Mishima Islands Travel Guide

Explore the beauty of Mishima Islands in Japan. Discover the culturally important attractions, natural beauty, hiking and biking routes, delicious food, staying options, local customs, safety, logistics, and nearby destinations in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Mishima Islands

Mishima Islands is a group of 16 small volcanic islands located in the Kagoshima Prefecture of Japan. Famous for its stunning natural landscapes, traditional culture, and unique cuisine, Mishima Islands attract a significant number of tourists every year. The islands are easily accessible from Kagoshima City, and visiting them is an ideal way to experience the authentic Japanese culture.

List of Places to Visit in Mishima Islands

  • Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

    Mishima Island is home to many culturally significant sites such as the Satsuma-Sendai Castle Ruins, which dates back to the Edo period, and the Mishima Tafokun, a history museum that displays the island’s culture and heritage.

  • Natural Attractions of Mishima Islands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

    The island is packed with scenic views and outdoor activities. The Island Park on Sakurajima, one of the islands in the group, is a great place to explore nature, with hiking trails, observation decks, and hot springs. The Nagisa Lava Trail is another popular spot for hiking and enjoying scenic views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mishima Islands

Mishima Islands offer many picturesque hiking and biking routes. The most popular hiking trail on the islands is the Fudo Falls Trail, leading to the Fudo Falls. The trail offers scenic views and amazing photo opportunities. For mountain bikers, the Ishizuka Mountains offer challenging trails and beautiful scenery.

Best Things to Do in Mishima Islands: Activities and Tours

Mishima Islands offer many activities and tours for visitors. The Yakushima Island Day trip is a popular tour that takes visitors to explore Yakushima Island. The cycling adventure tour is another exciting way to explore the islands. Visitors can also enjoy the island’s hot springs or take a boat trip to see the dolphin and whale watching.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mishima Islands

A week-long itinerary provides the best way to explore all the islands’ beauty. The itinerary could include day trips to Yakushima Island, exploration of the historical sites, beach-hopping adventures, a bike tour, and visiting the Island Park on Sakurajima.

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrival, get settled in, and relax at hot spring baths
Day 2 Explore Satsuma-Sendai Castle Ruins and the Mishima Tafokun
Day 3 Visit the Nagisa Lava Trail and Fudo Falls
Day 4 Day trip to Yakushima Island
Day 5 Bike tour of the Mishima Islands
Day 6 Enjoy the beaches on the islands
Day 7 Explore the Island Park on Sakurajima

Food and Drink Scene of Mishima Islands

The Mishima Islands offer a unique dining experience with delicious traditional dishes and local beverages.

  • Must-Try Dishes

    The islands’ traditional dishes include kusamochi, a sweet rice cake wrapped in leaves, shochu, a distilled alcohol made from sweet potatoes or other grains, and Kagoshima black pork, famous for its high-quality meat and flavor.

  • Local Beverages

    The islands are famous for their green tea, shochu, and local fruit juices. Shochu lovers can try the island’s local shochu, which is made from sweet potatoes and has a unique flavor.

Where to Stay in Mishima Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mishima Islands offer various accommodation options where visitors can experience traditional Japanese hospitality. The following are a few places to stay on the islands:

  • Ryokans: Kominka Ryokan Morino Nakama and Mishima Ryokan offer a traditional Japanese experience with tatami floors, hot spring baths, and delicious local food.

  • Hotels: The Hotel Sora is a great place to stay for those who prefer a modern experience with stylish and spacious rooms and beautiful views.

  • Guesthouses/Hostels: The Ibusuki Kokoronoyado Youth Hostel and Nagisa Guest House offer budget-friendly accommodation options.

What to Buy in Mishima Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Mishima Islands offer many souvenirs and local products that visitors can take home as a beautiful memory of their trip. Some local products include green tea, Kagoshima black pork, local crafts, and beauty products.

Local Culture and Customs of Mishima Islands

The islands have a rich culture and traditions, and visitors should respect them. The locals follow traditional practices like wearing Japanese clothing, or kimono, during special occasions or events like festivals. It is important to take off shoes before entering a traditional Japanese home or ryokan and to practice polite behavior to show respect to the locals.

Best Time to Visit Mishima Islands

The best time to visit the Mishima Islands is from March to November, which is the peak travel season. During this time, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, festivals, and traditional events. However, visitors can enjoy the hot springs, natural beauty, and shopping any time of the year.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mishima Islands

  • Do:

    • Respect the local culture and customs
    • Take off shoes before entering a home or ryokan
    • Enjoy the delicious local food and drinks

  • Don’t:

    • Litter the islands’ natural beauty
    • Insult or disrespect the locals

Safety and Health

Mishima Islands are generally safe for travelers. Visitors should practice common safety measures like keeping valuables safe, not wandering in remote areas alone at night, and following safety guidelines while hiking. The islands have quality healthcare facilities and hospitals and should be safe for tourists’ health.

Getting to Mishima Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics

Mishima Islands are easily accessible from Kagoshima City, which is well-connected to the rest of the country by air, rail, and road.

  • Airports Near Mishima Islands: Kagoshima Airport is the closest international airport to the islands.

  • Bus Stations Near Mishima Islands: Visitors can take a bus from Kagoshima City to either of the two ports from where ferries operate that take visitors to the islands.

  • Other Options: Visitors can also take a ferry or a rental car to travel to the islands.

How to Get Around in Mishima Islands

The best way to explore Mishima Islands is by rental car. Visitors can also take buses or hire a taxi to get around the islands.

Where to Go Next from Mishima Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore the nearby tourist destinations like Kagoshima, which is a bustling city famous for its vibrant culture and natural beauty. Yakushima Island, Nagasaki, and Kumamoto are also great options for a quick trip from the Mishima Islands.

Conclusion

Mishima Islands offer a unique travel experience with their traditional culture, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures. Visitors can indulge in its rich history, relax in hot springs, savor the delicious cuisine, hike stunning trails, and create unforgettable memories. By following this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can enjoy the islands to the fullest.

Kuroshima Kuroshima Mishima (ship) Mishima (ship) public hot springs public hot springs