It is the observatory with the best view in Amami Oshima (probably) and is located at an altitude of 415 meters above sea level.

The observatory is a rather cute mushroom-shaped building, but a superb view awaits you on the top floor.

The top floor offers a superb view of the Oshima Strait with its Rias coast and beautiful coral reefs, the island of Kakeroma floating beyond it, and the townscape of Koniya.

The gradation of colors in the crystal clear ocean contrasts beautifully with the deep green of the mountains.

On a clear day, you can see a wonderful sunset that turns the whole area orange.

The fantastic sight of the intricate silhouettes of the coastline is also a must-see. (Note that after dusk, the area becomes pitch-dark).

It takes about 5 minutes from the parking lot to get to the observation deck, which is up a luxuriant mountain path with trees and grass. It is a little bit scary because there are signs saying “Beware of Habu vipers!

In fact, there are bamboo sticks at the entrance to protect against habu vipers, but there are only two of them, so the first one to get in must be the first one to get out!

Learn more about

Spot Details

Name Kochiyama Observatory
Address Kunetsu, Setouchi-cho, Oshima-gun, Kagoshima
Access 1 hour and 40 minutes by car from Amami Airport, 70 minutes by car from Naze
TEL 0997-72-1115
Open 24 Hours
Closed Open 365 days per year
Price Free
Parking Available/Non Charge (10cars)
URL

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