Niijima

Niijima (新島) is a volcanic island in the Izu chain, about 160 km south of Tokyo. It is known for its beautiful white-sand beaches, hot springs, and a distinctive glass-making tradition using local sand. The island has a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere and is a popular destination for camping, surfing, and beachgoing.

The island's name means "New Island," reflecting its relatively recent volcanic origin. The landscape is characterized by the volcanic Mount Miyatsuka and a series of rugged cliffs and coves. The population is small and concentrated in the main settlement of Honnura on the east coast. The climate is warm year-round, with mild winters and hot summers.

By Plane

Niijima Airport has commuter flights from Chofu Airport in Tokyo via New Central Airlines (about 35 minutes). Flights are limited and subject to weather.

By Ferry

The high-speed jetfoil "Seagull" from Takeshiba (Tokyo) reaches Niijima in about 2 hours 20 minutes. The overnight large ferry takes about 7–8 hours. The port is at Honnura on the east coast.

By Car / Road

A car is not necessary on Niijima. The island is small (about 5 km by 3 km) and can be explored by bicycle, scooter, or bus. Rental bicycles and scooters are available at the port.

The island is small enough to explore by bicycle. Local buses connect the port to the beaches and campsites. Taxis are limited. Walking is a pleasant option for the coastal areas.

• Niijima Glass Art Center — A museum and workshop showcasing the island's glass-making tradition using local silica sand. Visitors can watch glassblowers at work and try making their own pieces.

• Mount Miyatsuka Crater — A volcanic crater with walking trails and views over the island.

• Yoshiiaki Beach — A long white-sand beach on the east coast, popular for swimming and sunbathing.

• Habushiura Beach — A rocky beach on the west coast, a famous surfing spot with consistent waves.

• Jusaburo Shrine — A Shinto shrine with a torii gate overlooking the sea.

• Glass-blowing workshop — Create your own glass object at the Niijima Glass Art Center (advance booking recommended).

• Surfing at Habushiura Beach — The island is one of the Izu chain's best surfing destinations.

• Beach relaxation at Yoshiiaki — The main swimming beach, with clear water and soft white sand.

• Camping — Niijima is famous for beachside camping, especially near Yoshiiaki and Habushiura.

• Hot spring bathing — Niijima has several onsen facilities, including an open-air bath with sea views.

• Kusaya — The pungent fermented dried fish is available on Niijima as well.
• Shima-zushi — Island-style pressed sushi with fresh local fish.
• Niijima soba — Buckwheat noodles served with island-produced toppings.
• Fresh seafood restaurants near the port serve kaisendon and sashimi.
• Budget meals from ¥800.

The port area has izakaya and small bars. Local shochu is popular. Surfing culture brings a relaxed beach-bar atmosphere in summer. Tap water is safe.

• Budget: Camping (beachside sites from ¥500/night) or backpacker hostels from ¥3,000/night.
• Mid-range: Minshuku and guesthouses from ¥7,000/night.
• Upscale: Ryokan with onsen, from ¥12,000/night.

Niijima is famous for Niijima glass — handmade glassware, vases, and jewelry made from local sand. The Glass Art Center has an excellent shop. Local food products include himono (dried fish) and island seaweed products.

• Shikinejima (10 min by ferry) — Tiny island with natural hot spring pools (hinata-yu) by the sea and excellent snorkeling.
• Kozushima (25 min by ferry) — Island with obsidian deposits, onsen, and hiking trails.
• Izu Oshima (1 hour by ferry) — The largest Izu island, with Mount Mihara volcano and camellia gardens.
• Toshima (20 min by ferry) — Small art-focused island with a distinctive museum and relaxed atmosphere.