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Ogasawara Islands (UNESCO) Take a trip to the Galapagos Islands of Asia

Take a 25-hour ferry cruise 1,000 kilometers south of Japan's main island to the natural paradise of the Ogasawara Islands

Consisting of 30 islands covering approximately 8,000 hectares, the Ogasawara Islands are home to over 190 endangered avian species such as the Bonin flying fox, over 400 native plant species, and a crystal-clear ocean packed with marine life. Visit these islands to get a first-hand look into evolutionary processes that have taken place in these remote ecosystems.


  • Seeing sperm whales and humpbacks on a guided whale watching tour
  • Swimming with dolphins at Futami Port in Chichijima
  • Taking a guided eco-tour of the surrounding forest, where you'll encounter rare plant and animal species

Ogasawara—the Galapagos of Asia

Due to the remote evolutionary processes that have unfolded over millennia, the Ogasawara Islands are known as the Galapagos of Asia. Consider taking a trek through the forests with a guide, who will show you the many rare plant and animal species that have developed independently from other regions.

Being inscribed on the World Heritage list means being recognized as a property of great importance on earth. At the time of selection, the World Heritage Committee praised the diversity of the islands' rare fauna and flora.

Watch whales and swim with dolphins

In addition to the rare species that inhabit the islands, the surrounding waters are full of marine life. From Futami Port in Chichijima , a guide will take you whale watching, where you will search for the giant sperm and humpback whales. Listen for the songs of the whales through an underwater microphone. You can also get active in the ocean by swimming with dolphins, scuba diving, and kayaking. Beginners are welcome.

Gaze at the night sky

No less remarkable is the magnificent view of the night sky from the islands. With the majority of the Ogasawara Islands uninhabited, there is no artificial light to distract from seeing the numerous constellations of the Milky Way.

How to Get There

From the Takeshiba Passenger Ship Terminal in Tokyo, take the 25-hour cruise on the Ogasawara-maru Liner to Futami Port on Chichijima Island . The ocean ferry has a gross tonnage of 6,700 tons with hotel-like cabins, a snack bar on the deck where you can enjoy tea while viewing the Pacific Ocean, and a restaurant featuring dishes made with specialty products of Ogasawara. The ferry is designed with the comfort of its passengers in mind.


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