Niijima Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Niijima, an underrated island gem in Tokyo, Japan. This comprehensive travel guide includes top attractions, hiking routes, accommodations, local cuisine, cultural insights, safety tips, and more.


Niijima is a small yet captivating island located in the southern part of Tokyo. Get ready to be charmed by its extraordinary beauty and tranquility, as you step into a paradise that offers the perfect fusion of nature, culture, and adventure. This comprehensive travel guide will help you create unforgettable memories on your trip to Niijima.

Introduction to Niijima

Niijima is a secluded island located about 163 kilometers south of Tokyo. Its volcanic origin provides it with an extremely scenic landscape, and its tranquil beaches and clear blue waters are perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

The main town of Niijima is situated on the west coast of the island, and it is where you will find most of the island’s shops, restaurants, and accommodations. The population of Niijima is only around 2,000, giving you the chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of urban life and enjoy a laid-back atmosphere.

List of Places to Visit in Niijima

Niijima has a lot to offer, from culturally significant attractions to outdoor adventures and scenic routes that will leave you breathless. Here are some of the must-visit places in Niijima:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Niijima History and Folklore Museum: Learn about the island’s history, culture, and folklore through artifacts, photographs, and exhibits.

  2. Tsubaki Shrine: This shrine dates back to 806 AD and is one of the oldest shrines on Niijima. Its tranquil surroundings and unique architecture make it an ideal place for meditation and relaxation.

Natural Attractions of Niijima: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Habushiura Beach: This breathtaking beach boasts crystal-clear waters and white sand, making it a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and chilling out.

  2. Miyatsuka Falls: This stunning waterfall is hidden away from the main hiking trails and can be a bit challenging to find, but its serene surroundings and the tranquil sound of the falls make it worth the effort.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Niijima

Niijima is a paradise for hikers and bikers. The island offers various trails that cater to different levels of fitness and experience.

  1. Mount Mihara: This active volcano is the highest point on the island and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

  2. Achi no Mountain Trail: This trail is perfect for beginner hikers and bikers, with stunning views of the island, the ocean, and the neighboring island of Shikinejima.

Best Things to Do in Niijima: Activities and Tours

  1. Surfing: Niijima is a popular surfing destination, and its waves attract surfers from all over the world.

  2. Fishing: Fishing is an excellent activity on Niijima, and the island has plenty of fish to catch, such as tuna, mackerel, and squid.

Week-Long Itinerary for Niijima

Niijima is perfect for experiencing the laid-back culture, indulging in outdoor adventures, and enjoying the island’s natural beauty. Here’s an ideal week-long itinerary to help you maximize your time on the island:

Day Activities
1 Arrive at the island; relax in your accommodation and explore the surrounding area
2 Rent a bike and cycle around the island, stop at Miyatsuka Falls, and go for a swim at Habushiura Beach
3 Take a day trip to the neighboring island of Shikinejima
4 Hike to the top of Mount Mihara and explore the crater
5 Visit the Niijima History and Folklore Museum
6 Go surfing or fishing
7 Take it easy and indulge in the island’s cuisine before departing from Niijima

Food and Drink Scene of Niijima

Niijima’s location in the Pacific Ocean plays a significant role in its cuisine. The island is abundant in seafood, and its local dishes are an excellent representation of traditional Japanese cuisine.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Sashimi: Niijima’s sashimi is fresh and flavorful, making it an excellent appetizer or main course.

  2. Grilled Isaki: This grilled fish is a specialty of the island and is served with a side of soy sauce and grated radish.

Local Beverages

  1. Awamori: This distilled spirit is unique to Okinawa, but Niijima is one of the few places outside Okinawa that produces it.

  2. Shochu: This distilled alcohol is prevalent in Japan, and Niijima produces its variant with a distinct flavor.

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

Niijima offers a range of accommodations suitable for all budgets, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some of the top-rated options include:

  1. Tsuruya Guesthouse: This traditional Japanese-style guesthouse provides a cozy atmosphere with shared spaces for relaxation and socializing.

  2. Ryori Ryokan Kameya: This hotel offers stunning sea views and Japanese-style rooms with tatami floors and futon beds.

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

Niijima is famous for its beautiful glass art. The island’s glass blowing industry began in the 1970s and the vibrant colors and intricate patterns have garnered attention from art enthusiasts worldwide. Other recommended souvenirs include:

  1. Salt: Niijima produces a unique variety of sea salt that is considered one of the best in Japan.

  2. T-shirts: Niijima has a wide range of souvenir t-shirts with creative designs to choose from.

Local Culture and Customs of Niijima

Niijima has a unique culture that is a blend of traditional Japanese customs and island living. Some local customs to be aware of include:

  1. Remove shoes before entering a house or a temple.

  2. Exercise caution during fishing and water activities and follow safety guidelines.

Best Time to Visit Niijima

The best time to visit Niijima is from April to November when the weather is warmer and perfect for outdoor activities. The peak season is from July to August, so expect more crowds and higher prices during this period.

Do’s and Don’ts of Niijima

Do:

  1. Respect the local culture and customs.

  2. Take care of the environment.

Don’t:

  1. Litter or damage public property.

  2. Enter restricted areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Niijima

Niijima is a safe place to visit, but it’s always wise to take precautions. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  1. Be aware of the weather conditions, specifically typhoons, during the wet season.

  2. Exercise caution when participating in water activities and follow safety guidelines.

Health in Niijima

Medical facilities on Niijima are limited, but basic medical services are available. It’s recommended to take out comprehensive travel insurance, including medical coverage, before traveling to Niijima.

Getting to Niijima: Transportation Options and Logistics

Niijima is accessible by ferry or plane, and the journey takes around 2 to 4 hours.

Airports Near Niijima

The nearest airport is Tokyo Haneda Airport. From Haneda, you can take a flight to Oshima Island and then take a ferry to Niijima.

Bus Stations Near Niijima

The nearest bus station is in Oshima Island, where you can take a bus to Moto-Shimoda Port and then take a ferry to Niijima.

Other Options

You can also take a direct ferry from Tokyo Takeshiba Terminal to Niijima, which takes around 2 to 2.5 hours.

How to Get Around in Niijima

Renting a bike is an excellent way to explore Niijima and get a sense of the island’s culture and natural beauty. Alternatively, taxis are available for hire, or you can participate in a guided tour.

Where to Go Next from Niijima: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Niijima, you may want to visit other nearby destinations, such as Tokyo, Oshima Island, or Shikinejima.

Conclusion

Niijima is a hidden gem of Tokyo, offering a glimpse into a world of unparalleled natural beauty and tranquility. This comprehensive travel guide has provided you with useful information on what to expect and how to make the most of your visit to Niijima. So, pack your bags and experience the charm of this untouched island paradise!

Yunohama Onsen (hot spring) Yunohama Onsen (hot spring) instance of Niijima Glass instance of Niijima Glass