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Just 3.5 hours from Tokyo by high-speed jet boat, Kozushima is a small island that boasts a surprising variety of spectacular scenery including sheer cliffs and fascinating rock formations. There's so much to see and do, including a relaxing swim in the clear ocean waters or an invigorating hike up the slopes of imposing Mt. Tenjo.The natural wonderland that is Kozushima seems a world away from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.Dedicated hiker Ayano Shobu and beach lover Chelsea Rina paid a visit to Kozushima to find out more!
Kozushima legend has it that long, long ago, the gods had a meeting to discuss how to divide up the waters of the Izu Island chain. Today, the tiny island of Kozushima boasts a stunning coastline with pure white sand beaches along with spectacular Mt. Tenjo, home to an array of wild flowers that sees it listed in the top 100 mountains of Japan. The Akasaki walking path is a 500-meter boardwalk that offers endless breathtaking views amid gentle sea breezes. It leads to a bathing beach where a natural inlet has created what is known as one of Kozushima's best spots for diving. There is also a viewing platform where on a clear day you can see most of the Izu Islands as well as Mt. Fuji and, if you're lucky, even the Minami Alps.
Some daring folk have been known to jump off the boardwalk into the sea several meters below! Chelsea is entranced by the cobalt blue water and wants to take a dip. "The sea breeze
feels so nice and the water is so clear and inviting! Who could imagine that we are still in Tokyo?"
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Akasaki walking path
Location: 1 Kobeyama,
Kozushima-mura, Tokyo
How to get there: 15 minutes by car/bus from Kozushima port
Kozushima has many beaches to choose from, such as Takowan, which is great for snorkeling, and Sawajiri, which has its own tiny inlet. But one of the best is surely Maehama, which is close to the main village and boasts some 800 meters of smooth white sand to enjoy. You'll feel like you're at a tropical resort!
Ayano and Chelsea stroll along the beach path. The sun reflecting off the waters below creates sparkling patterns of breathtaking beauty. They pause for a moment to enjoy a cooling
ice-cream from a nearby shop and listen to the gentle lapping of the waves.
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Maehama beach
How to get there: The tip of the beach is just a short walk from
Kozushima port. The white sands continue south for about 800 meters.
The beach has toilets, showers and shops and is popular with families.
