Should you go to Amami Oshima or Yakushima? Thorough comparison of spectacular scenery, access, budget, and popular tours!

Thorough comparison of Amami Oshima and Yakushima!

Both Amami Oshima and Yakushima are located in Kagoshima Prefecture,world natural heritage siteIt is a popular tourist destination that boasts rich nature and a unique culture.

Yakushima Island offers spectacular mountain trekking, while Amami Oshima has a rich coral sea. Both islands are attractive for their natural beauty, but the ways to enjoy them are very different.

Why not compare the different features of each and use them to help you choose a destination?

Natural attractions of Amami Oshima

Amami Oshima Island is a natural expanse nurtured by a warm subtropical climate, with beautiful coral reefs andVast mangrove forestsis attractive.

Ryukyu rabbitThe island is home to rare and endemic species such as the Japanese knotweed, and visitors can experience the diverse ecosystems of the sea and forests. The island is close to nature, with activities such as snorkeling in the clear waters and canoeing in the jungle surrounded by mangroves.

Click here to see the ranking of Amami Oshima's popularity.

Natural Attractions of Yakushima

Yakushima Island has a diverse climate and vegetation due to the difference in elevation,Jomon cedar (Cryptomeria japonica)The island is a mysterious place with virgin forests including Known as one of the wettest areas in Japan, the forests, with their abundance of water and moss, fascinate visitors.

A 10-hour round trip.Full-scale trekkingFrom,Light walks for beginnersIt is a place where you can enjoy a wide range of activities and experience a deep confrontation with nature.

Click here for the popular ranking of Yakushima.

What is the difference between Amami Oshima and Yakushima?

One of the major differences between Amami Oshima and Yakushima is accessibility from the main island. Let's compare the ease of access and budget.

Comparison 1) Accessibility and ease of travel

Ease of access is an important factor in choosing a travel destination. Here we compare the accessibility and travel time to Yakushima and Amami Oshima in an easy-to-understand manner.

Access to Amami Oshima Island

Amami Oshima is accessible by air and ferry. The airport is Amami Airport,Direct flights from Kanto, Kansai, etc.The island is also easily accessible due to the relatively large number of flights. Rental cars, buses, and cabs are also convenient for getting around the island.

⬇︎For cheap car rental plans in Amami Oshima, click here.

Amami Oshima Car Rental Let's enjoy your trip more freely! Travel to Amami Oshima more comfortably with a rental car☆ Did you know that Amami Oshima is the "third largest island" in Japan? Since the island is very large and there are no trains, it is difficult to reach some spots by any other means of transportation than renting a car. (10 total) アクティビティの詳細を見る

Access to Yakushima

On the other hand, access to Yakushima Island is also available by air and ferry, though,Basic access from KagoshimaThe The airport on Yakushima is Yakushima Airport, but please note that there are only a few flights.

In Yakushima, it is common to use a rental car.

Comparison 2: Differences in travel costs and budgets

The way you spend your time and the atmosphere of your accommodations will differ depending on the characteristics of each island. Please refer to this page as a guide for budgeting according to your travel style.

Travel expenses for Amami Oshima Island

A wide variety of accommodations, from urban business hotels to resort hotelsWide range of choicesIt is. It will be easy to make a plan that fits your budget.

⬇︎ Click here for recommended accommodations in Amami Oshima.

10 popular hotels and accommodations in Amami Oshima! From luxury hotels to popular minshuku and guesthouses!Table of Contents1 Introducing popular accommodations in Amami Oshima! 2 10 popular hotels in Amami Oshima2.1 ①THE SCENE amami spa & resort2.2 ②Amami Goat Island Hotel2.3 ③Miru Amami2.4 ④Amami Ri [...].

Yakushima Travel Costs

Yakushima is characterized by many guesthouses and minshuku for travelers who are interested in nature sightseeing and mountain climbing.The number of accommodations is limited due to nature conservation.There are a few hotels, especially luxury resorts.

Click here for information on lodging in Yakushima

Comparison 3) Best season and climate

Although Amami Oshima and Yakushima are close in distance, they have different climates. Let us compare the climate characteristics and the best season for each island.

Best season on Amami Oshima Island

Amami Oshima is warm and comfortable all year round, but it is stillBest in early summerIt is!Relatively mild wintersThe weather is pleasant in the summer, but rainfall can be frequent.

Click here for popular Kinsaku-hara trekking tours

Best season in Yakushima

How to enjoy trekking and mountain climbing in Yakushima,The best time is from April to October when the climate is stable.It is. Because of the mountainous terrain, summers are humid,Winters are harsh due to cold and snowfallThere are times when Be careful when attempting to climb a mountain.

Click here for popular Jomon Cedar trekking tours

Enjoy in Amami Oshima
Nature x Activity Paradise

Amami Oshima is,Harmonizing the blessings of magnificent nature and the seaIt is a beautiful island. There are many marine activities including snorkeling and diving, and both beginners and advanced divers can enjoy a wide variety of marine life.

Another attraction is the enjoyment of strolling through nature, such as jungle-like forests with tropical plants and white sand beaches. Experience a special experience unique to the area while surrounded by the richness of nature♪

Subtropical Forest Trekking

Amami Oshima, with its subtropical forests, is home to many endemic species.KinsakubaraTrekking such as this is popular.

Surrounded by deep greenery, visitors can encounter the Amami rabbit and other rare plants, allowing them to feel the richness of nature with all their senses.

⬇︎ Click here for recommended trekking tours in Amami Oshima.

Trekking and mangrove canoeing in a small group in the Kinsaku Primeval Forest, a World Natural Heritage site (with a certified guide and pick-up service) (No.59)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Approx. 8 hours12,000 yen →directional marker or indicator11,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.

Amami Oshima/Half day] Time slip to the age of dinosaurs! Walking tour in Kinsaku Primeval Forest, the No.1 popular forest on Amami Oshima Island《certified guide & pick-up service in Naze area》（No.65）.開始時間8:30-11:30 / 13:30-16:30所要時間Approx. 3 hours8,000 yen

One of the largest mangrove canoes

Amami Oshima Island isOne of the largest virgin mangrove forests in JapanThe experience of exploring by canoe in a relaxed manner with a Visitors can enjoy encounters with crabs, birds, and a variety of other creatures as they travel through waterways that look different at high and low tide.

⬇︎ Amami Oshima Recommendation
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Special Autumn SALE 【Amami Oshima/Half Day】You can charter a private boat! Waterfall Walk & Mangrove Canoe Tour to be healed in mysterious space 《small group, free cancellation until 2 days before》（No.75）.開始時間9:00-12:30 / 14:00-17:30所要時間Approx. 3 hours and 30 minutes9,200 yen →directional marker or indicator7,700suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.

Amami Oshima/one day] Limited number of participants! Early bird gets first prize☆Popular spot "Kinsaku Primeval Forest" Trekking + Mangrove Canoe Tour 《Pickup & Drop-off》（No.30)開始時間8:20-17:00所要時間Approx. 8 hours12,000 yen

Sea turtle snorkeling

In the crystal clear seaSnorkeling with sea turtlesis a popular activity unique to Amami Oshima. You can have an impressive time while feeling the underwater world of coral reefs and tropical fish up close.

⬇︎ Amami Oshima Recommendation
Click here for sea turtle snorkeling tours

Amami Oshima Island/2 hours】Snorkel with sea turtles on the beach☆Photographs taken will be given away on the spot! All you need to bring is a swimsuit and flip-flops! ＜Shower, changing room, hair dryer and towels are provided.開始時間8:30 / 9:00 / 12:00 / 13:00 / 15:00所要時間Approx. 2 hours6,600 yen

Amami Oshima/Half day】If you are in doubt, this is the one! Snorkeling tour in the beautiful ocean that Amami boasts, with a sea turtle encounter rate of over 98% (No.29)開始時間Morning / Afternoon (negotiable)所要時間Approx. 3 hours8,000 yen →directional marker or indicator7,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.

Experience Diving

Diving in Amami Oshima is attractive because of the beautiful ocean with its coral reefs and diverse marine life. From experience diving for beginners,Advanced spots to enjoy caves and drop-offsIt is characterized by a wide range of enjoyment, from

⬇︎ Click here for recommended diving tours in Amami Oshima.

Amami Oshima/Northern Japan] 20 minutes from Amami Airport! Beginners welcome☆Focus on satisfaction♪Half day tour to experience diving on the beach in Amami Oshima Island (No.53)開始時間8:30-11:30 / 14:00-17:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours13,200 yen

Amami Oshima/South part of the island/3 hours] Beginners are welcome☆Filled with surprises and excitement! Experience Diving Tour in Amami Blue (No.50)開始時間9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.所要時間Approx. 3 hours15,400 yen

Fun in Yakushima
Healing Experience in Mysterious Forest

Yakushima is a beautiful island surrounded by spectacular forests and mysterious nature, and is listed as a World Natural Heritage site.

Jomon cedar (Cryptomeria japonica)and ... andShiratani Unsui Gorge (Shiratani Unsui Gorge)Popular trekking courses, such as the "Sacred Mountain" and the "Sacred Mountain", provide visitors with overwhelmingly spectacular views and a relaxing experience. There are also a variety of activities such as mountain climbing and eco-tours that will refresh your body and mind while you enjoy a sense of oneness with nature.

Mystical Forest Trekking

Jomon cedars andThe setting of Princess MononokeTrekking in Shiratani-unsui Gorge is a popular experience in Yakushima. The journey to the Jomon cedars is a bit strenuous, but the excitement of reaching the cedars is worth it.

Shiratani-unsui Gorge is a popular spot with many trails that can be enjoyed by beginners.Mysterious moss forests and waterfallsVisitors can enjoy a variety of landscapes such as the following, and experience as if they have entered the world of a story.

Jomon cedars that are thousands of years old and Yakusugiland, where visitors can easily enjoy the Yakusugi forest,Courses can be chosen according to time and fitness.The attraction of the two is that they are both located in the same area. Both allow you to experience the mysterious forest of Yakusugi cedars and taste the depth of nature.

Yakushima Recommendation
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River kayak (canoe)

In Yakushima, where clear water is abundant,River kayaking on the river at a leisurely paceis popular. This activity allows visitors to observe untouched nature and water creatures while feeling close to the water's surface, and is recommended for beginners and families.

Yakushima Recommendation
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sea turtle diving

Diving in Yakushima is an attractive experience in the dynamic waters of the Kuroshio Current.High encounter rate with sea turtles, ,submarine volcanic terrainThe area offers a variety of points of interest to the adventurous spirit, such as the beautifully designed, well-preserved, and abundant fish.

Click here for recommended diving tours in Yakushima

ecotour

Eco-tours are the best way to learn more about Yakushima, as you can learn about nature and culture in depth with a guide. While touring through forests, rivers, and waterfalls,Experience the importance of nature conservation and the lifestyle of YakushimaIt is a time of learning and healing that you can do.

Click here for recommended eco-tours in Yakushima

summary

Amami Oshima and Yakushima are two southern paradises with different personalities and attractions. Amami Oshima, surrounded by crystal clear waters and rich nature, is perfect for those who want to enjoy marine activities while relaxing and taking it easy.

On the other hand, Yakushima, with its majestic forests and mysterious landscapes, is recommended for those who want to spend an active life in the great outdoors.

Both are places where you can have a special and memorable experience. Why not choose the ideal island to suit your travel style?

Click here to read the article in conjunction with this one.

Why you should go to Kinsaku Genbaru Forest when you visit Amami Oshima! Thorough explanation of the attractions and rules for using the forestContents1 Kinsaku Primeval Forest, an ancient forest on Amami Oshima Island2 Overwhelmed by subtropical plants on Amami Oshima Island! What is the Kanasakubara virgin forest? 3.1 Attractions of the Kanasakubara virgin forest 3.2 Attractions of the Kanasakubara virgin forest 2) Special subtropical [...].

Soul food you must try when you come to Amami Oshima! 10 gourmet foods recommended by local staff!Contents1 Recommended gourmet foods of Amami Oshima! 2 10 gourmet foods of Amami Oshima2.1 Chicken rice2.2 Oil somen noodles2.3 Goat soup2.4 Stewed pig's feet2.5 Wanfune2.6 Pickled papaya2.7 Tobinnya2.8 Miki2.9 Andagie2 [...].