Amami Oshima Highlights
A “tailor-made” style English-speaking tour by car in Amami Oshima, just for you. If you are searching for a southern island less touristy in Japan, Amami Oshima is the place to go! Listed as a World Natural Heritage Site in 2021, the beautiful low-key island is full of endemic species of animals and plants as well as its unique culture that you never see any other areas in Japan.
Materiya waterfall
“Materiya” means “beautiful waterfall basin with sunlight” in Amamiian native language. Best to visit in the morning when the basin is exposed to the sunlight.
Funangyo waterfall
The name “Funangyo” literally means “ship work” in Amamiian native language. The trees around the waterfall were used for shipbuilding long time ago. Approx. 30 minutes easy hike to get there.
Mangrove forest
At the second largest mangrove in Japan, you can enjoy the great view from the observatory, as well as a short hike on wooden trail or canoeing.
* ¥1.500 extra for canoe rental.
Quru Guru
Established in 2025, Quru Guru is a home of Amami rabbit on treatment and open for enhancing resilience in sustainable environmental conservation and education for all generations. Don’t forget to visit the famous Amami rabbit while you are in Amami Oshima!
* ¥1.000 extra for entrance fee.
Oshima Tsumugi Village
Oshima Tsumugi is a traditional kimono textile produced in Amami Oshima and has a long history of 1.300 years. It’s a hand-woven plain-weave silk cloth dyed in mud. At the village, you can see all the unique processes of how the textile is produced from silk thread.
* ¥500 extra for entrance fee.
Kokuto Shochu distillery
Kokuto shochu is a type of distilled liquor made from brown sugar (Kokuto) and malted rice, permitted to be produced in only Amami islands. Try some sips before heading back to your cruise ship or hotel!
Keihan (Chicken soup & rice)
Keihan is a classic homemade dish of Amami Oshima. it’s made by pouring chicken broth over a bowl of rice topped with chicken, egg, mushrooms, and picked papaya. Experience the island’s taste!
Ayamaru Cape
Located near the airport, Ayamaru cape is the most well-known viewpoint for Japanese visitors, which they first head to after their arrival for its panoramic view. You can see Kikai island across the Pacific on clear days.
Yanyu pass
Yanyu pass is a secret scenic spot for its unique view of East China Sea and the Pacific. You may catch a glimpse of humpback whales on the Pacific side in winter.
* Above are my recommended spots to visit for Amami Oshima Highlights. Please let me know your interests and preferences so that I will tailor-make your schedule.
* Lunch is not included in the tour fee. However, I will take you to a local cuisine restaurant or an easy coffee / tea stop, depending on your preference.