Hachijō island: A subtropical paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers

The stunning volcanic landscape of Hachijō island

Hachijō island was formed by two stratovolcanoes: Higashi-yama (last eruption around 1700 BC) and Nishi-yama (last eruption in 1605). At 854 m, Hachijō-Fuji (Nishi-yama) is the tallest peak in the Izu islands offering breathtaking panoramic ocean views from the top. The island's unique terrain features black sandy beaches, lava fields and grassy plateaus, the perfect habitat for a variety of plant and animal species. Thanks to the rich volcanic soil, vegetation on Hachijō island is lush and picturesque with sago palms, camellias, hydrangeas and more painting the landscape in vivid colors.

A must-see is the otherworldly Nanbara Senjojiki, a 500 m long undulating lava field created by the eruption of Higashi-yama some 3700 years ago. The stark contrast of the black lava rocks against the deep blue sea is a sight to behold. The Osaka Tunnel observation deck offers a great viewpoint over this unique landscape and the neighboring Hachijō-Kojima island.

Hachijo Fuji-san (right) and Hachijo-kojima Island (left) from Osaka Tunnel, Hachijo Island

Outdoor adventures: Hiking, scuba diving and more

With its volcanic peaks, lush forests and rugged coastline, Hachijō island is a hiker's dream. There are trails for all levels, from an easy walk around the crater of Nishi-yama to more challenging hikes up to the top of Hachijō-Fuji or Higashi-yama. The view from the 854 m high Hachijō-Fuji is particularly spectacular on a clear day with 360 degree panoramic views over the island and the Pacific Ocean.

Surrounded by warm, crystal clear waters, Hachijō island is one of the top scuba diving spots in Japan. Sokodo Beach on the east coast is the most popular diving area with underwater lava formations, coral reefs and colorful fish to discover. Snorkeling is another great way to explore the island's marine life, and if you're lucky you might even spot sea turtles. Other water activities on offer include swimming, surfing, kayaking, fishing and more.

Back on land, you can also enjoy rental car tours, cycling, golfing at the seaside Hachijō Golf Club or even yoga at one of the island's many scenic spots. At night, the lack of light pollution makes Hachijō island an excellent spot for stargazing. And if you visit in summer, you might catch a glimpse of the island's famous bioluminescent mushrooms glowing mysteriously in the forests.

The healing powers of Hachijō's natural hot springs

After an active day of hiking or water sports, there's nothing better than soaking in one of Hachijō island's natural hot springs heated by geothermal energy. The island is home to seven different onsen with a variety of indoor and outdoor baths to relax in. For the most stunning views, head to the open-air Miharashi-no-yu onsen perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Watching the sun set into the sea from the steaming waters is a magical experience.

Other notable onsen include the free Uramigataki Hot Spring nestled in the forest by a waterfall, and the Yasuragi-no-Yu hot spring near Yaene Port. For unlimited access to the island's top three onsen (Fureai-no-Yu, Yasuragi-no-Yu and Miharashi-no-Yu), a convenient bus & onsen pass is available, a great way to onsen-hop around the island.

Old Aigae Port, Hachijo Island.

Uragamitaki Falls, Hachijo Island

Unique wildlife and plant life of the island

Thanks to its warm climate and diverse geography, Hachijō island supports a wide variety of plant and animal life. The waters around the island are an important breeding ground for sea turtles and flying fish. Inland, you might spot herds of small cows grazing leisurely on the grassy plateaus, an iconic sight on Hachijō.

In summer, Hachijō's forests come alive with the mysterious glow of bioluminescent mushrooms like Mycena lux-coeli, a phenomenon unique to the island. The native ashitaba plant is another important part of the local ecosystem and cuisine. Bird lovers should look out for Japanese wood pigeons, Izu thrushes, Japanese murrelets and more.

To learn more about Hachijō's diverse wildlife and plant life, be sure to visit the Hachijojima Botanical Park. This extensive park features walking trails through the island's flora, an insectarium, bird watching facilities and even a small zoo with squirrel monkeys and Reeves's muntjacs.

Reeves's muntjac, or kyon, Botanical Park, Hachijo Island.

Local culture, cuisine and crafts

People have lived on Hachijō island since the Edo period, as evidenced by archaeological findings from the Jomon period. In the Edo era, the island was used as a place of exile for criminals and political dissidents. You can learn more about the island's history at the Hachijo-jima History and Folk Museum in Mitsune.

The people of Hachijō have their own unique dialect called Hachijō dialect or Hachijō language. Classified as a "definitely endangered" language by UNESCO, the Hachijō language is distinct from standard Japanese and has been a focus of preservation efforts in recent years.

Local culinary specialties include shimazushi (raw fish marinated in soy sauce over vinegar rice), kusaya (dried and fermented fish with a pungent smell) and various dishes featuring the ashitaba plant like tempura, soba and ice cream. Hachijō is also known for its shochu, a distilled liquor made from sweet potatoes.

A famous traditional craft of Hachijō is kihachijō silk textile, a naturally dyed yellow silk fabric used for high-end kimonos. Designated as an important national cultural property, kihachijō is still woven on the island using traditional techniques. You can see artisans at work at the Hachijo Kihachijo Workshop in Mitsune.

Furusato Mura, with round stone wall, Hachijo Island.

Traditional drumming performance at Hattori Yashiki, Hachijo Island

Practical information for visiting Hachijō island

The most convenient way to get to Hachijō island is by air. There are daily flights from Tokyo's Haneda Airport, and the flight only takes 55 minutes. You can also reach the island by overnight ferry in about 10 hours from Takeshiba Pier in Tokyo.

On Hachijō island, accommodation options range from classic Japanese ryokan inns to modern resort hotels and pensions. For an authentic experience, stay at a small minshuku (family-run inn) or at one of the island's hot spring resorts like the Lido Park Hotel Hachijo.

To make the most of your trip, be sure to visit the Hachijojima Visitors Center near the airport. Here you can pick up sightseeing maps, get the latest tourist information and see exhibits on the island's nature and history. Other must-visit spots include the Hachijo-jima History and Folk Museum, Nanbara Senjojiki lava field, Uramigataki waterfall and Miharashi-no-yu onsen.

A convenient way to get around and explore the island is by using the 2-day bus & onsen pass, which gives you unlimited rides on local buses and free entry to three of the most popular hot springs. Rental cars and bikes are also available. With some planning and a spirit of adventure, Hachijō island is sure to captivate you with its rugged natural beauty, rich history and healing waters!

For more Japan travel tips and destination ideas, check out these books on Hachijojima & Japan.