Hachijojima: The Japanese Hawaii Just an Hour from Tokyo

Looking for an unforgettable summer escape without leaving Tokyo? Just 287 kilometers south of the city lies Hachijojima, a subtropical island often nicknamed “the Japanese Hawaii.” With crystal-clear waters, volcanic peaks, abandoned hotel ruins and a rich island culture, this lesser-known gem is ideal for families, couples and solo adventurers alike. Our recent three-day trip left us refreshed and already planning our return.

Easy Access from the City

Hachijojima feels like a world apart from Tokyo, but it’s surprisingly accessible. We flew directly from Haneda Airport via ANA, arriving in just 55 minutes. Alternatively, overnight ferries from Takeshiba Pier provide a scenic ocean route for those who prefer to travel by sea. Once on the island, getting around is simple, with rental cars, EV taxis and electric bikes available near the airport and ferry.

First Impressions: Lush Nature and Local Warmth

The moment we arrived, we were struck by the clean air, vibrant greenery and relaxed pace of life. Hachijojima’s residents are famously welcoming, and the island breeze helped make the summer heat comfortable. From the start, the atmosphere encouraged us to slow down and embrace the simplicity of island living.

Culinary Adventure: Ashitaba, Ashitaba Tea and Jersey Milk Gelato

Hachijojima offers a uniquely local culinary experience. One standout is ashitaba, a nutritious island herb with a slightly bitter flavor, often enjoyed as crispy tempura.

Ashitaba Tea is a traditional Japanese herbal tea made from the leaves of the ashitaba plant, a perennial herb native to Hachijojima and the Izu Islands.

For dessert, we stopped by Fureai Farm and its charming Hachijojima Jersey Cafe, where rich Jersey milk is transformed into silky-smooth gelato. It was a hit with the whole family—refreshing and indulgent, the perfect treat after a sun-soaked afternoon exploring the island.

Volcano Views and Forest Treks

Nature lovers will be captivated by Mount Hachijo-Fuji, the island’s iconic dormant volcano. While we didn’t hike to the summit, we drove to a viewpoint that offered breathtaking panoramas of both Hachijojima and nearby uninhabited Hachijokojima.

For more leisurely walks, trails such as Noboryo and Uramigataki take you through subtropical forests and past waterfalls, making them perfect for families or those seeking less strenuous routes.

A Place of Exile: Hachijojima’s Role in Edo-Era History

Hachijojima also holds a lesser-known but fascinating place in Japanese history. During the Edo period, the island was used as a place of exile for criminals, political dissidents and disgraced samurai. Isolated by treacherous currents and rugged terrain, it functioned as a natural prison. Yet many of those exiled brought skills, craftsmanship and stories that left a lasting cultural imprint on the island.

Today, remnants of this era can be found in local legends, archaeological sites and historical texts, including those referenced by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and various cultural archives.

Island Life: Beaches and Waterfalls

In between hikes and historic explorations, we cooled off at Sokodo Beach, known for its calm surf and excellent snorkeling. For the more adventurous, scuba diving tours are available through local operators such as Diving Shop Arabesque.

Uramigataki Waterfall was another highlight, especially for kids, where visitors can walk behind the cascading water curtain.

Festival Vibes: Summer Celebration at Town Hall

We were lucky to be on the island during the annual Hachijojima Summer Festival, held each year on July 19 at the Town Hall. Locals in colorful yukata danced to taiko drums and island folk songs, while food stalls served everything from grilled squid to refreshing kakigori (shaved ice).

The evening fireworks lit up the sky above palm trees and swaying lanterns, a magical moment that brought the entire community together and made us feel genuinely welcome.

Where to Eat

• Breakfast: Start your day at Coffee House LL, a cozy café offering Japanese-style breakfast plates.
  
• Lunch: Try Seaside Kitchen Wa for hamburgers with special Hachijo sauce, or Pizza Paradiso to try pizzas with local ingredients.
  
• Dinner: We recommend these local gems:
  – Daikichimaru – Shiitake mushroom tempura, sashimi, etc.
  – Uoh-hachi – local ingredients from Hachijojima

Where to Stay

Hachijojima offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different tastes and budgets. Here are three standout choices:

• Mori no Ie: Nestled in the lush forest, this charming family-run guesthouse offers a rustic yet comfortable retreat surrounded by nature. Perfect for travelers looking to disconnect and enjoy the peaceful side of the island.

• Hachijo View Hotel: One of the island’s most established hotels, Hachijo View, offers panoramic ocean views, traditional Japanese-style rooms and an on-site restaurant. A reliable choice for both families and couples looking for comfort and convenience.

• Lava Sauna & Villa: A luxurious option for wellness seekers, this private villa combines modern design with a volcanic sauna experience. Ideal for those who want to unwind in style after a day of hiking or diving.

Family-Friendly Fun

Traveling with a young child, we found Hachijojima exceptionally kid-friendly. Safe beaches and hands-on attractions such as Fureai Farm and stunning sunsets at dusk made every day an adventure.

Why You Should Visit

While it doesn’t boast the resort flashiness of Okinawa or Hawaii, Hachijojima offers something even more valuable: authenticity. You can climb a volcano in the morning, snorkel with tropical fish in the afternoon and soak in an onsen as the stars rise. Best of all, it’s still technically part of Tokyo.

Travel Tips for Hachijojima

Getting There:
– Flight: ANA from Haneda (~55 min)
– Ferry: Overnight from Takeshiba Pier (~10 hrs)

Getting Around: Rent a car, e-bike or use local taxis

Best Times to Visit:
– Summer: Festivals, snorkeling
– Spring: Wildflowers
– Autumn: Hiking and cool breezes

• Festival Date: July 19 annually (Hachijojima Town Hall)
• Language: English is limited, but locals are helpful
• What to Bring: Sunscreen, bug spray and a spirit of adventure

Ready for your island escape? Start planning your trip to Hachijojima today!