Hachijo Botanical Park

In short

Hachijo Botanical Park is a park spanning over 20 hectares, located in the central part of Hachijojima Island. Opened in 1962, a wide variety of subtropical plants thrive within its natural woods that spread across a lava field. The park features the Hachijo Visitor Center and a greenhouse, and it also keeps Reeves's muntjacs, a small member of the deer family.

• ​Red pathways and black lava​​: Stroll along pathways paved with red volcanic gravel, surrounded by subtropical flowers and greenery.
• ​Subtropical plants in the greenhouse​​: Over 100 species of plants are on display, including flowers like hibiscus and fruit trees such as papaya and mango.
• ​Tokuriyama observation deck​​: Take in sweeping views of Hachijokojima Island and the western sea from the highest spot in the park.

History and Highlights

Hachijo Botanical Park is located in the central part of Hachijojima Island and spans more than 20 hectares. Hachijojima Island is blessed with abundant nature under a warm, rainy subtropical climate.

The park opened in 1962. A wide variety of subtropical plants thrive within the natural woods that grew over a field of lava. Flowers such as hibiscus and bougainvillea bloom, and many wild birds can be seen. The pathways are paved with red volcanic gravel, creating a striking contrast between the vivid flowers, green leaves, red gravel, and black lava. The park is divided into eight zones, including the "Hachijo Forest," "Japanese Forest," and "World Forest."

Reeves's muntjacs, a small member of the deer family, are raised in the park. While often thought to be wild animals of Hachijojima Island, they are not wild. Currently, they are designated an Invasive Alien Species under Japanese law.

The park also houses the Hachijo Visitor Center. This facility introduces the island's nature and culture to visitors, with staff on hand to guide guests through the island's nature and highlights. Adjacent to it is a greenhouse.

Highlights for Viewing and Experiencing

• ​See subtropical plants in the greenhouse​​: The greenhouse showcases more than 100 species of plants in total, including flowering trees like hibiscus and bougainvillea, ornamental plants such as the bottle palm and traveler's palm, and fruit trees like papaya and mango.
• ​Admire Mt. Hachijo-Fuji from the central plaza​​: The large plaza in the center of the park is planted with fan palms and Canary Island date palms, creating a tropical atmosphere. A beautiful view of Mt. Hachijo-Fuji can also be enjoyed from the plaza.
• ​Climb to the Tokuriyama observation deck​​: An observation deck sits atop Tokuriyama, a hill formed by the accumulation of particles ejected by volcanic activity. As the highest point in the botanical park, it offers an unbroken view of Hachijokojima Island and the sea to the west. From autumn through spring, the sunsets are also beautiful.

Walking Tips

Hachijo Botanical Park is about a 5-minute drive from Hachijojima Airport. At the main entrance, there is a stone sculpture shaped like Hachijojima Island. From here, it takes about a 4-minute walk to reach the visitor center and the greenhouse. Stopping by the visitor center before touring the island is a great way to learn about the island's nature and sights. The visitor center and the greenhouse are also recommended stops on rainy days.