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.

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A pictorial guide to the rare creatures of Amami Oshima｜Includes spots where you can find endemic and endangered species!Contents1 Attractions of nature and creatures of Amami Oshima2 Why was Amami Oshima registered as a World Natural Heritage site2.1 Amami Oshima's topography2.2 Unique ecosystem nurtured by the climate3 Are there carnivores on Amami Oshima4 Endemic and endangered species of Amami Oshima4.1 Mammals4.2 Birds4 [...].

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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!

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.

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?
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Spring Special SALE 【Amami Oshima/Night】4WD Jeep Night Tour <Continuing 100% encounter rate! Amami Owl Course＞One-person tours and same-day reservations OK☆Safe with professional guides♪ (No.90)開始時間Varies depending on the time of the year.所要時間Approx. 70 min.7,500 yen →directional marker or indicator7,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.

Special Spring SALE 【Amami Oshima/6 hours】OK from 1 year old★Mangrove Canoe & Tropical Forest Night Safari Exploration Tour! Including pick-up & 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 Island / 90 minutes】Tour quietly by electric car! The quiet night tour that brings you closest to the wild☆《With an accompanying guide, you can rest assured♪》 Eco & moving night safari experience to observe the Amami rabbit and wild animals (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.Contents1 I want to see it at least once! What is the Amami Oshima Amami rabbit? 2 Habitat of the Amami rabbit3 When you can see the Amami rabbit4 Conservation activities of the Amami rabbit4.1 Why the Amami rabbit is listed as an endangered species [...].

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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 Island/Night] Participation OK from 3 years old☆Night tour through the primeval forest with a certified eco-tour guide! A mysterious experience that differs from daytime tours 《Pickup and drop-off included》（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! (15 in 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 creatures♪
Recommended night tours in Amami Oshima

Night tours are popular on Amami Oshima Island to search for creatures that can only be seen at night♪

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.

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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 Spring SALE 【Amami Oshima/Night】Enjoy the subtropical forest! Jungle Night Tour to see rare wild animals《with pickup and drop off》（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 (Black-crowned night heron and wildlife expedition) 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. (30 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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Special feature on Amami Oshima sightseeing spots! Introducing a trip to nature, power spots, the sea, and culture!Contents1 World Heritage registration What is Amami Oshima, an island rich in nature? 2 World Heritage Areas to visit in Amami Oshima 2.1 Precious nature "Amami Oshima and Tokunoshima" 2.2 Kinsaku Primeval Forest｜Untouched Nature of Amami Oshima 3 Regular tourist spots in Amami Oshima 3.1 360 degree [...].

Kinsakuhara Wilderness Forest is not allowed without a guide! Amami-Oshima・How to walk in the forest and the secret of cheap tours and reservationsContents1 Kinsaku Primeval Forest, an ancient forest on Amami Oshima Island2 Overwhelmed by the subtropical plants of Amami Oshima! What is the Kanasakubaru virgin forest? 3 Attractions of the Kanasakubaru virgin forest3.1 1) Power spot with pristine nature3.2 2) Plants unique to the subtropical zone still remain3.3) Rare [...]...

8 recommended tours to enjoy Amami for a family vacationContents1 Let's have fun with the whole family on a trip to Amami2 How to choose a tour when playing with your family in Amami2.1 Renting a car2.2 Planning ahead of time2.3 Planning for a rainy day and a sunny day3 Perfect for a family trip! [...].