Check the difference between Amami Oshima and Miyakojima and tourist information! Explanation of tips to avoid regrets when choosing a travel destination.
Table of Contents
- 1 Amami Oshima or Miyakojima Island? Know the difference and choose your destination!
- 2 Amami Oshima and Miyako Island What is the difference in basic information?
- 3 How are the tourist spots different? Check out the differences between Amami Oshima and Miyakojima.
- 4 How are the Attractiveness of the Seas Different? Comparison of the seas of Amami Oshima and Miyakojima
- 5 Compare lodging, dining, and cultural differences
- 6 Amami Oshima and Miyako Island What do you recommend by travel style?
- 7 For a trip to the islands you won't regret What you need to know
- 8 Comparison of Amami Oshima and Miyakojima Q&A
- 9 summary
Amami Oshima or Miyakojima, which would you rather go?
Know the difference and choose your destination!
The southern paradise of Amami Oshima and Miyakojima are both popular tourist destinations with their clear waters and rich nature.
However, the origins of the island, accessibility, culture and activities includeThe Big DifferenceThere are
◆For those who want to know the access to Amami Oshima and Miyako Island.
◆Those who are wondering whether to go to Amami Oshima or Miyakojima
◆For those who want to know about popular activities in Amami Oshima and Miyakojima
◆ those interested in the mangroves of Amami Oshima and the Miyako blue ocean of Miyako Island.
Here are some tips on the charms and characteristics of each island, and even how to choose a destination.
Click here to see the ranking of Amami Oshima's popularity.
Amami Oshima and Miyako Island
What are the differences in basic information?
The following is an easy-to-understand introduction to the respective characteristics and attractions of Amami Oshima and Miyakojima, along with basic information.
(data) item | Amami Oshima | Miyako Island (Okinawa) |
---|---|---|
Island Atmosphere | Rustic and quiet, suitable for nature lovers | Open and resort-like |
Island Characteristics | Mountains, rivers, and mangroves spread out | Flat terrain, no rivers. |
Attraction of the Sea | Coral reef + mangrove sea | White sand & emerald green sea |
Recommended Activities | Canoeing, night tours, trekking | Snorkeling and beach play |
Sightseeing Style | A healing journey in contact with nature | Tropical Resort Experience on the Royal Road |
Getting Around the Island | Spacious, car rental recommended. | Flat and easy to drive. |
Furthermore, let us keep in mind the geographical and basic differences between the two islands. In terms of size, population, and accessibility, they have different characteristics.
Island Size and Population
Amami Oshima Island belongs to Kagoshima Prefecture,712.35 square kilometers in areaThe island is the third largest in Japan after the main island of Okinawa and Iriomote Island. This is the third largest in Japan after Okinawa Island and Iriomote Island.
On the other hand, Miyako Island (Okinawa Prefecture)158.70 square kilometersAnd,About one-fifth the size of Amami OshimaThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
Population.Amami Oshima has about 40,000 people, ,Miyako Island has about 50,000 peopleand tends to be slightly higher on Miyako Island.
In terms of natural and cultural diversity, Amami Oshima offers more varied experiences due to the size of the island.
Miyakojima Island is suitable for those who want to enjoy a compact experience.
Ease of access
Compare ease of getting around the island
Let's compare the accessibility and accessibility of each.
Access to Amami Oshima and means of transportation within the island
Access to Amami Oshima Island is available by air from major cities and by ferry from Kagoshima.
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)
Amami Oshima Island isThe island is large and tourist attractions are dispersed, so renting a car is convenient.The city is located in the southwestern part of the country, and is a short distance from the city center. Buses are also available, but are infrequent, so a car is recommended if you value freedom of movement.
⬇︎For cheap car rental plans in Amami Oshima, click here.

Access to Miyako Island and means of transportation within the island
Miyako Island is sometimes chosen for its fare, as there are many direct flights from major cities and LCC operations. In addition, the island is currently not served by passenger ferry service, so it is accessible only by air.
From Haneda Airport to Miyako Airport: 3 hours 15 minutes
From Kansai Airport to Miyako Airport: about 2 hours and 30 minutes
From Naha Airport to Miyako Airport: Approx. 50 min.
*Operated by LCCs (Jetstar, Peach), etc.
Miyako Island isThe terrain is flat and easy to drive, and car rentals are the norm.It is. Easy access from the city center to beaches and tourist attractions allows for a quick tour. Bus routes are limited, so private transportation is convenient.
Click here for recommended car rental plans for Miyako Island.
Climate and Best Season Differences
Both belong to subtropical climates, though,Amami Oshima is somewhat rainy and requires attention during the rainy season and typhoon seasonIt is. Precipitation is especially heavy in May-June and August-September.
↓Here is how to enjoy the best season on Amami Oshima
A must read for a successful trip to Amami Oshima! Thorough explanation of the annual climate and recommended toursContents1 Annual climate (temperature) of Amami Oshima Island1.1 Spring (March to May) 1.2 Summer (June to August) 1.3 Autumn (September to November) 1.4 Winter (December to February) 2 What is the best season to visit Amami Oshima? 3 If you come to Amami Oshima, you should experience it! Recommended activities [...].
Miyako Island has a relatively high percentage of sunny days, and beach activities can be enjoyed throughout the year!The best season for both is from April to June and from October to November. The best season for both is from April to June and from October to November, but Miyako Island has a slight advantage when it comes to sea clarity.
Here's how to enjoy the best season in Miyako Island
How are the sights different?
Check out the difference between Amami Oshima and Miyakojima.
There are also differences in the direction of tourism between Amami Oshima and Miyakojima.
Amami's unspoiled nature is its charm, ,Miyako Island is ideal for those who want to enjoy the sea and resortsIt is.
Recommended sightseeing spots on Amami Oshima Island
Let's take a look at sightseeing and activities that allow you to fully enjoy the great nature of Amami Oshima.
interpoint (interword separation)One of the largest virgin mangrove forests in JapanExplore the
Canoe tour to observe nature on the quiet surface of the water
◆Trekking experience (Kinsaku primeval forest)
interpoint (interword separation)Kinsaku primeval forest designated as a national natural monument
Guided tours to see Amami's endemic species (e.g., Amami rabbit)
Walking through the primeval forest, enjoy the atmosphere of an ancient forest
◆Falls and unexplored spots
Dotted with unexplored waterfall spots such as "Arangachi Falls
Heart Rock," which appears at low tide, is also a popular photo spot.
↓Click here for Amami Oshima recommended sightseeing spot feature.

Recommended Tourist Attractions in Miyako Island
We will introduce the Miyako blue sea and sightseeing spots in Miyako Island.
interpoint (interword separation)Yonaha Maehama Beach with white sand, also known as the best in the Yotsuyo
The contrast between the emerald green sea and white sand is beautiful.
Popular for wedding photos and excellent for social networking.
◆Scenic driving spot (Irabu Bridge)
interpoint (interword separation)The Irabu Bridge, 3,540 meters long, is Japan's longest free bridge to cross.
A superb route connecting Miyako Island and Irabu Island.
The gradation of the sea seen from the window of the car is breathtaking.
◆Other scenic and recreational facilities
Street Pond: Mysterious spot where two ponds are connected, also a famous diving spot.
Sunayama Beach: A secluded beach with impressive rock arches and white sand
Shigira Onsen: Relax in an open-air bath overlooking the ocean
Click here for 50 recommended sightseeing spots on Miyako Island.
How are the attractions of the sea different?
Comparison of the sea of Amami Oshima and Miyakojima
Both islands offer beautiful waters, but there are differences in their characteristics. Let's compare them with a focus on snorkeling and diving.
What do you recommend for snorkeling?
Compare recommended snorkeling spots and features that even beginners can enjoy, and use them as a reference for your activity.
Attractions of snorkeling on Amami Oshima Island
Amami Oshima Island has many spots where unspoiled nature remains,Sea turtles and coral reefs up closeis the attraction.
It is recommended for beginners and families because of its clear waters and relaxing swimming.
Tsuchimori Beach: Beautiful white sand and coral, a place where you can feel untouched nature.
Click here for recommended snorkeling tours in Amami Oshima
Miyako Island Snorkeling Attractions
Miyako Island isCoral reef right off the beachThe charm of this area is that it is easy to enjoy the spectacular view from the expanse of the There are many spots scattered throughout the area that even beginners can enjoy with ease, such as the Imgaya Marine Garden.
Yoshino Coast: Coral reefs spread out from near the shore, and encounters with tropical fish are abundant.
Aragusuku Beach: well-equipped and rental facilities are available, so you can enjoy the beach empty-handed.
Click here for recommended snorkeling tours in Miyako Island
What do you recommend for diving?
Let's compare the attractions of diving, which offers wilder waters than snorkeling, and the attractions of each.
Amami-Oshima Diving Attractions
Diving in Amami Oshima is also popular among topography divers.
In addition to the varied terrain, including caves and drop-offs,Spawning beds of the Amami pufferfishand other precious underwater landscapes unique to Amami are attractive.
Under the lighthouse: Highlights include large migratory fish and tunnel topography.
Kurosaki Higashi: Beautiful soft corals, popular among macro divers.
Miyako Island Diving Attractions
Miyako Island isA sanctuary for topographic diving, including arches and holesThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
It is a popular diving area for intermediate to advanced divers, especially with its abundance of mysterious terrain spots such as "Street Pond" and "Blue Cave.
Antonio Gaudi: Popular spot for its complex topography
Nakanoshima Channel: Recommended for divers who love topography and beginners can also enjoy it.
Click here for recommended diving tours in Miyako Island.
Ocean clarity and coral reef features
The sea of Miyakojima is extremely clear even in shallow waters, and the contrast with the white sandy beaches is attractive. Amami Oshima, on the other hand, has a rich variety of coral reefs and diverse ecosystems, with some areas being slightly further out to the reef edge than others.
Both can enjoy the beautiful sea, though,Amami for more colorful tropical fish, ,If you value white sand beaches and transparency, Miyako Island is the place for you.is suitable.
Compare lodging, dining, and cultural differences
Staying, eating, and feeling are some of the pleasures of travel. Let's take a look at the differences between each.
Different types of accommodations and price ranges
Amami Oshima Island has many rustic minshuku, cottages, and guesthouses,Rates are relatively reasonable.It is a great way to It is also a great way to enjoy interacting with the locals.
↓Click here for popular hotels and accommodations in Amami Oshima

Miyako Island hasA wide range of resort hotels and luxury villasThe city has been developing as a tourist destination. Although the average cost of lodging is somewhat high, it is popular among couples and resort-oriented travelers.
Click here for popular hotels with children in Miyakojima
Amami and Miyako, local delicacies of each
Local cuisine of Amami OshimaChicken rice.is a chazuke-like dish served with chicken broth.brown sugar shochuand seafood from the mountains and the sea are also abundant.
↓Click here for Amami Oshima local staff recommendation

In Miyako IslandMiyako Sobaand ... andSea grapes, Agu porkThe influence of Okinawan cuisine is strong, and you can also enjoy awamori (Okinawa rice wine) such as
Here are some gourmet recommendations for Miyako Island locals
If you want to enjoy a taste of the tropics, both are hard to beat.
Differences in traditional culture and atmosphere
Amami Oshima has a strong unique Amami culture,Okinawan traditional three-stringed instrument; precursor to the shamisenand ... anddance performance held in AugustSuch as,Culture between Kagoshima and Okinawacan be enjoyed.
↓Click here to visit Amami Oshima's historical and cultural attractions.

Miyako Island because of its proximity to the main island of Okinawa,eisa (Okinawan folk dance)and ... andRyukyuan Cultureis strongly felt and the atmosphere is that of a tropical resort. Cultural experiences are also an option for travelers.
Click here for sightseeing spots where you can experience the history and culture of Miyako Island.
Amami Oshima and Miyako Island
What do you recommend for different travel styles?
「どっちに行くべきか?」を旅行スタイルから考えてみましょう。
Who is suitable for family travel and with children?
子供に自然体験をさせたい!家族で非日常を味わいたい!家族で楽しめる旅行に向いているのは?
それぞれ比較してみましょう。
奄美大島で家族・子連れ旅行におすすめツアー
Amami Oshima Island is自然体験が豊富In,少し大きくなった子どもと一緒にカヌーや森の探検を楽しめます。アクティブ派の家族にぴったりです。
宮古島で家族・子連れ旅行におすすめツアー
Miyako Island isビーチやリゾート施設が整っており、小さな子ども連れでも安心して過ごせます。ホテル内のアクティビティも充実しているため、移動が少なくて済むのも魅力です。
宮古島のファミリー旅におすすめツアーは
this way (direction close to the speaker or towards the speaker)
The island is recommended for solo travelers and nature oriented people.
一人旅で静かな離島を満喫したい方におすすめな島は?それぞれの一人旅におすすめなツアーを紹介していきます。
奄美大島で一人旅におすすめツアー
一人旅で非日常感を求めるなら、奄美大島がおすすめ。観光地化されすぎていないため、自然と静けさを味わえますThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
宮古島で一人旅におすすめツアー
宮古島はリゾート感が強く、一人旅よりもグループやカップル向き。ただし、離島巡りや海を中心にした旅がしたい人には適していますThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
Which is more popular for couples and women travelers?
カップルや女子旅にも人気の離島旅行♪こちらも比較していきましょう。
奄美大島でカップル・女子旅におすすめツアー
奄美大島は落ち着いた雰囲気で、ゆっくり自然を楽しみたい大人のカップルに好まれています。静かに過ごす二人旅にぴったりです。
奄美大島のカップル・女子旅に
Click here for recommended tours
宮古島でカップル・女子旅におすすめツアー
宮古島はインスタ映えするスポットが多く、女子旅やカップル旅行に人気。シギラリゾートなどのラグジュアリーな滞在も可能です。
後悔しない離島旅行のために
知っておきたいこと
旅行先選びでは、天候やアクセス、旅の目的をしっかり考慮することが大切です。また、奄美大島はレンタカーが必須な場面が多く、宮古島は宿泊場所によりアクセス性が大きく異なります。
どちらも魅力的な離島だからこそ、情報収集をしっかり行って、自分にぴったりの島を選びましょう。
Comparison of Amami Oshima and Miyakojima Q&A
summary
奄美大島と宮古島は、それぞれ独自の魅力を持つ南国の楽園です。手つかずの自然と文化を楽しみたいなら奄美大島、白砂ビーチとリゾートを満喫したいなら宮古島がおすすめ。
どちらを選んでもきっと素敵な旅になるはずです。目的に合わせて選び、後悔のない離島旅行を楽しみましょう。
↓Click here to read the article.
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