Researched guide · Checked on Oct 19, 2026
Niijima is the Izu Islands’ surfing paradise: long sandy beaches facing every direction, white cliffs, and good waves most of the year. Add island glass art, mysterious Moyai stone carvings and a free cliff-top hot spring that looks like a Roman ruin, all a few hours from Tokyo.
Quick answer
Getting there: High-speed jet ferry from Takeshiba (2.5 to 3.5 hours) or a flight from Chofu Airport (35 minutes)
Time needed: 2 to 3 days
Best time: Summer for beaches; waves most of the year for surfers
Good for: Surfing, beaches, cycling, hot springs, art
Plan Your Visit to Niijima Island
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Overview
| Getting there | High-speed jet ferry from Takeshiba (2.5 to 3.5 hours) or a flight from Chofu Airport (35 minutes) |
| Time needed | 2 to 3 days |
| Best time | Summer for beaches; waves most of the year for surfers |
| Good for | Surfing, beaches, cycling, hot springs, art |
Best Things to Do
Habushiura Beach
The longest beach on the island, along most of the east coast and one of the best for surfing. Surf shops here and elsewhere rent boards and give lessons.
Mamashita Beach
Niijima’s beaches are not ideal for beginner swimmers, but the north end of Mamashita Beach has shallow spots sheltered by large rocks.
Moyai carvings
Statues carved from a special local stone are scattered across the island. They look a little like Easter Island’s statues; “moyai” means “to come together” in the local dialect. Rent a bicycle and see how many you can spot.
Niijima Glass Art Center and Glass Museum
Try painting a Niijima glass cup, and see over 90 works by glass artists in the museum next door. The Niijima Village Museum near Maehama Beach covers local history.
Yunohama open-air bath
A free open-air bath on a cliff above the port, with stone columns and a decorative roof like a Roman relic.
Mamashita Onsen
A well-kept hot-spring facility with indoor and outdoor baths, a sauna, sand baths (extra charge) and a rest area.
Food & Drink
- Places to eat are limited; check with your inn about meals.
Shopping
- Niijima glass from the Glass Art Center.
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 Niijima Island
Getting There
- By boat: the high-speed jet ferry from Takeshiba Pier takes 2.5 to 3.5 hours; large passenger ships leave at night and take about 8 to 9 hours.
- By plane: 35 minutes from Chofu Airport.
- Shikinejima is 15 minutes away by ferry, so you can combine the two islands.
New to Tokyo trains? See Trains in Tokyo and How to use Suica.
Suggested Itinerary
- Day 1Arrive, rent a bicycle
- Bicycle
- AfternoonHabushiura Beach and Moyai statues
- Day 2Surf lesson, then the Glass Art Center
- EveningYunohama open-air bath
- Ferry, 15 minutes
- Day 3Day trip to Shikinejima
Travel Tips
- Rent a bicycle to get around.
- Beginners should take a surf lesson rather than paddling out alone.
- 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
Is Niijima good for surfing?
Yes. It is the most popular surfing island in the Izu chain, with waves most of the year and beaches facing different directions.
Is the Yunohama hot spring free?
Yes, the Yunohama open-air bath is free to use.
Can I visit Shikinejima from Niijima?
Yes, a ferry connects the two islands in about 15 minutes.
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.
