Hachijojima

Hachijojima (八丈島) is a volcanic island in the Philippine Sea, about 290 km south of Tokyo. It is the southernmost inhabited island in the Izu chain and the most remote of Tokyo's administered islands (excluding the Ogasawaras). The island is known for its dramatic twin volcanoes — Mount Hachijo-Fuji (854 m) and Mount Hachijo-Nishi (616 m) — lush subtropical vegetation, and unique local culture.

The island has a distinct culture from mainland Japan, with its own dialect, traditional dance (Hachijo-daiko), and textile craft (Hachijo-ori silk). The climate is subtropical, with warm temperatures year-round. Winter is mild (rarely below 10°C), and summer is hot and humid. The island is a destination for nature lovers, divers, and those seeking a true island escape.

By Plane

The fastest access is from Haneda Airport via ANA or Japan Airlines (about 55 minutes). Hachijojima Airport is on the island's northwest coast. Flights operate several times daily.

By Ferry

Large ferries from Takeshiba (Tokyo) reach Hachijojima in about 10 hours (overnight). The service operates a few times per week. The jetfoil does not reach Hachijojima due to the distance.

By Car / Road

A car is useful on the island but not essential. Cars can be shipped on the ferry. Rental cars are available at the airport and port. Scooters and bicycles are good options for the relatively uncrowded roads.

Local buses circle the island, connecting the main towns of Mitsune and Okago. Taxis are available at the airport and port. Rental cars and scooters offer the most flexibility. Cycling around the island is a popular activity.

• Mount Hachijo-Fuji — The island's highest peak. A hiking trail leads to the crater rim with panoramic Pacific views. The hike takes about 2 hours round trip.

• Hachijo-daiko Museum — A museum dedicated to the island's distinctive drumming tradition, with live performances several times a week.

• Hachijo-ori Hall — A center for the island's traditional silk textile weaving, with demonstrations and sales.

• Hachijojima Botanical Garden — A garden showcasing the island's unique subtropical flora.

• Nakasogo-do — An ancient stone-built shrine and ritual site, offering a glimpse into the island's pre-modern religious practices.

• Hike the volcanoes — Trails on both Mount Hachijo-Fuji and Mount Hachijo-Nishi offer rewarding hikes through lush vegetation.

• Diving and snorkeling — The island's clear waters offer excellent visibility, coral reefs, and abundant marine life including sea turtles.

• Hachijo-daiko performance — The powerful, fast-paced drumming is the island's most famous cultural export. Performances held regularly.

• Onsen bathing — Hachijojima has several hot spring facilities, including open-air baths with ocean views.

• Cycling the island — A loop around the island is about 50 km, manageable in a day with moderate fitness.

• Kusaya — Fermented dried fish, a pungent Izu Islands specialty that is the island's most famous food.
• Hachijo kozakana — Small dried fish served as a snack with drinks.
• Shima-sushi — Island-style pressed sushi with local seafood.
• Hachijo beef — Locally raised wagyu, available at a few restaurants.
• Budget meals from ¥900 at port-side restaurants.

The island produces a distinctive Hachijo shochu made from brown sugar and locally grown ingredients. The port area has izakaya and bars. The volcanic soil creates excellent local produce for drinks. Tap water is safe.

• Budget: Minshuku and guesthouses from ¥6,000/night.
• Mid-range: Seaside hotels from ¥10,000–15,000/night.
• Upscale: Resort-style hotels with onsen and ocean views, from ¥18,000/night.

Hachijojima's unique souvenirs include Hachijo-ori silk (scarves, ties, and fabric), kurozato (brown sugar) products, and shochu (distilled spirit) made from island ingredients. The port and airport shops sell local crafts.

• Aogashima (ferry from Hachijojima, limited service) — A remote volcanic island with a double-caldera structure, hiking, and natural hot springs.
• Miyakejima (ferry) — Active volcano island with unique gas-mask protocols.
• Hachijojima itself — Most visitors spend 2–3 days exploring the island's volcanoes, coastline, and culture.