Nature paradises are scattered all around the world, each with its unique personality and atmosphere. For example, the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador, South America, are often referred to as a paradise. But did you know that Japan also has such a place? "Amami Oshima" in Kagoshima Prefecture still retains its rich natural beauty and is known as the "Eastern Galapagos Islands."
Amami Oshima is located in the middle of Kagoshima's main island and Okinawa's main island. Although the island is slightly smaller in size compared to Okinawa's main island, it boasts incredibly rich natural beauty. In 2021, it was designated as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site and has been gaining more attention. Most of the island is covered by forests, and it is renowned for its unparalleled natural resources, including Japan's second-largest mangrove forest and endangered species like the Amami rabbit.
Furthermore, the unique traditional culture nurtured in Amami Oshima is also a point of interest. Shinto rituals, Amami Oshima tsumugi silk, local cuisine, and more contribute to the island's unique cultural tapestry. The mysterious green world, including pristine forests where some of the world's most endangered flora and fauna reside, is truly a masterpiece. Let's get up close and experience the charm of Amami Oshima.
How to Access to Amami Oshima?
①From Tokyo:
Direct flight: About 2.5 hours from Haneda Airport, about 2 to 2 hours 45 minutes from Narita Airport.
Connecting flight: About 1.5 hours from Haneda Airport to Kagoshima Airport, and about 1 hour from Kagoshima Airport to Amami Oshima.
②From Kansai (Osaka/Kyoto):
Direct flight: About 1 hour 50 minutes from Itami Airport, about 2 hours from Kansai Airport.
Connecting flight: About 1 hour from Kobe Airport to Kagoshima Airport, and about 1 hour from Kagoshima Airport to Amami Oshima.
③From Kyushu (Fukuoka)：
Direct flight: About 1 hour 15 minutes from Fukuoka Airport, about 1 hour from Kagoshima Airport.
Connecting flight: About 11 hours by ferry from Kagoshima New Port.
It's recommended to use the Skyscanner to search for domestic flights in Japan to compare options and prices for getting to Amami Oshima.
12 Must-Visit Attractions on Amami Island
Ayamaru Misaki Kanko Park (あやまる岬観光公園)
Ayamaru Misaki Kanko Park is just a 10-minute drive from Amami Airport. Located in the northern part of the island, Ayamaru Cape is one of the ten scenic wonders of Amami. The name "Ayamaru" translates to "handball," and fittingly, the beach boasts a beautiful semicircular shape.
From this vantage point, you can behold the stunning gradation of the sea, where coral reefs meet the cobalt blue and emerald green waters. It's a sight worth beholding! You can also catch a glimpse of Kikai Island to the east, offering a sense of a personal connection with the sea. There is even a swimming area in the sea, equipped with showers and changing rooms for your convenience.
Around the observation deck lies Ayamaru Misaki Kanko Park, which features an array of recreational facilities, a children's sledding area, a ground-level golf course, and more. On the mountain within the park, you'll find the 'Mimusubiran Café,' where you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery while spending leisurely hours.
- Ayamaru Misaki Kanko Park (あやまる岬観光公園) Information
- Address: Kasari-cho 682, Amami City, Kagoshima Prefecture
- Phone: 0997-63-8885
- Website: https://ayamaru.amamin.jp/
Tomori Beach（土盛海岸）
The undeniable charm of Amami Island lies in its stunning coastal landscapes. Tsumori Beach stands out with its pristine white sands and emerald waters, earning it the moniker of the 'Blue Angel.'
The gentle, shallow waves make it not only perfect for swimming and snorkeling but also ideal for beachcombing to collect seashells and coral fragments. Venture a bit closer, and you'll discover a magnificent world of coral reefs. With a bit of luck, you may even spot sea turtles.
And if luck truly favors you, you might catch a glimpse of the hermit crabs designated as natural monuments taking a leisurely stroll on the beach. Tsumori Beach is conveniently situated between Amami Airport and Ayamaru Cape Tourist Park, making both places well worth a visit.
- Tomori Beach（土盛海岸）Information
- Address: Tsumori, Kasari-cho, Amami City, Kagoshima Prefecture
- Phone: 0997-63-1111
- Website: https://www.amami-tourism.org/scenery/764/
Amami City Ohama Seaside Park（大浜海浜公園）
For those seeking to witness stunning sunsets, Ohama Seaside Park is a must-visit destination. It's been recognized as one of Japan's top 100 beaches, and the sunset over the East China Sea is nothing short of spectacular.
Ohama Seaside Park is also beloved for its azure seas and white sandy shores, creating a tropical atmosphere. Along the roadside, you'll find an array of subtropical flora, including pandanus trees, banyan trees, and banana plants, contributing to the perfect tropical ambiance.
The park is also famous for bird-watching and sea turtle nesting. At the Amami Sea Life Museum, you can experience feeding the fish and turtles in the waters near Amami Island. While sea turtle nesting rates have been declining, there are still substantial annual nestings.
Another reason for its popularity is its convenient location, just a 15-minute drive from the central Namase area of Amami Island.
- Amami City Ohama Seaside Park（大浜海浜公園）Information
- Address: 701-1 Ohama, Namase Kojuku, Amami City, Kagoshima Prefecture
- Operating Hours: 09:30 AM - 06:00 PM (Last entry at 05:30 PM)
- Admission: Ocean Exhibition Hall - Adults 500 yen / Elementary to junior high school students 300 yen / Ages 3 to elementary school students 100 yen
- Phone: 0997-55-6000 (Amami Sea Life Museum)
- Website: https://www.ohama.marutani-amami.com/
Kinsakubaru Old-growth Forest（キンサクバル）
Kinsakubaru Old-growth Forest, famous as the filming location for the movie 'Godzilla,' has introduced the world to the beauty of subtropical jungles. Starting from February 2019, access to this area is allowed only when accompanied by certified eco-guides, so personal entry is not permitted.
Within this jungle reside invaluable flora and fauna, including the so-called "living fossils" such as the Amami rabbit. If you listen closely, you may hear the sounds of birds and animals never heard before, providing a precious experience that feels like a journey back in time.
Kinsakubaru is also a treasure trove of precious Japanese national natural monuments like the Ryukyu jay. Gazing upward, you may even spot the mountain cat, known as the "living fossil."
After the hike, you can enjoy lunch at a restaurant recommended by your guide. You can also experience canoeing in the mangroves and receive pre-training on how to hold paddles and basic operations. Paddling through the mangrove tunnel feels like being a hero in an adventure movie! Additionally, you can observe unique plants and creatures within the mangroves.
- Kinsakubaru Old-growth Forest (キンサクバル) Information
- Address: Asa, Namase Kinsakubaru, Amami City, Kagoshima Prefecture
- Phone: 0997-52-1111
- Website: https://www.amami-tourism.org/
Honohoshi Coast（ホノホシ海岸）
"Honohoshi Coast" is a renowned energy spot on Amami Island. This Pacific-facing coast is characterized by its turbulent waves, and the round boulders that have been sculpted by these powerful tides adorn the shore. These boulders, scoured by the relentless waves, emit a distinctive clinking sound, creating a mysterious atmosphere.
Honohoshi Coast is pristine and beautiful, offering wild landscapes and unique rock formations that differ from other coastlines on Amami Island. With fewer visitors, you can savor more secluded moments on this hidden beach.
However, it's strictly prohibited to take home these charming round stones. Locals believe that these pebbles are imbued with energy and that taking them home may bring misfortune to the collector.
- Honohoshi Coast（ホノホシ海岸）Information
- Address: Sogari, Setouchi-cho, Oshima-gun, Kagoshima Prefecture
- Phone: 0997-72-1199
- Website: https://www.amami-tourism.org/scenery/805/
Materiya Waterfall (マテリヤの滝)
The name "Materiya" is derived from the island dialect, signifying a pool illuminated by sunlight. While the surrounding area was originally a dense forest, this waterfall earned its name due to the glistening top that shines like a gem. At noon, when sunlight cascades from above, the beauty of the waterfall basin is revealed, as the name implies.
It is said that this spot has been a resting place for travelers and messengers since the days of the Ryukyu Kingdom's rule, where they found respite and healing in the presence of this waterfall. It is a place where one can truly sense the profound energy of nature. Materiya Waterfall is part of the Amami Archipelago National Park and is a designated World Natural Heritage site.
Though not particularly high, it exudes a dreamlike ambiance with the surrounding trees. During the summer, you can swim in the waterfall basin. Here, you can have a precious swimming experience in the presence of subtropical plants and the waterfall.
- Materiya Waterfall（マテリヤの滝）Information
- Address: Nae, Yamato-mura, Oshima-gun, Kagoshima Prefecture
- Phone: 0997-57-2111
- Website: https://amami.org/sightseeing/materia
Kuroshio Forest Mangrove Park（黒潮の森 マングローブパーク）
The "Kuroshio Forest Mangrove Park" surrounds the Yaku Shogawa and Sumoto-gawa river mouths in Sumoto-cho, located in the central part of Amami Island. Here, you'll find Japan's second-largest primeval mangrove forest.
In addition to rest areas, shops, and restaurants where you can relax during your journey, there are plenty of other activities to help you fully embrace Amami's natural beauty. Ascend to the observation deck to admire the magnificent views of the primeval mangrove forest and the river.
The mangrove canoe experience allows you to explore the specially protected area of the Mangrove National Park. With professional guides accompanying you, even beginners can enjoy canoeing with confidence.
Furthermore, you can opt for paid experiences, such as canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), ground golf, segway tours, and more. In addition to learning about the mangrove, there is an exhibition area where you can witness the precious sight of endangered Ryukyu Ayu fish swimming.
- Kuroshio Forest Mangrove Park（黒潮の森 マングローブパーク）Information
- Address: Ichiyara, Sumoto-cho, Amami City, Kagoshima Prefecture
- Public Transportation:
- Get off at the "Mangrove Park Mae" bus stop on the direction of Furuya.
- Get off at the "Nishinakama" bus stop on the direction of Nishinakama, then a 7-minute walk.
- Price: Entrance Fee: 500 yen (includes ground golf); Canoe Experience: 2,000 yen
- Phone: 0997-56-3355
- Website: https://www.mangrovepark.com/
Amami Park (奄美パーク)
"Amami Park," located just a 5-minute drive from Amami Airport, is a facility that provides insights into the charm of Amami by repurposing the old site of an airline company. Through various exhibits and videos, you can learn about Amami's nature, culture, history, industries, and the way of life of its people.
Within the dome-shaped roof of Amami-no-Sato, besides exhibitions that recreate the sea and forests of Amami, there are displays and theaters where you can experience traditional lifestyles.
Additionally, the park houses the Tanaka Isson Memorial Museum, showcasing the works of Japanese painter Tanaka Isson, who depicted Amami's nature and is known as a genius painter. Ikko's numerous masterpieces are sure to stimulate your senses.
A multi-purpose square and an outdoor stage host various events. There are also observation decks and walking paths where you can leisurely stroll.
- Amami Park (奄美パーク) / Tanaka Isson Memorial Museum Information
- Address: Setoda, Kasari-cho, Amami City, Kagoshima Prefecture
- Public Transportation: Take a bus from Amami Airport to "奄美パーク" bus stop
- Price: Amami-no-Sato: 310 yen, Tanaka Ikko Memorial Art Museum: 520 yen, Combined Ticket: 630 yen
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (July and August: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, last entry 30 minutes before closing)
- Closed: Every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month (normal operation from April 29 to May 5, July 21 to August 31, and December 30 to January 3)
- Phone: 0997-55-2333
- Website: https://amamipark.com/
Kurasaki Beach (倉崎海岸)
In the "Amami Meteorite Crater," known as Japan's first identified meteorite crater, Kurasaki Beach is considered the most beautiful with its dreamy sea colors. You can see coral reefs scattered in the sandy areas, offering a unique sight.
Kurasaki Beach, visited daily by locals and tourists alike, boasts breathtaking sea hues, white sandy shores, and a coast adorned with white coral fragments. Due to its shallow and inland waters, the sea is relatively calm, making it a safe spot for families to enjoy swimming.
This beach is not only popular for swimming but also for diving and surfing. You can observe coral reefs and fish in the waters near the beach.
Although there is ample parking, there are no restrooms or shower facilities nearby, which may be a bit inconvenient. However, there is a water source near the parking area for rinsing off sand.
- Kurasaki Beach（倉崎海岸）Information
- Address: Ashidake, Tatsugo-cho, Oshima-gun, Kagoshima Prefecture
- Phone: 0997-62-3111
- Website: https://www.amami-tourism.org/scenery/802/
Miyakozaki（宮古崎）
Miyakosaki, designated as a Level 3 Special Area in the Amami Archipelago National Park due to its unique landscape, offers a view of the western side of Amami Island. The area around the cape is populated by waist-high Ryukyu bamboo (リュウキュウチク).
Beyond the Ryukyu bamboo grasslands, you can see the East China Sea, and sometimes even dolphins. In winter, you may also spot whales. The juxtaposition of the azure sea, blue sky, and clusters of Ryukyu bamboo creates a picturesque and splendid photo spot.
The entire area is covered with Ryukyu bamboo grass, creating the illusion of being in a vast meadow. Additionally, during sunset, you can witness the spectacular sight of the East China Sea being dyed red by the setting sun.
- Miyakozaki（宮古崎）Information
- Address: Kuninaoshi, Yamato-mura, Oshima-gun, Kagoshima Prefecture
- Phone: 0997-57-2117
- Website: https://www.amami-tourism.org/scenery/802/
Kakeromajima Island（加計呂麻島）
Kakeromajima Island is a 20-minute boat ride from Koniya Port, crossing the Oshima Strait. It stretches 150 kilometers from east to west and, during rough weather, experiences surprisingly strong winds, with the sound of crashing waves often heard.
This island is a recommended spot for various water activities because its coastline offers many sheltered areas. If you go diving, kayaking, or snorkeling, you'll feel as though you are merging with the deep blue sea. On cloudless nights, lying on the beach and gazing at the sky, you'll feel the stars in the heavens are within reach.
When you visit Kakeroma Island, be sure to explore the 700-year-old giant banyan tree known as "Ozai no Gajumaru（於斉のガジュマル）." It is located in the southern part of the island and can be reached by traveling south through a tunnel from Setso Port. The banyan tree even has a swing!
One of the most famous cultural traditions on the island is "Morojun Shibaya," a traditional performance with an 800-year history. In this play, islanders wear paper masks and hats and dance. It has been designated as an important intangible folk cultural asset in Japan. It is said that Heike no Toshisuke, who was defeated in the Genpei War, attempted to communicate with the locals through dance, and this precious traditional performing art has been passed down through the generations.
- Kakeromajima Island（加計呂麻島）Information
- Address: Ozai, Setouchi-cho, Oshima-gun, Kagoshima Prefecture
- Transport: There is no airport on the island. After arriving in other areas of Amami, take a ferry or water bus from Amami Oshima Port to Kakeroma Island (20 minutes).
- Phone: 0997-72-1199
- Website: https://www.kakeroma-welcome.com/
Tokunoshima（徳之島）
When you come to Amami Oshima, a visit to Tokunoshima is a must. Tokunoshima is located in the southwestern part of Amami Oshima and is the second-largest island in the Amami Archipelago, with a circumference of about 80 kilometers and an area of about 248 square kilometers. In 2021, it, along with Amami Oshima, was registered as a World Natural Heritage site.
The island is famous for bullfighting, and the biggest event is the annual island-wide bullfighting competition, where you can witness intense bullfight performances.
Tokunoshima is one of Japan's highest birthrate islands, earning it the nickname "Longevity Island." It has produced many record-breaking centenarians. The island is known for its specialty dishes such as pork bone soup, oil noodles, and pork miso, which are usually sweet and very flavorful.
Among its numerous attractions, we recommend Innojofuta on the eastern coast. Here, you can find cliffs and peculiar rock formations formed by seasonal winds and waves eroding the coral. The sunsets here are particularly striking.
- Tokunoshima (徳之島) Information
- Address: Oshima-gun, Kagoshima Prefecture
- Transport: About a 30-minute flight from Amami Airport to Tokunoshima Airport
- Phone: 0997-81-2010
- Website: http://www.tokunoshima-kanko.com/
Related:
