We know that Japan is made up of four main islands, Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku. There is a lifetime of travel between the four islands, from the snowy slopes of Hokkaido to the volcanoes of Kyushu. However, did you know that the total number of islands that comprise the Japanese archipelago total to more than 14,000 islands? With so many islands comprising Japan, there are so many magical places that are worth traveling to and discovering even more of the beauty and charm that Japan has to offer. So let’s take a look at some of the other islands of Japan!
Tsushima
Tsushima is an island that is located off the northern coast of Nagasaki Prefecture, not too far from the Korean city of Busan. It is the largest island of all of Nagasaki Prefecture, and a majority of the island is covered in forests. The original island used to be a single landmass, but now has two canals through it, creating three islands, plus the many smaller islands in the area. Tsushima is the 8th largest island of Japan, and its natural beauty is one of the main attractions of the area. Plane or ferry are the two options to travel to the island, and a rental car or taxi are some of the recommended ways to traverse the area.
Views of Aso Bay are quite popular from various lookout positions where you can admire the many smaller islands and peninsulas. Due to Tsushima’s location, it has played a large part in the history of Japan’s international relations with Korea, China, and more. Remnants of former castles, docks, temples and shrines dot the landscape, making exploration of the island an adventure. The Tsushima Museum has plenty of information about the history of the island, and kayaking in the water is a great way to see the stunning rock formations. Don’t forget about the unique food of Tsushima either, the island has its own variation of soba noodles, hot pot, and even honey!
Taishu Soba, © Nagasaki Prefecture Tourism Association
The Goto Islands
Another group of islands that are within Nagasaki Prefecture, the Goto Islands, are off of Nagasaki’s west coast. Similar to Tsushima, you can reach the biggest island of Fukue by plane or ferry. The islands are famous for beaches, nature, food, and more. They were also a haven for Christians during the 16th century, and where there are churches still standing from after the lifting of the ban on Christianity in the 19th century. Part of the ‘Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region’ World Heritage Site, tours of some of the churches can be booked in advance.
In terms of other natural areas, Takahama Beach is one of the best spots to take time to relax and take in all the sights and sounds of the Goto Islands. A special type of udon is produced on the Goto Islands, in addition to them being known for kankoro mochi (made with sweet potato), and the Kibinago, a type of herring. Don’t forget to stop by Osezaki Lighthouse for great views of the water, or even Onidake, a local dormant volcano.
Rishiri and Rebun Islands
We next head up north to one of the main islands of Hokkaido. Situated just off the northern point of the island lies Rishiri and Rebun Islands. Part of the Rishiri Rebun Sarobetsu National Park, these islands have mountains, wonderful views, and great food. Once again, they are accessible by either ferry or plane, and between the two islands is another short ferry ride. Mt. Rishiri can be seen from mainland Hokkaido alongside its west coast, and the climbing season in summertime allows you to trek up the paths to its summit, however the trails are geared more so for experienced climbers.
Snowshoeing and backcountry skiing are also some of the activities you can do in the winter. Bike hire is also a great way to explore the other roads of Rishiri Island when the snow has melted, letting you see the many other sights available. Rebun Island has a wide variety of summer flowers, and views from Momoiwa Observatory are not to be missed! Don’t forget to have some fresh sea urchin when sitting down for a meal, and give yourself a few days when exploring to get the full experience.
The Oki Islands
From Hokkaido we now move back down south to the prefecture of Shimane. Off the northern coast of the prefecture you’ll find the Oki Islands, of which the biggest island is known as Dogo Island, alongside Nishinoshima, Nakanoshima, and Chiburijima. Also a part of Daisen-Oki National Park, the Oki Islands are similar to the previous islands where ferry and plane are the top ways to access them. Hiring a car or bicycle is also recommended to get around the islands more efficiently. Matengai Cliff on Nishinoshima Island is a spectacular sight more than 200 metres above the water.
On Dogo Island you can find one of the top 100 waterfalls of Japan, Dangyo Falls. Characterised by a 40 metre drop, the falls are right next to Dangyo Shrine, making a perfect combination for a spot of reflection and relaxation. Make sure not to miss Candle Island either, a column of rock that sticks out of the sea and perfectly perches a setting sun. Many rock formations around all the islands are stunning results of natural processes, unique features that are worth the trip over. You can also visit Oki Shrine, built to commemorate the death of former Emperor Go-Toba, who ruled in the 12th century.
Hachijojima
Tokyo is well known for its high skyscrapers, technology, trains, and being one of the largest cities in the world. However, did you know that there are some islands located off the southern coast of Tokyo? Known as the Izu Islands, they are a tropical group of beautiful islands, with a plethora of flora and fauna, hot springs and more. Similar to Sado Island off the coast of Niigata Prefecture, Hachijojima was formerly a colony for exiles during the Edo Period.
It is less than an hour flight to reach Hachijojima, however you can also take an overnight ferry to access the island. One of the main attractions of the island is Hachijo-Fuji, at just over 850 metres tall, it affords wonderful views of the Pacific Ocean. Outside of Hachijojima, there are many more islands to explore within the Izu Islands, there are even more further to the south known as the Ogasawara Islands, offering even more hidden gems and places to explore.
We’ve only covered a couple of the additional islands of Japan, and there are so many more left to see. But with more than 14000 islands, there are plenty of options to see some of the coolest destinations in the country. If you are keen to see some of Japan outside of the main islands, make sure to give these islands a try!
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