There’s a reason we recommend these 12 sightseeing spots unique to Chichijima!

Chichijima is an island located about 1,000 km south of central Tokyo. It is the second largest island in the Ogasawara Islands, with an area almost twice that of Chiyoda Ward. It has a population of about 2,000 and is the central island of the Ogasawara Islands, where a metropolitan high school and the Ogasawara Village Office are located.

In 2011, the Ogasawara Islands, including Chichijima, were registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We will introduce 12 recommended sightseeing spots on Chichijima, which is gaining more and more attention, and how to get there.

1. Nagasaki Observatory

Famous for its breathtaking views, Nagasaki Observatory on Chichijima is a popular spot to take in the surrounding islands, including Anijima, and the Anijima Seto, where currents flow like a river. The contrast between the crystal-clear blue sea and lush green land is stunning. This spot is also popular for snorkeling.

The observatory is easily accessible from the Omura area with a 4 km paved mountain road, a drive of about 10 minutes, allowing visitors to enjoy the magnificent view without a strenuous climb. Near the exit of the Nagasaki Tunnel, you can also see cliffs of “pillow lava,” reminding visitors of the island’s volcanic past.

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2. Omura Beach

Omura Beach, located in the main Omura district of Chichijima, is a popular beach known for its beautiful shoreline and crystal-clear water. Its close proximity to the main street makes it easily accessible, with nearby accommodations and restaurants providing convenient amenities for tourists. Facilities such as rest areas, showers, and changing rooms are also available.

Aside from swimming, visitors can enjoy marine sports like windsurfing and snorkeling. Around Golden Week, tourists may even witness sea turtles coming to shore to lay eggs. If you’re lucky enough to spot one, please observe quietly and respectfully.

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3. Ogasawara Marine Center

For tourists eager to see and interact with sea turtles, the Ogasawara Marine Center, affectionately known as “Kame Center,” is a must-visit. The center offers various experiences, including feeding and shell-cleaning for turtles, as well as the opportunity to touch real eggs during the “transplant” activity, allowing visitors to participate in sea turtle conservation. Additionally, at Seihyo Beach in front of the center, you can join a sea turtle release, but be sure to reserve in advance on the official website.

The layout of the Ogasawara Marine Center includes an exhibition area featuring green sea turtles and humpback whales, as well as an area for turtle care. This area is home to 250–300 young turtles, as well as green turtles of various ages, loggerhead turtles, hawksbill turtles, and freshwater turtles. The center also offers unique souvenirs, perfect for remembering your visit to Chichijima.

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4. Nakayama Pass Observatory

Nakayama Pass Observatory is a hidden gem with a breathtaking view of the emerald green sea. After crossing the Yatsuse Bridge—a rotary centered around a Bengal fig tree—and walking for about 15 minutes, you’ll reach this scenic spot.

Directly below to the right, you can see Kominato Beach, with the white sands of Kopepe Beach beyond. The view is reminiscent of a tropical resort! To the left, you can see Buta Beach and the islands of Minamijima, with a walking path that extends to John Beach. With few visitors, this is an ideal spot for those who want to enjoy the serene beauty of the sea in peace.

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5. Minamijima Island

Minamijima is an uninhabited island southwest of Chichijima. It is characterized by its submerged karst topography, which has been designated a national natural monument, and Ogiike Pond in particular is a breathtakingly beautiful otherworldly sight.

There is no pier on Minamijima, so you land on the rocks from the bow of the boat. You have to clamber up the cliffs, so you can enjoy a sense of survival right from the moment you land. Landing on Minamijima is sure to be the highlight of your visit to Chichijima! Please follow the established rules and enjoy the great outdoors and scenic views.

As of June 2023, there will no longer be any restrictions on tourist entry to the island or the number of people allowed to land per day, but it is mandatory to be accompanied by a Tokyo Metropolitan Government certified guide.
*Up to 15 people per guide

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6. Mikazukiyama Weather Station Observatory

The Mikazukiyama Weather Station Observatory is a popular spot on the western side of Chichijima, known for its stunning sunset views over the horizon. From February to April, this is also a prime location for whale watching, where you may spot humpback whales displaying blows, tail slaps, and breaches from this vantage point.

The sunsets here are also a must-see, creating a magical atmosphere, and if you’re lucky, you may even catch a spectacular view of the whales alongside the setting sun. To access the observatory, take the bus to the “Mikazukiyama Entrance” stop and walk about 1 km. Along the way, you can also explore historic war sites like the Second Battery Ruins.

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7. John Beach

John Beach, with its stunning white sands and Bonin Blue waters, is a hidden beach on the southwestern coast of Chichijima. Known for its beautiful offshore reefs and beach rock—sand hardened like planks—it’s also a nesting site for green sea turtles.

John Beach is considered a hidden beach because of its challenging access. Visitors can either hike for about two hours or arrive by sea. If hiking, it’s a two-hour journey from the Kominato Beach bus stop, involving some ups and downs. Since there are no vending machines or shops along the way or at the beach, be sure to bring water and food. The alternative route is by sea, using options like diving, sea kayaking, or boat transport.

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8. Jinny Beach

Located at the southwestern tip of Chichijima, Jinny Beach is the ultimate secluded beach, accessible only by sea. It’s not possible to reach it by car or on foot. In the past, it was reachable on foot from nearby John Beach, but there’s no longer a trail connecting the two. With few visitors and no tourist facilities, Jinny Beach offers a private beach-like experience.

The beach is ideal for diving and snorkeling due to its high visibility and abundance of fish and coral. For sea kayaking, it’s best to use the current to your advantage. If visiting by boat for swimming or sightseeing, be sure to bring a hat and water, as there is no shade. Since the currents are strong, it’s advised to avoid going too far out.

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9. War Site Tour

During World War II, the Ogasawara Islands became a battleground, with Iwo Jima known for the many Japanese soldiers who lost their lives there. Chichijima also saw the construction of the “Chichijima Fortress,” and remnants of the war such as underground bunkers, cannons, and batteries can still be found. Over 10 companies on Chichijima offer guided tours of these historic sites, making it accessible for anyone interested. Due to the dense jungle and protected areas requiring a guide, it’s recommended to join a tour to avoid getting lost.

The tour begins with a respectful visit to the Naval Cemetery to honor the spirits of the fallen. Exploring Chichijima’s war sites not only brings a deeper understanding of its tragic past but also offers a valuable opportunity to reflect on the importance of peace.

10. Night Tour

Chichijima, home to a large number of endemic flora and fauna, is not only great for marine activities and sightseeing during the day, but also has plenty to see at night! The night sky over Chichijima is like a planetarium. Dazzling stars twinkle, and when it gets dark, rare nocturnal creatures come to life.

The brightest of them all is the tiny luminous mushroom "Green Pepe" (Yakoutake), a must-see. You will be overwhelmed by the mystical sights.

Other species that inhabit the island include the Ogasawara flying fox, a protected species. Another attraction is being able to see animals at night. Around 20 companies offer night tours, so why not add one to your nighttime sightseeing plans for Chichijima?

11. Ogamiyama Park

Ogamiyama Park is a vast Tokyo Metropolitan Park consisting of the hilly Ogamiyama district and the Omura district facing Futami Port.

The Ogamiyama district is on high ground and has several observation decks, a panoramic observation deck, Ogamiyama Shrine, and an adventure play area. From observation spots such as the mountaintop observation deck, you can get a panoramic view of the famous sites of Chichijima, including Futami Port, the cityscape, Mt. Yagyuzan, Mt. Asahi, Mt. Mikazuki, and Anijima. If you stroll along the promenade, you can see plants unique to Ogasawara, and at night you can also see the Ogasawara flying fox, a natural monument.

In the Omura area, you can easily enjoy sightseeing, with Omura Beach, where you can enjoy swimming, an outdoor stage, a festival square, and more. The palm-thatched gazebo known as the "GeGeGe House" is a place where tourists can take a break, so be sure to stop by.

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12. Cruises & Tours

Chichijima offers a wide variety of “Sightseeing Cruises” and “Guided Tours.” These include unique experiences like sunset cruises that offer a different view than from observatories, as well as dolphin swim and sperm whale watching tours, packed with excitement.

For a full experience of Chichijima, using cruise and guided tours is highly recommended. Tours allow access to otherwise unreachable locations and make sightseeing efficient. Options include cruises to Minamijima, whale-watching tours combined with snorkeling, and more, so you can tailor your choice to suit your interests. Embrace Chichijima’s unique nature, make unforgettable memories, and enjoy everything the island has to offer!

Access to Chichijima Island in the Ogasawara Islands

The distance between Tokyo and Chichijima is about 1000km, more than three times the distance between Tokyo and Hachijojima. To access Chichijima, the cargo-passenger liner "Ogasawara-Maru" operates once a week.

As it is a 24-hour voyage from the Takeshiba Passenger Ship Terminal in Tokyo Port, the ship is equipped with fin stabilizers to prevent rolling. The ship is equipped with a restaurant, a shop, an observation lounge, a shower room, and a kids' room. There are a variety of accommodations, from first-class rooms (suites) where you can relax like in a hotel, to reasonable second-class Japanese-style rooms (economy).

- First-class rooms (suites)
- Special first-class rooms (deluxe)
- First-class rooms (standard)
- Special second-class berths (premium beds)
- Second-class berths (economy beds)
- Second-class Japanese-style rooms (economy)

Chichijima is a notable tourist island also registered as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. Known as the “Galapagos of the Orient” due to its unique species, the island has never been connected to the mainland. Its high rate of returning visitors is a testament to Chichijima’s appeal. Dive into the Bonin Blue seas to encounter dolphins, whales, and sea turtles, and enjoy the island’s breathtaking natural beauty.