Mikurajima Travel Guide

Mikurajima travel guide providing detailed information on best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get there.


Are you looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination that offers natural beauty with life-changing experiences? Then Mikurajima, a small island in southern Tokyo, is the perfect place for you. Mikurajima might be a tiny island, but its picturesque scenery, outdoor adventures, and cultural history attract thousands of tourists every year. So why wait? Let’s dive into Mikurajima’s natural beauty and unique culture.

Introduction to Mikurajima

Mikurajima is a small island located in the Izu Islands, approximately 200 kilometers from Tokyo. It is one of the volcanic islands of Tokyo’s islands and home to an array of flora and fauna. The island is specifically known for its beautiful coral reefs, crystal waters, and friendly dolphins that come to its shores to play. Mikurajima’s natural landscape offers outdoor enthusiasts endless opportunities to explore, hike, and bike their way through its scenic routes. The island is small in size, so visitors will have plenty of opportunities to experience its culture, people, and natural beauty.

List of Places to Visit in Mikurajima

Here are some of the must-visit places when you are in Mikurajima:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Mikurajima History and Folklore Museum
  2. Kamezaki Shishimai Museum

Natural Attractions of Mikurajima: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Dolphin Watching
  2. Hiking at Mt. Oyama
  3. Diving and Snorkeling
  4. Beaches - Yadorihama Beach and Tsunogai Beach

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mikurajima

Mikurajima offers several hiking and biking routes that lead to some of the island’s most spectacular scenery. Here are some of the most popular routes to explore:

  • Hiking up to Mt. Oyama
  • Cycling around Yadorihama Beach
  • Walking trails through the forest
  • The coastal walk from Tonaehama Port to Mikurajima Lighthouse

Best Things to Do in Mikurajima: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Mikurajima:

  • Dolphin watching tour
  • Snorkeling or diving in the clear blue waters near Mikurajima
  • Exploring the beautiful Yadorihama Beach
  • Hiking up to the top of Mount Oyama for astonishing views
  • Renting a bike and exploring the island at your own pace

Week-Long Itinerary for Mikurajima

Here’s an itinerary that will help you make the most out of a week-long trip to Mikurajima:

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrival and relaxing on Yadorihama Beach
Day 2 Hiking up to the top of Mount Oyama
Day 3 Snorkeling or diving in the clear blue waters near the island
Day 4 Biking around Yadorihama Beach
Day 5 Walking through the forest trail and visiting Mikurajima Lighthouse
Day 6 Exploring the island’s cultural and historical sites like Kamezaki Shishimai Museum and Mikurajima History and Folklore Museum
Day 7 Dolphin watching tour

Food and Drink Scene of Mikurajima

Mikurajima might be a small island, but it offers local dishes and beverages that you should try during your stay.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Izu Shamo Chicken
  • Oyama Ginger
  • Izu Shottsuru (a fermented fish product)

Local Beverages

  • Tanna Coffee
  • Kinzan Shuzo (a local sake brewery)

Where to Stay in Mikurajima: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mikurajima offers several affordable accommodations for tourists such as guesthouses and hostels. These places not only serve as great options for budget stays but also offer an opportunity to interact with the locals.

Here are some of the best accommodation options in Mikurajima:

  • Shionomisaki Guesthouse
  • Mikurajima Dolphin Guesthouse
  • Marine Palace Hotel

What to Buy in Mikurajima: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Mikurajima offers a unique shopping experience with local products that visitors can take home as souvenirs.

Here’s what you should buy in Mikurajima:

  • Mikurajima-branded T-shirt or hoodie
  • Oyama Ginger
  • Izu Shottsuru (a fermented fish product)

Local Culture and Customs of Mikurajima

Mikurajima’s culture is heavily influenced by its natural beauty and the lifestyle of the locals. The island’s customs and traditions are closely tied to fishing and agriculture, and Mikurajima celebrates its cultural heritage through various festivals throughout the year.

For instance, the island celebrates the Kamezaki Shishimai Festival in November, where performers dressed in lion costumes perform around town. Visitors can participate in the festival and enjoy the traditional music, food, and arts of Mikurajima.

Best Time to Visit Mikurajima

The best time to visit Mikurajima is from April to June and September to November when the island has a temperate climate and fewer visitors. During these months, the island’s natural beauty is more visible, and it’s an ideal time to explore the outdoors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mikurajima

Do:

  • Respect the island’s natural environment and wildlife
  • Follow the standard hiking and snorkeling rules
  • Dress appropriately while visiting shrines, temples, or other cultural sites

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave traces while hiking or exploring the island
  • Chase or harass the dolphins and other wildlife
  • Engage in activities that might harm the island’s flora and fauna

Safety and Health

Safety in Mikurajima

Mikurajima is a safe island with a low crime rate. However, visitors should take the necessary precautions during outdoor activities and avoid straying off the designated tracks.

Health in Mikurajima

Visitors should avoid drinking tap water and stick to bottled water during their stay in Mikurajima. Also, since the island is relatively remote, it’s recommended you carry any necessary medicine and have appropriate travel insurance.

Getting to Mikurajima: Transportation Options and Logistics

Since Mikurajima is an island, visitors need to use ferries or boats to reach it.

Here are some transportation options to reach Mikurajima:

Airports Near Mikurajima

The nearest airport to Mikurajima is Haneda Airport in Tokyo.

Bus Stations Near Mikurajima

Visitors can take a bus to reach the port Nishisato in the town of Minamiizu, which is approximately two hours by bus from Tokyo Station.

Other Options

Visitors who wish to experience a thrilling ride can take a helicopter shuttle from Tokyo to Mikurajima.

How to Get Around in Mikurajima

Mikurajima is a small island, and visitors can easily explore the island by walking or renting bicycles. Visitors can also use the island’s taxi service to travel from one point to another.

Where to Go Next from Mikurajima: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Once visitors have explored Mikurajima’s natural beauty, there are several nearby destinations worth exploring.

Here are some nearby destinations from Mikurajima:

  • Shimoda: A popular beach destination in southern Izu Peninsula
  • Higashiizu-cho: A renowned hot spring town

Conclusion

Mikurajima is a hidden gem, waiting to be explored. From its natural beauty, outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and unique cuisine, the island has everything that visitors can ask for in a vacation destination. So why wait? Start planning your trip to Mikurajima today and experience the island’s magic for yourself!

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