Hello! My name is Jim Nishida-Adams. Everybody around here calls me Jimmy.

I live in Ito, the Izu peninsula’s largest city (population 70,000). The neighborhood where I live is called Ike 池 (pronounced like the letters E K). It’s a small village with an ancient history.

Local people developed a way of life that allowed them to survive for thousands of years in this rugged terrain. Post industrial modernization has been the biggest challenge to that way of life, but their well practiced sense of determination and innovation is as strong as ever.

For example, Mt. Omuro, a sacred mountain at the center of this region, once provided the villagers with building materials, medicines and spiritual power. Now they proudly share their mountain as one of Izu’s most popular tourist and power spots with breathtaking, 360 degree views.

As a history enthusiast, writer and storyteller, I love exploring Izu and discovering its stories, people, and places. As a teacher, I love to share the beauty of Izu and its important place in Japanese culture and history. Finally, as a resident of Ike, I would be honored to share the charm and beauty of my adopted home and help you experience Japan in a way that few people, even Japanese, have a chance to experience.

Let me show you the highlights, the hidden places and the warmth and pride of local people. Come and discover the charm of the Izu Peninsula!