Exploring The Natural Wonders Of Mount Chibusa On Hahajima Island

The Ogasawara Archipelago is located nearly 1000 km away from the heart of Tokyo. Chichijima Island is the entrance to the archipelago and Hahajima Island, which is featured in this article, is located nearly 50 km south by ferry from Chichijima Island.

Hahajima Island is an inhabited island with great nature spots. In the center of the island is the tallest mountain on Chichijima and Hahajima Island, Mt. Chibusa. This time, we would like to feature the trekking route, unique wildlife, and wonderful scenery you can see from Mt. Chibusa.

Hiking Entrance of Mt. Chibusa

The entrance for the hiking route of Mt. Chibusa is located behind the Motochi village where many shops and inns are based on Hahajima Island. It is about a five minute walk from the massive Chinese Banyan tree that symbolizes the village.

After following the directions, you will reach the hiking entrance. Please note that bathrooms and vending machines are not available during the hike, so it is advised to be prepared prior to your adventure.

breast mountain

〒100-2211 Hahajima Nishiura, Ogasawara-mura, Tokyo

As there are many plants unique to the islands here, any outside plants/contamination from other areas that may harm the ecosystem must be avoided. Therefore, you will need to wipe off your shoes thoroughly on the mat before entering the mountains.

Jungle Trekking in Mt. Chibusa

The route for trekking is well-maintained, but the plants grow freely and extend into the route creating this jungle-like scenery.

After walking for a while, you will spot a massive Chinese Banyan tree creating a wall made of tree trunks and roots. Go cautiously through the intertwining roots to continue onto your path.

Hike through the path of greens for about two hours until you reach the summit which stands at 462 meters.

At the summit, you will find an observation deck where you can see a picture perfect view of the eastern side of the island covered by a lush forest and the blue sea.

There are several narrow paths around the summit covered by greenery. However, the paths are also covered by moss which makes them slippery so you will need to be cautious while walking here.

After cutting through the jungle path, you will see a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean. If you are lucky, you may be able to spot whales and dolphins from this spot too.

During your hike, you will find signs pointing you to the correct directions for each viewing spot. Check the direction and the distance while venturing through the mountain to make sure you stay on track.

Creatures That Make Mt. Chibusa Their Home

During your hike, you will find two watering grounds for wild birds. There are bottles filled with rain water, so fill the water bowls with water. Sometimes birds will even come by while you are filling the dishes.

Japanese wood pigeon

Around the Chinese Banyan tree, there are plenty of birds flying about. You may be able to spot them fluttering their wings as you hear them chirp all around you.

Japanese Bush Warbler

You may be able to spot the Bonin Honeyeater, Japanese wood pigeon, or the Japanese bush warbler that are unique to Hahajima Island.

Many maimai snails that are also unique to the island can be spotted. Please be careful not to step on them when walking.

We were also able to spot a cute orchid unique to the Ogasawara archipelago, the Bonin Goodyera.

Here is a huge polyporaceae! This is a popular mushroom used in Chinese medicine, but the mountain is a protected area for the forest ecosystem. Therefore, it is forbidden to take anything back from Mt. Chibusa.

War Remnants in the Forest

Mt. Chibusa was formerly used by the Japanese army during World War II. You will find old air raid shelters and spots where bombs were dropped throughout the island.

You can also find an old canon that was used during the war too. The rusted metal remains suggest the harshness of the war.

To Enjoy Hiking Safely

Hahajima Island has many more virgin forests than Chichijima Island. Therefore, the mountains are not necessarily the safest place to be. The hiking path is open 24 hours and can be entered for free, but there are no lights leading the way through it, so it is advised that you plan your hike so you can return before sundown.

In addition to that, it is also forbidden to enter the unmaintained pathways. The areas where plants are growing wild will make the maintained paths a little difficult to find, in which case you should also rely on the signs provided along the course.

It isn't a high mountain, but wear clothes comfortable to move around in and sneakers or sturdy walking shoes. Those who are not prepared for hiking should refrain from entering the mountain. It is also suggested that visitors bring additional drinks and snacks for energy as there are none available on the mountain. Do not forget to take home your own trash back to your inn.

In Conclusion

For adults, walking around Mt. Chibusa will take approximately four hours by foot. Perhaps those with stamina would be able to walk in three hours and a half. During your hike, you will be able to encounter a variety of animals and plants unique to the mountain. In order to protect the natural habitat and ecosystem, do not touch the plants or animals and only take any photos or memories back with you as souvenirs of your experience.