Did you know Izu Oshima is home to Japan’s largest active volcano, Mount Mihara, which last erupted in 1990 and created a lunar-like landscape that makes visitors feel they’ve stepped onto another planet? Located just 120 km (75 miles) south of Tokyo, this volcanic island offers an extraordinary escape from city life with its dramatic landscapes, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage—all while technically remaining within Tokyo Prefecture!
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Reaching Izu Oshima Island is part of the adventure, with options by sea or air depending on your preference for time versus experience.
By Ferry
The most popular way to reach Oshima is by ferry from Tokyo’s Takeshiba Pier:
- High-speed jet ferry: 1 hour 45 minutes, approximately ¥23,320 round trip
- Large ship: 6 hours, approximately ¥15,580 round trip (2nd class seat)
By Air
For a quicker journey, New Central Airservice operates flights from Chofu Airport (easily accessible from Shinjuku):
- Flight time: 25 minutes
- Cost: Approximately ¥25,100 round trip
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Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Izu Oshima enjoys a mild maritime climate, but timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience.
Seasonal Highlights
- Winter (January-March): Camellia season with over 3 million trees in bloom. Average temperature: 8-12°C (46-54°F)
- Spring (April-May): Cherry blossoms and pleasant hiking weather. Average temperature: 15-20°C (59-68°F)
- Summer (June-August): Beach season and water activities. Average temperature: 22-26°C (72-79°F)
- Autumn (September-November): Clear views and fall colors. Average temperature: 15-22°C (59-72°F)
Weather Tip: September is typhoon season in Japan. If traveling during this time, be prepared for possible ferry cancellations and have flexible plans.
Getting Around Locally
Exploring Izu Oshima’s 91.06 km² (35.16 sq mi) area requires some planning, as attractions are spread around the island.
Transportation Options
Bus Service
The island’s bus network connects major attractions, but service can be limited:
- Buses run approximately every 1-2 hours
- Fares range from ¥240-860 depending on distance
- Some remote areas have limited or seasonal service
Rental Options
For maximum flexibility, consider renting a vehicle:
- Cars: ¥3,000-14,000 per day (international driver’s license required)
- Scooters: ¥4,000-8,000 per day (license required)
- Mountain bikes: ¥2,000 per day (challenging terrain)
Explore at Your Own Pace
Rent a car to discover all of Izu Oshima’s hidden gems on your own schedule.
Where to Stay
Izu Oshima offers a range of accommodation options, from traditional Japanese inns to modern hotels and budget-friendly campsites.
Accommodation Types
Traditional Ryokans
Experience authentic Japanese hospitality with tatami rooms, futon bedding, and often onsen baths. Most are located in Motomachi and Okata areas.
Price range: ¥10,000-20,000 per person
Hotels & Guesthouses
Modern accommodations with Western-style beds and amenities. Options include Oshima Onsen Hotel with volcanic hot springs and ocean views.
Price range: ¥7,000-15,000 per person
Campsites
Budget-friendly options for outdoor enthusiasts. Toshiki Camping Site and Umi No Furusato Mura offer facilities near beaches.
Price range: ¥1,000-3,000 per tent
Booking Tip: Accommodations fill quickly during camellia season (January-March), Golden Week (late April-early May), and summer holidays. Book at least 2-3 months in advance for these periods.
Find Your Perfect Stay
Browse and book accommodations on Izu Oshima Island for your upcoming trip.
Dining & Local Cuisine
Izu Oshima’s cuisine reflects its volcanic soil and surrounding ocean, offering unique flavors you won’t find elsewhere in Japan.
Must-Try Local Specialties
- Bekko Zushi: Raw fish marinated in a special spicy sauce with soy sauce and red pepper
- Ashitaba: A nutritious local green leaf used in tempura, soups, and fried rice
- Kusaya: Distinctively pungent dried fish, a traditional island specialty
- Fresh Seafood: Local catches including “sabi” (deep-sea fish) and “mekkari” shells
- Tsubaki (Camellia) Jam: Sweet spread made from the island’s abundant camellia flowers
- Oshima Milk Products: Cookies and ice cream made from local dairy
Dining Tips
Important: Most restaurants on Oshima Island close early (around 8 PM). Make reservations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. The Oshima Tourist Office can help with bookings if you don’t speak Japanese.
Attractions & Sightseeing
Izu Oshima’s dramatic volcanic landscapes and coastal scenery offer numerous unforgettable sights.
Top Attractions
Mount Mihara
The island’s iconic 758-meter active volcano with a massive 300-meter diameter crater. The 45-minute hike from the entrance rewards with spectacular views across the island and ocean. The “Ohachi Meguri” trail circles the crater rim.
Ura-Sabaku (Black Desert)
A unique lunar-like landscape of black volcanic sand behind Mt. Mihara that makes visitors feel they’ve left Earth. This otherworldly terrain was formed during past eruptions.
Baumkuchen Cliff
Spectacular stratified cliff formations resembling the German cake, showing 20,000 years of volcanic eruption layers. Best viewed while driving along the coastal road between Motomachi and Habu ports.
Habu Port Lookout
A picturesque fishing village and port that inspired Yasunari Kawabata’s famous novel “The Dancing Girl of Izu.” The observation deck offers stunning views of the traditional harbor.
Fudeshima
A distinctive paintbrush-shaped island formed from ancient volcanic activity, visible from the coastal road. Nearby is a monument to OTA Julia, exiled during Japan’s Christian ban.
Izu Oshima Volcano Museum
Learn about the 1986 eruption and volcanic phenomena through interactive exhibits. The museum provides context for understanding the island’s dramatic landscapes.
Discover Izu Oshima’s Wonders
Book guided tours to experience the best of the island with knowledgeable local guides.
Outdoor Activities & Adventures
Izu Oshima’s diverse natural environment offers exciting activities for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Water Activities
Scuba Diving & Snorkeling
Oshima’s waters offer exceptional visibility and diverse marine life, including hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, and tropical fish. The volcanic ocean floor creates dramatic underwater landscapes. Toshiki Beach is particularly popular for diving.
Beaches
The island has several distinctive beaches for swimming and relaxation:
- Kobo-hama: Lively beach in Motomachi with bars and restaurants
- Noda-hama: Quieter beach with good snorkeling opportunities
- Sa-no-hama: Long black sand beach (not recommended for swimming)
Land Activities
Hiking & Trekking
Beyond Mt. Mihara, the island offers several scenic trails through volcanic landscapes and lush forests. The Geo Park status highlights the unique geological features throughout the island.
Cycling
Rent a bicycle to explore the coastal road that circles the island. The “Sunset Palm Line” offers spectacular ocean views, especially at dusk. Completing the full 50 km circuit takes 4-5 hours for experienced cyclists.
Relaxation
Hot Springs (Onsen)
Volcanic activity provides natural hot springs:
- Hama-no-yu: Open-air mixed bath with ocean views (swimsuits required)
- Gojinka Onsen: Traditional facility with multiple baths and saunas
- Miharayama Onsen: Mountain hot spring with panoramic views
Stargazing
Minimal light pollution makes Oshima ideal for stargazing. The summit of Mt. Mihara is a popular spot for night sky observation, with guided tours available.
Cultural Experiences & Festivals
Experience the unique island culture shaped by volcanic activity, isolation, and maritime traditions.
Festivals & Events
- Camellia Festival (January-March): Celebrating the island’s 3 million camellia trees with flower displays, traditional performances, and food stalls
- Oshima Grand Shrine Festival (July): Traditional Shinto festival with mikoshi (portable shrine) processions
- Summer Festival (August): Beach events, fireworks, and local food
Cultural Sites
- Hajikama Shrine: Atmospheric forest shrine with cedar trees and local legends
- Oshima Park: Japan’s largest camellia garden with 1,000+ species
- Sakurakkabu Cherry Tree: 800-year-old cherry tree designated as a natural monument
Practical Travel Tips
Make your Izu Oshima trip smooth and enjoyable with these essential tips.
Essential Information
- Currency: Japanese Yen (¥). ATMs are limited, so bring sufficient cash
- Language: Japanese is predominant. Basic English may be understood at tourist facilities
- Wi-Fi: Available at most accommodations but can be limited elsewhere
- Emergency: Dial 119 for ambulance/fire or 110 for police
Safety & Etiquette
Volcano Safety: Mount Mihara is generally safe to visit, but always check current volcanic activity status before hiking. Follow all posted safety guidelines and stay on designated trails.
Onsen Etiquette: For traditional hot springs, wash thoroughly before entering the bath. Hama-no-yu requires swimwear as it’s mixed gender, but other facilities follow traditional nude bathing (separated by gender).
Planning Tips
- Book accommodations, ferry tickets, and restaurants well in advance, especially during peak seasons
- Ferry services may be canceled during typhoon season or rough weather
- Most businesses close early; plan activities and meals accordingly
- Bring appropriate hiking gear if planning to explore Mount Mihara
Ready for Your Izu Oshima Adventure?
Just a short journey from Tokyo lies a world of volcanic wonders, pristine beaches, and unique cultural experiences on Izu Oshima Island. From hiking the dramatic crater of Mount Mihara to relaxing in ocean-view hot springs, this island offers an authentic Japanese experience away from the typical tourist path. Pack your sense of adventure and discover why this volcanic gem continues to captivate visitors seeking Japan’s natural beauty at its most dramatic.
Start Planning Your Trip Today
Book your transportation, accommodation, and activities for an unforgettable Izu Oshima experience.
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