Izu & Ogasawara Oshima Toshima Niijima Shikinejima Kozushima Miyakejima
Mikurajima Hachijojima Aogashima Chichijima Hahajima
Tokyo Islands Area:
Escape the urban hustle and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Tokyo's Islands Area, where breathtaking scenery awaits around every corner. Here, amidst the endless expanse of blue seas, visitors can witness dolphins gracefully dancing through the waves, a mesmerizing sight that feels worlds away from the bustling cityscape. But it's not just about the marine marvels – explore the rich tapestry of rare flora and fauna that call these islands home, from vibrant blooms to elusive wildlife that thrives in the pristine natural surroundings. And as night falls, gaze upward and behold a starry night sky that rivals even the most dazzling planetarium, a celestial spectacle that leaves visitors in awe of the universe's boundless beauty.
Exploring Tokyo's Islands:
Embark on an unforgettable journey of discovery as you explore Tokyo's Islands, a diverse archipelago that offers a wealth of natural beauty, unique cultures, and local specialties waiting to be uncovered. From the tranquil shores of Oshima to the rugged landscapes of Izu Oshima, each island boasts its own distinctive charm and allure, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a world of adventure and exploration. Whether you're sampling fresh seafood delicacies, learning about ancient traditions, or simply basking in the serenity of nature's embrace, Tokyo's Islands promise an experience like no other, where every moment is infused with the magic of discovery.
Tokyo Islands Tourism Information:
Plan your island adventure with ease using the official websites of the Tokyo Islands Tourism Cooperation Promotion Association and Tokyo Island Dot Com. Here, you'll find a wealth of resources and information to help you navigate the wonders of Tokyo's Islands, from transportation options to must-see attractions and local events. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, these comprehensive guides ensure that your island getaway is as seamless as it is unforgettable.
Oshima Town:
Discover the allure of Oshima, Tokyo's closest island getaway, just a short high-speed ship ride from downtown Tokyo. As an active volcanic island, Oshima boasts a landscape shaped by the forces of nature, from rugged coastlines to lush forests teeming with life. But it's the island's abundant hot springs that truly set it apart, offering weary travelers a rejuvenating retreat amidst the beauty of nature. And don't miss the winter spectacle of Oshima's camellias, their glossy leaves and vibrant blooms adding a splash of color to the island's tranquil scenery.
Mount Miharayama:
Ascend to new heights at Mount Miharayama, a towering volcano that dominates the landscape of Oshima. With its smoldering crater and rugged terrain, Mount Miharayama offers adventurers the opportunity to witness the raw power of nature up close. Take a leisurely stroll along the walking trails that wind around the crater's edge, marveling at the panoramic views of the island below and feeling the earth beneath your feet come alive with the pulse of volcanic activity.
Izu Oshima Volcano Museum:
Delve into the fascinating world of volcanoes at the Izu Oshima Volcano Museum, a captivating institution dedicated to the study and preservation of Earth's most fiery phenomena. Here, visitors can explore a treasure trove of specimens and artifacts dating back thousands of years, each offering insight into the geological forces that shape our planet. From ancient stratigraphy to powerful footage of Mount Miharayama's eruptions, the museum provides a riveting glimpse into the tumultuous history of our dynamic planet.
Ura Sabaku (Back Desert):
Experience the otherworldly beauty of Ura Sabaku, a natural park unlike any other in Japan. Here, amidst the stark landscape of black volcanic ash, visitors can witness the traces of Earth's ancient activity, a haunting reminder of the planet's ever-changing surface. As you wander through this lunar-like terrain, you'll be transported to a world that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, where the silence of the desert speaks volumes about the majesty of nature's handiwork.
Island Paradises: Unveiling the Enchantment of Toshima, Niijima, and Kozushima VillagesThe Izu Islands, a captivating chain south of Tokyo, offer a breathtaking escape from the urban bustle. Among these island gems, Toshima Village, Niijima Village, and Kozushima Village stand out for their unique charm, natural beauty, and exciting activities. Prepare to be enchanted by pristine beaches, lush landscapes, captivating wildlife encounters, and a rich cultural heritage.
Toshima Village, a tiny island with a circumference of just 8 kilometers, reigns supreme as a haven for nature lovers. Envision a circular island adorned with over 200,000 camellia trees, blanketing the landscape in a vibrant display of color during the blooming season. Beyond the floral splendor, Toshima Village boasts an unexpected delight – Minami Bandou dolphins. These playful creatures have recently made their home near Toshima Port, offering visitors the opportunity to witness their graceful movements in their natural habitat. For an unforgettable experience, sign up for a dolphin watching tour or take the plunge and swim alongside these majestic creatures.
A Glimpse into Toshima's Past: Toshima Village Folk Museum
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Toshima Village's history at the Toshima Village Folk Museum. This captivating museum, aptly themed "Life in Toshima," takes you on a journey through time. Explore exhibits showcasing the island's industrial past, from the Jomon period to the present day. Admire traditional living tools and artifacts that tell the stories of the generations who have called this island home. The Toshima Village Folk Museum fosters a deeper appreciation for the island's unique cultural heritage.
No visit to Toshima Village is complete without indulging in its breathtaking scenery. Hike up Mount Miyatsuka, a symbolic landmark towering over the island at an elevation of 507 meters. The reward for your effort awaits at the observation deck near the summit. From this vantage point, feast your eyes on panoramic vistas encompassing the Izu Peninsula and the majestic Mount Fuji on clear days. For an alternative perspective, head to the Minamigayama Viewpoint, renowned as the island's best observation spot. On a clear day, let your gaze wander across the crystal-clear waters and take in the captivating beauty of Shikinejima, Kozushima, Mikurajima, and Okinoshima islands.
Niijima Village: A Surfer's Paradise
Niijima Village beckons surfers from all corners of the globe with its pristine white sandy beaches and the powerful waves rolling in from the Koga stone coast. Challenge yourself on the exhilarating waves, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sunshine. Beyond the surfer haven, Niijima Village boasts another treasure – an abundance of high-quality hot springs. Indulge in a rejuvenating soak and let your worries melt away as you immerse yourself in the natural geothermal wonderlands. For a touch of adventure, explore the underwater world through snorkeling or diving excursions, encountering the vibrant marine life teeming beneath the waves.
Niijima Village offers a captivating experience for astronomy enthusiasts. The Fuji Mitouge Observatory, a unique structure featuring a pyramid crafted from Koga stone mined on the island, serves as a prime spot for stargazing. Gaze into the night sky, marvel at the twinkling constellations, and witness the breathtaking panorama of uninhabited islands, Shikinejima, and Kozushima.
For those seeking artistic inspiration, the Niijima Glass Art Center and Glass Museum is a must-visit. This haven for creativity showcases the art of glassblowing, utilizing the island's Koga stone as a unique raw material. Witness skilled artisans transform molten glass into exquisite works of art, and explore the museum's collection to appreciate the diverse range of glass art techniques.
Shikinejima Village: A Tranquil Escape
Shikinejima Village, a serene island escape, offers a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. Indulge in the natural wonders of the island, with its lush landscapes and captivating rock formations. Unwind in the therapeutic waters of Jinata Onsen, a natural hot spring nestled amidst a dramatic rocky landscape. Renowned for its effectiveness against neuralgia and chilliness, Jinata Onsen offers a chance to soak away your stresses and reconnect with nature's healing powers.
Tokyo Islands Area:
In this area of Tokyo, you can witness breathtaking scenery that you wouldn't expect to see in the city, from endless blue seas with dolphins swimming to rare flora and fauna in rich natural surroundings, and a starry night sky akin to a planetarium.
Exploring Tokyo's Islands:
Eleven islands floating in the Pacific Ocean offer abundant blessings of nature, unique cultures, and local specialties, each adding to the charm of the islands.
Tokyo Islands Tourism Information:
Official websites of the Tokyo Islands Tourism Cooperation Promotion Association and Tokyo Island Dot Com.
Oshima Town:
Oshima, reachable in about 1 hour and 45 minutes by high-speed ship from downtown Tokyo, is the closest island to the city. As an active volcanic island, it boasts abundant hot springs. Camellias with glossy dark green leaves and red or white flowers are a winter specialty of Oshima.
Mount Miharayama:
With an elevation of 758 meters, Mount Mihara is a volcano located in the center of Oshima, still emitting smoke from its crater. There are walking trails around the crater, allowing visitors to witness the power of the volcano up close.
Izu Oshima Volcano Museum:
This museum specializes in volcanoes and displays specimens of stratigraphy from about 12,000 to 15,000 years ago. Visitors can also see powerful footage of the eruption of Mount Mihara.
Ura Sabaku (Back Desert):
This natural park allows visitors to experience the traces of Earth's activity. It is the only place in Japan described as a "desert." Covered with black volcanic ash, the desolate landscape resembles the surface of the moon.
Toshima Village:
With a circumference of 8 kilometers around a circular pond, the entire small island is covered with 200,000 camellia trees. Recently, Minami Bandou dolphins have settled near Toshima Port, allowing visitors to enjoy dolphin watching and swimming with dolphins.
Toshima Village Folk Museum:
This museum, themed on "Life in Toshima," exhibits the industrial history and living tools from the Jomon period to the present, conveying the village's history.
Miyatsukayama Observatory:
Mount Miyatsuka (elevation 507 meters), home to various plants and birds, is a symbol of the island. From the observation deck near the summit, visitors can enjoy views of the Izu Peninsula and Mount Fuji.
Minamigayama Viewpoint:
The best viewpoint in Toshima offers panoramic views of Shikinejima, Kozushima, Mikurajima, and Okinoshima on clear days.
Niijima Village:
Niijima, with its unique white sandy beaches pounded by powerful waves of Koga stone, is popular among surfers from both Japan and abroad. It also boasts numerous high-quality hot springs and activities such as snorkeling and diving.
Fuji Mitouge Observatory, Niijima:
An observatory featuring a pyramid made of Koga stone mined on the island. From here, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of uninhabited islands, Shikinejima, and Kozushima.
Niijima Glass Art Center and Glass Museum, Niijima:
Producing glass artwork using Koga stone as raw material. The adjacent Glass Art Museum exhibits various glass artworks.
Ebino Park:
Nestled amidst the verdant landscapes of Miyazaki Prefecture, Ebino Park stands as a breathtaking tribute to nature's boundless beauty. Here, visitors are treated to a mesmerizing display of flora and fauna that changes with the rhythm of the seasons, each bloom a testament to the park's rich biodiversity. One of Ebino Park's most enchanting features is its recreation of Niobe's flowers, a spectacle that unfolds in a natural setting, showcasing rare and exquisite plants such as Sekkoku, Nagoran, and Mamezutaran. Whether you're wandering through fields of vibrant blossoms or marveling at the intricate details of each delicate bloom, Ebino Park offers a tranquil escape into a world of natural wonder and serenity.
Hachijo Town:
Embark on a journey to the "tropical island" of Hachijo, a paradise nestled just under an hour away from Haneda Airport by direct flight. Here, amidst the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean, visitors are invited to discover a wealth of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures waiting to be explored. From the towering peak of Hachijo Fuji to the traditional silk fabric of "Kiihachijo," the island boasts a diverse array of attractions that captivate the senses and ignite the imagination. And don't miss the breathtaking sight of colorful freesias in bloom from late March to early April, a vibrant celebration of nature's bounty that fills the air with fragrance and beauty.
Hachijo Fuji:
Rise to new heights at Hachijo Fuji, a majestic dormant volcano that towers over the landscape as the highest peak in the Izu Islands. With its soaring elevation of 854 meters, Hachijo Fuji offers adventurers the opportunity to embark on a thrilling journey to its summit, where panoramic views of the surrounding vistas await. Whether you're circumnavigating the crater's 400-meter-wide expanse or marveling at the breathtaking scenery stretching out before you, Hachijo Fuji promises an unforgettable adventure that's as exhilarating as it is awe-inspiring.
Sueyoshi Onsen "Miharashi no Yu":
Indulge in the ultimate relaxation at Sueyoshi Onsen "Miharashi no Yu," a tranquil oasis nestled on the island's eastern and southern shores. Here, amidst the soothing embrace of natural hot springs, visitors can unwind and rejuvenate their senses while soaking in panoramic views of the vast Pacific Ocean and the starry night sky above. Whether you're luxuriating in the open-air bath or simply savoring the serenity of your surroundings, Sueyoshi Onsen offers a blissful retreat that rejuvenates both body and soul.
Uramigataki:
Embark on a journey into the heart of nature's beauty at Uramigataki, where a trail winds its way through the cascading waters of this mesmerizing waterfall. Here, visitors are invited to view the waterfall from behind, marveling at the sheer power and majesty of nature's handiwork. And nearby, the open-air bath of Uramigataki Onsen offers a tranquil sanctuary where guests can unwind amidst the soothing embrace of natural hot springs, enveloped by the serene beauty of their surroundings.
Aogashima Village:
Discover the allure of Aogashima Village, a hidden gem nestled amidst the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean. Here, amidst the rugged landscapes of this rare double-layered volcanic island, visitors are invited to explore a world of natural wonders and cultural treasures waiting to be uncovered. From the bustling streets of Japan's least populated village to the pristine shores of "Hingya no Shio," where salt is produced from geothermal springs, Aogashima captivates the imagination with its unique blend of tradition and natural beauty. Whether you're savoring the flavors of Aochu or exploring the ancient calderas of Maruyama, Aogashima Village offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Japan's natural splendor.
Maruyama:
Nestled within the heart of Aogashima's rugged terrain lies Maruyama, an ancient caldera formed by a volcanic eruption in 1785. Here, amidst the remnants of this fiery cataclysm, visitors are invited to embark on a journey of exploration as they traverse the winding trails that encircle two old craters of differing sizes. With each step, adventurers are treated to panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape, a stark reminder of the raw power and beauty of nature's handiwork. Whether you're marveling at the towering cliffs that line the crater's edge or basking in the tranquility of its serene surroundings, Maruyama offers an unforgettable glimpse into the geological wonders of Aogashima.
Aogashima Village Sauna:
Experience the ancient tradition of wellness at the Aogashima Village Sauna, a natural oasis nestled amidst the geothermal wonders of Hingya. Here, amidst the soothing embrace of steam and heat, visitors are transported to a world of relaxation and rejuvenation unlike any other. As the gentle warmth of the sauna envelops your senses, feel your cares melt away as you unwind amidst the tranquil beauty of your surroundings. And don't miss the opportunity to steam sweet potatoes in the sauna's traditional pot, a beloved island tradition that adds a touch of flavor to your wellness experience.
Oyama Observation Park:
Ascend to new heights at Oyama Observation Park, a breathtaking vantage point perched 400 meters above sea level on the northern side of Aogashima's outer caldera. Here, amidst the crisp mountain air and sweeping vistas, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the island's rugged terrain and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean beyond. Whether you're gazing out at the majestic silhouette of the complex volcano or marveling at the endless blue horizon stretching out before you, Oyama Observation Park offers a captivating glimpse into the untamed beauty of Aogashima.
Ogasawara Village:
Venture into the pristine wilderness of Ogasawara Village, a remote paradise located a thousand kilometers from Tokyo's bustling streets. Here, amidst the untouched beauty of this UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, visitors are invited to immerse themselves in a world of natural wonders and ecological treasures. From the vibrant coral reefs that teem with life to the majestic sea turtles, dolphins, and whales that call these waters home, Ogasawara Village offers a rare opportunity to connect with nature in its purest form. Whether you're exploring the dense forests that blanket the island or diving into the crystal-clear waters that surround it, Ogasawara Village promises an unforgettable adventure that's as awe-inspiring as it is enriching.
Chichijima:
Discover the enchanting beauty of Chichijima, a picturesque island that captivates the imagination with its rugged cliffs and stunning natural scenery. Here, amidst the tranquil waters of Maruberi Bay, visitors are treated to a breathtaking sight: the iconic "Heart Rock," a towering cliff face that resembles a heart when viewed from the sea. It's a sight that's as romantic as it is awe-inspiring, earning Chichijima its well-deserved reputation as a haven for lovers and adventurers alike. Whether you're marveling at the natural wonders of the island or embarking on a scenic hike along its rugged coastline, Chichijima promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Japan's natural splendor.
Minamijima:
Embark on a voyage of discovery to Minamijima, a remote island paradise that captivates the imagination with its pristine beauty and unique topography. Here, amidst the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean, visitors are treated to a mesmerizing sight: the "chinsui karst," a rare geological formation that resembles a natural work of art. As you explore this uninhabited island, guided by expert assistance to protect its fragile ecosystem, you'll encounter nesting grounds for shearwaters and sea turtles, adding to the island's allure as a sanctuary for wildlife and nature lovers alike. Whether you're marveling at the karst formations or soaking in the serenity of the island's untouched landscapes, Minamijima promises an unforgettable adventure that's as exhilarating as it is enriching.
Sekimon:
A deep forest where unique flora and fauna native to Hahajima remain in their natural state. Designated as a forest ecosystem protection area, guided tours are required for entry.
※ Accessible periods for guided tours are from March to September, with only the ridgeline trail available in March.