DIFFICULY
★☆☆☆☆
1 night, 2 days
2-8 people
From
From ¥275,000 (tax included)
地域文化, 島しょ
OVERVIEW
"The World's Smelliest!? Niijima Kusaya Making Experience"
An adventure exploring the surprising connection between a white volcanic island and 400 years of fermented food!
Kusaya, a traditional Niijima food rumored to be "the world's smelliest!?", possesses a deep, addictive flavor that will leave you wanting more.
But why does Niijima, supposedly formed by volcanic activity, have pristine white sandy beaches like a tropical paradise?
This trip explores the mysterious relationship between the seemingly inexplicable "kusaya" and the "white island."
First, we'll step into the world of "kusaya," with its 400-year history! We'll visit a manufacturer that has been in business since the Edo period and try our hand at traditional kusaya making, receiving direct instruction from artisans.
Soaking fish in the secret kusaya liquid and drying it... through this authentic experience, let's touch upon the profound depths of fermentation culture.
Your homemade special kusaya will surely be an unforgettable souvenir!
And then, embark on an adventure in search of the island's breathtaking scenery and mysteries!
Hike your way to the breathtaking scenery of the blue sea and white sandy beaches, while visiting the island's symbol, the "Moyai statue."
At the observation deck at the end of the hike, a sense of accomplishment and deepened bonds with family and friends await you.
Furthermore, through a clean-up activity on the beautiful beach, why not reflect on the secrets of the endless white sand and the island's natural environment?
Between the adventure, there are plenty of island-specific pleasures! Relax and soak in natural hot springs, or savor exquisite cuisine made with fresh seafood and mountain produce.
The starry night sky and the awe-inspiring sunrise rising from the horizon will surely enrich your soul.
"Kusaya" and "White Island." Through this journey, experience with all your senses the history, culture, and magnificent story of the land that connects these two things on Niijima Island.
Let's embark on a special island trip full of learning and discovery that will stimulate your curiosity!
Experience the profound depths of Japanese food culture on a 2-day, 1-night trip to Niijima, a hidden gem of Tokyo.
Learn to make "kusaya," a traditional fermented food passed down from local fishermen, a unique experience that stimulates all your senses with its distinctive aroma and flavor.
After the workshop, relax in a hot spring with breathtaking views of the white-washed beach and the ocean.
Enjoy the contrast between an intense culinary experience and the beautiful natural landscape (geo) on this adventurous journey for curious travelers.
HIGHLIGHTS
Exploring Japan's Fermentation Culture: A Fisherman's Guide to "Kusaya" Workshop
Learn the production process of "Kusaya," a delicacy unique to the Izu Islands that surprises fermentation food fans worldwide, directly from active fishermen. Experience the traditional technique of soaking fish in a fermented liquid that emits a unique aroma, and discover the rich "Umami" (savory taste) hidden beneath its intense fragrance. This is a deep culinary culture experience for foodies.
"Island Wellness": A Rejuvenating Experience with White Cliffs, Sunsets, and Hot Springs
After the workshop, hike along the white cliffs and beaches created by Niijima's unique Koga stone (volcanic rock). As dusk falls, enjoy a relaxing soak in the Yunohama Open-Air Hot Spring, an ancient Greek temple-style bathhouse overlooking the ocean, while watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. This is the ultimate relaxation time to soothe away the fatigue of your journey.
Escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo and immerse yourself in a night of starry skies and island cuisine.
This 2-day/1-night plan is far removed from the rush of a day trip, allowing you to luxuriously enjoy your evenings. After savoring fresh seafood and island liquor at a beloved local izakaya, head out for stargazing—a unique experience only possible on an island with minimal city lights. This is a retreat for adults, where you can fully enjoy the nights of Niijima Island, engaging all your senses.
ITINERARY
Niijima Island: Kusaya Making and Island Nature Experience - 2-Day/1-Night Schedule
【Day 1: Traditional "Kusaya" and the Island's Stunning Scenery】
• 08:30
Arrival at Niijima Island
◦ After arriving by large ship (overnight) or high-speed ferry, you will be met at the port.
• 10:00
Main Experience: "Kusaya Making" Experience Taught by Fishermen
◦ Content: You will prepare the fish and soak it in the secret "kusaya liquid."
◦ Point: Unlike full-fledged work experience programs (3 nights/4 days or longer), the 2-day/1-night program is a lighter program, easily combined with sightseeing, consisting of a "tour + simple processing experience (fish preparation and tasting)," completed in about 2 hours.
• 12:00
Lunchtime
◦ Lunch after work is completed.
• 13:00
Island Hiking
◦ Enjoy the contrast between Niijima's white sand and blue sea by visiting observation decks and scenic spots.
• 15:00
Check-in at accommodation
• 16:30
Sunset & Hot Spring Time
◦ Enjoy a bath while watching the sunset at places like the Greek temple-style "Yunohama Open-Air Hot Spring."
• 19:00
Dinner: Local Island Cuisine
◦ Enjoy fresh seafood and island cuisine at an izakaya or restaurant.
• 20:30
Stargazing (Optional)
◦ Enjoy the starry sky unique to Niijima, where there are few streetlights.
【Day 2: Learning about Beach Culture and Geo-geology】
• 06:00
Sunrise Viewing (Optional)
◦ Wake up early and watch the sunrise.
• 08:00
Breakfast
• 09:00
"Geo-tour" to unravel the mysteries of the beach & beach cleanup
◦ Learn about the formation of the white sand beach made of "Koga stone (fire-resistant rock)," a rare species worldwide, and participate in photography and environmental activities (cleanup).
• 11:00
End of tour and departure
• 11:55
Departure from Niijima
◦ Transfer to the port and begin the return journey.
DETAILS
Niijima Island: Traditional Kusaya Making Experience and Geo-Tour
Notes, Clothing, and Items to Bring
1. Clothing
This experience involves actually filleting raw fish and pickling them in "kusaya liquid."
Kusaya has a very unique and strong smell, so please wear clothing that you don't mind getting dirty, assuming the smell will transfer to your clothes.
Due to the nature of the work, clothing made of materials that are less likely to absorb odors and can be easily washed if stained is recommended.
For footwear, please wear comfortable, non-slip athletic shoes suitable for activities in the processing area and on the beach.
2. Items to Bring
Change of Clothes: Since the smell of kusaya liquid and dirt from the work will adhere to your clothes, please be sure to bring spare clothes (including underwear) to change into after the experience.
Plastic Bags:
Ziploc bags or large plastic bags are convenient for sealing and taking home clothes that have absorbed the smell.
Towels:
Please bring plenty of towels, in addition to one for wiping your hands after work, for wiping sweat, etc.
Drinks:
Please bring your own drinks for hydration during work and outdoor activities.
Sunscreen & Hat:
Sunscreen and hats are recommended as there will be outdoor activities such as the geotour and beach cleanup on the second day.
3. Costs
The tour fee includes the kusaya making experience, materials, and a tasting of freshly grilled kusaya.
Round-trip boat fare to the island, accommodation, hot spring facility usage fees on the island, and personal souvenir costs are the responsibility of the participant.
Many places on the island only accept cash, so please prepare cash in advance.
4. Other Precautions
Safety Management:
Knives and other sharp tools will be used during the fish preparation process.
Please follow the guide's instructions and handle the tools carefully to avoid injury.
Weather Impact:
The geotour and beach cleanup on the second day will be conducted outdoors, so the content may be changed or canceled depending on the weather.
5. Meeting Place and Contact Information
Meeting Place: Designated location on Niijima Island (Scheduled to start at 10:00 AM on Day 1; please refer to the confirmation email received upon registration for details).
Organizer and Inquiries:
Tokyo Yamagawa DMC Co., Ltd.
(Email: info@fwness.com)
Get in touch with our team for quotes and advice,
including tour content not included on this site.