Amami-Oshima World Heritage Conservation Center
Surround yourself in the flurry of life at a museum that
lets you explore the fields of Amami Oshima
About us
The Amami-Oshima
World Heritage
Conservation Center
Experience the forests of Amami Oshima and observe its inhabitants in field replicas that make you feel as though you were out walking the field, then learn about efforts and rules to conserve the natural environment of Amami Oshima at this center.
ExperienceExperience the Magic of Amami-Oshima at the Facilities!
This island, covered by a subtropical forest, harbors a multitude of unique living creatures that exist nowhere else on Earth. By recreating the environment of the forests on Amami-Oshima Island and allowing visitors to experience the daily changes through the sounds of animals, the sound of rain, and variations in brightness, one can gain a deeper understanding of why these species are exclusive to this island. It provides detailed explanations of the habitats and the flora and fauna that inhabit them.
Learn More
Discover More About Amami Oshima
The land area of the four Ryukyu Islands, located at the southern end of the Japanese archipelago, has been registered as a Natural World Heritage Site.
Although the area of the Natural World Heritage Site is 42,698ha, less than 0.5% of Japan,
there are 95 globally threatened species and 75 of them are endemic to these areas.
With 1,881 vascular plants, it is a region with outstanding biodiversity even in Japan, one of the world's biodiversity hotspots.
KnowledgeExplore the Natural Wonders of Amami-Oshima and the Amami Islands
Located in the subtropics, the Amami Islands have a warm climate with plenty of rainfall throughout the year.
Here, we present the characteristics of these lush natural islands surrounded by beautiful coral reefs.
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Amamigunto National Park
Located in the southernmost part of Kagoshima Prefecture, Amamigunto National Park offers a cultural landscape born from the relationship between humans and nature, allowing visitors to experience the history and lifestyle of the people who lived here.
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Introduction to Amami Islands
The Amami Islands include eight inhabited islands from Amami-Oshima to Yorojima, and are inhabited by many species rare throughout the world. The unique cultures of each island are also part of the charm.
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The Topography and Climate of Amami-Oshima
Amami-Oshima, which occupies less than 0.5% of Japan's area, has diverse environments created by factors such as topography and climate, and is home to many endemic species.
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The Seasons of Amami-Oshima
The mountains of Amami-Oshima transform monthly, letting visitors view a variety seasonal flowers in bloom. Mt. Yuwandake is especially popular, as it offers views of Oshima Strait from its summit.
MapAmami Oshima Sightseeing Map
Introducing the famous spots of Amami-Oshima!
Press the yellow pin from 1 to 10 to see it below.
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1Ose Beach
Ose Beach is a hidden gem where you can see many varieties of wild birds. It is also a great place to take in views of the sea while cycling.
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2Amamigunto National Park Visitor Center
Amami Nature Observation Forest
A vast forest park. Harnessing the beauty of its natural surroundings, this park is built with paths that offer a glimpse of Amami's unique flora and fauna as you stroll.
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3Kinsakubaru National Forest
A primeval forest lush in nature where visitors can encounter small animals and natural national forests where ferns such as Cyathea lepifera grow.
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4Sumiyo Mangrove Forest
Sumiyo Mangrove Forest is the second largest in Japan. Here, you can sightsee along waterways in a canoe, making this the top tourist destination in Amami.
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5Honohoshi Coast
Honohoshi Coast faces the Pacific Ocean with waves and a rugged coastline. The rocks and gravel on the beach have been smoothed into pebbles by the pounding surf.
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6Amami Wildlife Conservation Center
The Amami Wildlife Conservation Center showcases the unique ecosystems of each island and the abundant lives of its inhabitants, letting visitors learn about the importance of nature throughout the Amami Islands themselves.
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7Materiya Falls
A stunning waterfall where pristine water from the forest cascades down into the basin below. The area where Materiya Falls is located is included in the Natural World Heritage site.
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8Mt. Yuwandake
Mt. Yuwandake stands 694 meters. Near the summit is a shrine where you can observe many precious flora and fauna that inhabit the area.
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9Akatsuchiyama Observatory
This observatory offers a panoramic view of Mt. Yuwandake, the highest peak in Amami, and is a scenic spot with a parking lot and a small covered rest area. -
10The View of the Oshima Strait from Yuidake Observatory
From its high position, this observatory commands a view of the Oshima Strait, selected as one of the top ten scenic views of Amami. Take in vast, breathtaking sceneries here.
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ConceptThe Concept Behind Our Logo
"Experience the Forests of Amami—Wildlife of the Castanopsis Forest The logo depicts the wildlife supported by the castanopsis tree, representing the diversity of Amami. Its shape is that of the Amami-Oshima World Heritage Conservation Center building, showing that this museum lets you explore different fields where you can discover the lush forests covering Amami and encounter their wild inhabitants."
