Oshima travel guide and discussion

Some coastal destinations are famous for modern, neon-lit beachfront party stripes. Others are known for crowded thematic amusement piers and bustling city boardwalks. Matsushima feels a little different. Tucked along the beautiful coast of Miyagi Prefecture, Matsushima is a timeless bay filled with over 260 pine-covered islets, ancient Zen temples, and a much quieter, poetic atmosphere. For me, the best part was simply being able to slow down and gaze at the scattered islands without rushing from one standard tourist destination to another. 🌊 The Pine-Dotted Bay Is the Main Attraction The first thing you'll notice is the surreal, miniature-garden look of the sea. On a sunny day, the deep blue water around Matsushima Bay looks incredibly calm, beautifully framing the uniquely weathered rock formations and vibrant green pine trees. It's the kind of place where I could easily spend an afternoon doing nothing more than sitting by the shore, walking across the iconic red footbridges, and enjoying the view. And honestly, the seascape itself already feels like enough of an attraction. 🚤 Don't Skip the Island-Hop Cruise If there's one activity I'd recommend, it's hopping on a classic sightseeing boat from the pier. Matsushima is proudly recognized as one of Japan’s Three Most Scenic Views, and cruising between the tiny, isolated rocks is a great way to appreciate this natural masterpiece. Depending on the route and visibility, you may glide past famous formations like Niojima, watch white herons swoop over the water, and capture sweeping views of the outer bay. For me, feeling the cool sea breeze while watching the ink-wash painting landscape drift past was one of the most memorable parts of the trip. 🤍 🌲 Why I Liked Matsushima What I enjoyed most was its seamless blend of raw coastal beauty and deep samurai history. Compared with some of Japan’s more frantic commercial hubs, the quiet walking trails and mossy temple grounds of Matsushima encourage you to slow down. There aren't endless modern city sights to tick off. Instead, the days naturally become slower. Wake up. Enjoy a hot coffee with a view of the bay. Cross a red footbridge to explore a pine-covered island. Wander through the quiet, mossy gardens of Entsuin Temple. Sip hot matcha tea at the historic Kanrantei Tea House. Indulge in locally famous, plump grilled oysters. Repeat. And I think that's exactly why Matsushima works so well for a short, soul-soothing coastal getaway. 🌅 Sunset Over the Islets Don't catch the train back to the city too early in the evening. Watching the sun go down over the bay from a hilltop park like Saigyo Modoshi no Matsu Park, casting a golden-purple glow across the sea of pine islands, was one of those simple moments that made the trip feel complete. The waterfront pathways become perfectly quiet, the shadows of the stone lanterns lengthen, and everything suddenly feels much more peaceful. No complicated itinerary needed. 💡 Travel Tips 🚂 Travel via train: Matsushima is easily accessible from Sendai Station. Take the JR Senseki Line to Matsushima-Kaigan Station—the scenic bay is just a short walk away. 🔴 Cross the Red Bridges: Three distinct islands—Godaido, Fukuurajima, and Oshima—are connected to the mainland by vibrant red footbridges. Crossing them feels like walking straight into a painting. 🦪 Practical Tips & Final Thoughts: Enjoy local specialties like fresh seafood and grilled oysters at the Matsushima Fish Market, sip matcha at the historic Kanrantei Tea House, and wear comfortable shoes for exploring uneven paths. Ultimately, Matsushima's magic lies in its simple, unhurried pace, blending centuries-old heritage with natural coastal beauty. #matsushima #matsushimabay #miyagi #sendai #visitjapan #tohoku #explorejapan #nihonsankei #slowtravel #islandescape #oysters #travelgram #matsushimatravelguidee

Just a 1.5-hour jet ferry ride from Tokyo Takeshiba Passenger Terminal 🛥️✨, discover the laid-back island of Izu Oshima and its culinary delights! ① Triton Address: 〒100-0101 Tokyo, Oshima-machi, Motomachi 1-10-9 Ambiance/Facilities: About 10 seats available inside / Takeout available Highlights: Gelato inspired by Izu Oshima, including flavors like Pahoehoe Lava 🌋. Made with locally produced Oshima milk. Hours: 11:00-18:00 (Closed on Wednesdays) Budget per person: ¥350–¥600 Rating: ★★★ ② Vicolo.ousima Address: 〒100-0101 Tokyo, Oshima-machi, Motomachi 4-11-10 Ambiance/Facilities: A quiet pizzeria located slightly away from Motomachi Port. Features a few 2-4 person tables, a counter, and a cozy setup. Highlights: Takeout available with a phone call. Official Hige Dandism's live footage plays on a large screen. Hours: 11:00-14:00 / 18:00-22:00 (Closed on Mondays) Budget per person: ¥1000–¥2000 Rating: ★★★★ ③ Sushi Mitsu Address: 〒100-0101 Tokyo, Oshima-machi, Motomachi 1-4-7 Ambiance/Facilities: Terrace seating for about 4 groups of 4. Counter seating also available inside. Highlights: Generous portions and great taste! Always bustling, but the spacious interior ensures quick seating. Try local specialties like Bekko Sushi and Ashitaba Tempura. Hours: 11:00-14:00 / 17:00-21:00 (Closed on Wednesdays) Budget per person: ¥1000–¥2000 Rating: ★★★ ④ Bistro U・TO Address: 〒100-0101 Tokyo, Oshima-machi, Motomachi 1-9-4 Ambiance/Facilities: A chic, exclusive dining experience with only one reservation per day. Enjoy a stylish French course meal. Highlights: French cuisine made with abundant local ingredients. Reservations are essential. The chef customizes the course based on your preferences and dietary restrictions. Hours: 18:00-22:00 (Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays) Budget per person: ¥7000+ Rating: ★★★★★ Be sure to check these out when you visit Izu Oshima! ☺️

This zoo is located inside Tokyo Metropolitan Oshima Park, and is the only zoo on Izu Oshima Island. 🐥 There aren't any big animals like lions or elephants, but there are quite a few medium-sized animals like birds, turtles, alpacas, and camels, and we had a lot of fun ✌️ Especially the red pandas!! ︎ The cutest red panda I've ever seen 🥰❤️ The admission fee was free, so I wasn't expecting much, but I was surprised at how spacious it was 🥹 It seems that they're making use of the lava terrain as it is 🌋 Other than that, every Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 am to 12:00 noon There are also events where you can interact with small animals, so it looks like it's a lot of fun for both adults and children 💗 · Address: 3 Fukushige, Izumizu, Oshima-cho, Tokyo · Opening hours: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm · Admission fee: Free #Tokyo trip #Tokyo sightseeing #Remote island sightseeing #Remote island trip #Izu Oshima #Tokyo Metropolitan Oshima Park Zoo #Tokyo Metropolitan Oshima Park #Zoo #Zoo with free admission #Free admission #Lava #Red panda #Interaction event #Fun for both adults and children #Tourist spot #Zoo #Theme park

I climbed Mt. Mihara when I went to Izu Oshima ⛰ My first attempt at mountain climbing ✌️ The hotel owner told me to be careful because the wind was strong... but it was really windy and I was scared of strong winds for the first time 🥹 If it was sunny, I'm sure you could see the mouth of the volcano when walking around the crater of Mt. Mihara... I'd like to go again on a sunny day 🙄💗 The wind can never be conveyed in a photo 🌪 #Tokyo trip #Tokyo sightseeing #Tokyo gourmet #Remote island sightseeing #Remote island trip #Izu Oshima #Mt. Mihara #Godzilla rock #Lava #Shrine #Crawl around the crater crater #Back desert #Izu Oshima #Tourist spot

Tokyo/Izu Oshima Sushi Mitsu On the first night of our trip to Izu Oshima, we went to this sushi restaurant 🥰 Sushi Mitsu is a famous and popular restaurant that is always featured in guidebooks, so we recommend making a reservation before going 🙆‍♀️💓 It's within walking distance from Motomachi Port, and they serve both lunch and dinner, so please go ♡ The view of the ocean from the terrace is amazing ✨ We had dinner while watching the sunset 🍺 Sushi restaurant I chose sashimi instead of sushi ✌️ I was drinking so I was full 🤣 lol There was a lot on the menu and the food and drinks were delicious 🤤❤️ · Assorted sashimi 1500 yen · Ashita tempura 750 yen · Fried white shrimp 600 yen · Plum and shiso roll 300 yen · Gari snack 300 yen · Appetizer 380 yen · Draft beer 600 yen · Otokogawa 1000 yen · Address: 1-4-7 Motomachi, Oshima-machi, Tokyo · Business hours: 11:00-15:00 17:00-22:00 #Tokyo trip#Tokyo sightseeing#Tokyo remote islands#remote island trip#island trip#island trip#Izu Islands#Izu Oshima#Izu Oshima trip#Izu Oshima trip#Izu Oshima sightseeing#sushi restaurant#Sushi Hikari#Izu Oshima seafood#Izu Oshima izakaya#famous restaurant#popular restaurant#Izu Oshima Sushi Hikari#Motomachi port#Izu Oshima lunch#Izu Oshima dinner#restaurant with ocean view#great view#sunset #traveldrunkards#traveldrunkard#Traveldrunkard#couple trip#couple date

I went to "Airando Center Gojinka Onsen" in Izu Oshima, Tokyo ♨️ It's a facility where you can eat, take a hot spring bath, and even have a sauna! You can walk there from the port, so it might be nice to relax in the hot spring before boarding the boat ✨ Please come and visit us #Tokyo #Izu Oshima #Remote Island Trip #Hot Springs #gw2022jp

It's like a Baumkuchen😋 In Izu Oshima, Tokyo, you can enjoy the cross section of the strata up close. As you drive around Oshima, the stripes of the strata suddenly appear in the southwest part of the island! 👀 I was surprised and impressed by the overwhelming scale of the 24 meters high and 630 meters long 😌 How to get there: Nomasu, Oshima-cho, Tokyo #Tokyo #Oshima #IzuOshima #Strata

Nodahama Beach in Izu Oshima, Tokyo, is a beach with rocks and sand. A recommended spot for both swimming and diving. 🤿 At night, you can enjoy a natural planetarium while listening to the sound of the waves. ✨ Enjoy it day and night! How to get there: Okada Nodahama, Oshima-cho, Tokyo (About 10 minutes by car from Motomachi Port) #Tokyo #Oshima #Izu Oshima #Remote Island Trip #Breathtaking View

Izu Oshima, an island in Tokyo, is famous for its camellias. Many people are familiar with Oshima camellia hair oil and other products, right? There is a camellia museum in Oshima Park, which is recommended because it looks great in photos✨ A variety of dried flowers, mainly camellias, are beautifully displayed😍 The Camellia Festival is held every year from late January to late March. During that period, cut flowers are displayed in the museum, and you can enjoy the beautiful camellia flowers✨ How to get there: Izumitsu Fukushige, Oshima-cho, Tokyo #Tokyo #IzuOshima #Oshima #RemoteIslandTrip

Izu Oshima, an island in Tokyo, is famous for its camellias! Many people are probably familiar with Oshima camellia hair oil and other products. Oshima Park has a camellia garden where you can enjoy a variety of camellias, including red, pink, white, marble, and more, so many that it's difficult to find the same flower😌✨ Access: Izumitsu Fukushige, Oshima-cho, Tokyo #Tokyo #IzuOshima #Oshima #RemoteIslandTrip

It takes just under 2 hours by jet boat from Takeshiba 🚢 Even though we crossed the sea from Tokyo, Oshima, which we arrived at, is actually in Tokyo!!  When we rented a car and went around the island, there were many spots where we felt like stopping the car and taking a deep breath because of all the nature♪ Oshima is famous for its camellia flowers 🌸 It's recommended for those who want to forget about their busy schedules and refresh themselves 🏖 #IzuOshima #Oshima #Tokyo #RemoteIslandTrip #FamousFlowerSpots #TripToEnjoySpring #Drive #IslandTrip #AmazingView

Oshima is about 2 hours from Takeshiba, Tokyo. The jetfoil trip is quite comfortable and worth the experience. With Mt. Mihara at its center, there is abundant nature and a beautiful sea here. There are many ways to enjoy yourself, from hot springs to meals to recreation. You might even come across a stone statue you've seen somewhere before? #RemoteIslandTrip #SpringTrip #Tokyo #IzuOshima

Situated on the eastern coast of the Izu Peninsula, the Jogasaki Coast is a breathtaking volcanic masterpiece sculpted over four millennia. Approximately 4,000 years ago, Mount Omuro erupted, sending molten lava cascading into Sagami Bay. Carved by the relentless power of the Pacific’s crashing waves, this interaction created a stunning nine-kilometer stretch of jagged, black sea cliffs. A stroll along the lush coastal pine forest trail offers a perfect balance: the serene shade of green trees on one side and the dramatic spray of white waves against the rocks on the other, radiating the raw energy and peacefulness of nature. · 📖 Geological Wonders and Scenic Charm · The Kadowaki Suspension Bridge: A View Over the Abyss Stretching 48 meters long and hanging 23 meters above a deep sea-cleft, the Kadowaki Suspension Bridge offers a thrilling experience. As the bridge sways gently, look down to witness deep blue waves crashing against the black basalt cliffs, sending up plumes of white spray—a truly spectacular sight 🌉 · Kadowaki Lighthouse: Panoramas of Sagami Bay Standing tall beside the bridge, the Kadowaki Lighthouse features an observation deck with 360-degree views. On clear days, the horizon of Sagami Bay and the distant Izu Oshima island are visible, where the sea meets the sky in a stunning blue expanse 🗼 · A Scenic Path Through Pines and Lava The Jogasaki Coast Picnic Course winds through ancient black pine forests, where the air smells of fresh pine needles and sea salt. Walking along these weathered volcanic paths, you can feel the rhythmic heartbeat of the natural world with every step 🍃

For those looking to escape the city and witness a perfectly round, verdant volcano with some of the most spectacular views on the Izu Peninsula, Mt. Omuro is a dream destination. The highlight is the chairlift ride to the summit, where you can walk the full 360-degree loop around the crater rim. You'll enjoy panoramic views of Sagami Bay, Ito City, the Izu islands, and on a clear day, a stunning vista of Mt. Fuji. 🗻💙 To get there, start at Shizuoka Station and take the Shinkansen to Atami. From there, transfer to the JR Ito Line and the Izukyu Line to Izu-Kogen Station. Once you arrive, head to bus stop #1 and take the Tokai Bus bound for Shaboten Koen. Get off at the final stop, right at the Mt. Omuro entrance. It’s very convenient for those traveling without a car, but be sure to check Google Maps for train and bus schedules as there are several transfers involved. 🚆🚌 The round-trip lift fare is ¥1,000 for adults, ¥500 for elementary students, and free for preschool children. From March to September, the lift operates from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and from October to February, it closes an hour earlier at 4:00 PM. Make sure not to arrive too late, especially in winter, as the last ride down is strictly timed. Tickets are round-trip only and can be purchased on-site using cash, credit cards, IC cards, or QR payments. 💳 Once you reach the top, don’t stop at the first photo op! The real magic happens during the 1-kilometer walk around the crater rim, which takes about 20–30 minutes. The path is made of dirt and gravel, and it can get quite windy, so wear comfortable sneakers and bring a light jacket. The ocean-facing side offers breathtaking views of the bay, while the north side gives you the best chance of spotting Mt. Fuji. For the best photos, aim for a morning visit; the light is softer, the crowds are smaller, and Mt. Fuji is less likely to be hidden by afternoon clouds. ☀️ After heading back down, you can visit the adjacent Izu Shaboten Zoo or continue to the Jogasaki Coast to explore the rugged seaside cliffs. While the transfers make for a long day, the views from the summit are absolutely worth it. If you’re staying in Shizuoka or planning a trip to Yokohama or Atami, definitely add Mt. Omuro to your itinerary! 🌿

📅 Travel Itinerary Day 1: Cycling Day 2: Hiking on Mt. Mihara 🏨 Accommodation: BookTeeBet 🍴 Dining Spots: Sushi Hikari, Triton Ice Cream

If you think Tokyo is only about big cities, skyscrapers, and crowded trains, you need to discover Shikinejima first. 🌊 This small island in the Izu archipelago is just a few hours from Tokyo, yet the atmosphere feels like stepping into another world. It features crystal-clear blue waters, quiet little coves, and a very special highlight: natural hot springs located right on the seashore. The highlight I recommend is Jinata Onsen, a natural hot spring tucked among the coastal rocks. You have to time your visit with the tides because the hot spring water needs to mix with the seawater to reach the perfect soaking temperature. Plus, entry is free! Another stunning spot is Tomari Beach, a shell-shaped cove with incredibly clear water and calm waves. it's perfect for both swimming and snorkeling. For an easier soaking experience, there are also Matsugashita Miyabiyu and Ashitsuki Onsen. These are open 24 hours and are free of charge, though swimsuits are required. To get there from Tokyo, you can take a ferry from Takeshiba Pier. The high-speed jet ferry takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes, while the large passenger ship takes around 11 hours, depending on the schedule and weather conditions. The island is quite small, so you can easily explore by walking or cycling. Since nature still takes center stage over buildings, it truly feels like a proper escape from Tokyo. If you have 2 days and 1 night, I think it's the perfect amount of time to enjoy the beaches, hot springs, viewpoints, and the island's peaceful vibe without having to rush.

The best time to see camellias is usually from late February to mid-March. I visited in early March, during the Camellia Festival. Large wild camellia trees were everywhere on the island, and they were in full bloom 🌺 This time, I took a 2-day, 1-night trip to Izu Oshima by jet wheel (round trip). I enjoyed Oshima's unique cuisine, hiked Mount Mihara, admired the camellias, and stopped by a stylish cafe… It was a jam-packed island trip where I "ate, saw, walked, and felt"! Here's the actual itinerary ↓ 【Day 1】 🚢 Takeshiba Pier → Oshima Okada Port First, I had an early lunch at "Ippō" in Okada Port. I had the island's specialty, Bekkō Sushi 🍣 This is a unique Oshima sushi made with seasonal white fish marinated in a special soy sauce-based sauce infused with island chili peppers. It was incredibly delicious, unbelievable for only 1,200 yen! If you come to Oshima, this is a dish you absolutely must try. Afterward, we rented a car from "JS Auto Rent-a-Car," located right behind Okada Port, and set off to explore the island 🚗 ↓ 🌋 Mihara-san Summit Entrance Parking Lot Parking is free. From here, we started our Mihara-san crater rim walk. It's about a 2.5-hour course, but we were able to walk it even in sneakers. It felt great walking while admiring the dynamic scenery unique to a volcanic island! ↓ 🍦 Motomachi Port - Triton Ice Cream An ice cream shop with a strong local feel. You can enjoy ice cream made with local ingredients, and this is also highly recommended! There are many souvenir shops at Motomachi Port. We were also able to take pictures wearing traditional Anko costumes at the Tsubaki Festival 📷️ It's free, so definitely do it! ↓ ♨️ Green Hotel Takata We stayed here because "Oshima Onsen Hotel" was fully booked that day. The spacious garden was filled with many flowers, and there was even a hot spring! ♨️ For dinner, we even had camellia oil fondue! We enjoyed the unique flavors of the island. [Day 2] 🚗 Habu Port Observation Deck First, we went to an observation spot overlooking Habu Port. ↓ ☕️ Tokyo Bonten A retro and stylish cafe. We took a break with chewy taiyaki and coffee. ↓ 🌺 Oshima Park One of the main highlights of this trip! We were able to see many camellias, and admission was free. In early March, camellias were blooming all over the island, allowing us to fully enjoy the spring scenery typical of Oshima. ↓ 🌿 Izumizu Pass Located on a road one street inland from the main road, it's a little hard to find. But searching for it is part of the fun of traveling. ↓ 🚗 Returned the rental car at Okada Port Finally, we went to Starfish and Coffee, located very close to the port. We enjoyed a late lunch in the stylish cafe. The recommended item is the daily special local fish burger 🐟️ We savored the flavors of Oshima to the very end! Then we took the jet wheel to Takeshiba Pier ⛴️ Even a 1-night, 2-day trip to Izu Oshima offers so much to enjoy. From the camellia season to the magnificent nature of Mt. Mihara, island cuisine, retro streets, and stylish cafes... It was a truly fulfilling trip to Izu Oshima, with far more sights to see than we expected 🌺 Do you like island travel? *Please check the websites of each facility for closing days and business hours before visiting. #IzuOshima #IzuOshimaTrip #IzuIslands #Camellia #CamelliaFlower #OshimaPark #MtMihara #MtMiharaCraterTrip #BekkoSushi #IslandTrip #TravelFromTokyo #DomesticTravel #GirlsTrip #CafeHopping #WeekendTrip

Mandarin Island Hotel has set a new standard for our family vacations! We enjoyed a flawless 5-day, 4-night stay from beginning to end. Even before our trip, the staff answered all our questions patiently, putting us at ease. That exceptional service continued from the moment we arrived—the entire team was incredibly warm, welcoming, and attentive. Traveling with seniors and kids can be stressful, but the hotel's cleanliness, safety, and efficiency allowed us to truly relax. They anticipated our every need and made us feel special. The true gem of this hotel is its amazing staff. Thank you for an unforgettable stay—we can't wait to come back!

The ferry from Tokyo (Takeshiba) was already fully booked, so we departed from Shimoda Port and traveled to Kozushima and Oshima islands 🚢 Kozushima, in particular, has such beautiful sea that it's hard to believe it's part of Tokyo! The itinerary was a bit hectic due to the limited availability of accommodations and the connecting ferry schedule, but the stone-grilled amberjack rice bowl and Ashitaba tempura while watching the sunset over the sea on Oshima were absolutely fantastic! #ferry #Kozushima #Oshima #Tokyo #sea

I took a trip to "Izu Oshima," an island easily accessible from downtown Tokyo via high-speed jet foil or large passenger ship! The magnificent views radiating volcanic energy and the fresh island cuisine were absolutely incredible, so here are my top recommendations. [Dynamic Hiking on Mt. Mihara] Mt. Mihara (elevation 758m) is the symbol of Oshima. The massive crater at the summit is incredibly huge and breathtaking! The "Ohachi-meguri" (Crater Loop) trail is the ultimate trekking course where you can truly feel the earth breathing. [Japan's Only Desert!? Ura-Sabaku & The Black World] This area on the eastern side of Mt. Mihara is covered in black volcanic gravel (scoria). It feels completely otherworldly, like you've just landed on another planet—plus, it's insanely photogenic! [Exquisite Island Cuisine: Bekko Don & Ashitaba] When visiting Oshima, you absolutely have to try "Bekko Don," a rice bowl topped with fresh white fish marinated in a chili soy sauce! The sweet and spicy glaze perfectly complements the tender fish. It also pairs amazingly well with crispy "Ashitaba" (tomorrow's leaf) tempura. [Crystal-Clear Waters and Spectacular Rocky Shores] Since the entire island is designated as a Geopark, the contrast between the rugged lava rocks and the beautiful blue ocean is simply stunning! It's the perfect spot for exploring tidal pools or snorkeling. [The Unique Charm of Sea Travel] Taking in the views from the large passenger ship (Salvia Maru) on the way there and back is one of the best parts of the journey. Watching the sunrise and sunset over the ocean from the deck was a movingly beautiful experience! With such easy access from Tokyo, I highly recommend this spot for a quick weekend getaway, a day trip, or an overnight stay! --- 📍Izu Oshima, Tokyo (Izu Oshima, Tokyo, Japan)

#worthitornot I entered Hawai‘i Volcanoes NP at 7 am (entry 30/vehicle,valid7days),firststoppedatThurstonLavaTube(N a ˉ huku)beforethetourbuses.Thetubeisa500mloop:130mlitsectionthrougharainforestsinkholewherethelavaceilingis10mhigh,drippingwithcondensation,thenadimexitpath.ParkattheK ı ˉ · aueaIkioverlooklot,walktheCraterRimtrail1.6kmtothesteamvents—crackswhererainwaterhitstheshallowmagmabodyandburstsupas90°Cvaporsmellingofsulfur.ContinuedowntheK ı ˉ · aueaIkitrail(3.2kmloop)acrossthe1959lavalakecrust;thecenterisstillwarmunderfootinplaces.Iworetrailshoes,notsandals—roughp a ˉ hoehoetearsskin.Bringfor the visitor center café but pack your own lunch; choices inside are limited. Rules: stay on trail, the steam vent rocks scald, and after 2018 the crater rim road west of Kīlauea Iki is closed—check the board at Jaggar for daily closures. My mistake: I lingered at steam vents at noon; by 1 pm the cloud deck killed the views, morning is cleaner. Verdict: this loop is the best 4-hour volcano primer on Earth for the price. Do you prefer this accessible rim walk, or would you rather backpack the 2-day Kīlauea backcountry for the same volcano?

On Amami Oshima, an outlying island of Kagoshima Prefecture, you can see crystal-clear, beautiful seas! It's a perfect summer resort where you can enjoy swimming and marine activities 🏝️ There aren't too many tourists, so you can spend a relaxing and leisurely time 🙆‍♀️ Renting a car and driving around the island to find your favorite beach is highly recommended! You can also try surfing 🏄, so why not give it a go? ✨✨ Why not visit Amami Oshima, which has mountains, sea, rivers, and all kinds of nature? 🌿 📍Amami Oshima, Kagoshima Prefecture #DomesticTravel #AmamiOshima #IslandTrip #Japan #JapanTrip

🌸 2-Day 1-Night Itinerary Highlights 🌸 Day 1: Depart from Tokyo → Oshima Volcano Overlook → Relax in Yamanakako Village Hot Springs Day 2: Sunrise at Arakurayama Sengen Park → Hike in Aokigahara Forest → Great Eats in Fujiyoshida City → Return to Tokyo 🗺️ Check out the detailed itinerary below👇 Day 1: Tokyo → Oshima Volcano → Yamanakako Village Hot Spring Chill Day 🔍 Morning Must-Eat: Kushiyaki Fujisan Energetic Breakfast Address: 2F, 1 Chome-18-3 Nerima, Nerima City, Tokyo 176-0001, Japan Need to fuel up? I highly recommend grabbing a bite at this cozy, authentic charcoal-grilled yakitori spot that serves up an amazing homemade Japanese style meal~ (Their dinner menu is highly recommended too!) 🚢 Head to Oshima It’s just a 2-hour boat ride away. I highly recommend visiting the Mt. Mihara Summit Entrance Lookout toward Mt. Fuji. Address: Uenoyama-622 Motomachi, Oshima, Tokyo 100-0101 Open all day, this volcano crater observation deck offers a stunning 360-degree view of Mt. Fuji + beautiful blue skies and white clouds. You can even see the ocean in the distance—the vibe is absolutely majestic! ⛩ Midday Slow Living: Yamanakako Village Lunch + Happy Spacing Out Check into Hotel Mt. Fuji (Yamanaka 1360-83), located right by Lake Yamanaka, offering panoramic views of Mt. Fuji straight from the rooms and public areas. Head down to the lake to feed the swans. If you catch the cherry blossom season, the reflection of the snow-capped mountain looks exactly like a live-action postcard! Pick any lake-view café, grab a cup of coffee, and just soak in the laid-back atmosphere—you'll feel instantly relaxed. ♨️ Nighttime Highlight: Hot Spring Relaxation + Starry Skies Soak in the hotel's open-air bath while gazing at the mountain, and you can even spot a sky full of stars from afar~ The dinner buffet offers tons of delicious options paired with an incredible view. It's so chill you won't want to leave! Day 2: Arakurayama Sengen Park → Aokigahara Forest → Fujiyoshida Eats → Back to Tokyo 🌄 Dreamy Morning Photo Op: Arakurayama Sengen Park (Prime Spot for Cherry Blossoms + Mt. Fuji) If you want to capture the ultimate breathtaking morning shot of cherry blossoms + Mt. Fuji, I recommend heading up there super early. There are barely any people, so you can take your time snapping the perfect photos. 🌲 Limited Forest Experience: Aokigahara Forest After the park, head straight for the outer trails of the Aokigahara Forest. It’s a very pristine area, and the air is crisp and freezing cold, making it a great spot to escape the summer heat~ Tip: Just stick to the outer edges. It's super easy to get lost in the forest, so don't venture too deep! 🍜 Midday Flavor Recommendation: Fujiyoshida City Soba Noodle Shop By lunchtime, head into Fujiyoshida City and hunt down a popular local soba noodle shop—friends highly recommend giving it a try~ Nearby, you'll find the Mt. Fuji Station Hotel (2 Chome-7-12 Matsuyama). If you want to rest up for another night, they offer free shuttle buses and a hearty breakfast. Super convenient! 🚞 In the afternoon, take a leisurely ride back to Tokyo. A perfect ending to the trip! ⚡Tips for a Slow-Paced Mt. Fuji Trip⚡ · Lake Yamanaka is the top choice for Mt. Fuji views—gorgeous scenery with way fewer people~ · Book your hotels well in advance during the peak spring cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. If you love a good buffet, don't forget to reserve your table! · Do not hike alone or wander off the paths in Aokigahara Forest; staying along the edge is the safest bet. · The shopping streets in Fujiyoshida City have a super nostalgic Showa-era vibe, so be sure to take it all in when you pass through~ · Remember to bring your own swimsuit and a small towel for the hot springs; some open-air baths require you to bring your own~ 🏡 Quick Hotel Info: Hotel Mt. Fuji (Yamanaka 1360-83): Gorgeous views, open-air hot springs facing the mountain, lots of dining options, and incredibly attentive service. Mt. Fuji Station Hotel (2 Chome-7-12 Matsuyama): Conveniently located, free shuttle service, and a solid breakfast. Fuji Yamanakako Hotel (506-296 Hirano, Minamitsuru District): Right next to Lake Yamanaka, easy transportation, and free hot springs. With pink cherry blossoms + a snow-capped mountain as your backdrop, the real-life views are way more mind-blowing than the photos. You'll be filling up your camera's memory card by the second! 🌸🏔️🦢

Google Maps ☆4.6 (Average of multiple spots) Address: Oshima-machi, Tokyo Atmosphere/Facilities: Izu Oshima, surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, is characterized by its black lava coastline and crystal-clear waters. The sea breeze is refreshing, and simply walking along the coast is invigorating. The port area is convenient with convenience stores and restaurants, but a little further away, wild nature awaits. Spending time away from the hustle and bustle of the city, listening to the sound of the sea, is perfect for solo travel. The horizon at sunset is especially breathtaking, and you won't be able to stop taking pictures. #solotravel #IzuOshima #seascape #islandtravel

The Izu Oshima Camellia Festival is held annually on Izu Oshima, a Tokyo island known for its scenic coastal roads, natural hot springs, and impressive camellia flower fields. From late January to late March, about three million camellia plants on the island bloom vibrantly. The main venue for the festival is Camellia Square located within Oshima Park. Here, visitors can stroll among the blooming camellias, browse stalls selling camellia oil and local souvenirs, and enjoy cultural performances such as folk dances. These performances take place on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays during the festival. The Oshima Park Camellia Information Center also features special exhibitions of camellia flower arrangements and flower-inspired artworks, adding an artistic touch to the experience. The festival offers a relaxed atmosphere and charming scenery, perfect for those seeking seasonal beauty and local culture. Driving to Camellia Square takes about 12 minutes from Okada Port and less than 20 minutes from Motomachi Port. We encourage visitors to explore the island’s unique charm and celebrate the camellia season together.

I went to see the camellia garden at Oshima Park. Some varieties were in full bloom, and the scent was delightful! After seeing the camellias, there was also a zoo on site, which was even more fun.

The Izu Oshima Camellia Festival is the largest event on the island, fully showcasing the unique charm of Izu Oshima. The main festival venue is located at the Motomachi Port Passenger Waiting Room, where a rich variety of local specialties are gathered, allowing visitors to deeply understand the island's profound historical and cultural heritage. Oshima Park, recognized as an international outstanding camellia garden, is a major highlight of the festival. The park is lush with camellia trees, featuring many varieties, among which the rare yellow camellia, Kinmokusei, is especially eye-catching with its unique flower color. Visitors can not only enjoy the beautiful scenery but also participate in exciting activities. At the Camellia Petal Dyeing Experience Workshop, you can personally experience the charm of traditional dyeing techniques; the "Traveling with Camellias and Local Culture" exhibition offers a comprehensive appreciation of the close connection between camellias and the local customs. Come to the Izu Oshima Camellia Festival to feel the accumulation of history and culture in the fragrance of flowers, enjoy special activities, and gain unforgettable travel memories! 📅 February 1, 2026 - March 22, 2026

📍 Address: 18-4 Habuminato, Oshima-cho, Tokyo 100-0212 ⏰ 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Closed Mondays and Tuesdays 🐟 Store Features · Nostalgic Interior: This store is renovated from an old Japanese house, creating a relaxing space where you can feel the warmth of wood. · Handmade Taiyaki: Enjoy our crispy, fluffy, and crispy taiyaki with wings. · The chewy, chilled taiyaki made with asa-ba leaves and the latte made with Oshima milk are also delicious. 🥛 · A Place Loved by Locals: This store is also used as a place to socialize with locals, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. 💡 Note There is no parking lot, so please park a little further away before visiting the shop. 🚗 #TokyoBonten #IzuOshimaCafe #Taiyaki #OldFashionCafe #HambuPort #IzuOshimaGourmet #GirlsTripIzuOshima #JapaneseScenery #IslandLife