Researched guide · Checked on Oct 19, 2026
Chichijima, about 1,000 kilometers south of central Tokyo in the Ogasawara Islands, a World Natural Heritage site, is a tropical side of Tokyo you can only reach by a 24-hour ferry. Expect white beaches, green sea turtles, a sunken wartime ship to snorkel over and guided trips to tiny Minamijima.
Quick answer
Getting there: Ogasawara-maru ferry from Takeshiba (24 hours)
Time needed: About a week round trip, because of the ferry schedule
Best time: Year-round subtropical climate; whale season from winter to spring
Good for: Beaches, snorkeling, diving, rare nature
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Overview
| Getting there | Ogasawara-maru ferry from Takeshiba (24 hours) |
| Time needed | About a week round trip, because of the ferry schedule |
| Best time | Year-round subtropical climate; whale season from winter to spring |
| Good for | Beaches, snorkeling, diving, rare nature |
Best Things to Do
Ogamiyama Park
Rolling green hills in the north of the island with Ogamiyama-jinja Shrine, and views of deep green hills, blue sea and white sand.
Beaches
Kominato, the longest beach, is good for shallow paddling; sheltered Miyanohama is a snorkeler’s favorite; Hatsuneura is reached by a 70-minute hike through jungle-like forest.
Hinko-maru wreck
From Sakaiura Beach you can see the remains of the Hinko-maru, a cargo ship torpedoed and sunk in the Second World War. Snorkel or dive to see it and the sea life living there.
Minamijima
A small island one kilometer off the south coast with very rare plants and animals. Only 100 visitors a day are allowed, with a licensed local guide. Look for green sea turtles and seabirds.
Food & Drink
- Most restaurants and bars are near Futami Port, serving fresh local seafood.
Shopping
- Shops near Futami Port.
Where to Stay
Accommodation is mostly in small inns and guesthouses, so book early. The ferry leaves from Takeshiba near Hamamatsucho: see Hamamatsucho and Best hotels near Tokyo Station and Ginza.
Search hotels in Chichijima Island
Getting There
- By boat only: the Ogasawara-maru ferry from Takeshiba Pier takes 24 hours. It sails about every three to four days in peak season and once a week the rest of the year, so you usually stay on the island until the next sailing.
- Hahajima is about two hours further by the Hahajima-maru ferry.
New to Tokyo trains? See Trains in Tokyo and How to use Suica.
Suggested Itinerary
- Day 1Arrive at Futami Port
- Walk
- Day 2Miyanohama snorkeling and Ogamiyama Park
- Day 3Guided trip to Minamijima
- Day 4Day trip to Hahajima
Travel Tips
- Plan around the ferry schedule; a typical trip is about a week.
- Minamijima visits must be with a licensed guide.
- 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
How do I get to Chichijima?
Only by the Ogasawara-maru ferry from Takeshiba Pier in Tokyo, which takes 24 hours.
How long does a trip to Chichijima take?
Usually about a week round trip, because the ferry sails only every few days.
Can I visit Minamijima?
Yes, with a licensed local guide; only 100 visitors a day are allowed.
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.
