Escape to a tropical paradise within Japan, where crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and lush forests await. Located between Kyushu and Okinawa, the Amami Islands offer a serene getaway from crowded cities like Tokyo and Kyoto.
You can immerse yourself in the unique culture and breathtaking natural beauty of this archipelago, comprising five main islands that belong to Kagoshima Prefecture. With diverse landscapes and attractions, you can tailor your island experience to your preferences, from snorkeling in coral reefs to exploring mangrove forests.
The Amami Islands were collectively granted UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site status in 2021, joining other Japanese natural treasures. This recognition highlights the islands’ unspoiled beauty and rich biodiversity, making them an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Discovering the Amami Archipelago
As you journey to the Amami Islands, you’ll discover a world of breathtaking landscapes and unique biodiversity. The archipelago is a treasure trove of natural wonders and cultural riches.
Location and Geography
The Amami Islands are an archipelago of five main islands: Amami Oshima, Kikaijima, Tokunoshima, Okinoerabujima, and Yoron Island. These islands are situated between Kagoshima and Okinawa, showcasing diverse geographical formations. For instance, Amami Oshima is volcanic with a mountainous terrain, while Okinoerabujima is a flat, raised coral reef island.
| Island | Geographical Feature |
|---|---|
| Amami Oshima | Volcanic, mountainous |
| Okinoerabujima | Flat, raised coral reef |
Cultural Significance
The Amami Islands boast a unique cultural heritage, blending influences from mainland Japan, the Ryukyu Kingdom, and indigenous traditions. The ocean surrounding the islands plays a crucial role in local life, providing sustenance and shaping cultural practices. The islands are home to many endemic species, including the Amami rabbit, often referred to as a “living fossil.”
How to Get to the Amami Islands
Traveling to the Amami Islands can be done stress-free by choosing the right transportation method. The islands are accessible by both air and sea, but flying is the most efficient way to reach and travel between them.
Flying to the Islands
The JAL Group offers daily flights to Amami Airport from major Japanese cities like Tokyo (Haneda), Osaka (Itami), Fukuoka, Kagoshima, and Okinawa (Naha). This makes it convenient for travelers to plan their trip.
Island Hopping Options
For island hopping within the Amami archipelago, JAL provides daily services between all five islands. Consider purchasing the JAL Group Island Hopping pass for cost-effective options. Upon arrival, rental cars, bicycles, or motorcycles are available for exploring the islands. Guided tours are also available, providing valuable information about local attractions.
Best Time to Visit the Amami Islands
With its subtropical climate, the Amami Islands are an attractive destination for travelers at any time of the year. The islands offer a range of experiences across different seasons.
Seasonal Highlights
The Amami Islands enjoy mild temperatures and blooming flora in spring (March to May), ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. Autumn (September to November) is considered the best time to visit, with comfortable temperatures and clear skies. You can also experience the unique “phantom sandbar,” Yurigahama, off Yoron Island during these periods.
Weather Considerations
The islands have a subtropical climate, with waves and ocean conditions varying seasonally. Calmer waters are generally found during spring and autumn, making these seasons perfect for snorkeling and diving. Summer is ideal for beach activities, while winter remains mild, making it a good escape from colder climates.
| Season | Weather | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Mild temperatures | Hiking, outdoor exploration |
| Autumn | Comfortable temperatures, clear skies | Snorkeling, diving, visiting Yurigahama |
| Summer | Warm temperatures | Beach activities |
| Winter | Mild | Escape from cold climates |
Exploring Amami Oshima: The Main Island
Amami Oshima, the main island of the Amami archipelago, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural heritage. As you explore this stunning island, you’ll discover a mix of vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes.
Amami Park and Cultural Sites
Begin your exploration at Amami Park, located just minutes from Amami Airport. The Amami no Sato Museum offers insights into traditional island life, while the Art Museum showcases works by Isson Tanaka, famous for his vibrant depictions of local scenery.
Honohoshi Beach Experience
Don’t miss Honohoshi Beach, a unique coastal spot where smooth, round stones create a distinctive sound as they tumble in the waves – an auditory experience found nowhere else in the Amami Islands.
Mangrove Forests and Nature Trails
The island’s mangrove forests, particularly in the Amami Mangrove Park, offer excellent canoeing opportunities where you can observe the unique ecosystem up close with professional guides.
Must-Try Local Cuisine in the Amami Islands
The Amami Islands boast a distinct culinary landscape that reflects the islands’ cultural identity and natural bounty. When you visit, you’ll have the opportunity to indulge in unique local specialties that showcase the islands’ rich culinary heritage.
Keihan Chicken Rice
One of the must-try dishes is Keihan Chicken Rice, a signature dish of Amami Oshima. This delightful bowl consists of rice covered in a savory chicken broth, topped with chicken, sliced egg, mushrooms, pickled papaya, and citrus zest. Each restaurant offers its own special recipe, making it worth trying at multiple establishments.
Kokuto Shochu: The Island Spirit
Kokuto Shochu is a spirit distilled from brown sugar cane and is a true representation of the Amami Islands’ authentic local experience. According to Japanese Liquor Tax Law, it can only be produced in the Amami Islands, making it a unique souvenir or gift.
Seafood Specialties
The Amami Islands are renowned for their fresh seafood, prepared in various ways, including sashimi, grilled dishes, and soups. The surrounding waters provide an abundance of seafood, making it a culinary highlight of your visit. You can enjoy dishes featuring the day’s catch, often served with a side of locally produced kokuto sugar, enhancing the flavor.
| Dish | Description | Key Ingredients |
|---|---|---|
| Keihan Chicken Rice | A bowl of rice covered in chicken broth and topped with various ingredients | Chicken, Rice, Egg, Mushrooms, Pickled Papaya |
| Kokuto Shochu | A spirit distilled from brown sugar cane | Brown Sugar Cane, Rice |
| Seafood Specialties | Fresh seafood prepared in various ways | Fresh Seafood, Kokuto Sugar |
Stunning Beaches of the Amami Islands
Escape to the Amami Islands, where you’ll find pristine beaches that rival those found in tropical destinations worldwide. The islands are home to a diverse array of coastal landscapes, each offering a unique experience for visitors.
Sakibaru Beach: Hidden Paradise
Tucked away down a narrow footpath, Sakibaru Beach is a secluded beach with soft white sand and perfect blue seas. It’s a hidden gem that will leave you in awe.
Tomori Beach: Pristine Waters
Conveniently located near Amami Airport, Tomori Beach offers clear waters and stunning white sand, making it perfect for relaxation and water activities.
Yurigahama: The Phantom Sandbar
Accessible only by boat from spring to autumn, Yurigahama is a magical natural phenomenon off Yoron Island. This “phantom sandbar” appears at low tide, creating a unique experience for visitors.
The Amami Islands boast some of Japan’s most stunning beaches, characterized by powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. With numerous beaches to explore, you’re sure to find your perfect spot.
Traditional Crafts and Cultural Experiences
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Amami Islands through its traditional crafts and experiences. The Amami Islands are home to a variety of unique crafts that have been preserved and passed down through generations, offering visitors a chance to experience the authentic cultural identity of the archipelago.
Oshima Tsumugi Silk Fabric
Oshima Tsumugi silk fabric, exclusively produced on Amami Oshima, boasts a remarkable 1,300-year history. The fabric is renowned for its distinctive dark, black sheen, created through a complex dyeing process using Japanese Hawthorn tree extract and iron-rich mud. At Oshima Tsumugimura, you can witness the intricate process of creating this prestigious Oshima Tsumugi and even try on an authentic kimono for a memorable photo opportunity.
Banana Fabric Workshops
Okinoerabujima island specializes in banana fabric, known as bashofu, a sustainable and durable material made from banana plant fibers. The Okinoerabu Banana Fabric Studio offers hands-on workshops where visitors can learn about the sustainable production process and create their own banana fabric accessories as unique souvenirs, providing a memorable experience.
Adventure Activities in the Amami Islands
If you’re looking for excitement in the great outdoors, the Amami Islands have plenty to offer, from underwater explorations to hiking adventures.
Snorkeling and Diving Spots
The Amami Islands are renowned for their vibrant coral reef systems, making them a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. You can observe colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and even the rare circular nests of the Amami pufferfish in the crystal-clear waters. Native Sea Amami offers comprehensive diving experiences for all skill levels.
Kayaking Through Mangroves
Explore the Virgin Mangrove Forest in Amami Oshima by kayaking through its tranquil waters. This tour is suitable for beginners and families, showcasing the mangroves’ distinctive root systems and resident wildlife. As you paddle, you’ll have the opportunity to see various animals that call this protected area home.
Hiking Trails and Nature Walks
The Amami Islands offer a range of hiking trails and nature walks, from easy walks to more challenging mountain treks. The Kinsakubaru Virgin Forest on Amami Oshima is a highlight, featuring a primeval semitropical environment and rare endemic species. Take a leisurely stroll through the Amami Nature Observation Forest, where educational signage helps you identify the unique flora and fauna.
Exploring Tokunoshima Island
As you venture beyond Amami Oshima, you’ll discover the untamed beauty of Tokunoshima Island. This second-largest island in the Amami archipelago offers a more rugged and wild experience, with dramatic landscapes and a passionate local culture that’s deeply rooted in the island’s life.
Bull Sumo Experience
One of the island’s most famous cultural traditions is Togyu, or bull sumo, a unique spectator sport where two bulls compete by pushing against each other until one retreats. You can experience this aspect of island life firsthand by helping owners groom their bulls or taking them for a walk, gaining insight into this important local tradition.
Limestone Caves and Coastal Views
Cape Inutabu is a scenic point on Tokunoshima, offering breathtaking sunset views where the sun seems to be swallowed by the sea. The island is also home to the mysterious Unbuki cave, a natural phenomenon featuring an underwater passage that extends at least 800 meters beneath the ocean floor, fascinating locals and visitors alike.
Okinoerabujima: The Cave Island
Located in the Amami Islands, Okinoerabujima is a hidden gem that surprises visitors with its dramatic coastlines and extensive cave system. Known affectionately as “Erabu” by locals, this raised coral reef island boasts a unique landscape.
Guided Cave Explorations
The island is home to more than 200 limestone caves, offering a thrilling underground experience with guide Kenichi Daito from the Okinoerabu Caving Guide Union. You can explore these caves, marveling at giant stalactites and stalagmites that grow at an incredibly slow rate of one centimeter every 30 years.
Dramatic Coastal Landscapes
Okinoerabujima’s coastline is just as breathtaking, with the 51-meter high Tamina Cape offering stunning views over the ocean. The partially collapsed coastline cave at Fucha provides a unique vantage point to witness the waves crashing against the rocks below.
Yoron Island: Tropical Paradise
As the southernmost island of the Amami Islands, Yoron Island is a tiny tropical paradise. Measuring just over 20 square kilometers, this island is packed with natural beauty and cultural experiences. With nearly 60 beaches around its coastline, you can always find a private spot to enjoy the pristine surroundings.
Beach Hopping Adventures
Yoron Island is renowned for its stunning beaches, including Yurigahama, a magical sandbank that appears 1.5 kilometers offshore at low tide from spring to autumn. You can also visit Udonosu Beach near the downtown area, Kanebo Beach for stunning sunsets, and Oganeku Beach, a two-kilometer stretch lined with marine sports facilities. The island’s coral reef systems create naturally protected swimming areas perfect for snorkeling.
Cultural Sites and Village Life
The Yoron Folk Village is an open-air museum where you can learn about traditional island lifestyle and try local crafts. On rainy days, the Southern Cross Center provides insights into Yoron’s culture and history. You can also explore the ruins of the unfinished Yoron Castle, which offers a glimpse into the island’s historical connections to the Ryukyu Kingdom. Photographers like Lisa Wallin have captured the island’s beauty, showcasing its sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Yoron Island, with its vibrant culture and breathtaking natural beauty, is a must-visit destination in the Amami Islands. As you explore this tropical paradise, you’ll discover why it’s a favorite among travelers.
Where to Stay in the Amami Islands
The Amami Islands offer a diverse range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs. Whether you’re looking for luxury, tradition, or a beachfront experience, you’ll find it here.
Luxury Resorts and Spas
For a luxurious stay, consider Hotel The Scene — Amami Spa & Resort, designed by renowned architect Hitoshi Ueda. This exclusive spa resort features only 21 ocean-view rooms and the island’s only natural onsen.
Traditional Minpaku Stays
Experience authentic cultural immersion with Denpaku, a program offering stays in renovated historic houses. These traditional Minpaku stays combine heritage with modern comforts, often in great coastal locations.
Beachfront Cottages
For direct access to the islands’ pristine shores, opt for beachfront accommodations like The Villa Kazbo. These cottages make for a great place to enjoy the natural beauty of the Amami Islands.
Planning Your Perfect Amami Islands Getaway
Embarking on a journey to the Amami Islands requires some forethought to fully appreciate their hidden gems. To make the most of your visit, consider island hopping, allowing at least 2-3 days per island. Rental cars are highly recommended; book in advance and don’t forget your international driving permit.
Pack for a subtropical climate with sun protection, insect repellent, and quick-dry clothing. Research official tourism websites like Amami Oshima Tourism and Products Federation for the latest information. For visitors with specific interests, book specialized tours in advance. English-speaking guides can enhance your experience, providing valuable cultural context.
The above is subject to change.
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