The zoo is famously known for its collection of 'Izu-Oshima' representative animals and its focus on local species adaptation.
The park grounds contain a large collection of camellias, with Oshima being the largest producer of Camellia oil in Japan.
The facility utilizes the natural, rugged volcanic terrain of the island to create its enclosures.
It is one of the few zoos in Japan that allows visitors to observe animals in an environment heavily influenced by the island's volcanic soil.
The park grounds feature approximately 40,000 camellia trees, making it a significant botanical site.
Oshima Park Zoo is a free-entry wildlife facility located on the volcanic island of Izu Oshima, Tokyo. The zoo is integrated into the larger Oshima Park, which encompasses expansive botanical gardens and coastal scenery. It specializes in housing fauna native to the Izu Islands and Japan, notably featuring the Oshima Cherry trees nearby. The park is renowned for its open-enclosure style that minimizes visual barriers between visitors and animals. The facility serves as both a recreational park and an educational center for local wildlife conservation. It is situated on the northeastern coast of the island, benefiting from a unique maritime climate.
The viewing area overlooking the ocean with the zoo's hillside enclosures in the foreground.
Bring comfortable walking shoes as the park covers a vast, hilly area.
Check the weather before heading out, as wind speeds on the northeastern coast can be high.
Bring your own refreshments, as dining options within the park are limited.
Do not expect a large urban zoo experience; this is a regional, nature-focused facility with limited amenities.
The zoo is closed on certain days of the week, typically Wednesdays, though this may shift seasonally.
Do not feed the animals, stay on designated paths, and refrain from loud noises near enclosures.
