Last Updated: Sep 3, 2023

Hangout on Hatsushima

The “Unofficial” First Izu Island

Ever since I first visited the timeworn hot spring town of Atami, I’ve wanted to head on out to Hatsushima. Located just off of the coast, this small island is the first of a long chain that collectively is known as the Izu Islands. Though officially not apart of the archipelago (perhaps due to the rest of the islands falling under the jurisdiction of Tokyo), Hatsushima is still one of many land masses that extend deep out into the Pacific Ocean. Like with all of its cousins, Hatsushima and the rest of the Izu Islands are the result of violent volcanic eruptions eons ago before the dawn of history.

Now, why one would want to visit Hatsushima in the first place is a question worth answering. You see, unlike Atami back on the mainland, there aren’t that many cultural attractions and whatnot on the island. Instead, Hatsushima is a place that one would go to if they are looking to escape the city, relax in nature and enjoy some really, really good seafood. That said though, there are indeed a lot of fun activities to enjoy on Hatsushima like Hatsushima Adventure SARUTOBI (but more on that in a bit).

At the end of the day, I can only really recommend Hatsushima to those who are already planning on going to the hot spring resort town of…