Torishima, Japan Cruise Port

Within the Pacific Ocean and Philippine Sea is the uninhabited island and cruise port of Torishima (or Tori-shima), Japan. Part of the country's Izu Islands – which, despite their remote location, are part of Tokyo Prefecture – Torishima means "Bird Island" and is known for its volcanic activity. Used by fishermen since at least the Edo Period (between 1603 and 1868), the island was once inhabited; once its population of 150 residents were wiped out by a major volcanic eruption in 1902, it remained unpopulated thereafter. Since 1930, strides have been taken to preserve the local seabirds, especially the threatened short-tailed albatross; in 1954, Torishima was declared a protected bird sanctuary. Even with the plethora of birds, flora is limited, with most of the central portion of the island made up of volcanic ash and rock. Listed below are a handful of our favorite experiences when cruising to Torishima, Izu Islands, Japan:

Many tour boats are available to go birdwatching, although landing on the island is generally not allowed (unless you're a research scientist). Species to look for include Tristram's storm petrel, Japanese murrelet, black-footed albatross, and blue rock thrush.
Torishima is included within Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, made up of the Izu Islands along with Mount Fuji, Fuji Five Lakes, Hakone, and the Izu Peninsula. Dive with colorful fish, coral, and a possible swim with dolphins.
Island hopping via ferry is a good way to check out other areas with additional attractions. Izu-Oshima is the largest island in the chain, covered in forest and punctuated by Mount Mihara, where you can hike to the top and look down into the volcano.
Also on Izu-Oshima are a couple of hot springs, notably Motomachi Hama-no-yu, an open-air hot spring with excellent views of the sea, and Gojinka Hot Spring, which also offers saunas, different types of baths, and massage services.

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