Ogasawara combines nature watching with stories of island culture. On Chichijima, experiences range from sea turtles and coral to a prewar road, viewpoints, and protected areas. Different conditions matter when planning: some activities are seasonal, certain areas require a certified guide, and travel is by ship.
Marine Conservation and Insights into Nature
The Ocean Center, also known as the Kame Center, studies and cares for sea turtles. Depending on the season, activities such as releasing young turtles or polishing turtle shells may be available. At the Ogasawara World Heritage Centre, visitors can learn more about nature conservation and World Heritage. Endangered species are also bred there, and visitors can observe their care.
The Ogasawara Visitor Center offers year-round explanations from specialist staff, special exhibitions, nature watching, lectures, and hands-on activities for children and adults. Individual programs may vary. This makes it possible to plan a visit around different interests, from information about conservation efforts to opportunities to take part.
Trails, Viewpoints, and Beaches
Walks in the Higashihira-Akazashikokarasubato Protected Area on Chichijima require the accompaniment of a nature guide recognized by Tokyo. Rare animals and plants can be observed there. The trail on Kuwanokiyama follows a restored prewar road. From the Tenguhanahana viewpoint, you can see across Futami Bay; along the trail, you can also see the remains of prewar houses.
The main viewpoint in the Ogamiyama district offers a different view of Chichijima: it is located just behind Futami Pier and overlooks the built-up area. Tropical fish and various corals can be seen at Miyanohama Beach, which is within walking distance of the village. The current is strong outside the buoys, so if you swim there, stay within them.
The Sea and Island Nature
Snorkeling off the coast of the Ogasawara Islands offers the chance to see reef-building corals and tropical fish. The waters south of Ani-jima are clear, with colorful schools of fish swimming among the coral reefs. The area can be visited on ecotours. Divers can observe bigeye tuna, amberjacks, fan-shaped schools of fish, and colorful tropical fish in Ogasawara National Park.
Spinner dolphins and Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins live around the islands year-round. Boat trips around the islands search for dolphins, and with luck, you can swim with wild dolphins. The sunset on the horizon is a popular sight from the Weather Station Lookout on the west side of Chichijima. Many people visit in good weather, and whale watching is also possible during the season.
Nature can also be observed after dark: during stargazing on the Ogasawara Islands, the Milky Way may be visible. With luck, you may also see the green-glowing fungus Green Pepe or nocturnal animals such as the endemic Ogasawara flying fox. On Minamijima, the white sand at Ogiike contrasts with the blue sea in a submerged limestone karst landscape. Landing requires the accompaniment of a guide recognized by Tokyo; check the current arrangements before your visit.
Island Culture and Travel
Takonoha handicrafts have been passed down on the Ogasawara Islands since before the war. They are made using leaves of the endemic screw pine タコノキ; advance reservations are recommended for this activity. Nanyo Odori is also part of the region's cultural history: the dance was introduced to the Ogasawara Islands during the period when Japan administered Micronesia. In 2000, it was designated an intangible folk cultural property of Tokyo Metropolis.
Chichijima and Hahajima have no airport and can only be reached by ship. The Ogasawara Maru ferry departs from Takeshiba Pier in Tokyo approximately once a week. Check the current departure schedule before traveling. Getting there is therefore an important part of planning your stay on the islands.
More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Suginami, Taitō, Nakano, Shinagawa, Higashiyamato, Hino, Akishima, Machida.
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