Hachijojima: Tokyo's Southern Island

A volcanic island in the Izu chain, part of Tokyo Metropolis, offers warm weather, twin peaks, hot springs and plant-dyed silk.

Published October 18, 2026 at 10:11 PM JST | By Tokyo Paul

Quick answer: Hachijojima is a volcanic island about 290 kilometers south of central Tokyo, part of the Izu Islands and governed by Tokyo Metropolis. It has two volcanic peaks, subtropical plants, hot springs, coastal walks and a famous yellow silk textile. Fly from Haneda in under an hour or take an overnight ferry from Tokyo Bay. Plan at least two nights.

An island that belongs to Tokyo

Hachijojima is one of the Izu Islands, a chain of volcanic islands that stretch south from the Izu Peninsula into the Pacific. Administratively the whole chain belongs to Tokyo Metropolis, which surprises many visitors who expect Tokyo to mean skyscrapers. Hachijojima sits well south of the others, and its climate is warmer and wetter than the mainland, with flowers and palm-like plants that suggest the tropics. Compared with the mainland, the air feels softer and the plants more luxuriant.

The island has a gourd-like outline formed by two volcanoes joined by a low saddle. Roads loop around the coast, and most of the roughly seven thousand residents live in villages near the shore. The pace is slow, with fishing boats, small farms and wide skies. For travelers it offers a taste of island life that is still a relatively short flight from the capital.

Twin volcanoes and hiking

The island is dominated by two volcanic peaks. Mount Nishiyama, often called Hachijo-Fuji for its smooth conical profile, rises to around 850 meters, and a trail leads around its crater rim for broad views over the sea. Mount Mihara to the southeast is lower and has a crater and rugged slopes, with trails that lead through forest and grass. Early morning walks are usually clearer than afternoons, when cloud tends to gather around the summits.

Hiking is pleasant but weather-dependent. Mist and clouds can cover the summits quickly, and the wind picks up near the rim, so bring a rain jacket and layers. Trails can be slippery after rain. Visit the tourist information center for current trail conditions and a map. If you prefer something gentler, scenic roads with lookouts let you appreciate the volcanoes without climbing.

Hot springs, beaches and wildlife

Hachijojima has several hot spring baths, several of which are open to the public, some with outdoor pools. Soaking after a hike or a day on the water is a highlight, and the water is usually warm and soothing. Check opening times and costs in advance, and follow standard onsen manners. Towels are often sold or rented at the bath, and a small fee is typical.

The surrounding sea supports snorkeling, diving and boat trips. Sea turtles are seen at times, and dolphin-watching tours are offered when conditions allow. Beaches on the island are mostly rocky or have dark volcanic sand, so water shoes help. Swimming conditions depend on waves and currents, so ask locals or operators where it is safe. Guided activities can be arranged through the information center or lodgings.

Local crafts and food

Hachijojima is famous for kihachijo, a hand-woven silk textile traditionally dyed in shades of yellow, brown and black using plants and mud. Its bold stripes and checks are recognizable, and the cloth has been made on the island for centuries. Workshops and small museums show how the dyeing and weaving are done, and some offer short classes. The cloth is sold as scarves, bags and small accessories, which make light souvenirs for the trip home.

Local food reflects the sea and the island's farms. Fresh fish, sashimi, and dried seafood are staples, and ashitaba, a leafy green plant cultivated on the island, appears in tempura, noodles and tea. The island also produces shochu, a distilled spirit made from sweet potato or barley, and many izakaya serve it. Try a set meal at a small restaurant to sample several local flavors at once.

Getting to Hachijojima

Flights from Haneda Airport take under an hour and run a few times a day, which makes a long weekend trip feasible. Seats are limited, so book early, and know that fog or strong winds can cause delays or cancellations. A larger ferry also runs from Tokyo's Takeshiba Pier overnight, arriving in the morning after a night at sea. Check in a little earlier than usual, because small aircraft can have strict baggage limits.

The ferry is slower but offers a different kind of experience, with the chance to watch the sunrise over the Pacific. Rough seas can disrupt sailings, so allow flexibility. Once on the island, rental cars and scooters are the most convenient ways to explore, since buses are infrequent. Taxis and tours are available as alternatives. Reserve vehicles in advance for busy periods.

Seasons and weather

Spring and autumn bring comfortable temperatures and fewer visitors. Summer is warm and humid, the most popular season for swimming and diving, and also the time when typhoons can disrupt travel. Winter is mild compared with the mainland, though sea winds can be cold, and rain is frequent year-round. Some years, ferry and flight schedules shift with the season, so check them well before you book lodging.

Because the island weather can change quickly, build a spare day into your schedule if you must return by a particular time. Pack a rain jacket, comfortable walking shoes and a swimsuit if you plan to enjoy water. Sunscreen and insect repellent are useful in warmer months. Check forecasts for flights and ferries, and confirm services with the operators before heading to the terminal.

A short note on history and getting the most from a trip

In earlier centuries, the island was a remote outpost of the shogunate, and its isolation shaped local customs, dialect and crafts. The same remoteness helped preserve traditions such as kihachijo weaving and island folk songs. Museums and cultural centers explain this background in a straightforward way, and they add depth to a visit. Island festivals, held at various times of the year, feature drums and traditional dances that visitors can watch respectfully.

To get the most from a trip, spend at least two nights. Dedicate a day to the volcanoes, a day to the coast and hot springs, and leave time for crafts and meals. Small guesthouses and inns offer home-style dinners, which are a pleasure. Check what is open each day, since businesses on small islands may close on irregular schedules, and carry some cash. A rental car is the simplest way to link these stops, so book it with your flight.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to fly from Tokyo to Hachijojima?

The flight from Haneda Airport takes under an hour. Flights are few and seats limited, so book early. Fog and wind can lead to delays or cancellations, so keep your schedule flexible and consider arriving a day before any fixed commitments.

Is Hachijojima suitable for a weekend trip?

Yes, a two-night stay is possible by plane, covering the volcano views, a hot spring and a craft visit. The overnight ferry is slower, so it suits longer stays. Weather can disrupt transport, so leave some buffer on the return day.

What is kihachijo?

It is a hand-woven silk textile from Hachijojima, traditionally dyed in yellow, brown and black with natural materials. The cloth is known for bold stripes and checks. Workshops on the island let visitors see the process, and some offer short experiences.

Keep Exploring

More guides from Tokyo Paul: Tokyo Prefecture Travel Guide, Yonaguni: Japan's Westernmost Island and Amakusa: Kumamoto's Island Chain.