Nii-jima, Volcanic island in Tokyo Prefecture, Japan
Nii-jima is a volcanic island in Tokyo Prefecture, Japan, stretching several kilometers along the Pacific coast. Eight rhyolite lava domes shape the landscape, while white cliffs rise along the shoreline and the highest point stands more than 400 meters above sea level.
Archaeological finds from the Jomon period show that people lived on the island thousands of years ago. During the Edo period, the government used the location as an exile site for criminals, who were isolated far from the mainland.
Surfers wear wetsuits year-round at the beaches, as the water temperature remains cool even during summer months. The koga stone quarries sit near the coast, and residents have used the material for construction and craft work for generations.
Free government buses connect the settlements on the island and stop at major points of interest. Ferry connections from the mainland take several hours, and the sea can be rough, so checking weather forecasts is worthwhile.
The beaches consist of fine white sand created from crushed rhyolite, which feels different from ordinary beach sand. Hot springs sit directly by the sea, where mineral-rich water bubbles up from underground and forms bathing pools with views of the waves.
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