Izu Islands group tours give a repeat Japan client something new without leaving Tokyo. The islands are administered by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, yet they sit out in the Pacific, with volcanoes, black-sand coast and hot springs. Our Japan team covers the two islands that work best in its Izu Oshima and Hachijojima guide. This note is for agents deciding whether, and how, to add one to a Tokyo programme.
Which Island for Which Programme
- Izu Oshima for a day or one night. It is the closest of the islands. The jetfoil from Takeshiba Pier in central Tokyo takes at least 1 hour 45 minutes, according to the Tokyo government's islands page.
- Hachijojima for two nights. It is further south and has its own airport, with flights from Haneda of about 55 minutes. The overnight ferry takes at least 10 hours 20 minutes, so most groups fly.
- Who it suits. Incentive groups who have already done the Golden Route, school groups studying volcanoes, and small walking or diving groups.
What Clients Will Remember
- A live volcano. Mount Mihara on Izu Oshima erupted in 1986 and the whole island was evacuated. Today a walking trail climbs to the crater rim.
- Camellias in winter. Izu Oshima is known for its camellias, and a camellia festival runs from winter into early spring. This gives a winter programme a seasonal hook.
- Island food and hot springs. Simple seafood lunches and outdoor baths facing the sea.
Points to Check Before You Quote
- Weather. Sailings and flights are cancelled in high seas and typhoons, sometimes for several days. Quote a buffer day, and do not place the islands right before an international departure.
- Seats. Jetfoil and flight capacity is limited, so request group space early and hold island rooms at the same time.
- A Tokyo plan B. Agree an alternative day in Tokyo with the client before travel, so a cancelled crossing does not become a lost day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Izu Islands really part of Tokyo?
Yes. They are administered by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.
Can a group do Izu Oshima as a day trip?
Yes, by jetfoil from Takeshiba. One night on the island gives more time and more room if the sea is rough.
What should the quote include for the weather?
A buffer day and a Tokyo alternative, with the crossing rebooked as soon as services resume.
Where Explera Fits
Our Japan team books the jetfoil or flight, island transport, guides and hotels, and keeps a weather plan in Tokyo for every departure.
Write to b2b@explera.jp or message +66 93 656 8090 on WhatsApp. Explera DMC is IATA TIDS-registered (96215733) and an ASTA member (900408341).
