Should you go to Amami Oshima or Yakushima? Thorough comparison of spectacular scenery, access, budget, and popular tours!
Table of Contents
- 1 Thorough comparison of Amami Oshima and Yakushima!
- 2 Natural attractions of Amami Oshima
- 3 Natural Attractions of Yakushima
- 4 What is the difference between Amami Oshima and Yakushima?
- 5 Enjoy in Amami Oshima Island Nature x Activity Paradise
- 6 Fun in Yakushima Healing Experience in Mysterious Forest
- 7 Comparison of Amami Oshima and Yakushima Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 8 summary
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.
◆ those interested in the World Heritage sites on Amami Oshima and Yakushima
◆Those who are wondering whether to go to Amami Oshima or Yakushima
◆For those who want to know about popular activities in Amami Oshima and Yakushima
◆ those interested in the mangroves of Amami Oshima and the mysterious forests of Yakushima
Why not compare the different features of each and use them to help you choose a destination?
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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.
◆Beautiful coral reefs and emerald green sea
◆Vast mangrove forests (such as Kuroshio no Mori Mangrove Park)
Many endemic species such as the Amami rabbit
◆Relatively easy access and tourism development
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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.
◆Very rainy throughout the year (one of the heaviest in Japan)
◆A virgin forest with giant trees such as Jomon cedars and cedar forests
◆Mystical atmosphere associated with mountain worship and nature worship
◆Naturally preserved with little human intervention
For information on remote islands, including Yakushima, click here↓
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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.
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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.
From Haneda Airport to Amami Airport: 2 hours 20 minutes
From Kagoshima Airport to Amami Airport: about 1 hour
◆Ferry
Time: A little over 7 hours from Kagoshima (Amami-Okinawa Ferry Terminal)
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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.
From Haneda Airport to Kagoshima Airport: approx. 1 hour and 50 minutes → (transfer time: 30 minutes to 2 hours) → approx. 40 minutes from Kagoshima Airport
Total Approx. 3 to 4.5 hours
◆Ferry
Time: Approx. 4.5 hours from Kagoshima (Amami-Okinawa Ferry Terminal)
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.
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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.
Direct flights: Approx. 50,000-80,000 yen round trip
Ferry: over 20,000 yen round trip
Car rental: around 7,000 yen
◆ Lodging
Guesthouse: approx. 3,000-5,000 yen
Mid-range hotel: approx. 4,000-9,000 yen
Luxury resorts: approx. 15,000-30,000 yen or more
↓Click here for recommended accommodations on Amami Ōshima
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.
Connecting flights: approx. 80,000-130,000 yen round trip
Ferry: over 20,000 yen round trip
Car rental: around 8,000 yen
◆ Lodging
Guesthouse: approx. 3,000-6,000 yen
Mid-range hotel: approx. 4,000-9,000 yen
Luxury resorts: approx. 15,000-30,000 yen or more
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.
In between and at the end of the rainy season, the weather is stable and the sea is clear, making it the best time for activities☆.
*But watch out for typhoons and squalls!
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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.
Temperatures and humidity are stable, making it the best season for Jomon cedar trekking and other activities.
*But rain and climbing preparation are essential!
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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♪
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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.
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Amami Oshima Trekking Tour
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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.
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Amami Oshima Canoe (Kayak) Tours
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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
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Amami Oshima Snorkeling Tour
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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
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Amami Oshima Diving Tours
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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.
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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
on the comparison of Amami-Oshima and Yakushima
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Amami Oshima is an island of natural diversity with subtropical forests, mangroves, and clear waters. Yakushima, on the other hand, is famous for Yakusugi cedars such as Jomon cedars and mountain trekking, and is an island where visitors can enjoy mainly mountain nature.
Both are registered as World Natural Heritage sites. Yakushima was registered in 1993, and Amami Oshima was registered as a World Natural Heritage site in 2021, along with Tokunoshima, northern Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island.
If you want to enjoy the ocean, Amami Oshima is the place to go. There are plenty of marine activities such as snorkeling, diving, and SUP, and many beautiful beaches.
If you want to enjoy serious mountain trekking, Yakushima is the place to go. There are famous courses such as the Jomon-cedar trekking, which attracts many tourists who come to the island for mountain climbing.
Amami Oshima is easy to visit beaches and sights with a rental car, and offers a high degree of flexibility in sightseeing. Yakushima is mainly mountain sightseeing and may require trekking plans and equipment.
Travel costs vary depending on the time of year and airfare, but Amami Oshima has many lodging options and may be relatively reasonably priced. Yakushima can be expensive if trekking tours are used.
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?
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