Tsubaki Camellia Park
A beautiful natural park on Oshima Island, famous for its thousands of camellia trees, offering scenic views and a peaceful escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak camellia season
Tsubaki Camellia Park
Best Time
Peak camellia season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautiful natural park on Oshima Island, famous for its thousands of camellia trees, offering scenic views and a peaceful escape.
"While the park itself is lovely, accommodations nearby have significant cleanliness and maintenance issues."
🎯 Best Camellia Viewing
Visit from late January to March for the most vibrant camellia blossoms.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the park's walking paths and natural terrain.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Camellia Blooms
Throughout the park
Witness thousands of camellia trees showcasing a stunning array of colors and varieties. The peak season is a breathtaking spectacle.
Scenic Walking Paths
Park trails
Wander through well-maintained paths offering picturesque views of the camellia groves and surrounding natural beauty.
Oshima Island Views
Coastal areas
Enjoy panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the charming island landscape from various viewpoints within the park.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Camellias
Prepare for Nature's Embrace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Best Camellia Viewing
Visit from late January to March for the most vibrant camellia blossoms.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the park's walking paths and natural terrain.
🦟 Insect Repellent
Pack repellent, especially during warmer months, as insects are common in natural settings.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking is available and often free, but can fill up during peak season.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Best Camellia Viewing
Visit from late January to March for the most vibrant camellia blossoms.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the park's walking paths and natural terrain.
🦟 Insect Repellent
Pack repellent, especially during warmer months, as insects are common in natural settings.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking is available and often free, but can fill up during peak season.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews for accommodations near Tsubaki Camellia Park are highly mixed, with many guests reporting significant issues with cleanliness, maintenance, and unexpected problems like non-functional amenities and strong odors. While some found the natural setting and potential for outdoor activities appealing, a substantial number felt the experience did not justify the cost, leading to early departures.
"As other reviews have mentioned, the plants were not well maintained and cleaned, and the kitchen had a very peculiar smell.
The pool had a water circulator-like device, but it was still quite cloudy, so we decided not to go in.
I suppose it can't be helped given the location, but
At night, hordes of insects would come flying towards the light, making it impossible to have a BBQ, lol.
However, the outdoor jacuzzi we took first thing in the morning was very comfortable, and the kids had fun running around in the spacious living room.
Despite all the issues, it was a great family trip and a memorable one."
S A
"Other reviews hadn't been good, so from the moment I arrived I had a bad feeling because the garden was overgrown with weeds.
When I went inside, it smelled bad, it seemed completely unkept, there was mysterious blood on the bed, and the toilet was so dirty I thought it might be an outdoor public toilet - I was shocked by everything.
This is the worst room I've ever stayed in.
I immediately struggled to find another hotel.
The pool was so full of trash that I couldn't even get in, so I can only say it was a shame.
It was really the worst.
I didn't even sit down, and left as soon as I'd decided on another hotel.
I'm never going back there again."
N Elgamal
"I feel like I've been scammed. It's truly disappointing.
It was so dirty and uncomfortable that I left after only an hour without staying.
Despite the high price of around 200,000-300,000 yen per night, the facility was insufficiently cleaned, the facilities were difficult to use, and there were dead insects, ants, and crickets inside the room. I've been to other glamping facilities with pools where you can rent entire buildings, and compared to them, I think this one was significantly inferior in terms of cleanliness, service, and price. It felt unkempt, and I wondered if it was run by a reputable company. Is it privately run?
I recommend that even those who have already made a reservation think twice. It may be okay for some people. Details of the issues are listed below for reference.
〇About cleaning
・It appeared that 3-4 people were cleaning until about 15 minutes before check-in. When the workers arrived, they didn't have any cleaning supplies, so it's unclear what they were doing. Maybe they just made the bed and vacuumed?
After checking in, I checked around the facility and the first thing I noticed was a large amount of mud-like dirt on the wall of Room 2. I wiped it down with the wet wipes I brought with me and it came off to some extent, so it seems like they didn't bother cleaning.
There were other stains throughout the property that would have come off with a proper wipe. There were also insect splats left on the walls and doors.
The screen door in front of the door was covered in dust, and there was a dead insect behind it. Incidentally, the dead insect was in front of the door leading to the bedroom and bathroom in Room 1.
About the Facility
About the Location
There were no signs or anything like that even after getting off the highway, and there was no sign or name anywhere on the facility itself. It was quite confusing.
About the Parking
Is it really a parking lot, or is it more of a vacant lot? Maybe they could fit seven cars if they squeezed them in somehow, but there's no well-maintained parking lot. It's just a space surrounded by grass and trees full of insects.
About the Paint
The paint on the wood floors inside the room is peeling. Depending on the location, there are about 3-5 peeling areas per square meter.
-About the Walls
There are some damaged sections of the wall. There was a hole next to the low door connecting the living room to the poolside. I wonder if the ants walking on the walls inside the facility were coming in through those gaps?
-About the Doors
Room 1 appears to have a sliding door in front of the window to offer a panoramic view, but one of the two doors was broken and wouldn't open. It seemed someone had broken it with too much force while sliding it.
-About the Bathroom
The website lists three bathrooms in the room, but only two were actually usable. The only door leading to the most beautiful-looking glass-enclosed bathroom, which was also pictured on the website, would not open no matter what we did, making it unusable.
When I checked in, I noticed that the screen door was the only one closed, which seemed strange, but I almost ignored it, thinking it was an unused door. Looking at the floor plan, I realized that it was the door leading to the bathroom. Three people, including a man, tried to open it somehow, but it was impossible. We tried to open it from the terrace door, but it was locked and wouldn't open. Incidentally, another door of the same shape (the one behind the fence near the sink in Room 2) opened just fine.
There was no phone number to contact the manager, so I had no way of asking how to open the door and had no choice but to give up. I don't know if it was dead rusty or if it was intentionally kept closed so it couldn't be used.
Other than the bathroom I couldn't open, the bathtubs were yellowish and the floors were sandy, making it feel more like a training camp than a resort.
-About the Pool
The pool itself looked nice, but the filth inside the facility made me not want to go in. The view from the terrace was beautiful.
-About the Kitchen
The kitchen smelled bad. There was a Japanese-style room next door, but the smell made me reluctant to sleep on the tatami mats.
-About Other Services
-As I've read in other reviews, I couldn't find any phone numbers for inquiries. There was something like a lodging guide, but the last page only listed the phone numbers for the fire department and gas company.
-The tablet used for check-in and check-out wouldn't turn on, so I left a note and left it there. The battery was marked as dead, and even when I plugged in the included charger, it wouldn't charge.
It was hard to believe that this facility had only been open a few months. A home where you spend 24/7 wouldn't get this dirty or damaged. Not only is there a lack of cleaning, but I'd like them to reconsider the paint and wood. The sea breeze may be the cause of rapid deterioration, but even taking that into account, this is still terrible.
If you're sensitive to bugs and dirt, I wouldn't stay here. A business hotel would be better. If you're looking for a nice resort-style accommodation, I definitely don't recommend this place.
While the bugs are unavoidable since the property is surrounded by trees, I think there's plenty of room for improvement in terms of dirt, damage, and service.
Some improvements may have already been made, but I hope these issues will be addressed and the property will be run more responsibly."
Rina Suzuki
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tsubaki Camellia Park is located on Oshima Island. Access typically involves taking a ferry from Tokyo or other coastal ports to Oshima, followed by local transportation like buses or taxis to reach the park.
Yes, parking is generally available at the park, and it's often free. However, during peak camellia season, parking lots can fill up quickly.
Oshima Island is known for cycling, and Tsubaki Camellia Park is accessible by bike. Many visitors enjoy exploring the island's scenic routes, including areas with camellias.
While buses and taxis are available, renting a car or bicycle offers the most flexibility for exploring Oshima Island and reaching various attractions like Tsubaki Camellia Park.
Some visitors have noted that signage can be inconsistent, especially after exiting the highway. It's advisable to use GPS or a map to navigate to the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Tsubaki Camellia Park itself is generally free, allowing visitors to enjoy the camellia blooms and natural scenery without an admission fee.
The park is typically open year-round during daylight hours, allowing for flexible visits. However, specific facilities within or near the park might have their own operating schedules.
No, the camellia gardens within Tsubaki Camellia Park are usually accessible without an entrance fee, making it a great free attraction.
Yes, the park is accessible year-round, but the camellia blooms are most spectacular from late January to March. Visiting during other times offers a different, but still pleasant, natural experience.
While not always advertised widely online, local events or festivals related to camellias might occur during the peak season. Checking local tourism information closer to your visit is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for areas with dense clusters of camellias, scenic viewpoints overlooking the ocean, and the walking paths lined with flowers. The contrast of the vibrant blooms against the natural landscape is ideal.
Morning light can be beautiful for photography, offering softer light and fewer crowds. However, be mindful of dew on the petals.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or park management before flying a drone to ensure compliance with any restrictions.
A camera with good macro capabilities is excellent for capturing the intricate details of camellia flowers. A wide-angle lens is useful for landscape shots of the park and island.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting. However, the peak bloom season itself provides the most photogenic subjects.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
The main activity is enjoying the camellia flowers, walking the scenic paths, and taking in the island views. Some areas might offer picnic spots or relaxation areas.
Basic facilities like restrooms are usually available. Information on cafes or dining options within the park itself is limited, so it's advisable to check local listings for nearby eateries.
Yes, the park's natural setting makes it a pleasant spot for a picnic. However, be sure to clean up after yourself and dispose of trash properly.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Depending on the season, bring layers of clothing, a hat, and sunscreen. Insect repellent is also recommended.
While some main paths might be accessible, the natural terrain can be uneven. It's best to inquire about specific accessibility details if needed.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Some accommodations on Oshima Island, potentially near the park, offer family-friendly amenities like pools and BBQ areas. However, reviews indicate that the maintenance and cleanliness of these facilities can be inconsistent, so it's wise to manage expectations. Packing snacks and drinks is recommended, as on-site facilities might be limited.
🌸 Flower Enthusiasts
Beyond the park, Oshima Island itself is known for its camellia heritage. Exploring the island by bike or car allows you to discover more camellia-lined roads and scenic spots. If you're visiting during the off-season, the park still offers a pleasant natural environment, but the floral display will be less dramatic.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Camellia
Beyond the visual beauty, the camellia holds significance in Japanese art, literature, and even cuisine. The oil extracted from camellia seeds is a prized natural cosmetic and hair care ingredient, a tradition that has been passed down through generations. While the park itself is primarily a place to admire the flowers, understanding their cultural importance adds another layer to the visitor experience.
Many visitors come to Oshima specifically for the camellias, making Tsubaki Camellia Park a must-visit destination for flower enthusiasts. The sheer volume and variety of camellias create a truly immersive experience, with petals often carpeting the ground after a strong bloom.
Exploring Oshima Island
Cycling is a popular way to get around Oshima, allowing for a more intimate connection with the island's natural beauty. The roads are often scenic, and you can easily incorporate a visit to the camellia park into a longer cycling route. Some accommodations on the island offer amenities like pools and BBQs, though reviews suggest varying levels of maintenance and cleanliness.
When planning your visit, consider how Tsubaki Camellia Park fits into a broader exploration of Oshima. The island's natural environment is a significant draw, and embracing activities like cycling or simply enjoying the coastal air can enhance your overall experience.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit