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Mikurashima (Mikurashima Village, Tokyo) — Overview (History, Features, and Attractions)
Mikurajima is a small volcanic island located in the southern part of the Izu Islands, and is part of Mikurajima Village in Tokyo. With a population of just a few hundred people, most of the island is covered in evergreen broad-leaved forests and steep coastlines, and is characterized by its untouched natural environment. Particularly world-famous is the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin, which frequently gather in the bay and allow people to come into contact with them while swimming in their natural environment, allowing visitors to see them up close. Many people visit from all over the country to swim with the dolphins (dolphin swimming) and take observation tours, and the main attractions of the island are nature observation, trekking, and marine activities.
Highlights
- Dolphin watching/dolphin swimming: You can observe the dolphins that gather in the bay, and if conditions are right, you can enter the water with a guide and swim up close with them. There are strict rules in place to protect wildlife, so this tour is only available on approved tours.
- Coastal landscape and cliffs: The area is lined with dark basalt cliffs and intricate coves, offering a rugged seascape. There are many spots perfect for playing on the rocks and taking photos.
- Hiking and trekking: There are well-maintained walking trails and mountain paths through the virgin forest, where you can enjoy the island's nature and observe wild birds. There are also rugged trails for advanced hikers.
- Island life and local culture: You can experience local life through small villages, shrines, fishing culture, and island food (fresh fish and local island cuisine).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Main departure point: Central Tokyo (Takeshiba Passenger Ship Terminal). Takeshiba is within walking distance of Hamamatsucho Station on the JR and Tokyo Monorail lines (approximately a 10-15 minute walk).
- Sea: Access is via regular ferries operated by Tokai Kisen and other companies (direct ferries from Takeshiba or via Miyakejima). Boats are easily affected by weather and sea conditions, and may be canceled or have their itineraries changed, so it is essential to check the operation in advance.
- Air: Mikurajima does not have a scheduled airport, so it cannot be accessed by scheduled passenger aircraft (small flights and helicopter services from neighboring islands are limited and irregular, so are not common).
- Transportation within the island: The settlement is relatively compact, but there are only a limited number of accommodations, docks, and tourist sites, so we recommend that you bring as light a baggage as possible and wear comfortable walking shoes. There are almost no local buses on the island, so you will have to walk, use the shuttle service to and from accommodations, or rent a bicycle (the number of bicycles is limited).
- Reservations: Seats and accommodations on the ship have limited capacity, so please make reservations early, especially during summer vacation and long weekends.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day trip: In theory, there may be flights that allow day trips, but we do not recommend them as there is a high risk of delays due to cancellations or sea conditions.
- Recommended stay: 1-2 nights (minimum 1 night). As many activities, such as dolphin watching, depend on the ocean conditions, it is best to plan your stay with ample time.
- Recommended activities: Dolphin watching is half a day to a full day, island hiking is half a day to a full day. If you want to enjoy island life and the sea at your own pace, we recommend two nights or more.
Nearby spots
- Miyakejima (Miyake Village, Tokyo): A nearby island that is often connected to Mikurashima by sea. You can enjoy volcanic scenery and hot springs (depending on the season and conditions).
- Hachijojima (Hachijo Town, Tokyo): It is a large island that can be reached by traveling a little further, and is full of hot springs, swimming spots, and tourist facilities.
- Izu Islands (Niijima, Shikinejima, Kozushima, etc.): If you have time to spare during your stay, you can also plan a trip around multiple islands by ferry (please check the ferry schedule).
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Uncertainty of operations: Due to weather and sea conditions, boats may be canceled or continue to be canceled. Please plan your trip with an extra day in mind, and take into account the possibility that you may not be able to make the return trip.
- Observing the rules of the dolphin tour: To protect wild dolphins, there are strict guidelines for tours. Please join tours with licensed operators and be sure to follow the guide's instructions (keep your distance, do not chase, do not touch, etc.). Swimming with dolphins without permission is dangerous and often prohibited.
- Reservations and limited accommodation: Accommodation and dining options are limited, so make your reservation early. They tend to fill up during the summer and long weekends.
- Bring cashATMs on the island are limited or often unavailable, and some stores do not accept credit cards. Be sure to have some cash on hand.
- Garbage and Nature Conservation: Because resources are limited on the island, please follow local rules such as taking your trash home with you and separating it properly.
- Clothing and equipment: Due to the strong sea breeze and temperature difference, please bring a jacket, comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen. If you are going into the sea, you may need a wetsuit (as instructed by the tour company).
- How to interact with wildlife: Not only the dolphins but also the island's wild birds and plants are precious. Please observe quietly and refrain from collecting, feeding, or making noise.
Note: Please check the official websites of Mikurajima Village Office and Tokai Kisen in advance for information on schedules, tours, accommodations, and the latest warnings. Safety comes first, and please be mindful of respecting nature and wildlife.
