Oshima Island stands as the largest of Tokyo's Izu Islands, located approximately 120 kilometers south of central Tokyo in the Philippine Sea. The island spans 91 square kilometers and is home to roughly 7,500 residents, making it both accessible and authentically inhabited rather than purely touristic.
The island's defining feature is Mount Mihara, an active stratovolcano rising 758 meters above sea level. The volcano has erupted numerous times throughout recorded history, with the most significant modern eruption occurring in 1986, which temporarily evacuated the entire island population. This volcanic activity has shaped both the island's dramatic black sand beaches and its cultural identity, with locals maintaining a respectful awareness of living alongside an active volcano.
Mount Mihara offers hiking trails that wind through lunar-like volcanic landscapes, with the main crater accessible via a well-maintained path taking approximately 90 minutes to reach from the trailhead. The Ura-sabaku Desert, a striking expanse of black volcanic sand on the mountain's slopes, provides an otherworldly hiking experience unique in Japan. The island's volcanic geology has also created natural hot springs, with several public and hotel-based onsen facilities utilizing geothermally heated waters.
The coastal areas feature distinctive black sand beaches formed from volcanic material, with Habu Port serving as the main arrival point for visitors. The island supports a traditional fishing culture, and the local bekko (turtle shell) craftsmanship represents a historical industry, though now primarily focused on cultured materials due to conservation efforts. The Tsubaki (camellia) flowers bloom extensively across the island from January through March, giving Oshima its nickname as Camellia Island.
Visitors can reach Oshima via high-speed jet ferry from Takeshiba Terminal in Tokyo, with the journey taking approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. Overnight large ferries also operate, taking around 6 hours. Additionally, flights from Chofu Airport reach the island in just 25 minutes. The island can be explored by rental car, bicycle, or local bus service, though a vehicle is recommended for comprehensive exploration. Most facilities and accommodations are concentrated around Motomachi, the main town near Habu Port.
