Forming part of the Izu archipelago, Niijima is a group of volcanic islands that include inhabited Niijima and Shikinejima and deserted Jinai-tō. Administered as a village, they boast sandy surf beaches and towering white cliffs and have a rich history of glass blowing.
Surfers can test their skills at Habushiura Beach, which features surf shops for renting boards or taking lessons. For swimming, head to the calm waters and sheltered rock pools of Mamashita Beach. At its northern end is an onsen facility where you can bathe in hot spring pools or be buried in volcanic sand.
At the Niijima Glass Art Center, you can see glass artwork created on the island or try your hand at glass blowing. Also not to miss is the Niijima Village Museum, which occupies a white, pyramidal building. In addition to showcasing the history and culture of the islands, it houses exhibits detailing Niijima’s top sightseeing destinations.
Getting there
Niijima is around 2.5 hours by jet boat from Tokyo’s Takeshiba Sanbashi Pier or daily flights operate from Chōfu Airport to Niijima Airport. Rental bicycles are the most convenient way of getting around the islands, which are connected by local ferries.