The island is of volcanic origin, with a deeply indented coastline of 117 kilometres (73 mi), and with its highest point at the peak of Takuhiyama 452 metres (1,483 ft) above sea level.

[2] The Matengai cliffs on the west coast of the island are the highest in Japan, at 257 metres (843 ft).

The Oki Islands have been inhabited since the Japanese Paleolithic era, and numerous artifacts from the Jōmon, Yayoi and Kofun periods have been found by archaeologists.

[6] The island became part of the holdings under the control of Matsue Domain under the Tokugawa shogunate in the Edo period.

Nishinoshima is connected by regular ferry service from Saigo Port on Dōgo Island, as well to Nakanoshima.