Izu Islands
Deep forests, volcanic hot springs, and ocean sports await on Tokyo’s little-known archipelago, the Izu Islands. Nestled in crystal clear waters, these unique islands offer a perfect Japanese beach holiday for travelers of all kinds. Whether you’re looking to relax in volcanic hot spring onsen baths, explore beautiful beaches, witness the famous camellia flowers on Izu Oshima, or indulge in water sports, the Izu Islands have something for everyone.
To begin your journey to the Izu Islands, the largest and easiest to reach is Izu Oshima Island. This island is part of a group that includes Toshima, Niijima, Shikinejima, Kozushima, Miyakejima, Mikurajima, Hachijojima, and Aogashima. Depending on the island you wish to visit, you can choose to travel by high-speed jetfoil, ferry, plane, or even helicopter. The main departure points for trips to the islands are Izu and Tokyo.
If you’re heading to Oshima Island, you can take the Tokai Kisen high-speed jetfoil from Takeshiba Passenger Boat Terminal in Tokyo, which takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. Alternatively, you can opt for a larger passenger ship, which offers an overnight journey of at least 6 hours. For those looking for a quicker option, Chofu Airport in Tokyo operates flights to Oshima Airport, which takes around 30 minutes.
Once you arrive on the islands, you’ll be greeted by a plethora of water sports opportunities. The surrounding ocean provides a stunning backdrop for snorkeling, diving, and surfing. The warm waters are home to a variety of coral and tropical fish, making it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts. If you’re looking for some excellent surf spots, consider taking a trip to Niijima Island. This island is famous for its great surfing conditions and offers a chance to ride the waves in a breathtaking setting.
Aside from water sports, there are other activities to enjoy on the Izu Islands. On Izu Oshima Island, you can take a horseback ride around Urasabaku, an area known for its scenic beauty. The island is also home to Mt. Mihara, an active volcano that erupts every 30 to 40 years. While it may sound daunting, Mt. Mihara is safe to visit for hiking and offers a unique opportunity to witness the power of nature.
One of the highlights of Izu Oshima Island is its stunning camellia flowers, which bloom from January to March each year. Oshima Park showcases a variety of camellia plants, allowing visitors to marvel at the different species. The oil extracted from the seeds of the camellia plant is used in hair and skin products, and Oshima Island camellia oil is famous throughout japan.
For a more remote and secluded experience, consider visiting Toshima Island, which is the closest island to Izu Oshima. This smaller island offers a chance to explore historical ruins and shrines, as well as hike through untouched forests. Please note that getting to Toshima Island may be challenging and dependent on weather conditions, but the effort is well worth it for those seeking a unique adventure.
In summary, the Izu Islands provide a perfect beach holiday destination in Japan. With their deep forests, volcanic hot springs, water sports opportunities, and stunning natural beauty, these islands have something to offer every traveler. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a chance to immerse yourself in nature, the Izu Islands are waiting to be explored. Plan your trip today and discover the hidden treasures of Tokyo’s little-known archipelago.
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