The journey to the Ogasawara Islands is quite long. Being a 24-hour boat journey, it can really get lonely and restless without a companion. I eagerly anticipate going to the secluded Ogasawara Islands, yet I am unable to escape the torment of waiting. The vast emptiness of the ocean can become monotonous after a while, but fortunately, there is the sunset to embellish the scene, and the pitch-black night sky is accompanied by a canopy of stars.

Up above, a flock of birds fly alongside the ferry. They're sulids! As the ferry cuts through the waves, it churns up the sea, forcing small fish to the surface. The sulids lock onto their breakfast, tuck their wings, and dive into the sea like flying swords. Moments later, they resurface, flap their wings, and fly off with fish in their mouths.

Such a scenery is truly uplifting. In the distance, the silhouettes of the islands begin to appear on the horizon, with their peculiar shapes, brimming with mystery.

Before the ferry docks, it seems to be floating in shades of a precious sapphire. This captivating shade of blue has a unique name, called "Bonin Blue". "Bonin Islands" is the name westerners gave to the Ogasawara Islands.

I embarked on a boat adventure on a wonderfully sunny morning, truly experiencing the charm of the Ogasawara Islands. Before boarding, shoes must be scrubbed to remove any parasites or plant spores that could potentially harm the ecology of the Ogasawara Islands.

I haven't seen such extensive coral reefs in a long time. I then turned into a beautiful bay, where lush greenery nestled amidst pristine deep blue waters. I found myself breathless again. The green and blue before my eyes truly belonged to the Garden of Eden.

Along the path, you can see scattered feathers and shells of extinct snails.

After spotting the dolphins and ensuring a safe distance, the guide gave the signal to jump. We then leaped into the sea, hoping to meet these intelligent and inquisitive creatures.

The chirping of birds echoed all around. The Ogasawara white-eyed birds, adorned with beautiful yellow and gray feathers are unique species found only in Ogasawara Islands

Mr. Motegi quickly pointed out the unique orchids, and shortly after, he also singled out the special moss. Especially notable were mushrooms that looked like a hexagonal star.

After hiking up over 300 meters, the climate became cooler.

It was the most drama-like (but sincere) sending off I had ever witnessed, and it brought tears to my eyes. Ogasawara Islands, I had to go through so much just to catch a glimpse of you.