SUI TAXI · CENTRAL OKINAWA
Bios Hill Quietly Blending into the Subtropical Forest.
Uruma ｜ Subtropical Nature Park ｜ Lake Boat Cruise & Water Buffalo Cart
A Nature-Based Theme Park Where Subtropical Life Comes Alive.
Bios Hill is a nature theme park in Ishikawa, Uruma, that harnesses the subtropical environment in its natural state. "Bios" means "life" in Greek, and true to its name, this beloved place allows visitors to experience Okinawa's rich ecosystem in its entirety. Rather than an artificially arranged theme park, its design utilizing original natural environments—subtropical forest, lake, and wetlands—creates a unique appeal found nowhere else.
One of the park's highlights is the lake boat cruise. Slowly cruising a quiet lake where tropical plants are reflected on the surface gives a total immersive feeling of being enveloped by subtropical forest. With the park's on-site narration, you can observe mangroves, aquatic plants, and ferns growing along the lakeshore up close. Early morning is when kingfishers and herons are most active, making it a well-known birdwatching spot.
The water buffalo cart tour of the park is also a popular activity. Riding the slowly plodding water buffalo cart through dappled subtropical light is also an opportunity to connect with Okinawa's traditional way of life. Canoe and banana boat water activities are also plentiful, especially popular with families with children aged 6 and up. About 45 minutes from Naha. Admission is ¥2,200 for adults.
Lake boat cruise. Touring a quiet lake where the subtropical forest is mirrored on the water.
Highlights of Bios Hill
The walking trails inside the park wind through green tunnels of tropical plants, delightful to stroll through on their own. You can feel the subtropical ecosystem firsthand—Okinawan endemic ferns, giant tree ferns, and the massive roots of banyan trees clinging to the earth—in ways no textbook can convey. The otherworldly landscape created by the huge trunks of tree ferns is also a popular photo spot, and many visitors stop here to take pictures.
The park's café and restaurant offer Okinawa soba and island vegetable lunches, while smoothies and desserts using natural Okinawan ingredients are also popular. The shop stocks original goods inspired by Okinawa's nature and products from local farmers, making shopping a pleasure too. Depending on the season, firefly-watching tours and stargazing events may be held, so checking the schedule before your visit is recommended.
Touring the park by water buffalo cart. A leisurely Okinawan pace.
A walking trail canopied by tropical plants. A green tunnel of Okinawa-endemic flora.
Bios Hill by Taxi
From Naha to Bios Hill is about 45 minutes via expressway. Allow 2–3 hours to enjoy the lake boat cruise, water buffalo cart, and trail walk. The "Central Nature Course (6–7 hours)" ¥42,000– combined with Southeast Botanical Gardens (about 20 minutes by car) is a popular course for experiencing Okinawa's subtropical nature all day. The "Central Full Course" combining Kaichu-doro and Kahobanta and other east-coast Uruma spots is also well-received.
Bios Hill is difficult to access by bus or train, so a rental car or charter taxi is the practical means of transport. With SUI TAXI, the driver waits in the parking lot during the boat cruise and canoe, so you can fully enjoy the activities. We provide an environment where you can immerse yourself in Okinawa's nature without worrying about the return journey.
— Advance Booking Recommended for the Lake Boat Cruise: The lake boat cruise at Bios Hill can get busy during certain seasons. During Golden Week and summer vacation in particular, same-day reception may be crowded, so please check for advance reservations on the official website or confirm when booking a charter. Come dressed for ease of movement with sun protection.
Bios Hill Tour Fares
| Plan | Fare | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Round-trip charter from Naha (4–5 hours) | ¥28,000〜 | Up to 5 guests per vehicle. From ¥5,600 per person. Expressway tolls, parking and admission charged separately |
| Central nature course (6–7 hours, with Southeast Botanical Gardens) | ¥42,000〜 | Up to 5 guests per vehicle. From ¥8,400 per person. Expressway tolls, parking and admission charged separately |
| Naha Airport → hotels near Bios Hill (transfer) | ¥14,000〜 | Up to 5 guests per vehicle. From ¥2,800 per person. Expressway tolls included |
| hotels near Bios Hill → Naha Airport (transfer) | ¥14,000〜 | Up to 5 guests per vehicle. From ¥2,800 per person. Expressway tolls included |
Charter fares are time-based at ¥7,000 per hour (¥3,500 per additional 30 minutes booked in advance). Extensions made after departure are ¥4,200 per 30 minutes. Admission, expressway tolls and parking are charged at cost. For charters of 6 hours or more we take a 30% deposit when you book, and the balance is paid on the day. Minimum booking times depend on where you start: from 3 hours in the south and central area, 4 hours in Onna Village and 6 hours in the north, and 8 hours for trips that cross between the south and the north. Where a long transfer is involved, the transfer fare for that stretch is the floor for the price.
Location
961-30 Kadekaru, Ishikawa, Uruma
Admission
Adults ¥2,200 / Children ¥1,100
From Naha
Approx. 45 min via expressway
Activities
Lake boat, water buffalo cart, canoe, banana boat
Access Information
| Location | 961-30 Kadekaru, Ishikawa, Uruma |
| Hours | 9:00–18:00 (last admission 17:00) |
| Admission | Adults ¥2,200 / Children ¥1,100 |
| From Naha | Approx. 45 min via expressway |
| Nearby Spots | Southeast Botanical Gardens (20 min by car) · Kaichu-doro (20 min by car) |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a taxi from Naha to Bios Hill cost?
A round-trip charter of 4 to 5 hours starts from ¥28,000. That is the price for one Alphard carrying up to five guests, so with five people it works out from ¥5,600 each. Admission (¥2,200 adults, ¥1,100 children) and expressway tolls are charged separately.
How long does the park take?
The lake cruise runs about 25 minutes and the water buffalo cart about 15. Allow two to three hours including the walking trails and you will not feel rushed.
Is it worth going in the rain?
The lake cruise boats are covered, so they run in the rain. The paths turn muddy, so wear shoes you can walk in. If the weather closes in we can swap to somewhere more sheltered on the day.
Can we combine it with Southeast Botanical Gardens?
Yes, about 20 minutes apart. Seeing both properly is a 6 to 7 hour central nature course from ¥42,000.
Is it suitable for families with small children?
Infant seats, toddler seats and booster seats are provided free of charge. Please tell us the ages of your children when you book. Pushchairs fit in the luggage space.
Ready to book?
Recommended Combination Courses
Southeast Botanical Gardens
A paradise of 3,000 subtropical plant species
Stay 60 min+
Kaichu-doro
A scenic drive route with ocean on both sides
Stay 30 min
Kahobanta
Spectacular views of offshore islands from the Lucky Cliff
Stay 30 min
CAVE OKINAWA Limestone Cave
About 10 minutes from Bios Hill. A limestone cave that stays cool even in summer.
Stay 30 min+