[2025 Latest] 10 Island Getaways from Tokyo! Introducing Recommended Tourist Spots and Scenic Views

[2025 Latest] 10 Islands You Can Visit from Tokyo! Introducing Recommended Tourist Spots and Scenic Views

This article introduces a carefully selected list of recommended remote islands that are easily accessible from Tokyo! Let's enjoy a trip to these remote islands with family, friends, or your partner!

What are the charms of Tokyo's remote islands? How do you get to Tokyo's remote islands?

The islands accessible from within Tokyo are all popular areas brimming with charm that can be enjoyed even on a day trip. From within Tokyo, you can reach them by boat from Takeshiba Pier or by plane from Chofu Airport. Boats offer affordable fares, while planes offer the advantage of saving time. We encourage you to consider your time and budget when choosing your access method.

The eight islands of the Izu Islands

First, we'll introduce eight islands in the Izu Islands that are easily accessible from Tokyo. We'll detail the sights and attractions of each island in the order of Oshima, Toshima, Niijima, Shikinejima, Mikurajima, Kozushima, Hachijojima, and Aogashima.

Izu Ōshima, the volcanic island closest to Tokyo

Oshima is the volcanic island located closest to Tokyo.

Its accessibility, with a journey of approximately one hour and 45 minutes by high-speed hydrofoil, is a major draw. The island's unique volcanic terrain is full of highlights, offering magnificent views of Mount Mihara and the chance to enjoy about 3 million camellia trees.

Oshima enjoys a warm climate, making it perfect for fully enjoying hiking and cycling. Due to the influence of the Kuroshio Current, the weather is pleasant year-round, and the island boasts lush natural scenery that belies its location within Tokyo. It's an ideal remote island for those who love nature walks or light outdoor activities.

Japan's Only Desert, "Ura-sabaku"

Urasabaku is a rare spot in Japan that is the only place marked as "desert" on maps.

This area is characterized by a black desert created by volcanic ash and scoria, volcanic ejecta that accumulated from the eruption of Mount Mihara, giving you a strange feeling of being on another planet. Because strong winds make it difficult for plants to grow, this black world is preserved.

The Urasa Desert is frequently used as a filming location for dramas, music videos, and commercials, and its fantastical scenery is unforgettable once seen. It is especially recommended for those seeking stunning natural vistas that are perfect for photos.

"Miharayama" for enjoying hiking

Miharayama is a symbolic presence on Oshima, cherished by the islanders as "Okami-bi-sama."

You can enjoy hiking while getting a close look at lava flows within the caldera, and also take in the spectacular views of the craters and Mt. Fuji.

There are several hiking courses on Mt. Mihara, so choose one that suits you. The "Ochimusari Course" offers views of the rugged crater and spectacular scenery of the Izu Islands and the Izu Peninsula, allowing you to feel the pulse of our living planet.

If you're interested in volcanoes, why not try enjoying a hike?

The "Izu Oshima Camellia Festival," a large-scale island event held every spring.

The Izu Oshima Camellia Festival is an island-wide event with a camellia theme, held annually from January to March.

This event, held to coincide with the season when camellia flowers are in full bloom, allows you to enjoy flower viewing at three camellia gardens certified as International Camellia Gardens of Excellence. In the evening, a collaboration of camellias and the starry sky, offering a fantastical atmosphere, is also reportedly available.

During the Izu Oshima Camellia Festival, you can also enjoy special island dishes and sweets using camellias at local restaurants on the island. If you want to enjoy cherry blossom viewing in spring or savor local gourmet food that can only be experienced here, be sure to visit.

Access: 1 hour 45 minutes by ferry from Tokyo's Takeshiba Passenger Terminal

A paradise where you can swim with dolphins! "Toshima"

Toshima is a compact and beautiful conical island with a population of about 300 and a circumference of about 8 km.

It is known as an island where beautiful camellias can be seen, and in winter, about 200,000 camellias bloom, creating a stunning natural landscape. It is also famous as a production area for camellia oil, and it's popular as a hidden gem spot that's easily accessible from the city center.

There are various ways to enjoy Toshima, such as swimming with dolphins, enjoying the ocean with its outstanding transparency, and stargazing under a sky full of stars. Although it is a small island surrounded by cliffs, it is a special place where you can feel the rich nature and the warmth of the islanders. It is recommended for those who want to refresh themselves in a quiet environment.

Swim with a curious dolphin! "Dolphin Swim"

Dolphin swimming is an experience where you can swim with the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins that inhabit the waters around Toshima Island.

It has been confirmed that about 20 dolphins currently inhabit Toshima Island, offering an extraordinary experience of swimming and playing alongside them. The chances of encountering dolphins are high, and it is said that curious dolphins will sometimes approach on their own accord if they are in a good mood.

This is a rare spot where you can enjoy scuba diving along with dolphin swimming, allowing you to fully experience ocean leisure. It's perfect for those who want to interact with marine life.

Crystal clear artificial beach! "Kakemama Beach"

Kakkenma Beach, located near Toshima Port, is an artificial beach proud of its high transparency.

This is a relatively new beach, established in 2015, and it is open only during the summer months.

The water is so clear you can tell from the shore, so transparent that you can see fish with the naked eye. It's also perfect for parents and children to enjoy snorkeling. Some guesthouses offer snorkeling set rentals, but it's best to have your own prepared in advance. This is recommended for those who want to enjoy a family beach day.

A Natural Planetarium! "Stargazing"

On Toshima, we also recommend relaxing and enjoying stargazing.

The night sky transforms into a natural planetarium, and on clear days, you can see the Milky Way with the naked eye. From Nankayama Garden, you can apparently see as far as Niijima and Miyakejima islands. The contrast between the faint lights emanating from the islands and the star-filled sky creates a fantastical landscape unique to remote islands.

The spacious, unobstructed surroundings allow for endless enjoyment of the scenery without ever getting bored. You can have the starry sky all to yourself, something you'd never be able to see in the city.

Recommended for those who enjoy stargazing or couples who want to spend a romantic time.

Access: Shortest 2-hour ferry ride from Tokyo's Takeshiba Passenger Ship Terminal

White Sand Resort Island! "Niijima"

Niijima is an island with beautiful white sandy beaches, located about 160 km south of Tokyo.

Along the approximately 40km coastline, a beautiful, breathtaking landscape unfolds with the striking contrast of the blue sea and white sandy beaches, making it a renowned sanctuary for surfing and diving. There is also a legend that the island was named "Atarashima (Niijima)" because "when the foam of the tide is collected and boiled, the island is white-skinned." True to its legendary name, the beauty of the white sand is a must-see.

In addition, you can also enjoy the island's unique culture, such as the distinctive Moyai statues made from local Kōga stone, and a rare glassmaking experience. This island would be ideal for those who prioritize activities and want to experience local culture.

The contrast of white sand and the sea creates a superb view at "Habushiura Coast."

Habushinoura Beach is a long, white-sand beach stretching for approximately 6.5 km, boasting emerald green waters and dazzlingly white sand. It is also famous as one of Japan's premier surfing spots, attracting many visitors year-round.

From the observation deck located to the north, you can get a panoramic view of the coastline, and the emerald green sea looks beautiful. This spot is especially recommended for surf lovers and those who are interested in scenery that's perfect for social media.

The Shibuya "Moai Statue" is worth seeing for its various expressions

The Moai statues are unique stone figures carved from Kōga stone, a specialty of Niijima.

"Moyai," an island dialect meaning "joining forces," is the origin of its name, and it is cherished as an art piece created with heart by the local people. More than 50 statues are scattered throughout the island, and especially at Moyai Hill, you can enjoy a view where many statues gather.

While modeled after Easter Island's "Moai statues," each statue uniquely embodies Niijima's own culture and spirit, making their varied expressions captivating. This is the perfect spot for art lovers or those seeking to experience a unique culture.

The "Glass Art Center" where you can experience glass making

The Glass Art Center is a facility that produces glass products made from Koga stone, a material that can only be mined in Lipari Island, Italy, and Niijima in the world.

It's also possible to experience making these uniquely colored glass pieces yourself, making them perfect souvenirs. The adjacent Glass Art Museum not only exhibits glass art from Niijima but also features works by glass artists from around the world.

This will be a fantastic experience for those who want to enjoy a hands-on activity or create a special souvenir.

Access: Approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours by high-speed boat from Takeshiba Pier.

A Treasure Trove of Free Open-Air Hot Springs! "Shikinejima Island"

Shikinejima is a small island that can be circled in 2-3 hours on foot, yet it is attractive for its rich nature and four hot springs. A clear blue, shallow sea stretches along its ria coastline, and three of these can be enjoyed as free open-air hot springs.

Bathing in the sea and indulging in hot springs while gazing at white sandy beaches and beautiful scenery is truly a paradise of healing. This rhyolite island, formed 16,000 years ago, is small enough to walk around, with a circumference of about 12 km, yet you can leisurely enjoy its abundant nature. It's the perfect island for hot spring enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxing trip.

The underwater hot spring "Jinata Onsen," surrounded by rocky cliffs.

Chinatatsu Onsen is a natural open-air hot spring located between sheer cliffs, accessible only twice a day. Surrounded by rocky mountains that look as if they were split by a hatchet, this unique geographical feature allows the 80-degree Celsius hot spring water to mix with seawater, reaching an ideal temperature.

It is said to be called the "internal medicine bath" because it is effective for neuralgia and rheumatism. By all means, try to find a place where the temperature of the water mixed with seawater is just right and take a bath.

At night, there are few streetlights, so you can enjoy a healing moment under a sky full of stars. It's recommended for hot spring enthusiasts and those who want to experience a special kind of onsen.

The hot spring "Ashitsuki Onsen" with colorless, transparent hot water.

Ashitsuki Onsen is the only hot spring on the island that gushes colorless and transparent water. It is said to have been named "Ashitsuki" (meaning "foot attached") from a legend that a sea lion with a wounded leg used to bathe in the hot spring.

This hot spring, located on rocky terrain with carbonated water at 55 degrees Celsius, is characterized by its temperature changing with the tides. It is also known as the "Surgeon's Bath" due to its effectiveness for cuts and atopic dermatitis.

This is a hot spring where you wear a swimsuit to enter, so don't forget to bring one. It's the perfect place for those with skin concerns or who want a unique hot spring experience.

"Tome Beach," a beach boasting the clearest waters on Shikinejima Island

Toma Beach, boasting the island's clearest waters, is located a 5-minute walk from Nobuse Port.

The scenery created by the fan-shaped bay surrounded by rocks and the beautiful emerald green sea is spectacular. Simply walking slowly along the sandy beach is healing for the soul.

The waves at Tomari Beach are gentle, so even small children can enjoy themselves with peace of mind. This is a recommended spot for families who want to enjoy a day at the beach, or for those who want to relax surrounded by crystal-clear sea.

Access: Approximately 3 hours by high-speed boat from Takeshiba Pier.

Mikurajima: Where You Can Encounter Wild Dolphins

Mikura-jima is an island located in the center of the Izu Islands, approximately 200km from the heart of Tokyo. The entire island is designated as a national park and is known for Kurogaki-Takao, the tallest cliff in Japan, and as a habitat for giant trees.

Although it's a small island of only about 20 square kilometers, its rich natural environment, nurturing a variety of organisms including endemic species, is captivating. Mikurajima is also famous as "the island where you can swim with dolphins" as it is home to nearly 200 wild dolphins. Activities such as swimming with dolphins are guided, allowing you to safely enjoy nature.

Those who want to swim with dolphins or experience untouched nature, please book a tour and give it a try.

A chance to encounter a pod of dolphins: "Dolphin Watching"

During the season from April to November, there's a chance to encounter pods of bottlenose dolphins around Mikura Island.

Encounters with mother and baby dolphins are frequent, and the captivating point is being able to swim as if you've entered a pod of dolphins. Additionally, from the dolphin watching boat, you can also enjoy magnificent views of the sheer cliffs.

For dolphin watching in Mikura-jima, approximately 10 watching boats are in operation, and you can arrange them when booking your accommodation. Since dolphin watching is a popular activity, if you want to ensure a booking, make your accommodation reservation as soon as you decide on your travel dates.

If you're looking for an experience you can't have in everyday life, or want to interact with marine life, please join us.

"Giant tree" boasting the largest trunk circumference in Japan

Mikurajima is also known for its various types of giant trees, which are a must-see.

Mikurajima boasts a group of 491 giant trees, accounting for about 5% of Japan's total. Among them is a Shiia tree called "Ōjii," which has a trunk circumference of 13.8 meters, making it the largest in Japan and incredibly awe-inspiring.

Hiking trails are set up around the giant trees, allowing you to stroll through the virgin forest with a guide. Paved paths and wooden decks are maintained, making it safe even for those unaccustomed to hiking. You can fully enjoy the island's nature, making it perfect for nature lovers or those who want to experience the awe-inspiring power of giant trees.

Access: Approximately 8 to 9.5 hours by large cruise ship from Takeshiba Pier.

Kozushima Certified as Tokyo's First Starry Sky Reserve

Kozushima is a beautiful island with the 572-meter-high Mt. Tenjo rising from its center, located about 180km south of Tokyo.

The island's distinctive trapezoidal shape makes it a popular destination for everyone, from beginners to seasoned hikers. You'll find sandy beaches perfect for swimming, scenic walking paths along rocky shores, and excellent spots for snorkeling. Additionally, there are hiking trails and diving locations. It's an ideal island for those wanting to fully enjoy outdoor leisure activities, as well as for families.

Also, on Kozushima, where fishing is prosperous and boasts the highest catch volume in the Izu Islands, the seafood, such as alfonsino, is exquisite. When you visit the island, please be sure to savor the delicious seafood.

Kozushima is also known as the first island in Tokyo to be certified as a starry sky protection area, and you can enjoy a sky full of stars at night. If you'd like to enjoy stargazing, we highly recommend staying on the island.

White Sands and Spectacular Sunset: "Maehama Beach"

Maehama Beach is a popular beach featuring approximately 800 meters of beautiful white sand. It is also known as one of Japan's leading diving spots, where you can see sea turtles and schools of amberjack and parrotfish swimming. It's attractive because not only diving, but also snorkeling, surfing, and tide pool exploration on the rocky areas can be enjoyed by a wide range of people, from children to adults.

Maehama Beach is within walking distance of the village, making it a great spot for enjoying activities other than swimming, such as morning strolls or picnics. In the evening, you might want to end your day by watching the magnificent sunset from the shore.

Those who want to enjoy marine sports or see a beautiful sunset should definitely visit.

A Starry Sky with No Light Pollution: "Stargazing"

Kozushima was certified as a "Starry Sky Reserve," the first in Tokyo to be recognized for its efforts to protect beautiful starry skies.

The efforts to protect the dark and beautiful night sky, unaffected by surrounding light, have been recognized, and at night, the entire island becomes like a natural planetarium. You can enjoy a leisurely stargazing walk under a sky full of stars, only hearing the chirping of insects and the sound of the wind.

The Kōzu-jima Island Tourism Association is also holding stargazing tours led by island residents. It's a unique experience where you can learn about the stars while also hearing about island life.

Spending time slowly, enveloped by the starlit sky, is an experience difficult to come by in the city, so we highly recommend it to those who enjoy stargazing or wish to spend a romantic evening.

Access: Approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes by high-speed boat from Takeshiba Pier.

A tropical island just 55 minutes from Haneda! "Hachijojima"

Hachijojima is a gourd-shaped volcanic island located approximately 290km south of Tokyo. It is an island accessible within about an hour from Haneda Airport.

Hachijojima Island is home to diverse wildlife and endemic plants. The surrounding area boasts magnificent scenery, including the clear blue sea created by volcanic activity, rugged mountains rising around the island, and lush green grasslands.

From mountain activities like trekking, golf, camping, and barbecues, to an abundance of marine activities such as diving, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Everyone, from children to adults, can fully enjoy themselves.

This island is perfect for those who want to have a variety of experiences during their stay or those who want to relax at a guesthouse.

A stunning view from the highest peak in the Izu Islands! "Mount Hachijo"

Hachijo Fuji is an 854-meter-high mountain boasting the highest peak in the Izu Islands. Its distinctive feature is its resemblance to Mount Fuji, spreading out to its base, with a crater of sheer cliffs at its summit. It is Hachijojima's premier tourist spot, where you can fully enjoy dynamic nature and scenery.

On Hachijo-Fuji, there is a spectacular roughly one-hour trekking course called "Oachi Meguri," where you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the sea and townscape.

If it's sunny, you can also see Hachijo-kojima island. It's a special place where you can feel the unique terrain of a volcanic island and the raw power of nature firsthand.

Trekking is easy for beginner hikers to try and offers a strong sense of accomplishment. It's a spot that anyone who loves hiking or seeks stunning views should definitely visit.

The "Hachijojima Freesia Festival" adorned with 350,000 freesias

The Hachijojima Freesia Festival is a flower festival held annually on Hachijojima from late March to early April. Approximately 350,000 colorful freesias bloom at the Yakata-yama Freesia Fields near Hachijojima Airport, with Mount Hachijo as their backdrop.

In the venue, where the sweet scent of freesias fills the air, you can freely enter the fields to admire the flowers up close and enjoy taking photos. You can also experience picking freesias, and take home up to 20 flowers per person for free.

At the Hachijojima Freesia Festival's special stage, you can also enjoy performances of the local traditional art, "Hachijo Taiko" drumming. Additionally, with advance reservations, you can take commemorative photos while wearing a "Ki-Hachijo" traditional kimono. This is recommended for those who want to create precious memories that can only be made here.

For those who want to enjoy flowers unique to spring or experience local culture, be sure to check this out.

Access: Approximately 55 minutes by plane from Haneda Airport

The "Secret Realm" of Aogashima, Where a Spirit of Adventure is Cultivated

Aogashima is a volcanic island floating in the Pacific Ocean, 358km from Tokyo.

This island is located at the southernmost inhabited island of the Izu Islands. The entire island is a volcanic crater, and it's a rare double caldera volcano with an inner crater called "Maruyama" in the center, a sight rarely seen elsewhere in the world. With abundant untouched nature, it's also considered a hidden gem for tourists, attracting attention primarily from nature lovers and explorers.

For those seeking adventure on a remote island or wishing to visit an undiscovered gem, why not consider Aogashima?

"Oiyama Observation Park" with 360-degree panoramic views

Oyama Observatory Park is a spectacular spot reachable by a 15-minute walk along a promenade about 1km from the village. A blue tiled monument, designed to resemble the Earth, marks the spot, offering a panoramic view of the caldera and the village.

The highlight of Oyama Observatory Park is being able to see and experience the mysterious landscape of the double caldera with your own eyes. The view that unfolds before you, of the caldera's interior and the magnificent panorama of the entire settlement, is truly breathtaking. Be sure to capture it in a photograph.

"Fureai Sauna," a natural sauna utilizing geothermal heat

The Fureai Sauna is a natural sauna that utilizes the heat of the earth (geothermal heat). It's a popular facility that attracts many tourists as well as local villagers.

The sauna room temperature is around 60 degrees Celsius. The room is heated by geothermal energy from volcanic activity, serving its purpose as a sauna. Since natural heat is used, temperature regulation is not possible, and it's characterized by varying temperatures and humidity from day to day.

Those who love saunas or want to experience island life should definitely visit.

Experience steamed cuisine with natural geothermal heat: "Hingya's Geothermal Kiln Cooking"

Hingya's geothermal kiln cooking is natural steamed cuisine that utilizes Aogashima's geothermal heat.

"Hingya" is a word believed to originate from "hi no ki," meaning "fire element." In the Ikenosawa district near Maruyama, numerous vents can be seen where steam erupts from the ground due to geothermal activity. This steam is used to steam vegetables, fish, eggs, and more. This island wisdom, utilized for heating and cooking even before the age of electricity, continues to be passed down to this day.

The geothermal kiln can be freely used by tourists, and can steam anything deliciously. A picnic surrounded by the great nature of Aogashima is a special experience you can't have in the city, so please give it a try.

Access: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes by boat from Hachijojima

The two islands in the Ogasawara Islands

Next, we will introduce two islands in the Ogasawara Islands: Chichijima and Hahajima. The Ogasawara Islands were registered as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in 2011.

1000km Away, a Different World! "Chichijima"

Chichijima is the central island of the Ogasawara Islands, floating about 1,000 km south of Tokyo. It's popular as another world you can reach in 24 hours by boat from Tokyo.

The lush blue seas called "Bonin Blue" and the forests inhabited by many endemic species are registered as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. It offers a grand natural landscape unlike anything seen in city life, and with numerous rare plants and animals, you can experience the extraordinary.

This island is recommended for those who want to enjoy snorkeling, are interested in a World Natural Heritage site, or wish to observe flora and fauna.

Marine activities abound at "Omura Beach"

Omura Beach is located in the Omura district, the central part of Chichijima. Its appeal lies in its convenient access from the main street, and the area is well-equipped with accommodations and restaurants.

It's not just for swimming in the ocean; it's also a characteristic feature that you can fully enjoy marine activities like windsurfing and snorkeling. Additionally, around Golden Week, many tourists reportedly visit to witness sea turtles nesting.

If you want to enjoy various marine activities, try going to Omura Beach.

A panoramic view of Ani Island! "Nagasaki Observatory"

Nagasaki Observatory offers beautiful views of islands like Ani-jima. It's a spot where you can see the contrast between the clear blue sea and the green land, making it recommended for those who want to feel the magnificent nature or take photos.

You don't need to climb on foot, so families with children can also enjoy the spectacular views with ease. If you want to easily enjoy the unique scenery of Chichijima, be sure to visit.

The uninhabited island "Minami-jima," where numerous plants and animals inhabit.

Minami Island is an uninhabited island floating 1 km southwest of Chichijima. It is characterized by its rare submerged karst topography and an emerald green sea called "Ougi-ike" (Fan Pond). Ougi-ike evokes a beauty that makes you feel as if you've wandered into another world.

It's also known for its abundant plant and animal life, and you can enjoy observing green sea turtles and seabirds, among others.

Additionally, as there is no pier on Minamijima, you will need to disembark directly from the bow of the boat onto the rocky shore. This spot is particularly recommended for those with a spirit of adventure.

The "Chichijima" Islands: Enchanting Primeval Forests and Bonin Blue

Hahajima is an island located about 50km from Chichijima in the Ogasawara Islands. It is characterized by its warm subtropical climate year-round and is known as a World Natural Heritage site where untouched nature spreads across the island.

In the seas surrounded by coral reefs, you can experience marine activities such as snorkeling and diving. Dolphins can be seen year-round, and from around December to May, you can enjoy whale watching for humpback whales. If you're looking to experience ocean activities and encounters with creatures rarely seen in cities, be sure to visit Hahajima.

Since it's within a day-trip distance from Chichijima, it might be best to visit it in conjunction with your trip to Chichijima.

"Mount Chibusa": A Trekking Spot Where You Can Encounter Endemic Species

Chichibusa-yama is a trekking spot on Haha-jima island where you can experience the great nature of the Ogasawara Islands.

Mt. Chichibu has hiking trails that take about 4 hours to complete, allowing you to enjoy a stroll without a tour guide. Along the hiking trails, you can see endemic plants like the Hahajimanobotan. Once you reach the summit, you can take in panoramic views of Higashizaki and Okureizumi Bay.

Encounters with endemic wild birds and plants are a special experience that can only be savored in the Ogasawara Islands. We highly recommend a visit for those who enjoy trekking or are interested in endemic flora and fauna.

"Miyukihama Observation Deck: The Perfect Spot for Whale Watching"

Miyukino-hama Observatory is an observation deck located in Ishihama, named after Emperor Shōwa collected living creatures there. The sea area from Miyukino-hama to Nankin-hama is designated as a marine park, offering views of Mukaijima and Tairajima islands.

Also, from around December to May, it's a popular spot for observing humpback whales. Whale watching is a moving experience, so if you visit the island from winter to spring, be sure to stop by the observation deck.

After enjoying the Miyukihama Observatory, you can descend the promenade to the Miyukihama coast and enjoy a stroll on the beach. This is a recommended spot for those who want to fully enjoy nature on a quiet coast.

Access: Approximately 2 hours by boat from Chichijima.

Conclusion

We've introduced 10 recommended remote islands you can visit from Tokyo.

Islands near the Kanto region are characterized by their unique nature and culture, despite being easily accessible from the city center. Why not enjoy island time, something you can't experience in the city, on a weekend getaway or day trip?

For recommended remote islands nationwide, please see the article below.