Wildlife in Amami Oshima Island
Amami Oshima is not just a beautiful subtropical island — it’s a treasure trove of rare and endangered wildlife. Many of the species here are found nowhere else on Earth. From lush forests to mangrove rivers, every corner of the island reveals something wild and wonderful.
Why Amami Oshima is a Wildlife Paradise
Amami Oshima Island has been recognized for its exceptional biodiversity and was designated a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. Located halfway between mainland Japan and Okinawa, this subtropical island is home to a remarkable number of plants and animals found nowhere else on Earth.
Separated from the continent for millions of years, Amami’s wildlife has followed its own evolutionary path. This has resulted in a remarkable number of rare and primitive creatures.
What makes Amami even more special is how accessible its nature is. You don’t need to be a scientist or a survival expert to experience it, guided night tours or mangrove kayak adventures offer safe and unforgettable ways to meet the island’s wild residents. Whether you’re an experienced wildlife watcher or just curious to see something truly different, Amami Oshima welcomes you into one of the last untouched corners of Japan’s natural world.
Top Wildlife to See in Amami Oshima
Amami rabbit
Known as a “living fossil,” the Amami rabbit is a primitive, nocturnal species that has existed on Earth for over 3 million years with little evolutionary change. It is a true icon of Amami Oshima and can only be found in the forests of this island. Thanks to successful conservation efforts in recent years, its population is slowly increasing but it remains a rare and special sight.
Habu viper
Feared by locals but crucial to the ecosystem, the Habu viper is a nocturnal and highly venomous snake in Amami region.
The risk of encountering a habu increases on warm, humid nights (typically from June to October), especially when temperatures exceed 20°C which is also when creatures like frogs are most active. If you’re exploring at night, always follow your guide’s safety instructions and wear long pants and boots.
Ryukyu long-haird rat
The Ryukyu long-haired rat is the biggest rat in Japan. It lives only in the forests of Amami Oshima, Tokunoshima, and northern Okinawa. This rare animal is nocturnal and lives in the trees. It eats nuts and fruits.
Its body is about 30 cm long, and its tail is also about 30 cm. It has long, thick fur, which makes it look very different from other rats. One fun thing about this animal is that it can walk along power lines like a tightrope to move between trees.
The best time to see this rare animal is in November, during its breeding season.
Ryukyu scops owl
This is a small owl that lives across the southern islands of Japan, including Amami Oshima. It is about 20 cm long and very light.
After sunset, you can hear its beautiful call coming from the forest. People often hear this owl every night, but it is not easy to see because it hides well in the trees.
Sometimes, the owl sits on trees next to the road or even on electric wires, so keep your eyes open during a night tour.
Amami Ishikawa’s frog
This is one of the most famous rare animals on Amami Oshima. It lives only on this island, nowhere else in the world.
The frog is nocturnal, which means it is active at night. But sometimes you can see it during the day, hiding inside tree holes in the forest.
Its body has beautiful patterns, and its call is very clear and pretty. Some people say it is the most beautiful frog in Japan in both appearance and voice.
Amami jay
The Amami jay is one of the most famous birds on Amami Oshima. It is found only on this island and some island around Amami.
This bird is easy to recognize. It has bright blue wings, a red belly, and a white beak. It is very beautiful, but its voice is loud and rough because it is a type of crow.
Amami jays are active during the day, so you might see one while walking in the forest. But sometimes, if the sunlight is strong, they look all black in the shadows. The best time to see their colors clearly is in the dim light of the forest.
At night, they sometimes sleep on power lines, so look up, you might spot one resting under the stars.
Ruddy king fisher
This beautiful red bird visits Amami Oshima every year between May and September. It is a migratory species and one of the island’s seasonal highlights.
There are actually two types of Ruddy Kingfisher found on the island. Both have bright red to purplish feathers and look like red-colored kingfishers.
These birds are active during the day, and you may see them flying through the forest, especially when driving on quiet mountain roads. During the daytime, they often rest on tree branches or power lines, so look up and you might find one napping.
This stunning bird is so iconic that it was chosen as the symbol of Link Adventures, whose logo features its shape.
Respect for Nature
Be Animal-Friendly
Always keep a respectful distance when observing animals, and avoid shining bright lights on them for long periods. Nocturnal creatures are extremely sensitive to light.
At Link Adventures, we use red lights during night tours to minimize stress on wildlife. White lights are used only briefly for observation or photography, ensuring animals are not disturbed.
No Collecting
Many of Amami’s species are endemic and legally protected. Collecting animals, insects or plants is strictly prohibited.
In recent years, illegal poaching of frogs, insects, and rare plants has become a serious threat to the island’s biodiversity. Violators can face criminal penalties so please admire nature with your eyes, not your hands.
No Touching or Feeding
Wild animals are beautiful because they remain wild. Feeding them or trying to touch them can alter their natural behavior and put them at risk. For their safe — and yours — never feed or handle wildlife.
How to Explore: Guided Tours for Wildlife Watching
The best way to experience Amami’s incredible wildlife is with a knowledgeable local guide. Many of the island’s most iconic animals are elusive and active only at night or in specific habitats. A guided tour not only increases your chances of seeing these rare creatures, but also ensures that your visit is safe and respectful to the environment.
Guides are trained to spot wildlife without disturbing them, and they understand the local terrain and weather conditions. Since Amami’s forests can be dense and unfamiliar, going with a guide helps you explore more deeply and safely.
Night Wildlife Tour
Many of Amami’s most iconic and endangered animals are nocturnal, they come alive only after the sun goes down. The famous Amami rabbit, Ryukyu scops owl, Amami spiny rat, and a variety of frogs and snakes are rarely seen during the day. To truly experience Amami’s wild side, a Wildlife Night Tour is essential.
Led by experienced local guides, this tour takes you deep into the forests and quiet backroads where nocturnal creatures roam. With the help of spotlights and trained eyes, you’ll have the chance to observe rare animals in their natural nighttime behavior. Also, You’ll learn about the island’s unique ecosystem, the challenges these species face, and how local efforts are helping protect them.
Day Time Forest Tour
While many of Amami’s animals are active at night, a forest walk during the day offers its own unique treasures. In the daylight hours, the island’s subtropical forests reveal a quieter, yet equally fascinating side of wildlife. You may encounter colorful birds such as the Amami jay or white-backed woodpecker, and if you look closely along the trails or under leaves, you might spot an newts or frogs, a rare and beautifully patterned amphibian found only in this region.
Walking through forests with a knowledgeable guide enhances the experience—many animals are well-camouflaged, and a trained eye can help you spot creatures you might otherwise miss. Moreover, guides can share insights into the delicate balance of this ecosystem and the cultural significance of the area.
The best season for daytime wildlife watching is from May to October, when temperatures are warm and animals are most active. During the cooler winter months, wildlife tends to be less visible, and some species may go into hiding.
Gallery: Wildlife Moments in Amami
