The only way to reach the Ogasawara Islands is by ship — 24 hours one way. Normally, a minimum of 6 days is needed, making it a difficult destination for anyone who can’t take extended leave. However, the 2023 Golden Week calendar aligns well: taking just one weekday off (Tuesday, May 2) covers the round trip using only weekends and holidays. I put together a paper plan as part of my island-hopping.

Ogasawara Islands

About 1,000 km south of Tokyo in the Pacific Ocean. Roughly 2,400 people live on Chichijima and Hahajima; the rest are uninhabited islands. Registered as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 2011. Known as the “Galápagos of the Orient” for its abundance of endemic species. Many World War II sites also remain.

Access is exclusively by Ogasawara Kaiun’s “Ogasawara Maru” from Takeshiba Passenger Terminal. Usually one sailing per week, but extra sailings are added during Golden Week.

Why 2023 Golden Week

The 2023 calendar:

  • Apr 29 (Sat/holiday) – May 1 (Mon): 3-day weekend
  • May 2 (Tue): Weekday (take this day off)
  • May 3 (Wed/holiday) – May 7 (Sun): 5-day stretch

Departing on May 2 means arriving at Chichijima on May 3. Leaving Chichijima on May 6, arriving at Takeshiba on May 7. Only one weekday off required.

Itinerary

5/2 11:00 → 5/3 11:00Takeshiba → Chichijima Ogasawara Maru (1st class)¥62,870
5/3 14:00 → 5/3 16:00Chichijima → Hahajima Hahajima Maru (2nd class)¥5,310
5/3–5/4Hahajima overnight
5/4 15:00 → 5/4 17:00Hahajima → Chichijima Hahajima Maru (2nd class)¥5,310
5/4–5/6Chichijima overnight
5/6 15:30 → 5/7 15:30Chichijima → Takeshiba Ogasawara Maru (1st class)¥62,870

Prices are approximate. Golden Week tickets sell out early, so early booking is essential.

Hahajima (1 night)

A small island with about 400 residents. About 2 hours by ship from Chichijima. Home to the southernmost point of Tokyo Metropolitan Route roads. Subtropical forests harbor endemic flora and fauna — the island where Ogasawara’s nature is felt most intensely. Limited accommodation, so book early.

Chichijima (2 nights)

The center of Ogasawara. Snorkeling, war site tours, and observation deck views — the main spots can be covered in a day and a half. The sunset from the Weather Station observation deck is well known.

Risks

The Chichijima–Hahajima route can be rough. Ogasawara sailings may also be canceled due to typhoons or sea conditions. If the return sailing is canceled, you’ll be stranded on the island until the next sailing — days later. Plans with no schedule buffer carry real risk.