Bonin Honeyeater, Ogasawara Islands, Japan

Japan – Island Adventure

  • TAILOR-MADE HOLIDAY IDEA

Duration

8 Days

Prices Start from

$4,380pp(ex. flights)

A true adventure to Japan, exploring the island archipelago of Ogasawara, hidden in the Pacific Ocean.

This holiday to Japan offers real adventure involving a 25 hour boat journey to reach your destination. Little visited due to their remote location, the Ogasawara Archipelago is an isolated chain of 30 tropical, volcanic islands. Designated a World Natural Heritage area they are home to some diverse and unique flora and fauna as well as stunning mountain and coastal landscapes. Perfect for intrepid travellers with a passion for marine and island life.

Key Highlights of this Itinerary

Clifftop view of beach with people and colourful kayaks on. 1

Kayaking

Sea kayak to hidden coves and beaches.

Small green bird sat on bright red hibiscus flower with green backdrop. 2

Trekking

Trek through lush forests spotting birdlife en route.

Green turtle on a coral reef, Kerama islands, Okinawa, Japan 3

Diving

Dive the waters around the islands alongside schools of dogtooth tuna, migratory fish, mantas and turtles.

View over rugged green headland towards the ocean and additional island in distance. 4

Stargazing

Spend the nights stargazing with mesmeric star-studded skies.

Explore our suggested itinerary

  • Days 1 - 2

    Tokyo

  • Day 3

    Tokyo - Ogasawara Islands

    Travel overnight by boat to Ogasawara Islands

  • Days 4 - 6

    Ogasawara Islands

  • Day 7

    Ogasawara Islands - Tokyo

    Return to Tokyo by overnight boat

  • Day 8

    Tokyo

    Arrive Tokyo

Days 1 - 2

Tokyo

Streets at night, Tokyo, Japan

Spend two days in Tokyo with time to experience the contrasts of the city, from ancient temples to futuristic skyscrapers.

Day 3

Tokyo - Ogasawara Islands

Depart Tokyo for your 25 hour journey by ferry to the Ogasawara Archipelago, staying in an ensuite cabin.

Days 4 - 6

Ogasawara Islands

Clifftop view of beach with people and colourful kayaks on.

Spend three days exploring some of these remote islands enjoying a variety of activities. Explore by sea kayak, go fishing or head underwater to dive or snorkel. Above water the lush interiors are easily explored on foot and are rich in birdlife, flora and fauna. With little light pollution the night skies are incredible.

Day 7

Ogasawara Islands - Tokyo

Return to Tokyo by overnight ferry.

Day 8

Tokyo

Arrive into Tokyo for your onward journey.

Our travel experts can tailor this itinerary to suit you.

More Details

Underwater shot of pod of dolphins swimming.
Dolphin

Archipelago Marine Life

These remote islands are a haven for wildlife including whales, dolphins and turtles. Both humpback and sperm whales frequent the waters at a certain times of the year, the former between February and April and the latter from July to September. The small uninhabited island of Minamijima, located just one kilometre south of Chichijima is home to many native creatures and is an important breeding ground for green turtle. During your stay it is possible to join a variety of ecotours including whale watching, diving, snorkelling and turtle watching.

Chichijima Island, Ogasawara Islands, Japan
Chichijima Island, Ogasawara archipelago

Getting There

The journey to the Ogasawara Island archipelago is not to be undertaken lightly. The islands are located over 1,000 kilometres south of Tokyo and involve a 25-hour journey by ferry across the Pacific Ocean to reach them. Departing from Tokyo you will travel overnight staying in an ensuite cabin. Boats from Tokyo to the island of Chichijima, one of only two inhabited islands within the archipelago, operate once a week throughout the year. It is also possible to stay longer, spending time on the other island of Hahajimamaru offering an even more remote experience.

 

 

Close up of two fluffy green birds with white rimmed eyes snuggled together on branch.
Japanese white eye

Island Activities

There are various activities to enjoy during your stay on the islands, many of which involve the beautiful waters of the South Pacific. Explore by sea kayak, go fishing or head underwater to dive or snorkel. Above water the islands have lush interiors with a wealth of birdlife and unique flora and fauna which are easily explored on foot. Being so remote and far from any other land the night skies are spectacular and star gazing tours can also be arranged.

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A note on price

Prices will vary depending on the time of year you are travelling. There is a limited choice of accommodation on the islands so this itinerary includes the best available. An ensuite cabin is included on board the overnight ferry.

Prices do not include international flights. Please ask one of our Travel Experts for an accurate quote. Flights purchased through Steppes Travel departing from the UK are ATOL protected.

This Itinerary
Low Season
From $4,380 Per person
High Season
From $5,192 Per person

When to travel

Japan in January

The weather is generally cool, dry and sunny in many parts of the country. In the north, there is heavy snowfall, making for excellent skiing conditions.

Japan in February

Ski season is in full swing in the north. Winter continues to bring some of the coolest but driest conditions to the rest of the country.

Japan in March

The start of the cherry blossom in southern Japan, as the weather warms. A popular time to visit Japan, especially towards the end of the month.

Japan in April

Perhaps the busiest month, as the cherry blossom spreads northwards across the country. A stunning time, but expect to plan accommodation and excursions in advance.

Japan in May

The cherry blossom reaches the far north of the country around Sapporo at this time, and temperatures are generally warm. It is generally dry in most parts, with vegetation vibrant and lush. It is worth avoiding Golden Week, a national holiday during the first week of May.

Japan in June

Many parts become hot and humid, with the rainy season occurring in Okinawa. A consequence of the rain is that the countryside and most gardens are at their best.

Japan in July

It can get very hot and humid in many parts of the country at this time, making it the perfect time to escape to the mountains. In particular, this time of year has the best conditions for the hike up Mount Fuji.

Japan in August

There are many festivals at this time and locals are on holiday, making it a busy time of year for travel. It is a great time to explore the Sapporo area, with cooler and less humid conditions.

Japan in September

September brings a quieter time for travel, with most locals back at work. The temperatures start to cool off a little, but the humidity generally remains.

Japan in October

The start of autumn for the majority of Japan, showcasing a wonderful array of autumn colours across the countryside. The weather is still pleasantly warm, with less rain.

Japan in November

Across the country, this is the best month to see the beautiful autumn colours. There are fewer visitors, and the temperatures remain mild, especially in the south.

Japan in December

The first couple of weeks of December are some of the quietest times to travel, and you can enjoy the natural thermal hot springs with snow on the ground.

Holiday Inspiration

Our experts have created and curated these tailor-made holiday ideas to get you started. Take the time to search through them and find something that is the spark for your unique adventure.

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