Introduction

Nijima is one of the most beautiful Islands in Japan. If you are in Tokyo and searching for a less crowded place, close to nature then maybe Nijima will be one of the best places to visit. Beautiful beach with clean and crystal clear water, outdoor free onsen, if you want then you can enjoy outdoor camping as well. This is my first time in Nijima, for me, it’s easy to route and get full refreshment. Most people who are engaged in Japanese companies usually come to this place especially in golden week and in their summer vacation. And 3 days are enough to explore this island.

Nijima is part of Izu island, only 160 km far from the capital of Japan. It has a couple thousand population, staying in a total area of 23.87 square kilometers. Local people believe that sperm whales and humpback whales can be seen around this island.

Access to Nijima

Doing Google and visiting a couple of websites I found, that there are 3 ways to visit Nijima from Tokyo. For ferry reservation(Official): Tokaikisen Official Reservation Website

• By large ferry from Tokyo (takeshiba port, a short walk from Hamamatsucho Station)
• By jet ferry from Tokyo (same location as above )
• By plane from Chofu Airport in Tokyo

According to my budget and work schedule, a large ferry was the best option. If you have a day job then also you can easily manage time, a large ferry departs between 9:30 – 10:30 pm. And you can also sleep in a deck which was a plus point for me. Inside the ferry, I found cup ramen, bread and snacks, and other soft drinks vending machines including beer. The restaurant was also there but at the time it was closed. I ate onigiri which I had brought from combine on the way and took a ramen from a vending machine. I was too tired, the whole day I was at work, eating onigiri and ramen as dinner I went to sleep.

Things I did on Nijima Island

The next day around 9:30 am I reached Nijima. From there, I have to search bicycle shop to rent until my stay in Nijima. I have done complete research on this location and made a note so that I should not come to the same area again and again. So at first, I rent a cycle. And you do not have to worry about the cycle although I was in peak season, golden week. I was able to rent and still, some are stuck. Explore Nijima cycle is one of the best transport mediums. Lands are quite plain and even beginners can easily pedal.

Taking the cycle I headed towards the camping zone. It is near to Habushiura Beach. I registered my name, address, and period of stay then I took a map of the island which was free of cost, and set up a tent. All facilities were available toilets, street light, shower, and cooking place but electricity for personal use was not there I saw a couple of people charging their devices at the toilet outlet. So if you are planning to come here then do not forget to bring your backup charger.

After setting up the tent I put all the unnecessary stuff inside the tent and wore a lightweight dress. Although Japan is known to be a safe country, you should be aware of your valuable things. It is best to carry your expensive gear like a camera, wallet along with you.

Nijima-mura Museum

Nijima-mura Museum is a place where you can know the history of Nijima. How it has been forming, how people used to survive early days, their fishing, boat-making skills, and so on. It took me more than an hour from start to finish, and it was worth it.

Habushiura beach

Habushiura Beach is near from camping ground. This beach is popular for surfing, white sand, and a view of the crystal clear sea from the top of the white house. If you love surfing, this beach is the best spot. You have to walk 10 to 15 minutes right side direction from the white building because locals and surfer pros believe, that in that particular area wind is strong which creates good waves for surfing. I rent a surfboard for a day. Actually, I am a beginner, learning surfing in my free time.

Fujimitoge observatory

The next morning, I went to the Fujimitoge observatory because I am a hiking and trekking-loving person. If you also love to trek and hike then you may like my trek blog Mt.fuji, 7 day trek to Annapurna base camp and Dhaulagiri. To be on top of Fujimitoge observatory it took me more than 2 hours where I enjoyed scenic view of Nijima.  

Mamashita Beach and Onsen

After hiking, I ate ramen in a local restaurant for lunch. Then head to  Mamashita Beach to relax this beach is a five-minute walk from the main port. It is quite popular for open free onsen where you can enjoy nice view of sunset. People also swim in this beach by taking snorkeling glass around the cliff area.

Another day I went to Shikinejima islands from Nijima it was only 20 minutes from the local boat and one day was enough to explore Shikinejima. I found many travelers who come to Nijima also make their day trip to Shikinejima.