Nature and Peace Await on Oshima Island: The Ultimate Travel Guide to Tokyo’s Hidden Island
- Yuwei
- Apr 23
- 5 min read
Updated: May 23
I was closest to nature in my life when I visited Izu Oshima three years ago. It only takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes by ferry from Takeshiba Terminal, in Tokyo, to reach Okata Port on Izu Oshima Island.
If you're looking to escape the Tokyo crowds and enjoy a peaceful retreat, Izu Oshima is the perfect destination. Expect no packed streets, no noise — just warm-hearted locals and breathtakingly tranquil scenery.
Why Izu Oshima Island?
Proximity to Tokyo: A Short Ferry Ride Away
As introduced at the very beginning, you will only need a direct ferry from Takeshiba Terminal, in Tokyo, to reach Okata Port on Izu Oshima Island. It takes only 1 hour and 45 minutes. However, it is a totally different world.
There are two ports on Izu Oshima Island: Okata Port - in the north part of the island, and Motomachi Port - in the west part of the island.
The arrival and departure ports are decided before 8 AM each day, depending upon the weather conditions on the day. Please make sure to check the updates of timetable before heading to the port via this link, where you may also find out the latest news of cancellations of the ferry.
Untouched Nature & Volcanic Landscapes
The island’s volcanic landscape feels like an entirely different world, making it perfect for hiking and cycling.
Along the island’s coastal road from Motomachi Port toward Habu, you’ll find a dramatic cross-section of volcanic strata - The Great Road Cut. Stretching 30 meters high and 800 meters long, this geological formation reveals countless alternating layers of lava and ash.
These layers were formed over thousands of years, as hundreds of eruptions from Mt. Mihara — dating back as far as 20,000 years ago — repeatedly covered the island in volcanic ash and debris.
Izu Oshima is also home to three camellia gardens, all certified as International Camellia Gardens of Excellence. Every year from late January to late March, the island hosts its biggest event — the Izu Oshima Camellia Festival.
Relaxed Island Lifestyle & Local Hospitality
Izu Oshima feels like a world apart, where serendipity and heartfelt hospitality await at every turn.
During our visit, we stayed at a charming Japanese ryokan called Nodahamaen, a cozy, family-run inn managed by a warm and welcoming couple in their 60s.
We happened to be the only two guests at the time, yet they treated us with the same care and attention as if we were their most valued visitors — serving beautifully prepared meals and offering thoughtful, meticulous service throughout our stay. Their kindness and genuine Omotenashi — the essence of Japanese hospitality — left a lasting impression on us.
When I was writing this article, I felt a little anxious while checking for the latest updates, worried that this home-run business might not have survived the pandemic. Unfortunately, it didn’t. Still, here’s a glimpse of what we experienced during our stay (the charge is as follows per night, including breakfast and dinner:
Rates (per person, per night with 2 meals included)
Adults (Junior high school age and above): ¥8,900
Children (Elementary school students): ¥7,500
Infants (Ages 3–6): ¥3,600
Babies (Under 3 years old, no meals included): ¥1,100
The ryokan also offered transfer service to the ports. The kind owners even offered to transport our bikes to the port, which was a thoughtful and much-appreciated gesture.
A Hidden Gem, Untouched by Mass Tourism
When I mentioned Izu Oshima to my Japanese friends and colleagues, I was met with two common reactions:
"How did you even know about that place? None of my Japanese friends have heard of it!"
"Oshima? Where is that? I can’t believe there’s an island that belongs to Tokyo!"
Their responses perfectly reflected how hidden and little-known Izu Oshima still is. But after I shared my experience and described just how amazing Oshima is, all of them said they’d love to visit one day.
Ways to explore the island
Izu Oshima offers plenty of options for both active travelers and those looking for a slow, scenic escape:
Cycling — The island’s coastal roads offer both relaxed and challenging courses. Rent a bike near the port for a full-day adventure.
Hiking & Trekking — Explore Mt. Mihara loop or take shorter nature walks around the camellia gardens and coastline.
Bus — The local bus system makes it easy to hop between major sightseeing spots if you prefer a relaxed pace.
Diving & Marine Activities — Crystal-clear waters and volcanic reefs make for excellent underwater adventures.
Camping — There are several scenic campsites near the coast, perfect for those looking to fully immerse in nature.
I highly recommend staying at least one night on Izu Oshima so you can truly experience all the unique charms this little island has to offer.
The ferry company has marked most of the spots that are worth a visit as follows:
I’d like to share my Oshima Island travel guide for a two-day, one-night trip to Izu Oshima.
Suggested Itinerary: The Ultimate Oshima Island Travel Guide
Day 1:
Morning: Ferry from Takeshiba to Okata Port
Lunch at Okata Port or Motomachi Port
Afternoon: Explore Mt. Mihara (hiking & trekking)
Evening: Relax at a seaside onsen or enjoy sunset views
Day 2:
Morning: Visit Izu-Ōshima Volcano Museum and the Great Road Cut while cycling along the coast
Midday: Enjoy coastal cycling or a walk along the Camellia Path
Afternoon: Onsen and Return ferry to Tokyo
Highlights
Mt. Mihara volcanic landscape
Black-sand beaches and dramatic coastlines
Camellia flower season (January–March)
Island onsen with ocean views
Food & Souvenirs
Local specialties: Ashitaba tempura, fresh seafood, island ramen.
Souvenirs: Camellia oil, Oshima milk products.
Camellia Oil: Natural skincare oil extracted from local camellia seeds.
Oshima Milk Products: Locally produced dairy with a fresh, creamy flavor.
I’m planning to return to Izu Oshima, though unfortunately, I won’t have the chance to stay at the same ryokan as before or experience the warm Japanese hospitality I enjoyed there.
That’s why I’d like to recommend TOMOGO! — I truly appreciate the heart and humanity found in local businesses and their owners, and I believe in supporting them in a sustainable way. Without such support, many local businesses, especially those without backing from large franchises, are struggling to survive in the changing tides of this era.
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