Summary of natural monuments and endemic species in Amami Oshima! Introducing Lidth's jay, endangered species, and other creatures found only on Amami!

Amami Oshima Island is a treasure trove of natural monuments and endemic species!

Amami-Oshima Island is home to the onlyNatural monuments and endemic speciesare numerous.

In 2021.world natural heritage siteThe island boasts a rich ecosystem and is also notable for being registered as a

This column lists the natural monuments, endemic species, and endangered animals and plants of Amami Oshima.

Click here for the Amami Oshima Wildlife Exploration Tour ↓

★Fall Special SALE [Amami Oshima / Night] Thrilling Night Tour in a 4WD Jeep Single-person participation & same-day reservations OK☆ Peace of mind with a professional guide♪ (No. 90)開始時間: *Please note that start times and meeting times are subject to change without notice.所要時間Approx. 70 min.7,500 yen

★ Fall Special SALE [Amami Oshima / Night] 《Solo travelers are welcome!》 Encounter nocturnal animals in the deep, tranquil wilderness! A “Midnight Tour” (No. 91) that goes even deeper than a regular night tour.開始時間: *Please note that start times and meeting times are subject to change without notice.所要時間Approx. 70 min.8,000 yen

Special Autumn SALE 【Amami Oshima/Night】Enjoy the subtropical forest! Jungle Night Tour to see rare wild animals《with pickup service》（No.28)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Approx. 4 hours10,000 yen →directional marker or indicator9,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.

Click here for the Amami Oshima Wildlife Exploration Tour

Animals designated as natural monuments in Amami

Amami Oshima Island is home to several animals designated as national natural treasures.

These creatures, which have evolved uniquely over their long history, are firmly rooted in the forests and rivers of Amami. Let us take a look at the characteristics of each of them!

↓Click here↓ for more information about Amami Oshima creatures.

A pictorial guide to the rare creatures of Amami Oshima｜Includes spots where you can find endemic and endangered species!The Charm of Nature and Creatures on Amami Oshima Amami Oshima, with its clear blue ocean and rich forests, is attracting attention as a paradise of nature and creatures that are precious in the world. The island is home to many endemic and endangered species that can only be found here, and a unique ecosystem is still [...].

Lidth's jay (Garrulus lidthi)

Lidth's jay is found only on Amami Oshima and Kakaroma Island.endemic speciesand is designated as a national natural monument.

Vivid all overlapis lazuli and brownIt is a beautiful bird clad in a reddish brown coat and is a symbol of the Amami forest.

Their distinctive "gah" call is also impressive, and they are one of the most popular species for birdwatching.

Amami/Kasari Town Ose Beach/3hrs] Bird watching tour! A bird expert guide will take you to the spots popular among birdwatchers♪ (No.187)開始時間9:00 - 17:00 (including approx. 3 hours of operation)所要時間Approx. 3 hours10,000 yen

Amami/3 hours] Both children and adults will be impressed! Nature observation tour to meet wild birds in Amami Forest (No.172)開始時間: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM (Duration: approx. 3 hours)所要時間Approx. 3 hours10,000 yen

Amami/Ryugo-cho Akinatabukuro/3hrs] Bird watching tour! Let's go and see the different birds of each season☆Bird expert guide will take you to the popular spots♪ ＜with pick-up service＞ (No.188)開始時間9:00 - 17:00 (including approx. 3 hours of operation)所要時間Approx. 3 hours10,000 yen

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A Complete Guide to Bird Spots on Amami Oshima Island: Where, When, and Tips for Spotting Rufous Jays and Red-winged StintsWhy Amami Oshima Island is called a sacred place for birdwatching Amami Oshima Island, located almost halfway between Kagoshima and Okinawa prefectures, has attracted attention from Japan and abroad since it was registered as a World Natural Heritage site in 2021. Among its rich nature, birdwatchers [...].

Ryukyu rabbit

The Amami rabbit is a globally rare rabbit found only on Amami Oshima and Tokunoshima.

Country.special natural monumentdesignated as a "black" animal, with rounded ears and dark brown fur.

Because they are nocturnal,Nighttime nature toursMany travelers are impressed by their adorable appearance! Many travelers are impressed by their adorable appearance!

You may be able to see the Amami rabbit?
Click here for recommended plans ↓↓.

★Fall Special SALE [Amami Oshima / Night] Thrilling Night Tour in a 4WD Jeep Single-person participation & same-day reservations OK☆ Peace of mind with a professional guide♪ (No. 90)開始時間: *Please note that start times and meeting times are subject to change without notice.所要時間Approx. 70 min.7,500 yen

Special Autumn SALE 【Amami Oshima/6 hours】OK participation from 1 year old★Mangrove Canoe & Tropical Forest Night Safari Exploration Tour! Including pickup & drop-off] High probability of seeing the Amami rabbit owl♪ Recommended for the day of arrival (No.94)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Approx. 4 hours16,000 yen →directional marker or indicator15,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.

[Amami Oshima / Approx. 90 min.] Get Up Close to Wildlife in an Electric Vehicle! Amami Night Tour in an Ultra-Quiet Cart☆ See Amami Black Rabbits Up Close—They Won’t Run Away! 《Peace of Mind with a Guide》 (No. 154)開始時間18:00~21:30
*Depends on the time of year.所要時間Approx. 90 min.8,250 yen

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What is the Amami rabbit? Local staff thoroughly explains night tours and ecology to increase the chances of encountering Amami Oshima.I want to see it at least once! What is the Amami Oshima Amami rabbit? Amami Oshima Island is called the "Galapagos of the Orient" and is home to many plants and animals that can only be observed here. Among them, the "Amami rabbit" is especially popular. The Amami rabbit [...].

roseroot (Rhodiola rosea)

The Amami Yamashigi is a bird species endemic to the Amami Archipelago and designated as a national protected species.

that would be lost in the fallen leaves of the forest.Protective color feathersand is one of the most difficult creatures to find because it often stays still in the forest.

They are often active at night and are very lucky to be encountered in a quiet forest!

Ootora thrush (Turdus viscivorus)

The Otoratsugumi is endemic to Amami Oshima and is designated as a national natural treasure.

Hoy, hoy."distinctive cry (esp. of an animal)The sound of the bird's call echoes through the forest, and many birdwatchers come to the park to hear it.

They are very wary and rarely show themselves, but it is a moving experience just to hear their cries.

Amami Ishikawa's frog (Odorrana amamiensis)

Amami ishikawa frogs live on Amami Oshima and Tokunoshima Island.One of the largest frogs in Japanand is designated as a national natural monument.

Beautiful emerald green and gold mottled pattern,The most beautiful frog in the world.It is also sometimes referred to as

They live in the forests along the clear streams, and you have a chance to see them during nighttime observation tours!

Plants designated as natural monuments in Amami

In the rich subtropical forests of Amami Oshima, endemic plants and those designated as natural monuments also grow wild.

The world of plants as well as animals is full of charm unique to Amami.

Click here for popular walking tours on Amami Oshima ↓

Trekking and mangrove canoeing in a small group in the Kinsaku Primeval Forest, a World Natural Heritage site (with a certified guide and pick-up service) (No.59)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Approx. 8 hours12,000 yen →directional marker or indicator11,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.

Special Autumn SALE 【Amami Oshima/Half Day】You can charter a private boat! Waterfall Walk & Mangrove Canoe Tour to be healed in mysterious space 《small group, free cancellation until 2 days before》（No.75）.開始時間9:00-12:30 / 14:00-17:30所要時間Approx. 3 hours and 30 minutes10,300 yen →directional marker or indicator8,800suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.

Special Autumn SALE [Amami Oshima/Half Day] Participation from 1 year old OK★World Heritage Site "Kinsaku Primeval Forest" Walking Tour An experience beyond your imagination awaits you♪ (No.93)開始時間Morning / Afternoon (negotiable)所要時間Approx. 3 hours8,000 yen →directional marker or indicator7,500suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.

Click here for the ranking of popular tours to Amami Oshima Island

jack-in-the-pulpit

Amami tenansho is a member of the taro family and is endemic to Amami Oshima.

Unique shape.Buddha's flame bractsis distinctive, and blooms quietly in the forest.

It is listed on the Ministry of the Environment's Red List, and its population is limited, so if you see it, please take good care of it.

Amami-Denda

Amami denda is a type of fern, endemic to the moist forest environment of Amami Oshima.

Its unique leaf shape is beautiful and can be seen while walking through the virgin forest.

If you are a plant fan, this is one species you should definitely pay attention to and look for!

List of endemic species in Amami Oshima!
Creatures that can only be found here

Amami-Oshima Island has evolved uniquely due to its geographic isolation from the continent for a long period of time.Island with a very large number of endemic speciesIt is.

A wide variety of endemic species have been identified, including mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, and plants.

Click here for wildlife exploration tours on Amami Oshima ↓

Kagoshima/Amami Oshima] Night tour by 4WD jeep to a forest inhabited by natural monuments (No.56)開始時間Varies depending on the season.所要時間About 2 to 3 hours8,000 yen

Amami Oshima] A must-see for camera lovers! A night tour specializing in photography where you can take pictures of rare animals (No.134)開始時間: *Please note that start times and meeting times are subject to change without notice.所要時間Approx. 2 hours18,000 yen

[Amami Oshima / Approx. 90 min.] Get Up Close to Wildlife in an Electric Vehicle! Amami Night Tour in an Ultra-Quiet Cart☆ See Amami Black Rabbits Up Close—They Won’t Run Away! 《Peace of Mind with a Guide》 (No. 154)開始時間18:00~21:30
*Depends on the time of year.所要時間Approx. 90 min.8,250 yen

Click here for the Amami Oshima Wildlife Exploration Tour

Endemic animals

Endemic animal species include the Amami rabbit, theRyukyu long-haired rat (Diplothrix legata)The most typical example is the Amami spiny rat.

The kenagane rat is designated as a national natural treasure and is a nocturnal animal with a long tail and large eyes.

The Amami spiny rat is also a rare species found only on Amami Oshima and Tokunoshima, and is listed as an endangered species.

You may be able to see the Amami rabbit?
Click here for recommended plans ↓↓.

★Fall Special SALE [Amami Oshima / Night] Thrilling Night Tour in a 4WD Jeep Single-person participation & same-day reservations OK☆ Peace of mind with a professional guide♪ (No. 90)開始時間: *Please note that start times and meeting times are subject to change without notice.所要時間Approx. 70 min.7,500 yen

Special Autumn SALE 【Amami Oshima/6 hours】OK participation from 1 year old★Mangrove Canoe & Tropical Forest Night Safari Exploration Tour! Including pickup & drop-off] High probability of seeing the Amami rabbit owl♪ Recommended for the day of arrival (No.94)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Approx. 4 hours16,000 yen →directional marker or indicator15,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.

[Amami Oshima / Approx. 90 min.] Get Up Close to Wildlife in an Electric Vehicle! Amami Night Tour in an Ultra-Quiet Cart☆ See Amami Black Rabbits Up Close—They Won’t Run Away! 《Peace of Mind with a Guide》 (No. 154)開始時間18:00~21:30
*Depends on the time of year.所要時間Approx. 90 min.8,250 yen

Endemic birds

Among birds, the Lidth's jay, the Great spotted woodpecker, and the Amami mountain snipe are representative endemic species and subspecies of birds in Amami.

Red-winged blackbirds and crow pigeons are also natural treasures that inhabit the Amami Islands,bird-watchingIt has become a popular target for

Take your binoculars out into the woods!

Click here for popular birdwatching spots on Amami Oshima ↓

Amami/Kasari Town Ose Beach/3hrs] Bird watching tour! A bird expert guide will take you to the spots popular among birdwatchers♪ (No.187)開始時間9:00 - 17:00 (including approx. 3 hours of operation)所要時間Approx. 3 hours10,000 yen

Amami/3 hours] Both children and adults will be impressed! Nature observation tour to meet wild birds in Amami Forest (No.172)開始時間: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM (Duration: approx. 3 hours)所要時間Approx. 3 hours10,000 yen

Amami/Ryugo-cho Akinatabukuro/3hrs] Bird watching tour! Let's go and see the different birds of each season☆Bird expert guide will take you to the popular spots♪ ＜with pick-up service＞ (No.188)開始時間9:00 - 17:00 (including approx. 3 hours of operation)所要時間Approx. 3 hours10,000 yen

Endemic plants

In the field of plants, many endemic species have been identified on Amami Oshima.

Amami tennansho and amami denda, as well as varieties of amami fern and Ryukyu pine,Vegetation unique to the subtropicsis spreading.

One of the charms of Amami is that when walking through the primeval forests, one can encounter one plant after another that cannot be seen on the mainland.

An endangered species on Amami Oshima!
Lives Protected

There are many creatures on Amami Oshima that are designated as endangered species, and conservation efforts are actively underway.

The registration of the area as a World Natural Heritage site has brought even more attention to the area.

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A complete guide to the Amami Owl Museum "Quru Guru! Thorough introduction of goods, access, and attractionsWhat Kind of Facility Is the Amami Black Rabbit Museum “Quru Guru”? The Amami Black Rabbit Museum “Quru Guru” is a museum dedicated to introducing the Amami black rabbit, a National Special Natural Monument found exclusively on Amami Ōshima […]

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Major animals listed as endangered

The Amami black-crowned night heron, Amami Japanese pond frog, Amami spiny rat, and the Ootora thrush are among those listed by the Ministry of the Environment.Red List (e.g. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species)It is listed as an endangered species in the

Once an invasive species.mongooseHowever, after many years of extermination efforts, the disease has now been almost completely eradicated.

The populations of endemic species are gradually recovering, too.

Current Status of Protection Activities

On Amami Oshima Island, the Ministry of the Environment, Kagoshima Prefecture, and local NPOs continue to work together to protect rare species.

In addition to measures against invasive species,Roadkill CountermeasuresRoad signs and speed restrictions are also being installed as

When you visit, be sure to be considerate of living creatures and face nature.

Meet the creatures on Amami Oshima Island
Three recommended spots

If you want to encounter natural monuments and endemic species on Amami Oshima, visit spots rich in nature.

By going around with an expert guide, you will have a better chance of seeing more creatures!

Popular free plan with chartered guide

Kagoshima/Amami】One person is welcome☆Let's visit spots recommended by a local guide! Free half-day private tour for one group 《No cancellation fee until 3 days before departure》（No.79）.開始時間9:00-12:00 / 13:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours7,500 yen

Kagoshima/Amami】One guest is welcome☆Selected spots in Amami according to your request!開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours15,000 yen

[Amami Oshima / 1 Day / Private Charter] Customizable Itinerary! Enjoy Amami Oshima to the Fullest with This Flexible Plan☆ The possibilities are endless♪ Let’s explore and have fun while driving! (No. 66)開始時間9:00-16:30所要時間Approx. 7~8 hours20,000 yen

Click here for popular free plans for Amami Oshima Island

Kanasakubara virgin forest

Kinsakubaru Wilderness Forest, located near Kasari-cho, Amami City, is one of the best natural spots in Amami with a subtropical virgin forest.

Large tree of the lizard's hegoThe fantastic landscape is lined with a variety of species, and there is a chance to see endemic species such as the Lidth's jay and the Amami yamashigi.

For environmental protection reasons, it is mandatory to be accompanied by a guide.

Basic information on the Kanasakubara Wilderness Forest

Address: Oaza Asato, Naze, Amami-shi, Kagoshima 894-0773
Access: 1 hour and 15 minutes by car from Amami Airport

Kanasakubara Wilderness Forest - Amami-Oshima-. Kinsaku-genbaru Forest is one of the popular tourist spots on Amami Oshima Island. It takes about 40 minutes by car from Amami City Hall. Since it is difficult to access by public transportation, we recommend that you join a tour. Subtropical plants such as the giant fern Lizard Hego are native to the area, which is also home to the Amami rabbit, a special natural treasure, and the Kinobori lizard, a rare creature.

Held in the Kinsaku Genbaru Forest!
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[Amami Oshima / Evening] Night Drive Tour of the Primeval Forest with a Certified Eco-Tour Guide! Explore the mystical forest, which takes on a different atmosphere at night! (Includes pickup and drop-off in Naze City) (No. 117)開始時間16:00-19:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours10,000 yen

Amami Oshima/6 hours] World Natural Heritage Kinsaku Primeval Forest Trekking & Night Tour☆Amami experience to be enjoyed in the morning and at night! Small group/with pick-up/drop-off (No.226)開始時間Trekking: 9:00 / Night tour: 19:00所要時間: 6 hours (3 hours + 3 hours)15,000 yen

More information about tours in the Kinsaku Wilderness Forest

Kinsakubaru Wilderness Exploration Tour Let's easily enjoy the beautiful sea of Amami Oshima, known as "Amami Blue"! You can see coral, tropical fish, and even sea turtles in the clear ocean! (18 total) アクティビティの詳細を見る

Amami Nature Observation Forest

Amami Nature Observation Forest, located in Nase, Amami City, is a facility where visitors can easily learn about the nature and creatures of Amami.

While walking along the well-maintained promenade, visitors can also enjoy exhibits on Amami's flora and fauna.

Families and beginners in nature observationIt is also a recommended spot for its easy accessibility.

Basic information about Amami Nature Observation Forest

Address: 1233-3, Ryugo, Ryugo Town, Oshima County, Kagoshima Prefecture, 894-0321
Access: 35 minutes by car from Amami Airport

Amami Nature Observation Forest - Amami Oshima-. Amami Nature Observation Forest is a 40-minute drive from Naze, Amami City, and a 35-minute drive from Amami Airport, and is a valuable facility where visitors can observe a wide variety of flora and fauna of Amami Oshima. There is an observatory in the park with a panoramic view of Ryugo Bay and the Pacific Ocean via the Amami Crater. The attraction of the park is not only the view but also the abundant nature that can be enjoyed throughout the year, such as cherry blossoms in the spring and fireflies in the summer.

Sumiyoshi mangrove forest

The Sumiyosho mangrove forest stretches in Sumiyosho Town,One of the largest in JapanIt is a mangrove forest that boasts of

While canoeing through the forest, visitors can observe the creatures that live in the mangroves up close.

The mudflats are home to many creatures that are unique to this area, such as the Blue-footed Lemur and the Southern Flying Goby, allowing you to experience the richness of nature!

Let's Observe Rare Animals!
Recommended night tours in Amami Oshima

On Amami Oshima, night tours to spot creatures that can only be seen at night are very popular!

Amami rabbit, Amami spiny rat, etc,Chance to meet rare nocturnal speciesThere are

Expert guides will accompany you and help you encounter nature while taking care of your safety.

↓Click here for popular night tours.

Amami Oshima/small group] 100% encounter rate continues★Let's go looking for the Amami rabbit by 4WD jeep! Night Safari Tour★Okay from 1 person (No.1)開始時間18:00-21:30
*Varies depending on the time of year.所要時間Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes8,000 yen

Special Autumn SALE 【Amami Oshima/Night】Enjoy the subtropical forest! Jungle Night Tour to see rare wild animals《with pickup service》（No.28)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Approx. 4 hours10,000 yen →directional marker or indicator9,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.

Kagoshima/Amami Oshima] Night tour by 4WD jeep to a forest inhabited by natural monuments (No.56)開始時間Varies depending on the season.所要時間About 2 to 3 hours8,000 yen

For more information about night tours, click here↓.

Amami Oshima Night Tour Visit the jungle at night on Amami Oshima Island! You can enjoy the different appearance of the jungle from the daytime, various creatures including the Amami rabbit, and the beautiful starry sky. (33 total) アクティビティの詳細を見る

on the natural monuments of Amami-Oshima Island.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

summary

Amami Oshima Island is home to the Rurikake Jay and the Amami Owl Rabbit, among others.Natural Monuments, Endemic Species, Endangered SpeciesThe island boasts one of the greatest biodiversity in Japan, with a large number of

Its natural value has been recognized once again by the world with its registration as a World Natural Heritage site in 2021.

When visiting the island, please enjoy encounters with creatures found only on Amami while taking care of the natural environment!

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20 Recommended Sightseeing Spots on Amami Oshima! Discover a Journey Through Nature, Power Spots, the Ocean, and CultureRegistered as a World Heritage Site What is Amami Oshima, an island rich in nature? Amami Oshima Island is one of the most nature-rich islands in Japan, located in Kagoshima Prefecture. Amami Oshima, Tokunoshima, Northern Okinawa and Iriomotejima" will be registered as a World Natural Heritage site in 2021, attracting much attention. With a subtropical climate [...].

Kinsakuhara Wilderness Forest is not allowed without a guide! Amami-Oshima・How to walk in the forest and the secret of cheap tours and reservationsKinsaku Primeval Forest, an ancient forest on Amami Oshima Island Amami Oshima Island, which was registered as a World Natural Heritage site in 2021, is called the ”Galapagos of the Orient” and is home to many endemic species that are rarely seen in other areas. Among them, the Kanasakuhara Primeval Forest is one of the most beautiful and unique forests in the Amami Oshima sub [...].