Discover an unknown Japan, from island to island! ??
It’s easy to forget that Japan is much more than just four large islands: it is a true archipelago of more than 14,000 islands. This incredible collection of islands offers unsuspected treasures, both in landscapes and in cultures.
From the volcanic peaks of Rishiri and Rebun in northern Hokkaido, where you can see Russia, to the tropical shores of Yonaguni in the far south, from where Taiwan is visible, each island unveils a unique side of Japan. Between hidden heritage, preserved traditions, and breathtaking panoramas, join us as we discover the lesser-known jewels that make up Japan’s fascinating archipelago.
AN OVERVIEW OF JAPAN’S MAIN ISLANDS
Let’s start with a tour of the four main islands that make up most of Japan’s territory: Honshu, the beating heart of Japan, where bustling metropolises meet ancient traditions; Hokkaido, a natural paradise of vast plains and snowy mountains; Kyushu, a volcanic island with hot springs and historic cities; and Shikoku, land of pilgrimage and bucolic landscapes.
But Japan is not limited to these large islands. Click on the map above to discover the iconic spots and fascinating islands we’ll explore in this newsletter!
While this selection might pale in comparison to the 14,000 landmasses that make up the archipelago, each of these destinations offers an original view of Japan, stretching from the north to the south of the country, giving you a perfect opportunity to add a unique getaway to your itinerary, accessible from all major cities. Want to discover even more heavenly islands and wild escapes? See below:
TOKYO’S ISLAND
Just a few hours from Tokyo, the Izu Archipelago is a wild and paradisiacal escape. Stretching over 600 kilometers south of Tokyo Bay, this group of over a hundred islands—most of them uninhabited—reveals an unexpected side of Japan, with preserved nature and spectacular panoramas. Some islands are easily reached by ferry, while others, more remote, require a helicopter ride.
Izu-Oshima, the largest and closest island to the capital, is a must-visit. Formed by a volcanic eruption more than 15,000 years ago, it is accessible in just 30 minutes by plane from Chofu Airport (Tokyo) or in two hours by high-speed ferry from Tokyo.
Mount Mihara, its emblematic volcano, invites hikers to explore its slopes covered in lava flows and its summit, which offers a stunning view of Mount Fuji.
In winter, camellias, the island’s symbolic flower, color the landscape from January to April.
About 300 kilometers from Tokyo, Hachijo-jima majestically rises from the ocean. Accessible in 50 minutes by plane from Haneda airport or by an overnight ferry, this volcanic island charms visitors with its lush landscapes dominated by Mount Hachijo-Fuji, the highest point of the Izu Archipelago.
Its crystal-clear waters are teeming with marine life, perfect for diving and snorkeling: you’ll see many species of tropical fish, and even sea turtles!
Don’t miss its ocean-facing onsen, perfect for relaxation.
Finally, for adventurers seeking an off-the-grid getaway, Aogashima is a rare gem. Accessible only from Hachijo-jima by a 20-minute helicopter ride or a 2.5-hour ferry, this volcanic island offers a unique spectacle: a crater within which another volcano rises.
Here, everything feels in tune with nature: volcanic saunas, breathtaking starry skies, and preserved local craftsmanship, like aochu, an artisanal shochu made from sweet potatoes.
HEADING NORTH: RISHIRI AND REBUN
Off the coast of Wakkanai, north of Hokkaido Island, the islands of Rishiri and Rebun unveil stunning landscapes, that offer gorgeous travel opportunities in every season.
Easily accessible by ferry from Wakkanai in under two hours or by plane from Sapporo, these two gems are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. In winter, Rishiri and Rebun are covered in a blanket of snow, offering an authentic skiing experience far from the crowds.
But it’s in spring and summer that their radiant beauty truly shines. Rebun, known as the “floating flower island”, is adorned with hundreds of floral species from May to September, transforming its landscapes into a stunning mix of colors.
On Rishiri Island, a road and a cycling path allow visitors to tour the island, passing secluded coves, rugged cliffs, and verdant forests, all against the backdrop of majestic Mount Rishiri-Fuji, the island’s true symbol. A short 45-minute ferry ride leads to Rebun, where Cape Sukoton marks one of Japan’s northernmost points. On clear days, you can even glimpse the coast of Russia in the distance.
SADO AND OKI, FACING THE SEA OF JAPAN
Along Japan’s western coast, Sado Island, off the coast of Niigata, and the Oki Islands, near Matsue, invite travelers to discover an unknown side of Japan, blending untouched nature with fascinating historical heritage.
Facing the coast of the city of Niigata, Sado offers an off-the-beaten-path escape.
Once a place of exile for fallen political figures, the island’s fate was transformed by the discovery of gold deposits. Today, it attracts visitors with its unique heritage, shaped by this Japanese-style gold rush, and its vibrant local culture. The gold mines, now listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites, are a must-visit.
Traditional festivals, renowned rice, and exceptional sake are among the island’s treasures.
With varied landscapes for hiking, water activities, and wildlife observation, Sado is a must-see destination.
The island is accessible in 2.5 hours by ferry from Niigata.
The Oki Islands, off the peculiar Tottori Sand Dunes, reveal another side of Japan. This archipelago, reachable in two hours by ferry from Matsue or in 50 minutes by plane from Osaka, consists of four islands, also ancient lands of exile.
领英推荐
Dogo Island, the largest island, is the main entry point for visitors, and the main attraction, with its stunning tunnels sculpted in the rock, its sanctuaries hidden in mountains and its majestic waterfalls. The other islands, easily accessible by ferry, also offer spectactular landscapes. In Nishinoshima, steep rocky cliffs and green pastures where wild horses and cows roam free remind of Ireland, where as the red cliffs of Nakanoshima create a gorgeous contrast with the turquoise blue of the sea. Read our article on the islands of Japan to know more!
THE ISLANDS OF THE SETO INLAND SEA
Surrounded by the islands of Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu, the Seto Inland Sea is home to numerous treasures among the many islands scattered within it. North of the sea, near Okayama, a group of islands has transformed into a haven for contemporary art lovers. To the south, near Hiroshima, a route traversing a national park full of islands has become a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts. Shall we explore?
In the northern part of the Seto Inland Sea, a series of islands has become a paradise for contemporary art enthusiasts. Naoshima, known as "Art Island", is the most famous, featuring innovative museums designed by architect Tadao Ando and outdoor installations, including the iconic yellow pumpkin by Yayoi Kusama.
Nearby, Teshima offers a more intimate experience, with immersive artworks seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape. Shodoshima, known for its olive groves, also hosts artworks as part of the Setouchi Triennale (the next edition will take place in 2025) and offers a unique balance between art and Mediterranean-like nature.
Inujima, the smallest of the art islands yet perhaps the most fascinating, is a remarkable example of industrial transformation. Its former copper smelter has been turned into the Seirensho Art Museum, where nature has reclaimed the ruins, creating an artwork in itself that now hosts contemporary outdoor installations.
These islands, accessible by ferry from Uno or Takamatsu, are perfect stops for those wishing to discover a unique side of Japan where art and nature merge. You can also explore them in our self-guided tour “Art & Architecture”!
Connecting Onomichi, on Honshu's main island, to Imabari, on Shikoku, the Shimanami Kaido is an exceptional route that crosses the Seto Inland Sea via six islands. Spanning 70 kilometers, it is a must for cycling enthusiasts, with dedicated bike paths offering spectacular views of the shimmering waters and suspension bridges.
Each island along the route has its own charm: tranquil beaches, small port towns, hidden shrines, and local specialties to sample. History buffs will also enjoy the ruins of ancient forts and temples nestled in the greenery along the way.
The Shimanami Kaido is an adventure that can be completed in a day for the sporty, but taking your time to explore each island is a far richer experience. Discover this natural gem with our three cycling routes available: 17km, 35km et 40km.
Not far from the Shimanami Kaido, the port town of Mitarai, on the island of Osaki Shimojima, is worth a stop. This former bustling port from the Edo period has preserved its charm, with streets lined by traditional wooden houses and historical remnants. Mitarai is a living testament to a bygone maritime Japan, where time seems to have stood still.
THE CHRISTIAN HERITAGE OF THE GOTO ISLANDS
Off the island of Kyushu, the Goto archipelago, consisting of 140 islands, is a true hidden treasure. Accessible by plane from Fukuoka in 40 minutes or by ferry from Nagasaki in 1.5 hours, this archipelago offers a diverse range of landscapes, from secluded beaches to verdant mountains and picturesque villages.
One of its standout features is its historical and religious heritage, with Christian churches listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
These churches, a testament to the history of hidden Christianity in Japan, depicted in Martin Scorsese's masterpiece Silence (2016), are a must-see for visitors. Oe Church, one of the oldest, stands out with its architecture blending Western and Japanese influences. The Fukue Church and Dozaki Church (illustrated here) are also noteworthy sites. Twelve churches in Goto are UNESCO World Heritage Sites among the fifty or so churches built.
But the Goto Archipelago isn’t limited to its religious heritage. It also captivates with its sublime nature and paradisiacal beaches.
The islands are renowned for hiking, with trails winding through lush hills offering breathtaking views of the sea.
Not far from Goto, the abandoned island of Gunkanjima, also known as Hashima, deserves a special mention. Once a mining colony, this island resembles a warship stranded at sea. Abandoned after the mines closed, it was, in the 1960s, one of the most densely populated places in the world. Today, it’s a fascinating site to explore, accessible by a 30-minute boat ride from Nagasaki, with guided tours lasting 2 to 3 hours on average.
HEADING SOUTH: FROM YAKUSHIMA TO OKINAWA
To the south of Kyushu lies some of Japan's most famous islands, such as the wild Yakushima and the paradisiacal Okinawa Archipelago, often called “Japan’s Hawaii”. Among these hundreds of islands, a different Japan awaits every explorer—whether seeking a nature-filled getaway, a relaxing beach holiday, or a cultural dive into Japan’s heritage.
Yakushima, off the coast of Kagoshima, is a true natural gem. Its dense, lush, and mystical forest is what makes the island so famous. This exceptional natural setting inspired Hayao Miyazaki for the backdrop of his masterpiece Princess Mononoke. Amid the woods, you'll find impressive waterfalls and abundant wildlife, including native monkeys and deer, to accompany you on this incredible journey. Discover the island with our guide Maxime, who will unveil all its secrets in a unique excursion!
But Yakushima is not limited to its magnificent tropical forest. It’s also a popular seaside destination among Japanese travelers, who come to enjoy the island’s beaches and explore its rivers by kayak amid the mountains.
The Amami Archipelago, located between Kyushu and Okinawa, is a perfect destination for lovers of pristine nature and wild beaches, being geographically closer than Okinawa’s archipelago.
Okinoerabujima stands out with its spectacular limestone caves, a true underground network where rare archaeological artifacts—traces of Japan’s earliest human history—have been discovered. These unique formations offer a fascinating experience combining geological exploration and immersion in the ancient history of the archipelago.
Heading to Okinawa, the main island of the namesake archipelago, offers a harmonious mix of paradisiacal beaches and unique historical heritage.
Its beaches, such as Manza and Maeda, are perfect for relaxation or water sports. But Okinawa is much more than a postcard-perfect setting. Its Shuri Castle, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, bears witness to the legacy of the Ryukyu Kingdom, while traditional villages like Bise tell the local history through their streets lined with Fukugi trees. Embark on a cultural getaway to Okinawa with our excursion!
West of Okinawa, Iriomote is a wild paradise often compared to a tropical jungle. Its national park is ideal for adventurers: hiking through dense forests, canoeing along rivers, and observing local wildlife, such as the Iriomote cat. Its beaches are among the most idyllic in the archipelago.
Even farther west, Yonaguni marks the edge of Japan. Known for its mysterious underwater formations, nicknamed the "ruins of Yonaguni", this island is also an ideal spot for observing wild horses or admiring Taiwan on clear days, as it’s the westernmost point of Japan.
This newsletter inspired you? Save it for your next trip, and follow us on our social media for even more daily tips!