5 Spots to Visit in Hachijo-jima, 55 Minutes from Haneda Airport

1. Nishiyama (Hachijo-fuji)

Nishiyama is a composite volcano. This volcano also goes by the name "Hachijo-fuji" as it shares the same beautiful cone shape as Mt. Fuji with an altitude of about 854m and is considered as the highest among others at Izu Islands. It takes approximately an hour and 15 minutes to reach the summit, which has about a 500m hole serving as the mouth of the volcano where you can experience circling the area.

2. Noboryo-toge

One place you should definitely give a visit when in Hachijo-jima is Noboryo-toge, which provides you a spectacular view from its observation deck near the mountain top. This view earns it its position as one of the most popular spots at Hachijo-jima and is considered as one of the New One Hundred Views of Tokyo. Here you may enjoy a view of Mt. Nishi and the port, as well as that of the city proper. You may also look over the islands from beyond the sea on a clear day. The silhouette of Mt. Nishi as well as the city lights give off a romantic panorama during sunset.

3. Fureai Bokujo

This is a healing spot where you may witness how the pasture stretches out by the relaxing Mt. Nishi mountainside, where Japanese Black and Jersey Cattle roam free and eat grass. Furthermore, you may also have a panorama weaved together by the center of Hachijo-jima as well as that of Mt. Mihara, and the Hachijo-jima Airport, which will give you an exquisite feeling of freedom.

4. Hachijo Botanical Park

Hachijo Botanical Park takes advantage of the warm climate of Hachijo-jima and has a display of the variety of plants from within and outside of the country. Here you can find around 100 kinds of tropical and subtropical plants such as the hibiscus and bougainvillea flowers as well as wild birds.The pathways covered with red volcanic gravel gives a full of tropical mood. There are a lot of ways to enjoy this area, as you may come across a lot of things to visit such as the greenhouses and the visitor center, as well as athletic items.

5. Sokodo Beach Resort

This beach is the largest on Hachijo-jima, attracting a lot of visitors. The sand here is artificial black sand made from lava. This beach resort is popular not just for swimming, but also for diving, thanks to its extremely clear waters. You may also enjoy other activities such as snorkeling, where you may take in the view of the coral reefs and the schools of fish, and if you are lucky, you may also come across sea turtles. You may go diving here each year from April to October, but it would be a good idea to check with your travel company beforehand.

Hachijo-jima is so filled with nature that you wouldn\'t believe that it was in Tokyo. It might be a good idea to visit this detached island, where time flows slowly, after experiencing the city life in Tokyo.