Chichijima

Chichijima, written as Father Island in kanji (父島), is the principal inhabited island of the Ogasawara Islands, a remote archipelago belonging to Tokyo, Japan. It serves as the administrative center of Ogasawara Village and contains the main port and airfield that connect the islands to the mainland.

Geographically, Chichijima lies in the northwestern Pacific Ocean, about 1,000 kilometers south of central Tokyo. The island is of volcanic origin, with rugged coastlines, forested highlands, and a humid subtropical climate. The surrounding waters host coral reefs and abundant marine life, and the island supports a range of endemic plants and animals, contributing to the archipelago’s distinctive biodiversity.

Historically, the Bonin Islands were discovered by various explorers and gradually settled in the 19th century. Japan annexed the islands, and during World War II they were placed under United States administration before being returned to Japan in 1968. In 2011, the Ogasawara Islands were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their exceptional natural value, including high levels of endemism and relatively undisturbed ecosystems.

Population and economy on Chichijima reflect its remote, small-community character. The economy is based on fishing, agriculture, and tourism, with facilities to support residents and visitors. Access is via ferry from Tokyo and by small aircraft to Chichijima Airport, linking the island with the Tokyo area and other parts of the archipelago. The island is part of a broader effort to conserve unique ecosystems while supporting sustainable local livelihoods.