Researched guide · Checked on Oct 19, 2026
Kozushima is a family-friendly island with sandy beaches, turquoise water and a clifftop walkway made for snorkeling. It was the first island in Tokyo to be certified as an International Dark Sky Park, so the night sky is a highlight, and hikers can climb Mt. Tenjo for views as far as Mt. Fuji.
Quick answer
Getting there: High-speed jet ferry from Takeshiba (about 4 hours) or a flight from Chofu Airport (35 minutes)
Time needed: 2 to 3 days
Best time: Summer for beaches and snorkeling; clear nights for stars
Good for: Families, snorkeling, hiking, stargazing
Plan Your Visit to Kozushima Island
Search hotels and things to do in Kozushima Island. You book on the partner site.
Overview
| Getting there | High-speed jet ferry from Takeshiba (about 4 hours) or a flight from Chofu Airport (35 minutes) |
| Time needed | 2 to 3 days |
| Best time | Summer for beaches and snorkeling; clear nights for stars |
| Good for | Families, snorkeling, hiking, stargazing |
Best Things to Do
Maehama Beach
The main beach, close to Kozushima Port, with shops selling ice cream, inflatables and beach gear nearby.
Nagahama and Sawajiri beaches
Calmer beaches further north on the west coast, with simple barbecue and picnic facilities. A hot-spring facility nearby has an outdoor bath facing the sunset.
Akasaki Promenade
A raised wooden walkway like a giant jungle gym on the northwest tip, with jumping-off points over the sea. A great place to snorkel for a few hours. Dive shops also run scuba trips.
Stargazing
Kozushima is certified as an International Dark Sky Park (a Dark Sky Island). Join a stargazing tour with a local guide.
Mt. Tenjo
The island’s tallest peak at 572 meters. The climb from the port takes four to five hours on trails for different fitness levels, with a small heart-shaped pond at the top and, on very clear days, Mt. Fuji on the horizon.
Food & Drink
- Shops near Maehama Beach for snacks and ice cream; few restaurants elsewhere.
Shopping
- Beach gear shops near the port.
Where to Stay
Accommodation on the island is mostly small inns, minshuku (family-run guesthouses) and a campsite at Tako Bay, 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 Kozushima Island
Getting There
- By boat: the high-speed jet ferry from Takeshiba Pier takes about 4 hours; large passenger ships leave at night and take about 12 hours.
- By plane: 35 minutes from Chofu Airport.
New to Tokyo trains? See Trains in Tokyo and How to use Suica.
Suggested Itinerary
- Day 1Maehama Beach
- Bus or car
- Day 2Akasaki Promenade snorkeling
- EveningSunset bath near Nagahama, then a stargazing tour
- Day 3Climb Mt. Tenjo
Travel Tips
- Start the Mt. Tenjo hike early and carry water.
- Small children can swim in the sheltered area by Miura Port’s sea wall.
- 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
Why is Kozushima called a Dark Sky Island?
It was the first island in Tokyo to be certified as an International Dark Sky Park for protecting its dark night skies.
Where can I snorkel on Kozushima?
The Akasaki Promenade on the northwest tip is the best-known spot.
How long does it take to climb Mt. Tenjo?
Four to five hours from Kozushima Port, depending on the trail.
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.
Explore More in This Area
Related Articles
Sources
Information comes from the official sources below (checked October 19, 2026). Hours and prices change, so please check before you go.
