Nishinoshima Island, Volcanic island in Ogasawara archipelago, Japan
Nishinoshima is a volcanic island in the Ogasawara archipelago that rises from the Pacific Ocean with a cone reaching around 140 meters. The landscape features dark volcanic rock formations, and steam regularly escapes from vents across the surface.
Spanish sailors aboard the Rosario first discovered the island in 1702, and it was given its present name Nishinoshima, meaning West Island, in 1904. A major volcanic phase began in 2013 that continues to reshape the landscape today.
The isolation and minimal development of the island maintain traditional Japanese fishing practices, with local inhabitants focusing on maritime activities.
Access requires specialized transport arrangements through authorized vessels, as the island has no regular tourist facilities. Conditions are harsh and infrastructure is minimal, so visitors should plan accordingly.
Since 2013, continuous volcanic activity has expanded the island to about twelve times its original size. This rapid transformation constantly creates new landforms and draws scientists studying active volcanic processes.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
