The characteristics of the Ogasawara islands are similar to the Galapagos. Due to the islands’ isolation, the ecological system of Ogasawara has evolved on its own. Therefore, 70% of the native plants and and 90% of the snails seen there are endemic.
There is an abundance of wildlife in Ogasawara, such as humpback whales, green turtles and bottle-nosed dolphins. You can find native finches in Hahajima island and endemic flying foxes in Chichijima island.
Activities that you can participate in on Ogasawara
Marine activities
Ogasawara is known as one of the top diving spots among Japanese divers. To preserve the precious coral, a buoy is set up on every diving point so even the beginners can enjoy the diving.
Price | ¥15,000 per person |
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Duration | 4 hours (2 tanks) |
Nature tour
This is a boat tour that visits a deserted island, where you can enjoy snorkeling in a coral reef and humpback whale watching ( in winter ). There is often the chance to go swimming with dolphins.
Price | ¥6,600 per person |
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Duration | 3.5 hours |
Trekking tours
On Hahajima island, there are several trekking routes. Most can be enjoyed independently except for Sekimon, where you are required to have a licensed trekking guide.
Mt. Chibusa trekking tour
This is a trekking tour to the peak of Mt. Chibusa (463m). During the tour, you can observe various endemic plants and birds of Ogasawara. Of course, from the mountain top, you’ll be treated to an amazing view of the Ogasawara islands.
Price | ¥6500 per person |
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Duration | 6 hours |
Minamizaki beach trekking tour
This is an easy trekking tour. You will walk through a subtropical jungle to reach the beautiful coral beach of Minamizaki and the stunning viewpoint of Kofuji.
Price | ¥6000 per person |
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Duration | 4.5 hours |
Sekimon trekking tour
Sekimon is a wilderness preservation area where very unique and rare endemic plants grow. To visit Sekimon, you must be lead by a licensed guide.
Price | ¥10,000 per person |
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Duration | 7 hours |