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▶Climate
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Mikurajima is a small island with a circumference of 200km, located in the ocean about 16km south of central Tokyo.
The island is surrounded by a coastline that reaches up to 480 meters high, with the highest mountain on the island, Mt. Ooyaima, at its center. The island's unique shape is said to resemble an upside-down bowl.
No volcanic activity has been confirmed for over 5,000 years, and the area has maintained a stable natural environment, resulting in widespread virgin forests, abundant water resources, and a diverse range of wildlife.
It is especially known for being able to swim with dolphins. It is the only place in the Izu Islands that has an abundance of water that allows it to generate hydroelectric power, and mineral water is also extracted here.
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▶History and Culture
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The area is known for its boxwood, a material used to make high-quality shogi (Japanese chess) pieces, and in 2003 it established a "Boxwood Piece Appreciation Day" and has been holding events ever since.
At the annual Inane Shrine festival, which is an island festival, a portable shrine is carried around the village.
Also on the grounds is Sanbo Shrine, which enshrines three people who played an important role in the independence of Mikurashima during the Edo period.
In 1863, the American merchant ship Viking ran aground and islanders rescued nearly 500 crew members.
As a testament to this gratitude and friendship, monuments were erected on both Mikurashima and in the city of New Hampshire.
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▶Local communities
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There is only one settlement on the island, near the port, where public facilities and shops are located.
The population is approximately 300, and most residents live within a 10-minute walk of each other.
Most of the villagers know each other, and everyone, from children to the elderly, lives together in harmony.
The rice cake throwing ceremony held at the topping-out ceremony for a newly built house involves everyone in the village, and it has become a major event on the island.
Through this event, you can feel the warm bond between the islanders.
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▶Sightseeing & Activities
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There are some things to keep in mind when visiting Mikurajima.
Camping and biking are prohibited and accommodation is limited so reservations must be made early.
Also, due to ferry cancellations, day trips are not possible.
Because of the strong winds and rain, you will need a raincoat instead of an umbrella, and walking around in swimsuits or without a shirt is prohibited.
For more information, please visit the Mikurajima Tourist Information website.
▶Mikurajima Tourism Association
https://mikura-isle.com/
Mikurajima promotes ecotourism and has established a nature conservation area.
Additionally, swimming with dolphins and hiking trails are popular activities, and accommodations can become fully booked with tourists hoping to see the dolphins, especially between April and November.
This island is rich in nature and you can enjoy a variety of alpine plants and virgin forests.
▶Mt. Nagataki
Ecotourism is practiced on Mikurajima Island, and access to Mount Nagataki is only possible with a guide.
You can see a variety of dynamic landscapes, from Minegahara to the valley, the ocean and the Izu Islands.
▶Miyogaike Pond
This pond at the summit of Mt. Miyama was formed over 5,000 years ago when a volcano erupted and lava dammed the river.
The area is lush with boxwood trees, a natural monument designated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, and endemic species such as the Calanthe fragrans.
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▶Immigration Information
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Mikurajima is a circular island about 200 km south of central Tokyo, with an area of 20 square kilometers and surrounded by high cliffs.
The island's only port is heavily influenced by the open ocean, and ships may be canceled due to weather.
The population is just over 300 people, living together in a small village about a 10-minute walk away.
Almost all the villagers know each other. From children to the elderly, everyone lives a relaxed life with each other. There are only two shops and one agricultural and fishery cooperative store. There are almost no places to buy clothes or medicine.
▶ Wedding gift money
Resident registration in Mikurashima Village, marriage
XNUMX yen will be provided.
▶Birth gift money
XNUMX yen for each birth
