DIFFICULY
★☆☆☆☆
Approximately 10 hours and 45 minutes
2-10 people
From
¥165,000 and up (tax included)
島しょ, 桜
OVERVIEW
“Memories of a white spring, nurtured by the black earth.”
~A journey to visit the mother of the Somei-Yoshino cherry tree and walk the path of rebirth from scratch~
[Prologue: To the Source of the Cherry Blossoms]
The “Somei-Yoshino” cherry trees we usually look up at on the streets of Tokyo.
Did you know that these pale pink cherry blossoms actually have a “mother”? Just a 1 hour and 45 minute high-speed ferry ride from Takeshiba, Tokyo.
There lies Izu Ōshima, the island where the roots of the cherry blossom lie dormant.
First, we encounter the “Ōshima-zakura,” one of the parents of the Somei-yoshino.
Unlike the delicate, fleeting blossoms of the city, this tree withstands the sea breeze and blooms with a vigorous, eye-opening purity of white.
You will also be amazed by the rich, fragrant “scent” that envelops the entire area.
This is the memory of “wild spring” that we had forgotten.
[Chapter 2: The Boundary Between Death and Rebirth]
With the thrill of white spring still in our hearts, we venture deep into the island’s interior, into the “Ura-Sabaku” (Back Desert).
Awaiting us there is a vast “black world”—the only place in Japan labeled as a “desert” on maps.
A silence broken only by the sound of scoria (volcanic rock) crunching beneath our feet and the wind whistling through the air.
The eruption of Mount Mihara—once known as the “Divine Fire”—burned everything to the ground, reducing this land to “zero.”
The desolate landscape, as if we had landed on Mars, silently speaks to the harshness of the Earth.
[Final Chapter: The Story of the Cycle of Life]
Yet, if you look down at your feet, you’ll see plants like the “Hachijo-itadori” struggling to sprout from the cracks in the black lava.
Eventually, that greenery will become a forest, and those white cherry blossoms will bloom once more.
Volcanoes are not merely instruments of destruction; they are also engines of “regeneration” that create rich soil and nurture new life.
It is precisely because there is a black world of death (the Ura Desert) that there is a white radiance of life (the Oshima cherry blossoms). This journey is not merely a cherry blossom viewing trip.
It is an adventure for adults—a chance to touch the “heartbeat of the Earth” right on Tokyo’s doorstep and recharge your energy to face tomorrow.
Just a 1-hour-45-minute high-speed ferry ride from Takeshiba, Tokyo. This day-trip adventure takes you to experience the rich fragrance of the “Oshima-zakura”—the origin of the cherry blossom—and explore Japan’s only “desert” as marked on maps.
As you pass through forests blooming with wild cherry blossoms and step onto the “Ura-Sabaku” (Back Desert), where black scoria stretches out, you’ll find yourself in a different world that feels almost like Mars.
We invite you on an immersive geo-tour where you can fully experience the overwhelming scenery woven from the destruction and regeneration of volcanoes, as well as the island’s unique culinary culture.
HIGHLIGHTS
Tracing the Origins of the Cherry Blossom: A Walk Through the Primeval Forest of the Fragrant “Oshima-zakura”
We will walk through the natural habitat of the “Oshima-zakura,” which is one of the parents of the familiar “Somei-yoshino” and can be considered the root of the cherry blossom. In the untamed forests of Tokyo Metropolitan Oshima Park and other locations, these trees are characterized by their pure white blossoms, elegant appearance, and strong fragrance. Rooted in black volcanic ash soil and blooming proudly despite the sea breeze, the vitality of these “white cherry blossoms” offers a moving experience that stands apart from the typical cherry blossom viewing in the city center.
Japan's only "desert" marked on the map. Hiking in the otherworldly "Ura-Sabaku" (Back Desert)
On the maps of the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan, the only place in Japan marked as a "desert" is the "Ura-Sabaku." Covered in scoria (volcanic rock) from repeated eruptions, this vast "black land" is so windy that it prevents plants from taking root, creating a desolate and breathtaking landscape reminiscent of Mars. Spending time in this unobstructed 360-degree panorama, where only the sound of footsteps and wind can be heard, is an overwhelmingly extraordinary experience.
A Geostory of Destruction and Regeneration: Plants on Lava and “Island Cuisine”
While the eruption of Mount Mihara scorches the earth, a “drama of regeneration” unfolds as pioneer plants like “Hachijo-itadori” eventually sprout, restoring the land to a forest once more. On this tour, you’ll learn about this volcanic cycle and enjoy a lunch featuring the island’s unique preservation food culture—preservation, fermentation, and salt—including “Bekko Sushi” seasoned with chili soy sauce, all cultivated in this harsh environment.
ITINERARY
[Morning: Tracing the Origins of the Cherry Blossoms]
• 7:00 AM
Meeting Point: Takeshiba Passenger Terminal
◦ Check-in and tour briefing.
• 7:30 AM
Departure: High-speed jet ferry
◦ The boat ride from Tokyo takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
• 9:20 AM
Arrival: Okada Port, Izu Oshima
◦ After arriving at the port, we will travel by bus to Tokyo Metropolitan Oshima Park.
• 09:40
Fieldwork 1: Wild Oshima Cherry Blossom and Flower Viewing Walk (Tokyo Metropolitan Oshima Park)
◦ We will walk through the natural habitat of the “Oshima-zakura,” a strongly fragrant cherry tree that is one of the parents of the Somei-yoshino variety.
• 10:40 Transfer
◦ Transfer by bus toward the Mt. Mihara hiking trail.
• 11:10 Fieldwork 2: Volcanic Geology Lecture
◦ A geoguide will explain the formation of Izu Oshima and its history of eruptions.
[Lunch: Island Food Culture Experience]
• 12:00 Lunch: A meal featuring local island ingredients
◦ Examples: Enjoy the island’s flavors rooted in preservation and fermentation culture, such as “Bekko Sushi” (white fish marinated in chili soy sauce) and “Kusaya Chips.”
[Afternoon: To the Overwhelming “Black Desert”]
• 1:00 PM
Activity 1: Mt. Mihara & Ura-Sabaku Hike
◦ We’ll hike toward “Ura-Sabaku” (the “Back Desert”), the only place in Japan officially designated as a “desert.” This is the tour’s highlight (physical activity and nature experience), where you’ll feel the black earth and the wind.
• 14:30
Fieldwork #3: Ecology and Culture of Ura-Sabaku
◦ Observe plants adapted to the harsh volcanic desert and the majestic scenery.
• 3:00 PM
Reflection & Break (Okada Port)
◦ We’ll spend the time until departure answering questions and filling out questionnaires.
[Return Trip]
• 4:00 PM
Departure: High-speed jet boat
• 5:45 PM Dismissal: Takeshiba Passenger Terminal
DETAILS
Izu Oshima: Mt. Mihara & Ura-Sabaku Geo-Adventure – Precautions, Clothing, and What to Bring
1. Clothing
The trekking routes on Mt. Mihara and in Ura-Sabaku consist of unpaved paths covered in lava and scoria (volcanic gravel).
Footwear (Important):
Due to the rough terrain, please wear athletic shoes or hiking boots that are comfortable and provide good traction. While heavy-duty mountaineering boots are not required, stable footwear is recommended.
Clothing:
Since there is almost no shade along the course, clothing that blocks the sun is essential. Strong winds often blow through Ura-Sabaku, so please bring layers and warm clothing to help regulate your body temperature.
2. Packing List
Drinks & Hat: As you will be walking in an open field with intense sunlight and no shade, these are essential for preventing heatstroke.
Sunscreen:
Please bring sunscreen to protect against UV rays.
Rain Gear:
Please bring rainwear in case of sudden changes in mountain weather.
Mask & Damp Towel:
These are useful for protecting your mouth and nose from volcanic ash in the event of a sudden eruption, as well as from the pungent odor of volcanic gases.
Motion Sickness Medicine:
If you are taking the high-speed jet ferry from Takeshiba, it is advisable to bring this as a precaution against seasickness.
Cash: You may need cash for restaurants, shops, and paid parking lots on the island.
3. Safety Management and Volcanic Precautions Caution Regarding Active Volcanoes:
Izu Oshima is an active volcano (Eruption Alert Level 1: Please be aware that it is an active volcano).
Even if there are no immediate signs of an eruption, you must be prepared for sudden volcanic activity.
Check Evacuation Facilities: Along the walking trails, there are evacuation shelters and observation shelters where you can take temporary cover.
Please check their locations in advance and follow the guide’s instructions to evacuate in case of an emergency.
Helmets:
Helmets are available for free rental at the observation and evacuation rest house near the summit of Mt. Mihara.
Please consider wearing one to prepare for sudden volcanic activity.
Volcanic Gases:
Dangerous gases such as sulfur dioxide may be emitted.
Since these gases are heavier than air and tend to accumulate in low-lying areas, please avoid entering low-lying terrain.
4. Other Precautions
Physical Strain:
As you will be walking on the slopes of Ura-Sabaku and over rugged lava fields, watch your step and adjust your pace according to your physical condition.
Environmental Protection:
The area around Ura-Sabaku is designated as a Special Protection Zone; driving vehicles and any actions that damage the environment are prohibited.
Seasonal Highlights:
You can enjoy seasonal natural scenery, such as Oshima azaleas and Oshima cherry blossoms in spring, and golden pampas grass in autumn. However, please be sure to take appropriate measures to protect yourself from the cold or heat depending on the season.
5. Meeting Place & Access Meeting Place:
7:00 a.m. Takeshiba Passenger Ship Terminal
Organizer & Inquiries: Tokyo Yamagawa DMC Co., Ltd.
(Email: info@fwness.com)
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