Ogasawara Islands: A Sea Voyage to a Remote Paradise

The Ogasawara Islands, located about 1000km south of Tokyo, stand apart from Okinawa and the Izu Islands as a World Natural Heritage site with untouched nature. This paradise, known as the "Galapagos of the Orient," cannot be reached by plane. A sea voyage, taking about 24 hours to cross the ocean, is the true essence of the Ogasawara experience. Leaving daily life behind, the extraordinary journey across the vast ocean signals the start of a special trip.

The Charm of a Sea Voyage

Boarding the "Ogasawara-maru" departing from Takeshiba Pier in Tokyo marks the very beginning of your journey. During the approximately 24-hour sea voyage, you can gaze at the ever-changing expressions of the sea or enjoy time spent on board, experiencing a leisurely pace rarely found in daily life. There are also periods when mobile phone signals are unavailable, making it perfect for a digital detox. Upon arrival at Chichijima, the islanders will warmly welcome you.

Encounters with Dolphins and Whales

One of the biggest reasons to visit the Ogasawara Islands is the chance to encounter wild dolphins and whales. Throughout the year, you can observe bottlenose and spinner dolphins swimming in pods, and dolphin swimming, where you swim alongside them, is also a popular activity. Humpback whales visit for breeding from winter to spring, and there's a chance to encounter sperm whales in the summer. Snorkeling and diving in the highly transparent waters will also be a wonderful experience to feel the rich ecosystem of this place firsthand.

出典/Source: https://www.japan-guide.com/