Thursday 13 February 2014

Blue Ocean on the Izukyu Line

Set number R-5 of the EMU Izukyu 2100 series, "Alpha Resort 21", leaves Atami Station
 
After showing freezing snowfall photos, I am going to show you some temperate pictures in the Tokyo metropolitan area next to change the mood.

Izu Peninsula is one of the major resort areas near Tokyo. Being located in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Izu is famous for the joys of its ocean and hot springs. Specifically, I love an ocean scenery offshore of the peninsula. Its color is deep blue or ultramarine. Whenever I see it, I feel like I am being drawn into the ocean.

To get to this resort peninsula, the Izukyu Railway is convenient. Connecting Ito and Izukyu-Shimoda, its operating length is 45.7 kilometers. The entire route is an electrified single track. The trains on the Izukyu Line are directly operated into the JR Line to Atami and Tokyo.


One of the features of trains on the Izukyu Railway is its passenger service as a resort railway. For instance, set number R-5 of the EMU 2100 series, "Alpha-Resort 21" is quite unique and my favorite. To enjoy gorgeous mountain and ocean views, sloping tiers of seats are equipped in the front of the train. The passengers can enjoy a front view through the cockpit. Its round-shaped body is also my cup of tea.

Taking the Izukyu Line, I sometimes visit Cape Tsumeki-zaki near Izukyu-Shimoda Terminal. It is a temperate paradise in the Tokyo metropolitan area, remaining warm even in winter. Beautiful Narcissus blossoms also welcome tourists in this season.

 
Ocean view from Cape Tsumeki-zaki near Shimoda Station on the Izukyu Line