Hahajima, Island in Ogasawara Village, Japan
Hahajima is an island in the Pacific Ocean, located about 1000 kilometers south of Tokyo, with subtropical vegetation and rich marine habitats. The landmass extends over steep mountain slopes and narrow coastal sections shaped by dense forests and volcanic rock.
Japanese authorities officially integrated Hahajima into their territory in the mid-19th century and established permanent settlements. During World War II, the population was evacuated and only returned in the 1960s, which deeply influenced the development of the island.
The island's name, Hahajima, means 'Mother Island' and reflects its role as the second largest landmass in the Ogasawara archipelago. Local residents gather at the harbor each evening to watch the sunset together, a daily ritual that brings the small community into close contact.
Travelers reach the island by ferry from Tokyo, a journey lasting more than a day that requires advance booking. Most accommodations are located in the main settlement of Okimura, where grocery shops and simple restaurants can also be found.
The waters around the island host humpback whales that pass by during their migration between January and April. Visitors can join guided whale-watching trips and see the animals up close.
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