Shikine-jimaShikine-jima at a Glance#
Shikine-jima is a small volcanic island in the Izu archipelago of Japan, administered as part of the Izu Islands. It is known for a quiet, rural island character and coastal scenery.
Beaches, coastal walking routes and natural hot spring facilities are the main attractions on the island; visitors go to swim, snorkel in clear coastal waters and relax in onsen. The island has a compact settlement pattern with fishing hamlets and short coastal roads rather than extensive urban development.
The island has been inhabited for centuries with a local economy traditionally based on fishing; more recently tourism and day visitors from nearby islands and the mainland have become important. Infrastructure and services remain limited compared with larger Japanese islands.
Geographically it lies in the Philippine Sea as part of the Izu Islands chain and is administratively part of Tokyo Metropolis. Access is by boat from other islands or the mainland, and the island environment is maritime with rocky shores and small sandy coves.
- Administrative status: Part of the Izu Islands, it is administered together with nearby islands and has a small permanent population focused on fishing and seasonal tourism.
Nearby Attractions to Shikine-jima#
Best Time to Visit Shikine-jima#
Best visited in late spring or early autumn for pleasant weather and fewer tourists; summer offers beaches but is busiest.
Weather & Climate near Shikine-jima#
Temperate climate with hot summers (peaking in August) and cool winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from 7°C to 28°C. Heavy rainfall (2343 mm/year), wettest in June.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Acceptable | 8° - 13° | 11° | 104 mm | partly cloudy | 69% | 5.2 m/s | 0.4 low | 10.0h |
| February | Acceptable | 7° - 13° | 8° | 128 mm | partly cloudy | 71% | 4.7 m/s | 0.6 moderate | 10.8h |
| March | Acceptable | 9° - 15° | 12° | 197 mm | partly cloudy | 71% | 5.2 m/s | 0.9 moderate | 11.8h |
| April | Good | 12° - 18° | 15° | 200 mm | partly cloudy | 75% | 5.0 m/s | 1.2 high | 12.9h |
| May | Acceptable | 16° - 21° | 18° | 216 mm | overcast | 81% | 4.6 m/s | 1.5 high | 13.8h |
| June | Good | 19° - 24° | 21° | 294 mm | overcast | 88% | 4.5 m/s | 1.5 very high | 14.3h |
| July | Good | 22° - 27° | 25° | 190 mm | overcast | 90% | 4.2 m/s | 1.8 very high | 14.1h |
| August | Very Good | 24° - 28° | 26° | 210 mm | partly cloudy | 87% | 5.0 m/s | 1.8 very high | 13.3h |
| September | Very Good | 22° - 26° | 24° | 267 mm | partly cloudy | 82% | 4.8 m/s | 1.4 high | 12.3h |
| October | Good | 18° - 23° | 20° | 256 mm | partly cloudy | 76% | 4.3 m/s | 0.9 moderate | 11.2h |
| November | Good | 14° - 19° | 17° | 180 mm | partly cloudy | 72% | 4.6 m/s | 0.5 moderate | 10.2h |
| December | Good | 10° - 16° | 13° | 101 mm | partly cloudy | 70% | 4.6 m/s | 0.4 low | 9.7h |
How to Get to Shikine-jima#
Take the Tokai Kisen ferry from Takeshiba Passenger Terminal (Minato, Tokyo) to the Izu Islands - Shikine-jima is served by regular boat services (often via Niijima). Ferries arrive at the island’s main port; the pier is within easy walking distance of local guesthouses and beaches (typically a short walk from the landing).
Tips for Visiting Shikine-jima#
- Book ferry seats in advance and check Tokai Kisen schedules - Shikinejima is served from the Tokyo/Izu island ferry network and ferries can fill on summer weekends.
- Arrive early in the morning from the landing port to walk the coast before the day-tripper boats return; the island is compact so early hours give quieter beaches and viewpoints.
- Rent a bicycle or scooter at the port to reach quieter south-coast bays and local onsen that many day visitors miss, and carry enough cash since ATMs are limited.