Ogasawara National Park

Ogasawara National Park (小笠原国立公園) encompasses the Ogasawara Islands (Bonin Islands), a remote archipelago of over 30 subtropical and tropical islands about 1,000 km south of Tokyo. The park was designated in 1972, and in 2011 the islands were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site for their exceptional biodiversity and unique ecosystems, often called the "Galapagos of the Orient."

The park is renowned for its endemic species found nowhere else on Earth, pristine coral reefs, and unique cultural history. Unlike most of Japan's national parks, Ogasawara is only accessible by a 24-hour ferry ride, ensuring it remains one of the country's most pristine natural areas. The two inhabited islands are Chichijima (the main island) and Hahajima.

By Plane

There are no commercial flights to the Ogasawara Islands. The only access is by ferry.

By Ferry

The Ogasawara Maru ferry operates from Takeshiba (Tokyo) to Chichijima about once every 5–7 days, taking approximately 24 hours. Reservations are essential and book out months in advance. A high-speed seasonal service operates in summer, taking about 17 hours.

By Car / Road

Private vehicles are not practical. Rental options on the islands are limited. Most exploration is on foot, by bicycle, or by guided tour boat.

On Chichijima, the main transport is by bicycle, scooter, or the local bus. Hahajima is even smaller and walkable. Inter-island ferries connect Chichijima and Hahajima (2 hours). Tour boats visit the uninhabited islands for snorkeling, diving, and wildlife viewing.

• Chichijima — The main inhabited island, with beaches (Kominato, Miyanohama), hiking trails, and the Ogasawara Village Museum.

• Hahajima — The second inhabited island, even more remote, with rainforest hiking and the spectacular Sekimon Observatory viewpoint.

• Minamijima — An uninhabited island with a dramatic rock arch and pristine lagoon, accessible by boat tour.

• Anijima — An uninhabited island with sea turtle nesting beaches and excellent snorkeling.

• Ogasawara Marine Center — An aquarium and research facility showcasing the islands' unique marine life.

• Diving and snorkeling — The park offers world-class coral reefs, clear visibility, and encounters with dolphins, sea turtles, and manta rays.

• Whale-watching — Humpback whales migrate through the waters from January to April.

• Hiking — Trails on Chichijima and Hahajima lead through subtropical forest to viewpoints, historical sites, and beaches.

• Sea turtle observation — Green sea turtles nest on the beaches from May to August (guided night tours only).

• Kayaking — Paddle the calm bays and coves around the inhabited islands.

• Stargazing — The islands have minimal light pollution, offering spectacular night skies.

• Ogasawara beef — Grass-fed cattle graze on the islands, producing distinctive beef.
• Fresh seafood — Tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo, and reef fish, often served as sashimi or grilled.
• Ogasawara rum cake — A local dessert made with island rum.
• Udu — A traditional noodle dish unique to the Ogasawaras.

The island has a few bars and izakaya. The local Ogasawara rum (made from sugarcane) and craft beer are the signature drinks. Tap water is safe.

• Budget: Guesthouses and hostels on Chichijima from ¥6,000/night.
• Mid-range: Minshuku from ¥10,000–14,000/night with meals.
• Upscale: Limited luxury; the most comfortable option is the Chichijima Peace Hotel or similar seaside lodges, from ¥15,000/night.

Souvenirs include Ogasawara honey, local rum, sea salt, and crafts made from native materials. The museum and port shops sell island products. The Ogasawara brand mark certifies genuine local goods.

• Hahajima (2 hours by ferry) — The second inhabited island, with rainforest hiking, the Okimura area, and Sekimon Observatory.
• Chichijima (the main island) — Most visitors spend 3–5 days here exploring beaches, hiking trails, and taking boat tours.
• Iwo Jima (far south of the park) — A restricted island under JSDF administration, not open to the public.
• The Ogasawara Trench (offshore) — One of the deepest ocean trenches in the world, accessible only by research vessels.