Ōshima: Volcano, Camellias and Coastal Culture

Ōshima appeals to travelers who want to combine nature, culture and activity. The island’s attractions range from the active Mihara-yama to camellia gardens and harbor history, as well as activities on Izu Ōshima. There are destinations in the municipality itself, along with attractions in the wider island region. When choosing a holiday apartment, it helps to first decide what matters most to you: volcanic landscapes and gardens, the coast and outdoor activities, or historical impressions and local cuisine.

Volcanic Landscapes and Crater Trails

Mihara-yama is an active volcano in the center of Izu Ōshima. Island residents revere it as “御神火様” and regard it as a symbol of the island. The landscape is thus connected to a cultural significance that goes beyond the volcano’s natural form.

In the municipality, the “おはち巡りコース” trail circles the crater of Mihara-yama. It takes about 45 to 60 minutes to walk from the Mihara-yama summit entrance to the crater. This gives you a concrete reference point for planning your day; if you want to combine several interests, you can set aside this time as a separate block. Ura-Sabaku lies on the northeastern side of Mihara-yama and is covered in volcanic ash and scoria. The area around the crater and this volcanically shaped landscape offer different perspectives on the island volcano.

Another distinctive feature in the municipality is Ailand Center Gojinka Onsen, a natural hot spring formed by Ōshima’s volcano.

Camellia Gardens and Seasonal Flowers

The camellia garden at Tokyo Metropolitan Oshima Park contains about 3,700 plants across 450 cultivated varieties, as well as around 5,000 wild Yabutsubaki camellias. In the wider region, Tsubaki Flower Garden features seasonal flowers, including camellias and hydrangeas, and a variety of around 500 or more camellia species. The gardens offer different highlights: one features an extensive camellia collection alongside wild-growing plants, while the other offers seasonal flowers.

Harbor History and Local Cuisine

In the wider region, Habu Harbor tells a story in which geology and harbor development are intertwined. The harbor formed at a crater lake that was connected to the sea by a tsunami following the 1703 Genroku earthquake. After the harbor basin was opened, the harbor opened in 1800. From the Meiji through the Shōwa era, numerous writers and artists visited Habu Harbor for sightseeing, relaxation and writing, leaving behind works connected with the harbor. The area’s evocative historic buildings have been preserved to this day. The harbor’s origins are thus linked with its later role as a draw for artists and writers.

The local cuisine also offers a distinctive preparation: for Tsubaki fondue, you fry Ashitaba and fresh seafood yourself in camellia oil native to Izu Ōshima. If you plan to try this dish, check in advance for a suitable option; availability at individual restaurants may vary.

Getting Around Izu Ōshima

You can go diving year-round on Izu Ōshima, amid a landscape shaped by volcanic activity. Sea conditions and operators’ offerings may vary. To get around the island, options include rental bicycles, rental motorbikes, rental cars, buses and taxis; if you plan to use a particular mode of transport, confirm its current availability before your trip.

A coastal road on Izu Ōshima can be traveled by bicycle or car. Along the way, you can enjoy views of the Izu Peninsula and the sunset, combining the journey with a scenic experience. In the north of the island, Izu Ōshima Resort Golf Club has a hilly course with sea views. The nine holes can be played as an 18-hole round by changing the tee and green positions; as the configuration and operations may change, it is advisable to check the latest information before visiting.

Choosing the Right Holiday Apartment for Your Trip

Excursions differ in their scenery, activities and time required: the walk from the summit entrance to the crater takes about 45 to 60 minutes, while coastal drives, diving and golf offer different experiences. When choosing a holiday apartment, it helps to first prioritize the experiences that matter most to you, then compare the location of the specific listing with your plans. If you’re including activities in the wider island region, also consider the available transport options and confirm that they are currently available. This way, you can choose accommodation that suits your actual itinerary.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Chiyoda, Okutama, Ogasawara, Inagi, Nerima, Arakawa, Itabashi and Kiyose.

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