12 Must-see Islands in Japan

Must-see islands in Japan, such as Yakushima and Okinawa, are full of wild adventures and beautiful sights. If you’re visiting this fascinating country, why not book a trip to these lesser-visited paradises?

Japan received over 25 million tourists in 2023. Cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka became crowded with tourists. Yet, many people ignored the majority of the country’s best destinations.

With over 14,000 islands to choose from, why not turn your Japanese travel experience into an island-hopping adventure? I lived in Japan for four years, and I fell in love with Japan’s smaller islands.

To curate this list, we considered islands renowned for their unique natural beauty, cultural significance, and accessibility. We reviewed traveler reviews, expert recommendations, and insights from my personal experiences exploring Japan for 4 years.

These 12 isles were selected for their ability to provide one-of-a-kind adventures, pristine beaches, lush forests, or fascinating local traditions. Below are 12 must-visit islands in Japan for the ultimate bucket-list adventure.

Swipe and Vote: Choose Your Favorite

If you could teleport to one of Japan’s stunning islands right now, where are we dropping you? 🌴🌊

This is a swiper quiz, swipe right for yes, swipe left for no.

Must-see Islands in Japan Okinawa Shurijo Castle Par

Okinawa 1/5

Sado 2/5

Must-see Islands in Japan Yakushima Mt.Miyanoura

Yakushima 3/5

Must-see Islands in Japan Ishigaki Kabira Bay

Ishigaki 4/5

Niijima 5/5

Results

Okinawa

1 2

Sado

1 2

Yakushima

1 2

Ishigaki

2 1

Niijima

2 1

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Yakushima

Yakushima’s lush landscape inspired the Studio Ghibli classic Princes Mononoke, one of Japan’s most famous animes of all time. When you visit the island, you’ll feel like you entered a fantasy world.

To get to Yakushima, take a ferry from Kagoshima or Ibusuki. You’ll travel south past the Kaimon-dake volcano and arrive in the small town of Anbo. You’ll see palm trees, turquoise waters, and towering mountains covered in thick forests.

Drive around the island to find cascading waterfalls, temples, and hot springs. Drive up the mountain to the Yakusugi trailhead. This massive web of hiking trails takes you deep into the mountains, with waterfalls, rivers, and awe-inspiring views.

Travel Tips

Bring Rain Gear: Pack a raincoat and waterproof bag to stay dry in Yakushima’s frequent rain.
Get an IDP: Rent a car with an International Driving Permit to explore the island easily.
Use Offline Maps: Download maps for areas with limited cell service to navigate trails and attractions.

Niijima

Niijima is a short ferry ride south of Tokyo. Although this little island is part of Tokyo Prefecture, it’s a world away from the urban culture you’d expect.

You’ll enter a sub-tropical paradise with beautiful beaches, palm trees, and forests. Walk along the wild Habushiura Coast and drive to the Fujimi Pass Observation Deck.

Learn about the island’s history at the Niijima-mura Museum before visiting Jusansha Shrine. Take a ferry to the offshore island of Shikine-jima. Explore the beautiful villages and find hidden beaches that feel more like the Caribbean than Japan.

Niijima Travel Tips

Check Ferry Times: Confirm ferry schedules in advance; high-speed ferries take 2.5–3.5 hours from Tokyo.
Carry Cash: Many local shops and eateries prefer cash, so bring Japanese yen.
Visit Glass Art Center: Explore Niijima’s glassworks and sculptures, or try making your own glass art.

Okinawa

Okinawa is a laid-back island full of big-city fun, historical places, and natural wonders. In the capital city of Naha, learn about the Ryukyu culture and history at Shurijō Castle. Then, visit the popular Okinawa World historical theme park.

Rent a car and head north to explore the island. See the Nakagusuku Castle Ruins and drive to the Cape Zanpa Lighthouse. Visit the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium to see tropical fish. Then, drive to Kouri Island for world-class snorkeling.

Enjoy the island’s special hospitality at a coastal resort or local hotel. Try the local cuisine, such as goya champuru, and the local spirit, awamori.

Travel Tips

Rent a Car: Public transport is limited, so renting a car is the best way to explore beaches and remote areas.
Join Festivals: Attend events like the Eisa Festival for a unique music and dance experience.
Explore Kokusai Dori: Visit Naha’s lively street for local food, souvenirs, and Okinawan specialties like goya champuru.

Sado Island

Sado Island is one of the most scenic islands in Japan, and most tourists ignore it. It’s located in the wild Sea of Japan, just off the coast of Honshu.

Take a ferry from Niigata and rent a car to explore the island. You’ll find hidden temples, historical gold mines, and rural landscapes waiting to be photographed.

Drive to the Nagate Cape to enjoy the ocean views and wildlife. Drive north to explore the gold mines of Aikawa. Then, bask in the sunflowers of the Ogawa sunflower garden. Stay a few days to hike the island’s secluded trails for the ultimate adventure.

Travel Tips

Get a Discover Sado Pass: This pass includes round-trip ferry tickets and vouchers for attractions like the Sado Gold Mine, which can save you money on activities.
Book a Car Rental: Public transport is limited; reserve a car early, especially in peak seasons.
Visit in Spring or Fall: Avoid crowds and enjoy pleasant weather during the shoulder seasons.

Kozushima

Kozushima is another must-see island in Tokyo Prefecture. Take a short ferry from the town of Shimoda and arrive in Kozushima Village. Start off in the ancient Monoiminamikoto Shrine and walk through the charming village.

The island is a hiker’s paradise; there’s nothing like exploring the central mountains. You’ll hike past ancient mountain shrines, lakes, and forests. Enjoy the many viewpoints along the way where you can see other islands.

After hiking, try local craft beer at Hyuga Brewery. Then, stop into a local restaurant to enjoy some of the best seafood and Japanese comfort food you can imagine.

Travel Tips

Check Ferry Schedules: Ferries vary by season; book early for the 4-hour high-speed or 12-hour standard option.
Rent Snorkeling Gear: Local dive shops near Akasaki Promenade offer rentals.
Carry Cash: Many shops and eateries prefer yen, so bring cash.

Etajima

Etajima is a short drive from Hiroshima and one of Japan’s most romantic destinations. When you arrive, let the island’s laid-back vibes take over. Stay at a spa and hot spring resort and relax in style.

Rent bikes and explore the coastal trails. Stop into a small restaurant to try the island’s famous seafood and noodle dishes.

Drive around the island to visit quaint temples such as Tokushoji. Stop along the road to take pictures of rice fields and viewpoints along the coast. For the best views of the islands, pine trees, and classic scenery, drive to the Uneyama Observation Deck.

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Travel Tips

Plan Your Route: You can reach Etajima via ferry from Hiroshima/Kure or drive over Hayase Ohashi Bridge. Check schedules beforehand.
Rent Bikes: Explore the island on bikes from ferry terminal rentals.
Enjoy Local Seafood: Savor fresh seafood dishes at local restaurants.

Rebun Island

Rebun Island in Hokkaido Prefecture is as remote and beautiful as any island on earth. Visit in the summer to avoid the cold weather and experience a lush landscape with endless beauty.

Get off the ferry in Rebun and hike to the Momoiwa Observatory. Continue past the Motoji Lighthouse and Momoiwa Observatory. Enjoy the views of Hokkaido before heading back to town.

The next day, travel north to the Rebun Falls. Then, make your way to the island’s northern tip to catch Cape Sukoton, one of Japan’s most remote and post-card-worthy destinations.

Travel Tips

Visit in Flower Season: June–August is ideal for seeing alpine blooms like the Rebun lady’s slipper orchid.
Plan Bus Rides: Use public buses connecting major sites, but check schedules as they run every 2–5 hours. A one-day pass saves money.
Pack for Hiking: Trails like Momoiwa Observatory require sturdy shoes and weather-ready clothing for changing conditions.

Tanegashima

Tanegashima is a small, rural island located just an hour south of Kagoshima by ferry. This beautiful island is home to the Japanese Space Program’s rocket site and space program.

Start at the Tanegashima Space Centre’s Space Museum. You’ll learn about the Japanese space program and see functioning rockets and scientific exhibits.

Then, drive along the Pacific Coast and explore the many beaches and parks. Head to the Otatsu-Metatsu Rocks at sunset to see ocean shrines on the rocks. Spend the evening in Nishinoomote to enjoy local cuisine and the local spirit shochu.

Travel Tips

Check Rocket Launches: Verify Tanegashima Space Center’s launch schedule; public access may be restricted on those days.
Book Space Tours: Reserve guided bus tours early for an inside look at Japan’s space facilities and launch complex.
Taste Local Cuisine: Enjoy fresh seafood and island specialties to experience Tanegashima’s culinary culture.

Amami Oshima

Amami Oshima is a sub-tropical island in Kagoshima Prefecture. This rural destination is filled with hot springs, waterfalls, and colorful coral reefs. It has world-famous diving sites and some of the best surf in Japan.

Start in town and visit the Amami City Museum to learn about its rich history. Then, take a tour of historical monuments such as the Takachiho Shrine.

Rent a car and drive to the hidden beaches surrounding the island. Try snorkeling at Ohama Seaside Park and see colorful tropical fish. Then, drive to the Amami Wildlife Conservation Center to come face to face with the island’s wildlife.

Travel Tips

Rent a Car: Explore remote beaches and attractions like the Amami Wildlife Conservation Center with the convenience of a rental car.
Taste Local Food: Savor specialties like keihan (chicken rice) and peanut tempura at local eateries.
Join Cultural Workshops: Try dyeing or crafting activities to experience Amami’s traditions and create souvenirs.

Fukue Island

Fukue Island is a small island off the west coast of Kyushu. Take a ferry from Nagasaki to the village of Goto. Here, you’ll experience a laid-back and traditional Japanese town full of charming streets and historical places.

Check out the Ishida Castle Ruins and Gosha Shrine. Drive along the coast and see the Daihoji Temple. Continue to Osezaki Lighthouse before seeing Shirotori Shrine and Tachiya Church Ruins.

Driving along the island, you’ll see some of Japan’s oldest churches. Fukue was one of the first places the Portuguese landed in Japan. With these early European visitors came Christianity, bread, and the famous dish, tempura.

Travel Tips

Rent an Electric Car: Renting an electric car is a convenient and eco-friendly way to explore the island, with charging stations available.
Visit Historical Churches: Visit churches like Dozaki and Imochiura to learn about the island’s Christian heritage and architecture.
Try Local Seafood: Enjoy fresh seafood, including seasonal fish and tempura, at local restaurants like Konne Konne.

Tsushima

Tsushima is located off the southern coast of Korea and the northern coast of Kyushu. For centuries, it has been a place of heated battles and territorial wars that helped shape Japanese history.

Rent a car and drive around the island to explore its neverending natural wonders and historic sights. Drive to the Kaneda Fortress Ruins and learn about the island’s history. Then, see the striking Watatsumi Shrine on the coast.

Drive north to the Tsushima Wildlife Conservation Center to see the island’s rare wildlife. Then, drive to the northern tip of the island to the observation deck. Here, you can see the Korean peninsula and take in some of Japan’s best coastal scenery.

Travel Tips

Taste Local Seafood: Tsushima’s seafood is fresh and unique. At nearby restaurants, try local dishes such as sashimi and grilled fish.
Book Ferry in Advance: Ferries to Tsushima from Nagasaki or Fukuoka can fill up during peak season, so plan ahead.
Rent a Car: A car is essential to exploring Tsushima’s remote sites, such as Kaneda Fortress and wildlife centers.

Ishigaki

Ishigaki is a tropical wonderland filled with adventures and natural wonders. When you arrive, explore the island’s natural sights. Visit the Ishigaki Stalactite Cave and Ishigaki waterfall.

The next day, spend the entire day exploring the impressive Iriomote Ishigaki National Park. You’ll see rare plantlife and hike through tropical jungles. Hike to Mariyudu Falls and other waterfalls scattered through the forest.

After hiking, take a boat trip to the surrounding reefs. Ishigaki is one of the world’s best scuba diving and snorkeling destinations. You’ll see everything from sea turtles to whale sharks swimming along its magnetic coral reefs.

Travel Tips

Book Early: Reserve accommodations ahead of time, especially during peak seasons.
Check Weather: Monitor forecasts to plan outdoor activities like snorkeling or hiking.
Carry Cash: Have Japanese yen for local shops and restaurants that may not accept cards.