Getting around the Izu Islands


2018.09.12

NAVITIME TRAVEL EDITOR

The Izu islands have been a popular summer getaway for overworked Tokyoites for the past century. Since the islands are technically within the Tokyo border, city dwellers don’t need to venture far for a tropical vacation. The popular islands are quite easy to access from the city. There are also many transportation options around and between the islands, depending on price and convenience.

  • 01

    High Speed Ferry

    The Tokai Kisen runs high speed ferries used for accessing the islands both from Tokyo and within the islands. The ferry runs from Tokyo to Kozushima, with stops at each preceding island. The timetable depends on the season and month so be sure to double check before purchasing a ticket. Most of the time, ferries running to Kozushima are in the morning and return ferries are in the afternoon. The ferries traveling past Oshima are more limited. Carry on baggage is free but large items, such as surfboards, carry an additional 1,000 yen charge.
    Check the details:Tokai Kisen Website(https://www.tokaikisen.co.jp/en/baggage/jetship/)

    The high speed ferry is the quickest and most convenient way to travel between islands. It can take 10-40 minutes between each island and two hours from Tokyo.

  • 02

    Overnight Ferry

    For those looking to save some extra cash, the overnight ferry is a more economical option. There are two passenger ships, the Salvia-Maru and Tachibana-Maru. Each ship provides different classes of comfort, from the ritzy first class with private rooms and beds, to the affordable second class, where passengers set up sleeping bags on the floor. The ships depart from Tokyo in the late evening, normally around 10 PM and arrive on the first island of Oshima in the early morning, around 6 AM. The overnight ferry is recommended for passengers with large items, such as surfboards or bicycles. There is no additional charge for extra baggage.
    Check the details:Tokai Kisen Website(https://www.tokaikisen.co.jp/en/baggage/largeship/)

  • 03

    Niijima Flights

    Access to Niijima can be even quicker via air. The Chofu Airport runs four flights everyday to Niijima. The flight takes about forty minutes and costs about 14,000 yen one way. The Niijima airport is located centrally, near the town center and the famous Habushiura beach. However, the flights are delicate and can be cancelled due to inclement weather.

    Niijima Airport
    place
    Tokyo
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  • 04

    Car Rental in Niijima

    Whether arriving via ferry or plane, it is necessary to rent a car for the best experience in Niijima. For surfers looking to access the popular beach spot Secret, a four wheel drive is necessary. Car rentals range from 7,000-13,00 yen a day, depending on the season and car type available. There is a variety of car rental shops near the ferry port and town center. While Niijima might be small, a car will make it much easier and more convenient to access.

  • 05

    Tourist Bus in Kozushima

    Kozushima is the farthest island out of the main sightseeing islands of Izu. Kozushima offers a tourist bus that runs a few times a day from the main port. There are two buses, one that runs to the campgrounds near Tako Bay and another one that runs to Akasaki Promenade, a popular hot spring and snorkeling area. The bus is a convenient option for the unlicensed looking to travel within certain confines of the island.

    Kozushima Island
    place
    Tokyo Kozushima Kozushimamura
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  • 06

    Rental Cycle and Scooters in Kozushima

    For those looking to venture off the beaten tourist path, rental bicycles and motor scooters are recommended. Kozushima is too small for a car and too large to walk on foot. Two wheels are the best way to get around and find secluded beaches and hiking trails. The popular Mt. Tenjo is not accessible via tourist bus, visitors must use their own transportation to get there. There are rental shops near the port. For those looking to rent a scooter, an international driver’s permit is necessary.

  • 07

    Rental Cycle and Scooters in Oshima

    Road cycling is a popular activity in Oshima. Passionate bikers can bring their own bicycles on the overnight ferry and spend the day circling the island. There are several cycling routes bicyclists can follow. For those wanting to explore more of the island, a rental scooter is best for traversing the hilly streets. Both rental bicycles and scooters are available at Motomachi port.

    Izu Oshima
    place
    Tokyo Oshimamachi
    phone
    0499222177
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