Ōshima: Volcanic Landscapes, Camellias and Port History

If you’re looking for a hotel in Ōshima, consider your travel interests to narrow down your options: volcanic landscapes, camellias and port history offer different points of focus, while activities on Izu Ōshima add to the picture. Mihara-yama lies in the center of Izu Ōshima; Habu Port is in the wider region.

Volcanic Landscapes and Crater

Mihara-yama is an active volcano in the center of Izu Ōshima. The island’s residents revere it as “御神火様” and regard it as a symbol of the island. As well as shaping the landscape, the mountain has cultural significance.

Within the municipality, the “おはち巡りコース” trail loops around 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 specific time estimate for that section of the trail.

On the northeastern side of Mihara-yama lies Ura-Sabaku, covered in volcanic ash and scoria. While the crater route describes a trail and walking time, Ura-Sabaku draws attention to the volcanic character of the landscape.

The Ailand Center Gojinka Onsen is also located within the municipality. This natural hot spring was formed by Ōshima’s volcano.

Camellias and Gardens

The camellia garden at Tokyo Metropolitan Oshima Park is located within the municipality. It has around 3,700 plants representing about 450 cultivated varieties, as well as approximately 5,000 wild Yabutsubaki camellias. The figures distinguish cultivated varieties from wild camellias and show two aspects of the garden.

In the wider region, Tsubaki Flower Garden offers seasonal flowers, including camellias and hydrangeas; its camellia selection includes more than about 500 varieties. Along with camellia diversity, you’ll find a seasonal selection of flowers here.

Port History

In the wider region, Habu Port’s history dates back to a crater lake. A tsunami caused by the 1703 Genroku earthquake connected the lake to the sea. The port opened in 1800, after the harbor basin had been opened up. The formation of the harbor basin and the port’s later history thus follow a chronological sequence.

From the Meiji through the Shōwa period, many writers and artists visited Habu Port for sightseeing, recreation and writing, and left behind works connected to the port. An atmospheric historic townscape has been preserved to this day. The visitors, literary connections and surviving townscape offer a cultural perspective on the port.

Activities on Izu Ōshima

Diving is possible year-round on Izu Ōshima, though sea conditions and providers may vary. You can travel along a coastal road on the island by bicycle or car. Along the way, there are views of the Izu Peninsula and the sunset. These activities offer different ways to experience the island: diving and trips along the coast.

Options for getting around Izu Ōshima include bicycle and motorcycle rentals, rental cars, buses and taxis. Check current availability before your trip.

Izu Ōshima Resort Golf Club is located in the north of Izu Ōshima. The hilly golf course offers sea views. By changing the tee and green positions, its nine holes can be played as an 18-hole round. As the configuration and operations may change, it’s a good idea to check both before making specific plans.

Regional Cuisine

For Tsubaki fondue, you fry Ashitaba and fresh seafood yourself in camellia oil native to Izu Ōshima. Availability may vary by restaurant. If you plan to try the dish, check in advance whether it’s offered at your preferred location.

Discover more destinations: Shinjuku, Akiruno, Toshima, Fussa, Inagi, Hamura, Ogasawara, Oume.

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