Jogashima

Overview

Jogashima was published on the Michelin Green Guide Japon third edition as a two-star scenic spot. Many scenic spots are in the island. Visits can enjoy a splendid view of the Pacific Ocean and a fantastically shaped rock "Uma no Se Domon (a sea cave)" in southern hiking trail, and a grand view of Mt Fuji across the Sagami Bay that can be seen in Western part. About 700,000 of double daffodils planted in various parts of the island reach their peak in early to mid-January. You need to pay a toll to cross Jogashima Ohashi (large bridge). (Toll for round trip: 150 yen for ordinary car, 530 yen for medium-sized car (a car with a capacity of 11 to 29 people))

Description

Jogashima is located in Kanagawa Prefecture off Miura Peninsula, near the southern end of the island. It is the largest natural island in Kanagawa and has long been a tourist destination, going back as far as the Kamakura period (1192-1333) when Minamoto no Yoritomo—famed Japanese military commander—frequented the island. When steamships became popular, so too did the island as a hot place to visit. Summer tourists have always flocked to Jogashima for its romantic atmosphere and beautiful vistas. The winds off the coast of Jogashima can be fierce on the south side of the island, with pine trees and other foliage growing at a steep angle in the direction of the wind; but this belies the gentle nature of the island’s opposite coast. Thanks to the bulk of land acting as a breakwater, the Misaki side of the island is calm—perfect for fishing and swimming. Snorkelers and divers will especially love seeing the underwater reefs and sea life. Northern Jogashima provides fresh seafood and fresher scenery. With guest houses, hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops dotting this area of the island, there is no shortage of sights to see or places to visit. Of special interest to many is Jogashima Lighthouse. This small, romantic lighthouse dates back to 1870 and overlooks the Pacific Ocean. It’s a popular photo spot even today. Be sure to try the seafood caught from the island’s bay, including shrimp, saury, and abalone. Southern Jogashima, on the other hand, is an untamed and wild frontier. Jagged cliffs hang over the white and blue surf to create stunning landscapes. A smaller lighthouse, Abosaki Lighthouse, stands at 13 meters—about half the height of Jogashima Lighthouse—and provides protection to sailors off this side of the island, which can be visited via a hiking course. It is a hiker’s or a photographer’s dream location. Also, on this side of the island, you can find Jogashima Park—with an observatory and picnic square it makes for the perfect hike and rest over the gorgeous cliffs of Jogashima. See just how juxtaposed both sides of Jogashima are between the man-sculpted and abandoned. During your visit to Jogashima, experience diving with skilled instructors and guides or ride a semi-submerged sightseeing boat around the island. There are various places and experiences to be found on the island for a curious adventurer. Of course, if that doesn’t interest you, there is always the sun and sand to keep you company.

Travel tip

Jogashima Island a great place to visit year round. You will especially want come in December/January to view over 5000 blooming daffodils and see the thousands of migratory Pacific reef heron and Japanese cormorants.