Izu Ōshima, Volcanic island in Izu archipelago, Japan.
Izu Ōshima is a volcanic island in the Izu archipelago south of Tokyo, part of Tokyo prefecture. Mount Mihara rises from the center of the island and dominates the landscape with its active crater.
Mount Mihara erupted most recently in 1986 and forced the entire population of the island to evacuate temporarily. Residents returned after volcanic activity ceased and rebuilt their communities.
The island contains over three million camellia trees, which bloom from January through March, making it a center for traditional flower appreciation.
Ferries depart daily from Takeshiba port in Tokyo to the island and take around two hours to cross. Small planes from Chōfu airport offer a faster connection in about 25 minutes.
The black sand desert Ura-Sabaku on the island formed through volcanic eruptions and is often compared to lunar landscapes. Visitors can walk on this dark terrain that is one of a kind in Japan.
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