Hachijojima

Hachijojima (八丈島), the second largest island in the Izu archipelago, is a volcanic island located approximately 290 kilometers south of Tokyo, Japan. The island has a population of around 8,000 people, and its economy is based on tourism and agriculture.

The island is known for its natural beauty, including pristine beaches such as Sokodo Beach, lush forests, and unique hot springs like the Miharashi no Yu and Urami-ga-taki Onsen. Hachijojima is home to two prominent volcanoes, Hachijo-Fuji and Mihara-yama, both offering scenic hiking trails and panoramic views from their summits.

Hachijojima boasts a rich history, dating back to the Edo period when it served as a penal colony. Visitors can delve into the island’s past at the Hachijojima Museum and the Hachijojima History and Folklore Museum, which showcase exhibits on the island’s geology, ecology, and cultural history.

The island is renowned for its unique cuisine, featuring locally grown fruits and vegetables, fresh seafood, and dishes made with the island’s famed Hachijojima beef. Visitors can also experience the island’s unique culture through traditional crafts like the “Kihachijo” yellow silk fabric, designated as a Traditional Craft of Japan, and by encountering the Kyon, a small deer species and a national special natural treasure.

Hachijojima is accessible by ferry or plane from Tokyo. There are various accommodations and restaurants available on the island, making it a popular destination for those seeking to experience the natural beauty and distinct culture of Japan away from the bustling urban centers.

Getting there and around

Access by Air

• From Tokyo (Haneda Airport):
  • Flight time: About 55 minutes
  • Airline: ANA (All Nippon Airways)
  • 3 flights per day
  • Fare: From about 10,000 yen one-way (early booking discounts available)

Access by Ferry

• From Tokyo (Takeshiba Pier):
  • Travel time: About 10 hours (overnight)
  • Operator: Tokai Kisen
  • 1 departure per day (22:30 departure, 8:50 arrival the next morning)
  • Fare: From about 8,600 yen one-way

Transportation on the Island

Rental car: From about 3,000 yen per day (recommended)

Bus: 2-day pass (BU.S.PA) available for 1,000 yen

Rental bicycle/scooter: About 1,500 yen per day, 1,000 yen for half a day