OKINAWA
A couple of Orii’s flying foxes are hanging from trees.

Orii’s flying fox (Photo courtesy of Bios no Oka)

On weekends through Sunday June 27, Bios no Oka, a.k.a. Bios on the Hill, is hosting a night tour. This nature-themed park in Uruma City is recognized for its semi-tropical forest, beautiful lake and gardens with colorful flowers. A relaxing boat ride or a buffalo kart ride while enjoying the beautiful landscape may be the first thing that comes to mind.

But this park offers a lot to see, even after the sun goes down. During this night tour, you will have a chance to get on a boat and cruise around the lake while looking for beacons of fireflies. Plus, you can take a walk around the park with a tour guide to look for newts and bats lurking in the dark.

Although the tour guide is expected to give explanations only in Japanese, this will be a great opportunity to explore Okinawa’s nature at night in a safe environment. 

Come to Bios no Oka for this adventure in the dark.

A Kuroiwa’s ground gecko in the grass.

Kuroiwa’s ground gecko (Photo courtesy of Bios no Oka)

A Curtos okinawanus on a leaf.

Curtos okinawanus (Photo courtesy of Bios no Oka)

Anderson’s crocodile newt on the ground.

Anderson’s crocodile newt (Photo courtesy of Bios no Oka)

‘Bios no Oka’ night tour

  • Date: Saturday and Sunday from May 23 through June 27

  • Time: 7–9 p.m. (sign-in between 6:30-7 p.m.)

  • GPS Coordinates: 26.421795, 127.796580

  • Fees: 4,400 yen (approx. $28) for adults (junior high school age and above), 2,200 yen for those between 4 years old and elementary school age

*U.S. servicemembers and their families living in Okinawa are entitled to discounted prices (3,300 yen and 1,650 yen respectively). Showing an ID that proves one’s address is required.

*Reservation required.

*Other upcoming events: On June 28, there will be a night tour/star-gazing event. On July 11-12, a night tour with flower-viewing and stargazing will be held.

For more info and reservations, log onto here.

Shoji Kudaka is a writer based in Okinawa. Kudaka covers travel, food and culture for Stars and Stripes Okinawa. When he is not exploring the stunning local beaches or going on treks through jungles and caves, you can find him trying out new recipes he shares online and in the paper.

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