Town Symbols
The official town emblem symbolizing the rapid development of Hachijo. Arranging the two characters for Hachijo (八丈) into the shape of a bird expresses the desire for both everlasting peace and continuous development of the town. Designed and adopted in 1957.
TOWN BIRD
Akakokko (Izu Thrush)
A type of thrush indigenous to Japan living only on the Izu Islands and the Tokara Islands. It is a small, pretty bird with an average wingspan of 12 cm. which nests in broad-leafed trees and eats insects, fruits, and berries.
TOWN FLOWER
Strelitzia Reginae
Originating around South Africa's Cape of Good Hope, it belongs to the plantain family. It is more commonly known as the "bird of paradise" flower as its spectacular shape resembles that of a bird in flight.
TOWN TREE
Phoenix roebelenii
The tree originated in Indochina but cultivation in Hachijojima began in 1921, but the production was soon interrupted by the WWII, however, the postwar revival of the horticulture industry saw cultivation of Phoenix reobelenii reborn, just like the name implies - like the phoenix itself. Hachijojima is now one of the world's leading producers of Phoenix roebelenii.
TOWN FISH
Hamatobiuo (the flying fish)
Popular since the Meiji Era (1868-1912), Hamatobiuo is often chosen as the fish for an auspicious occasion. Aside from being used fresh, it is also dried and smoked, being especially prized as a souvenir. Its popular name "harbringer of spring" comes from the fact that in early spring the fish migrate through the Izu islands to spawn and it is most prevalent around Hachijojima.