Activities
There is so much to do on these islands!
FIND YOUR ACTIVITY
The islands offer plenty of activity options both on land and in the water. No matter if you prefer a calm and relaxing time or want to go diving, hiking or parasailing. There is so much to explore and discover for all nature lovers. With the extraordinary visibility in the ocean, diving & snorkeling or dolphin swimming are all very popular on the islands.
If you wish to book a tour for any of the activities or find inspiration, B-Ship, the main village tourist information is the best place to start!
DOLPHIN SWIMMING
Meeting the dolphins either from a boat or entering the water next to them with snorkeling gear is a a truly memorable experience.
Bottlenose Dolphins and Spinner Dolphins are staying around the island year around. Several tours offer dolphin swimming activities, some are also combined with a visit to Minamijima Island.
SNORKELING
There are countless species of fish and corals to see and green sea turtles often show up along the beaches if you decide to enter the water with a mask and snorkel.
Please make sure to always note where the safe area is as strong currents flow around the islands. Also keep a respectable distance to any animals you encounter in the water.
DIVING
Sporting some of the clearest waters in Japan, Bonin Islands is a very popular destination for divers. The possibilities to do wreck diving, see whales, dolphins and amazing corals are just a few of the highlights of diving in the Bonins.
There are also endemic fish species in the ocean that can sometimes be seen.
Several dive boats operate on the islands, but it is wise to plan ahead and secure bookings. Especially during peak summer season.
HIKING
Why not go for a hike to a mountaintop and see the beautiful views of green and blue? There are several trails that can be easily accessed. There are also some old WW2 war remnants that can be visited
WARNING: Always bring plenty of water and let someone know where you are going if you are alone. Some areas have no mobile coverage, and if you have an accident it can be difficult to get help. Please also make sure to clean your shoes and clothing by the trail heads, there are free tools and vinegar to spray your soles.
STAR GAZING
The night sky is worth a look.
Some constellations here are not visible from mainland Japan. The heavens are very beautiful and with limited light pollution you can often see the Milky way with your bare eyes.
There are a few spots, like Chuo-mountain observation platform or some of the beaches that are very good for star gazing. Please be careful where you step as many hermit crabs are active during the night.
KAYAK & SUP
Kayaking or Stand Up Paddling (SUP) is a great way to enjoy the beautiful water and the amazing island landscape. Several tours operate both day trips or shorter sessions at different beaches. It is also possible to do sunset sessions for a spectacular experience.
MORE ACTIVITIES ARE OF COURSE AVAILABLE
The activities above are only a small collection of possibilities when you visiti the Bonin Islands. Please be sure to visit B-Ship Tourist Information for seasonal tours and opportunities. We will add more content to this page going forward. Thank you!