] Transportation IC card
- [ ] Cash (some shops accept cash only)
- [ ] Comfortable walking shoes
- [ ] Hat and sunscreen (summer)
- [ ] Rain gear (folding umbrella, etc.)
Convenient Items
- [ ] Portable battery
- [ ] Map and guidebook
- [ ] Eco bag (for souvenirs)
- [ ] Water bottle or bottled water
- [ ] Towel (if taking a hot spring bath)
- [ ] Change of clothes (if trying diving)
Prior Confirmation Items
- [ ] Check weather forecast
- [ ] Confirm transportation schedules
- [ ] Reserve accommodation (if staying overnight)
- [ ] Reserve diving shop experience (if diving)
- [ ] Confirm operating hours and closed days of planned facilities
- [ ] Check event information
Conclusion: Maximizing Your “Grand Blue” Sacred Site Pilgrimage
The Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture, the setting of “Grand Blue,” has many charms beyond sacred site pilgrimage, including beautiful seas and nature, hot springs, and gourmet cuisine.
Keys to Successful Sacred Site Pilgrimage
- Prior Research: Rewatch the series and make a list of places you want to visit
- Schedule with Breathing Room: Account for travel time and avoid overloading your itinerary
- Observe Etiquette: Remember to be considerate of residents
- Experience Locally: Deepen your connection to the work’s world through diving experiences
- Enjoy the Cuisine: Savor Izu’s seafood delicacies
- Relax in Hot Springs: Soothe the day’s fatigue
- Share on Social Media: Exchange information with other fans and make new discoveries
In Closing
“Grand Blue” sacred site pilgrimage is not only an opportunity to experience the world of the series but also a journey to rediscover the charm of Izu. The blue seas, warm people, delicious food, and hot springs depicted in the work will all make your sacred site pilgrimage something truly special.
Observe proper etiquette and visit with gratitude for the region, and fully enjoy the world of “Grand Blue.” And if possible, why not try diving yourself—the very theme of the work—to experience firsthand the ocean world that captivated the characters?
We wish you a wonderful pilgrimage journey.