Nature Heritage
📅2026.04.24 Updated
Complete Guide to Amami Oshima:
Spectacular Nature & Island Cuisine
World Heritage forests and coral reef seas.
To the “Galapagos of the Orient” where untouched nature remains.
An extraordinary island experience that will awaken all your senses awaits.
Explore Nature
📍 Amami Island
UNESCO World Heritage 2021
Island of World Natural Heritage
An ancient ecosystem still thrives here.
In July 2021, the island was registered as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site as part of the “Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern Part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island” listing.
What made this registration possible is the subtropical evergreen broadleaf forest that covers approximately 70% of the island’s area.
The view from Kochi-yama Viewpoint vividly conveys the density of this forest.
Waves of deep green press in from below, with the ridgeline of Kakeroma Island floating in the distance.
The untouched forests are so dark, so dense, so silent.
Amami rabbit, Lidth’s jay, Amami Ishikawa’s frog—the sheer abundance of endemic species stands as testament to evolution shaped by millennia of isolation.
While you may spot Amami rabbits along the road during a night drive, slow driving is strictly required on mountain roads to prevent roadkill.
What made this registration possible is the subtropical evergreen broadleaf forest that covers approximately 70% of the island’s area.
The view from Kochi-yama Viewpoint vividly conveys the density of this forest.
Waves of deep green press in from below, with the ridgeline of Kakeroma Island floating in the distance.
The untouched forests are so dark, so dense, so silent.
Amami rabbit, Lidth’s jay, Amami Ishikawa’s frog—the sheer abundance of endemic species stands as testament to evolution shaped by millennia of isolation.
While you may spot Amami rabbits along the road during a night drive, slow driving is strictly required on mountain roads to prevent roadkill.
💡 Travel Tips
🐇 Encounters with Endemic Species
Lidth’s Jay: High probability of sighting throughout the island during the day.
Amami Rabbit: May be encountered by driving slowly on mountain roads toward Uken or Yamato villages at night. Observe quietly without using flash.
🌿 Heritage Area Etiquette
Kinsakubaru Primeval Forest: Participation in a guided tour is mandatory for heritage protection (advance booking required, fee applies).
Entering areas off the designated course is strictly prohibited.
Mangrove Forest
Kuroshio Forest Mangrove Park
Where the forest breathes between land and sea.
The mangrove forest spreading across the mouths of the Yakugachi and Sumiyo Rivers in Sumiyo Town is one of the largest in Japan (approx. 71ha).
From the viewpoint at Kuroshio Forest Mangrove Park, you can take in the entire panorama where waterways and canopy intricately intertwine.
The view changes completely when you paddle out into the channels by canoe.
The narrow passages where breathing roots (pneumatophores) rise from the water offer a scale unimaginable from the viewpoint.
Advance booking for tours is recommended.
The forest’s appearance differs significantly between low and high tides.
Don’t forget to check the tide levels before your visit.
📍View location on Google MapFrom the viewpoint at Kuroshio Forest Mangrove Park, you can take in the entire panorama where waterways and canopy intricately intertwine.
The view changes completely when you paddle out into the channels by canoe.
The narrow passages where breathing roots (pneumatophores) rise from the water offer a scale unimaginable from the viewpoint.
Advance booking for tours is recommended.
The forest’s appearance differs significantly between low and high tides.
Don’t forget to check the tide levels before your visit.
🛶 Canoe Tour Bookings
▼ Check availability and pricing on KKday (subject to change)
Book Mangrove CanoeKKday
The Most Beautiful Beach
Tomori Beach
The blue will leave you breathless.
Said to be the most beautiful beach on Amami Oshima.
Despite its prime location just a 10-minute drive from the airport, the color of the sea is in a class of its own. The gradient, often called the “Blue Angel,” creates an impression that will stay with you long after you leave the island.
📍View location on Google MapDespite its prime location just a 10-minute drive from the airport, the color of the sea is in a class of its own. The gradient, often called the “Blue Angel,” creates an impression that will stay with you long after you leave the island.
💡 Travel Tips
🚻 Facilities
Toilets are available, but there are no showers.
There may be a simple foot wash area, but if you plan to swim properly, bring water in plastic bottles or plan to return to a nearby hotel.
🚫 Shops & Activities
There are no shops or marine sports shops.
It is a cardinal rule to buy drinks and snacks in advance. This is a beach for adults to quietly enjoy the sound of the waves and the scenery.
📍 Recommended Spots & Hotels Nearby
Must Visit
Kochiyama Observatory
The village of Setouchi sits deep in the mountain valley, with the ridgeline of Kakeroma Island visible beyond.
An overwhelming panorama,
looking down upon the Amami islands.
This is an absolute must-visit on Amami Oshima.
From here, you can see the complex rias coastline unique to Southern Amami, including the Oshima Strait and Kakeroma Island, as well as the many islands floating in the sea.
The sheer scale of the landscape delivers an awe-inspiring experience that no photograph can fully capture.
📍View location on Google MapFrom here, you can see the complex rias coastline unique to Southern Amami, including the Oshima Strait and Kakeroma Island, as well as the many islands floating in the sea.
The sheer scale of the landscape delivers an awe-inspiring experience that no photograph can fully capture.
Sandy Beach
Yadorihama Beach
Subtropical plants grow thick at the edge of the sand, heightening the tropical atmosphere of Amami.
On the way to Yadorihama, glimpses of emerald green sea through the trees build anticipation before you even arrive.
One of the few places in Amami with such an expansive sandy shore.
Amami Oshima has many places with “Beach” in their name, but options are surprisingly limited if you are looking for a wide, sandy shore.
Among those few, Yadorihama has a definite presence.
Subtropical plants grow at the edge of the sand, creating a vivid contrast between the lush green backdrop and the Amami Blue sea in front.
With showers and toilets available, the environment is well-equipped for those who want to jump in and swim.
The drive to Yadorihama is also a highlight.
Glimpses of the emerald sea through the forest along the way build excitement. We recommend driving slowly and enjoying the journey.
📍View location on Google MapAmong those few, Yadorihama has a definite presence.
Subtropical plants grow at the edge of the sand, creating a vivid contrast between the lush green backdrop and the Amami Blue sea in front.
With showers and toilets available, the environment is well-equipped for those who want to jump in and swim.
The drive to Yadorihama is also a highlight.
Glimpses of the emerald sea through the forest along the way build excitement. We recommend driving slowly and enjoying the journey.
💡 Travel Tips
🚻 Facilities
Both toilets and showers are available.
You can arrive fully prepared to swim.
🚗 Parking
There is no formal parking lot.
A natural space has formed between the road and the mountainside in front of the beach, accommodating about 10 cars. Try to arrive early during busy periods.
Scenic Park
Ayamaru Cape
The reef-lined coast appears brown from a distance, but the blue of the water as you descend to the shore is unexpectedly vivid.
A place of scenic beauty and relaxation.
The view from the observatory is magnificent, offering a panoramic view of the horizon and the coral reefs.
The name “Ayamaru” is said to derive from the cape’s topography, which resembles a traditional Japanese temari ball.
Maintained as a park, it is a place for locals to relax and an ideal spot to spend time quietly gazing at the sea. A cafe (Mishoran Cafe) is also on-site.
📍View location on Google MapThe name “Ayamaru” is said to derive from the cape’s topography, which resembles a traditional Japanese temari ball.
Maintained as a park, it is a place for locals to relax and an ideal spot to spend time quietly gazing at the sea. A cafe (Mishoran Cafe) is also on-site.
📍 Recommended Spots & Hotels Nearby
More Unmissable Views
Views of Amami found by running and walking.
Lighthouse
Cape Kasarizaki Lighthouse
The view of Amami's sea from the lighthouse base.
The northernmost tip of Amami Oshima. From the parking lot, it is about a 5-minute climb up a mountain trail to the lighthouse.
While you cannot enter the lighthouse itself, nothing obstructs the view of the horizon from the base.
On the day I visited, it was cloudy and the sea was nearly lead-colored. Still, something about standing at the very edge of the island kept me rooted in place. The Amami Blue on a sunny day must be exceptional here.
Parking and toilets are available.
📍View location on Google MapWhile you cannot enter the lighthouse itself, nothing obstructs the view of the horizon from the base.
On the day I visited, it was cloudy and the sea was nearly lead-colored. Still, something about standing at the very edge of the island kept me rooted in place. The Amami Blue on a sunny day must be exceptional here.
Parking and toilets are available.
Scenic Cliffs
Dokubama Cliff
Driving along the northern route, the cliffs come into view without warning.
The raw rock face is exposed right by the road, making you instinctively pull over. Looking up, the top of the cliff cuts into the sky.
The viewing point is right next to the cliff, offering the only angle to capture the entire face. Deep, cave-like depressions run vertically down the cliff, with a quiet cove continuing to the right. Rough rock and calm sea coexist within a few dozen meters.
Parking space available on the shoulder.
📍View location on Google MapThe raw rock face is exposed right by the road, making you instinctively pull over. Looking up, the top of the cliff cuts into the sky.
The viewing point is right next to the cliff, offering the only angle to capture the entire face. Deep, cave-like depressions run vertically down the cliff, with a quiet cove continuing to the right. Rough rock and calm sea coexist within a few dozen meters.
Parking space available on the shoulder.
Cape Walk
Miyakozaki Cape
Looking down at the emerald green sea from the cliffside.
A well-maintained promenade leads to the tip of the cape, taking about 25 minutes one way.
There are no steep slopes that shorten your stride, but sneakers are more reliable than sandals. Water is essential.
Along the way, the subtropical vegetation on both sides constantly shifts the view. Every time the dense green breaks, the Amami Blue peeks through, only for the green to close again. This rhythm of green and blue makes the wide-open view at the tip all the more breathtaking.
Sea on both sides, green covering even the cliffs. You finally understand why Miyakozaki is so highly praised.
Parking available. Toilets at the observatory can be hit-or-miss, so it’s best to use one beforehand.
📍View location on Google MapThere are no steep slopes that shorten your stride, but sneakers are more reliable than sandals. Water is essential.
Along the way, the subtropical vegetation on both sides constantly shifts the view. Every time the dense green breaks, the Amami Blue peeks through, only for the green to close again. This rhythm of green and blue makes the wide-open view at the tip all the more breathtaking.
Sea on both sides, green covering even the cliffs. You finally understand why Miyakozaki is so highly praised.
Parking available. Toilets at the observatory can be hit-or-miss, so it’s best to use one beforehand.
Truly Delicious Amami Island Cuisine
Keihan Hisakura
KeihanA famous spot for “Keihan,” a traditional Amami dish you cannot miss. The golden soup, made by slowly simmering local chicken, is light yet deep in flavor, gently melting away the weariness of travel.
Conveniently located on the way from the airport to Naze city, it’s highly accessible. While Keihan is the classic, the “Chicken Sashimi”, which can only be served because the chicken is so fresh, is a delicacy you must try.
📍 Google MapsConveniently located on the way from the airport to Naze city, it’s highly accessible. While Keihan is the classic, the “Chicken Sashimi”, which can only be served because the chicken is so fresh, is a delicacy you must try.
Setouchi Umi-no-eki / Seafood Restaurant
SeafoodLocated at the ferry terminal of Koniya Port, this is a hidden seafood gem tucked inside the Koniya Port ferry terminal. While the exterior looks like a typical canteen, the freshness and volume of the seafood served are top-notch.
The “Simmered Tuna Collar” is particularly recommended. Beloved by locals for its incredible value and generous portions, it’s perfect for a lunch while waiting for the boat to Kakeroma Island or during southern sightseeing.
📍 Google MapsThe “Simmered Tuna Collar” is particularly recommended. Beloved by locals for its incredible value and generous portions, it’s perfect for a lunch while waiting for the boat to Kakeroma Island or during southern sightseeing.
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Uken Shokudo
Set MealIn the Uken Village area where restaurants are scarce, this diner is like an oasis. The modern, clean shop that appears along the mountain drive provides a sense of relief to visitors.
A reliable spot for quality set meals in an area where it’s easy to become a “lunch refugee.” Ideal for a relaxing break during your drive.
📍 Google MapsA reliable spot for quality set meals in an area where it’s easy to become a “lunch refugee.” Ideal for a relaxing break during your drive.
INFO
Amami Oshima Travel Guide
✈️ Getting There
Direct Flights from Major Cities
Haneda, Narita, Itami, Kansai, Fukuoka, Naha, etc.*LCC (Peach) is also in service
⭐ Access
By utilizing LCCs, you can travel very cheaply from Narita or Kansai.
☀️ Best Season
Late June to October
The sea shines brightest in early summer, just after the rainy season ends.
Whale watching is available in winter, but summer is the best season.
Whale watching is available in winter, but summer is the best season.
🌙 Duration
3 Days / 2 Nights +
Because the island is very large, a minimum of 3 days and 2 nights is required. For a leisurely pace, 4 days or more is ideal.
💰 Budget
$350 - $700 / person (3 Days 2 Nights)
*Estimated cost including round-trip flights, car rental, and accommodation
🚗 Transportation
A rental car is essential.
Amami is the second-largest remote island after Okinawa Main Island, and it takes over 2 hours to drive from one end to the other. A car is indispensable for free exploration.
Amami is the second-largest remote island after Okinawa Main Island, and it takes over 2 hours to drive from one end to the other. A car is indispensable for free exploration.
🚗 Book your rental car early
⚠️ Important Notes
- ⚠️Rare animals like the Amami Rabbit appear on night roads.Drive particularly carefully and slowly at night to prevent roadkill.
- 📍Streetlights are extremely scarce outside the Naze city area. Avoid long-distance travel on unfamiliar night roads and plan to arrive at your accommodation early.
FAQ
Q
Do I need a rental car to travel around Amami Oshima?
A
Yes, it is practically essential. The island is very large (the second largest after the main island of Okinawa), and bus services are limited. To efficiently visit tourist spots and restaurants, we strongly recommend renting a car near the airport.
Q
How many days are needed for sightseeing?
A
We recommend at least 3 days and 2 nights, but 4 days and 3 nights is ideal. Since it is a large island, it is efficient to divide your trip into Northern, Central, and Southern areas.
Q
When was Amami Oshima registered as a World Natural Heritage site?
A
It was registered in July 2021 as part of the “Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern Part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island” site. It was recognized for its subtropical evergreen broadleaf forests, which cover about 70% of the island, and its many endemic species, such as the Amami rabbit.
Q
How is the access to Amami Oshima? How long does it take from Kagoshima?
A
It takes about 55 minutes by plane from Kagoshima Airport to Amami Airport. It is also accessible in about 55 minutes from Naha Airport. LCCs also operate flights, and you can sometimes find one-way tickets in the 10,000 yen range if you book early.
Q
What is the best season to visit Amami Oshima?
A
For beach activities, late June to October is recommended. After the rainy season ends, you can enjoy intense sunshine and the “Amami Blue” sea. For nature observation and general sightseeing, October to November is comfortable as the heat subsides. Note that the rainy season (May to mid-June) has high rainfall and unpredictable sunny spells.
Stay in AmamiThe Ultimate Island Time
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From budget-friendly stays in Naze City
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