Researched guide · Checked on Oct 19, 2026
Toshima is a small, densely forested volcanic island about two hours and 20 minutes from Tokyo by high-speed boat, with around 300 residents. It is a quiet escape for swimming with wild dolphins, climbing a cone-shaped peak with views to Mt. Fuji, and stargazing with no light pollution.
Quick answer
Getting there: High-speed boat from Takeshiba (about 2 hours 20 minutes), or via Oshima by helicopter
Time needed: 2 days or more
Best time: March to November for dolphin swimming; January to March for camellias
Good for: Dolphins, stargazing, hiking, a very quiet trip
Plan Your Visit to Toshima Island
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Overview
| Getting there | High-speed boat from Takeshiba (about 2 hours 20 minutes), or via Oshima by helicopter |
| Time needed | 2 days or more |
| Best time | March to November for dolphin swimming; January to March for camellias |
| Good for | Dolphins, stargazing, hiking, a very quiet trip |
Best Things to Do
Mt. Miyatsuka
Hike to the top and head to the lookout tower on the north side. On clear days you can see many of the other Izu Islands and Mt. Fuji in the distance.
Minami ga Yama Park
On the mountain’s southern slope, a wide lawn with no light pollution. On clear, moonless nights you may see the Milky Way.
Swimming with dolphins
A pod of dolphins lives in the island’s coastal waters. Tours run from March to November, offered by some accommodations and by Toshima-Diving & Dolphinswim-Service near the northern pier.
Camellias
The island has about 200,000 camellia trees, and its camellia oil makes up nearly 60% of Japan’s production. Camellias were once used to pay land taxes instead of rice. See them in bloom from January to March.
Food & Drink
- There are few places to eat on such a small island; many visitors take meals at their inn.
Shopping
- Toshima camellia oil.
Where to Stay
Accommodation on the island is mostly small inns, minshuku (family-run guesthouses) and some campsites, and rooms are limited, so book before you buy your ferry or flight. Ferries leave from the Takeshiba Passenger Ship Terminal near Hamamatsucho, and night ships depart in the evening, so you may want a hotel in central Tokyo before or after your trip: see Hamamatsucho and Best hotels near Tokyo Station and Ginza.
Search hotels in Toshima Island
Getting There
- By boat: high-speed boats from Takeshiba Pier take about 2 hours 20 minutes; overnight ferries take around 9 hours.
- By air: fly from Chofu Airport to Oshima (about 30 minutes), then take a 10-minute helicopter to Toshima.
New to Tokyo trains? See Trains in Tokyo and How to use Suica.
Suggested Itinerary
- Day 1Arrive by high-speed boat
- Walk
- AfternoonDolphin swim tour (in season)
- NightStargazing at Minami ga Yama Park
- Day 2Hike Mt. Miyatsuka
Travel Tips
- Book dolphin tours together with your accommodation.
- Bring a light for walking at night.
- Ferries and flights can be cancelled in bad weather, so leave a spare day in your plans.
- Bring some cash, as small shops and inns may not accept cards.
- Book accommodation first, then transport, especially in summer and holidays.
Comparing islands? See all eleven side by side in Tokyo’s islands compared.
FAQ
Can you swim with dolphins on Toshima?
Yes, on guided tours from March to November, offered by some accommodations and a local dive service.
How long does it take to get to Toshima?
About 2 hours 20 minutes by high-speed boat from Takeshiba Pier, or around 9 hours on the overnight ferry.
How many people live on Toshima?
About 300.
Travel Essentials
Ferries to the Islands
Ships and jet ferries leave from Takeshiba Pier near Hamamatsucho.
Airport Transfers
Trains, the monorail, the Airport Limousine Bus and taxis compared.
JR Pass & Transport Passes
Whether a rail pass or a Tokyo subway ticket will save you money.
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Sources
Information comes from the official sources below (checked October 19, 2026). Hours and prices change, so please check before you go.
