🏝️ Niijima Island Retreat: A 3-Day Itinerary – with Google Maps

Niijima, with its warm azure waters and shimmering white-sand beaches, is one of the most spectacular vacation spots I've ever visited. Over three days, this captivating island revealed its treasures—natural wonders, tranquil hideaways, and cultural gems—solidifying its place as a dream destination for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

✨ A Hidden Gem in the Pacific

Tucked away in the Izu Archipelago, Niijima is more than just beautiful—it's peacefully serene. A world away from the chaos of Tokyo, it’s the perfect escape for anyone craving calm, nature, and a slower pace of life.

However, plan ahead—ferry tickets, especially around Japan’s long weekends, sell out quickly. Book at least three months in advance to secure your spot.

☀️ When to Visit Niijima

Niijima is stunning year-round, but the best time to visit is between August and October, when temperatures hover around a comfortable 23–30°C (74℉) and the sea is warm enough for swimming.

Golden Week (late April–early May) is also popular, though the ocean is still brisk, with temperatures ranging from 13–21°C.

🛏️ Top Places to Stay in Niijima ✅ Must-Do Activities in Tokyo

There are not many activities other than the serene beaches and scenic cycling routes. Instead, I will share exciting activities to enjoy in Tokyo after the Niijima trip or for those who were not able to secure their trip to Niijima.

🗓️ 3-Day Niijima Itinerary 📍 Day 1 – Discovery Awaits

Your island adventure begins the moment you step off the ferry. We opted for a two-day bicycle rental, the ideal way to explore Niijima’s coastal paths, scenic lookouts, and cultural sites.

Utilising a bicycle is an excellent strategy for navigating Niijima.

🌿 Shiro Mama Cliff
Sculpted by nature's hand, the Shiro Mama Cliff stands as a breathtaking testament to the natural beauty of Niijima. Towering above the azure sea, this limestone marvel offers a stunning contrast to the deep blues and greens of the surrounding landscape. The gentle caress of sunlight highlights its sheer face. The cliffs are not just a sight to behold but a beacon for those seeking solitude and reflection amidst the island's vibrant beauty.
a haven for surf enthusiasts and beach lovers
🏖️ Habushiura Beach
Then we soaked up under the sun. Habushiura Beach is a haven for surf enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. Boasting long stretches of white sand bordered by crystal-clear waters. The beach's friendly vibe makes it a perfect gathering spot for a stroll along the shore. There are also local surf shops nearby.
🌅 Omine & Ishiyama Observation Decks
Perched high on Niijima's scenic landscape is the Omine Observation Deck and Ishiyama Observatory. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical times to visit, as the sky's changing colours paint a picture of serene beauty.
💦 Niijima Water Park
With a range of pools and water-based activities designed for all ages, the water park provided a refreshing escape from the heat. Slides, splash pads, and lazy rivers offered endless entertainment.
🔥 Niijima Glass Art Center
Niijima's Glass Art Center is a jewel in the island's cultural crown. Known for its unique Niijima float glass, the centre not only showcases exquisite glasswork but also offers hands-on workshops for those interested in learning the craft. Artists and visitors can witness the mesmerising process of glassblowing, transforming raw materials into intricate pieces that shimmer with beauty.
♨️ Yunohama Roten Hot Spring
As the day winded down, it was time to unwind in the soothing waters of Yunohama-Roten Hot Spring. This open-air hot spring, perched beside the sea, allows for a unique experience of bathing in sunset while listening to the calming sound of the ocean. The mineral-rich waters are believed to have healing properties, offering relief and relaxation to weary bodies and minds. The time slowed down, allowing us moments of meditative calm amidst nature's embrace.
Unwinding in the open-air hot springs of Niijima.

📍 Day 2 – Immersed in Tranquility

Niijima isn’t just about beaches—it’s also rich in quirky charm and spiritual depth.

🪨 The Stone Zoo
The Stone Zoo is a unique and whimsical open-air gallery where natural rock formations are playfully interpreted as a variety of animals. We strolled through this geological menagerie and let our imaginations roam free as we discovered stones resembling real and mythical creatures.
⛩️ Miyazukuri & Jusansha Shrines
Steeped in spiritual significance, the Miyazukuri and Jusansha Shrines stand as pillars of tranquillity and cultural reverence on Niijima. These sacred sites are deeply rooted in the island's heritage, offering a glimpse into the spiritual practices and traditions of the local community. We witnessed the elegant architecture, meticulously cared-for grounds, and the sombre beauty of Shinto rituals.
🏛️ Niijima-mura Museum
The Niijima-mura Museum serves as a custodian of the island's diverse history, from its geological origins to its modern-day way of life. Within its walls lie an exquisite collection of artefacts, photographs, and exhibits that chronicle Niijima's past, including its famous glass art, traditional customs, and the everyday life of its inhabitants.
🌊 Honson Maehama Coast
For those yearning for a peaceful escape along Niijima's coastline, the Honson Maehama Coast is a haven of serenity. This pristine stretch of beach boasts golden sands and gentle waves, creating an idyllic backdrop for relaxation and soulful contemplation. Uninterrupted by the hustle and bustle of crowded tourist spots, it offers a private piece of paradise where one can unwind to the rhythmic sounds of the ocean. Whether it's for a thoughtful solitary walk at dawn or a lazy afternoon basking in the sun, the Honson Maehama Coast is a sanctuary where the mind can find rest and the spirit can soar.
Relishing the crystal-clear, azure waters of Niijima's beach.

📍 Day 3 – Homeward Bound

As we packed our bags and prepared to leave, Niijima’s magic lingered in our hearts. Every sunrise, hot spring soak, and salty breeze stayed with us long after we returned to the mainland.

⛴️ Ferry to and from Niijima

We chose the slower, scenic route aboard Tokai Kisen’s overnight ferry—departing Yokohama Pier at 23:30 and arriving on Niijima around 08:35 the next morning. Though you can opt for a faster 3-hour jetfoil, the ferry adds a nostalgic, cinematic feel to the journey.

Playing card games and enjoying drinks during the 8-hour journey to Niijima. 🎒 What to Pack for Niijima

A quick checklist for your island adventure:

Lightweight Clothing – It’s warm, but bring a light jacket for evenings.
Swimwear – Essential for beaches and onsens.
Sun Protection – Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses.
Comfortable Shoes – Great for biking, walking trails, or shrine visits.
Camera – For landscapes, cliffs, and the stone zoo!
Japanese Power Adapter – For overseas travelers.
Cash – Many local spots still don’t take credit cards.

The island has a diverse array of scenic spots. 💳 Cash or Card?

Cash is highly recommended. While some larger hotels and restaurants accept credit cards, many local eateries, guesthouses, and small shops only deal in cash. Bring enough yen for the duration of your stay.

Savoring the serene beauty of Niijima's beaches. 🌊 Final Thoughts

Niijima’s charm lies not just in its postcard-worthy beauty, but in its ability to slow you down, ground you in nature, and leave you feeling refreshed. Whether you're watching the sunrise from a cliff, sculpting glass with fire, or simply floating in the sea, Niijima isn’t just a trip—it’s an experience.

If you’re craving a quiet retreat from city life, make your way to Niijima. You’ll leave with sun-kissed skin, sea-swept hair, and memories that shimmer like glass in the sunlight.

🗺️ Maps

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How to Generate SSH Keys

Now that you have your own server, you might want to download your source code from GitHub. But wait—you need to first set up SSH keys.

What are SSH Keys?

The SSH key resembles a password and is used to authenticate your identity when accessing remote servers or cloud services.

Why Passwords Aren't Enough

In today's cybersecurity, password security is no longer effective. Bad actors are always finding new ways to exploit vulnerabilities, making it essential to use stronger forms of authentication like SSH keys.

Hackers have significantly advanced their techniques in deciphering passwords.

The Need for SSH Keys

Eventually, you will need to generate SSH keys to:

Eliminate the risk of brute-force attacks. Unlike passwords, SSH keys are not susceptible to guessing attacks.
Automate tasks such as backups, deployments, and other scripts that require secure remote connections.
Mitigate the risk of phishing attacks, as there is no password to be phished.
Eliminate the burden of memorising passwords, and changing them every 3~6 months.

Generating SSH Keys

Key Creation
```
$ ssh-keygen -t rsa
```
Specify Default Location
Press Enter to accept the default file location:
```
Enter the file in which to save the key (/cloud_assembly/.ssh/id_rsa):
```
Add a Passphrase (Optional but Recommended)
Adding a passphrase makes your SSH key more secure. However, you must remember this passphrase. If lost, you'll need to generate a new SSH key pair and update all your connection information.
```
Press Enter to use the key without a passphrase:
Enter passphrase (empty for no passphrase):
Enter same passphrase again:
```

The "id_rsa" file is your private key—keep it secret and never share it. The "id_rsa.pub" file is your public key, which you can share freely.

SSH keys greatly enhance the method of authentication.

That's it! You now have a secure SSH key pair that can significantly enhance your server's security and automate various tasks effectively.

Congratulations on Generating Your SSH Key! Time to Take a Well-Deserved Break

After tackling the technicalities of generating an SSH key, you've more than earned some downtime. Wondering where to head? Let me introduce you to an idyllic getaway—Niijima Island, the perfect sanctuary to decompress and rejuvenate.

Top Places to Stay in Niijima

Must-Do Activities in Tokyo

Niijima isn't just about serene vistas; it's a place brimming with vibrant culture and pristine natural landscapes. To ensure you capture the whole essence of Niijima, consider exploring through guided travel tours.