Ogasawara Islands

The Ogasawara Islands, also known as the Bonin Islands, are a remote subtropical archipelago in the northwestern Pacific administered by Japan. The islands are globally important for endemic terrestrial species, intact subtropical forests and diverse marine ecosystems.

The archipelago includes inhabited islands such as Chichijima and Hahajima and many smaller uninhabited islets that support seabird colonies and endemic plants and animals. The islands are recognised for their high levels of endemism and for marine habitats that attract migratory cetaceans and rich coral communities.

Human settlement and strategic use date from the 19th century; today the islands are managed for conservation and limited tourism, with strict controls on access to sensitive areas. The Ogasawara Islands were inscribed on the World Heritage List in recognition of their unique island biota and relatively undisturbed ecosystems.

Geographically the Ogasawara Islands lie in the Pacific Ocean roughly 1,000 km south of Tokyo; passenger access is primarily by a long-distance ferry service from the Japanese main islands.

• Distance and access: The islands are administered as part of Tokyo Metropolis but lie roughly 1,000 km south of Tokyo; ship voyages to the islands typically take about 24 hours.
• Biosecurity and access: Landing and access to some smaller islands are restricted to protect endemic species and fragile habitats; visitor numbers and activities are regulated.

What to See #

• Chichijima: Chichijima - the principal inhabited island with the main port and settlement that functions as the logistical and administrative centre.
• Hahajima: Hahajima - an inhabited island with steep forested ridges and important endemic flora and fauna.
• Mukojima and other islets: Mukojima and other uninhabited islets - smaller islands and reefs that contribute to the archipelago's high level of endemism and marine habitats.