Enjoy the Rivers of Amami Oshima! A Complete Guide to Mangrove Canoeing and Freshwater Fishing Spots
Table of Contents
- 1 Let's enjoy the rivers of Amami Oshima!
- 2 The Charm of Amami Oshima’s Rivers and Nature
- 3 Mangrove Canoeing Experience Guide
- 4 Mangrove Canoe Rates and How to Make a Reservation
- 5 Freshwater Fish You Can Find in the Rivers of Amami Oshima
- 6 Places to Visit Near Rivers and Mangroves
- 7 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Rivers on Amami Oshima
- 8 summary
Let's enjoy the rivers of Amami Oshima!

Amami OshimaRivers and MangrovesWe'll explain how to enjoy the experience, how to book a canoeing trip, and the freshwater fish you might encounter.
If you'd like to enjoy playing in the river on this World Natural Heritage island, be sure to read all the way to the end.
◆For those who want to know the fees and how to make a reservation for the canoeing experience
◆For those interested in freshwater fish unique to Amami Oshima
◆For those who want to try mangrove canoeing on Amami Oshima
Popular Tours of Amami Oshima
Click here to see the ranking
The Charm of Amami Oshima’s Rivers and Nature

Amami Oshima Island hasKuroshioThe area is characterized by lush, natural scenery shaped by these influences, and a unique ecosystem has developed where the river meets the sea.
⬇︎Click here for recommended mangrove tours on 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.
Trekking in Kanasakubara Wilderness & Mangrove Canoe Tour☆An extraordinary experience to fully enjoy the great nature <Cancellation free until the day before> (No.189)開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours11,550 yen →directional marker or indicator9,900suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Amami Oshima Island/1 day】Snorkeling & mangrove canoeing with sea turtle encounter rate of 98% (with pickup and drop-off, shower and other facilities) (No.31)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Approx. 8 hours14,000 yen →directional marker or indicator13,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.⬇︎Learn more about the Amami Oshima Mangrove Tour⬇︎
Amami Oshima Mangrove Tour Enjoy the subtropical virgin forest! World Heritage Amami Oshima Mangrove Tour Experience the nature of Amami Oshima through the mangrove experience. The mangrove is a treasure trove of life where a wide variety of plants and animals live, such as the "Ojirugi," "Mehirugi," "Ryukyu Ayu," and "Shiomaneki". [...]. (49 total) アクティビティの詳細を見る
The Rich Ecosystem Brought by the Kuroshio Current
The warm Kuroshio Current flows around Amami Oshima, and its warm climate and abundant nutrients sustain the island’s natural environment.
As a result, a wide variety of creatures inhabit both land and sea, andworld natural heritage siteIt is a valuable environment that is also listed on the [...].
Characteristics of Estuaries Where Rivers Meet the Sea

Near the mouths of the Sumiyo and Yakatsu Rivers, freshwater and seawater mix.Estuaryis spreading.
It is precisely this brackish water area that nurtures the mangrove forests and creates a unique ecosystem.
Mangrove Canoeing Experience Guide

It could be called the very symbol of Amami Oshimamangrove canoeis a popular activity that everyone from beginners to experienced participants can enjoy.
What Is a Mangrove Canoe?

This is an experience that allows you to observe nature while paddling a canoe through a mangrove forest; the pristine mangrove forest in Sumiyoshi Town is a prime location for this activity.
Even within JapanOne of the largestIt's a large-scale attraction, and you can enjoy it with peace of mind on a guided tour.
⬇︎Recommended mangrove canoe tours are here: ⬇︎
Summer Special 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 minutes10,300 yen →directional marker or indicator8,800suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Amami Oshima Island/2 hours] Enjoy the World Natural Heritage site with an experienced guide! Mangrove Canoe Experience Course *Children and beginners are welcome! (No.3)開始時間9:15-11:30 / 13:20-15:35所要時間Approx. 2 hours3,900 yen
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 →directional marker or indicator9,800suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.⬇︎Learn more about the Amami Oshima Mangrove Tour⬇︎
Amami Oshima Canoe (Kayak) Tour Only on Amami Oshima can you enjoy both mangrove canoeing through the dense mangroves and sea kayaking through the "Amami blue" sea. (61 entries total) アクティビティの詳細を見る
Differences in the Landscape Between High and Low Tides
high tideAs the water level rises, you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery of paddling a canoe right up close to the trees.
low tideIt's easy to observe the creatures living on the riverbed and the roots, and each has its own unique charm.
Available Time Slots and the Day's Schedule

Many tours are held twice a day, in the morning and afternoon, and are often scheduled to coincide with high tide.
From Check-in to the Canoeing Experience and DismissalAbout 1.5 to 2 hoursThis serves as a guideline.
Important Notes on Attire and What to Bring

It's a good idea to bring clothes you don't mind getting wet, a towel, and a change of clothes.
Since the sun is strong, we recommend bringing a hat and sunscreen as well.
Mangrove Canoe Rates and How to Make a Reservation

Before you try it out, let’s take a look at the typical prices and how to make a reservation.
⬇︎Recommended mangrove canoe tours are here: ⬇︎
Amami Oshima Island / 3 hours / Private tour] Miracle of nature☆The world's largest bean & mysterious waterfall & mangrove canoeing! Guided by islanders who know Amami well 《Free photos and video present》(No.143).開始時間8:30-11:30 / 9:00-12:00 / 14:00-17:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours10,000 yen
Amami Oshima Island/1 day] Trekking & Mangrove Canoe Tour with a certified guide! Kinsaku-hara Trekking & Mangrove Canoe Tour ☆Number of participants limited《Incl. lunch & pickup》(No.141)開始時間9:00-17:00所要時間Approx. 8 hours19,800 yen
Amami Oshima/3 hours] Mangrove Canoe & Forest & Waterfall Nature Trekking Tour☆Experience all three natural attractions in their entirety (No.180)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 14:00-17:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours7,150 yen⬇︎Learn more about the Amami Oshima Mangrove Tour⬇︎
Amami Oshima Canoe (Kayak) Tour Only on Amami Oshima can you enjoy both mangrove canoeing through the dense mangroves and sea kayaking through the "Amami blue" sea. (61 entries total) アクティビティの詳細を見る
Estimated Price Range

Per adult3,000 to 5,000 yenThese are the general market rates.
Prices vary depending on the tour details and duration, so we recommend checking in advance.
How to Make a Reservation and Whether Same-Day Reservations Are Available
Many tours can be booked through their official websites or by phone.advance reservationThis is the basic principle.
Same-day reservations may be available if there are openings, but during peak seasons, it's best to book early to be on the safe side.
Important Notes When Making a Reservation

Since the event times vary depending on the high tide schedule, be sure to check the schedule when making your reservation.
It’s a good idea to confirm what to do in case of rain as well, just to be on the safe side.
Freshwater Fish You Can Find in the Rivers of Amami Oshima

In the rivers of Amami Oshima,endemic speciesA wide variety of freshwater fish, including [...], inhabit the area.
⬇︎Click here for tours where you can enjoy river activities on Amami Oshima⬇︎
[Amami Oshima / 1 Day] Private tours available depending on group size! River play at a mystical waterfall & mangrove canoe tour☆ (Free photos & pickup/drop-off in Naze city center available) (No. 63)開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours18,000 yen
[Amami Oshima / Half-Day] A Hit with Returning Visitors! Experience the Great Outdoors to the Fullest ★ Half-Day River Play Tour at a "Mysterious Waterfall" Not Found in Guidebooks (Free Photos & Transportation Available) (No. 68)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 13:30-16:30所要時間Approx. 3 hours8,800 yen
Amami Oshima Island / 1 day] Enjoy the ocean, mountains, waterfalls, and rivers with one private group! Snorkeling & River Fun at Mysterious Waterfall 1 Day Tour《Tour request OK, photo data present, pick-up and drop-off included》(No.61).開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours22,000 yen
Amami Oshima Island/4 hours] ◆Fully chartered ◆River tour in the World Heritage forest! Healing experience at unexplored waterfalls 《with free photo gift and pickup service》(No.224).開始時間: 8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. / 1:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.所要時間Approx. 4 hours9,000 yen
Ryukyu sweetfish (Plecoglossus altivelis ryukyuensis)

Found only on Amami Oshima and the main island of OkinawaPreciousIt's a type of ayu.
Since they prefer clear streams, they're often found in rivers with good water quality.
Bald Goby

This fish has the unusual habit of moving while clinging to rocks with its sucker-like mouth.
It has become a popular fish species commonly found in stream basins.
Long-armed shrimp

As the name suggests, this species of shrimp is characterized by its long front legs.
nocturnal habitThat's why you can see them actively moving about along the riverbank at night.
Around Rivers and Mangroves
Places to Stop By

Be sure to check out the parks and other spots you might want to visit before or after your canoeing experience.
⬇︎Click here for recommended mangrove tours on 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.
Trekking in Kanasakubara Wilderness & Mangrove Canoe Tour☆An extraordinary experience to fully enjoy the great nature <Cancellation free until the day before> (No.189)開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours11,550 yen →directional marker or indicator9,900suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Amami Oshima Island/1 day】Snorkeling & mangrove canoeing with sea turtle encounter rate of 98% (with pickup and drop-off, shower and other facilities) (No.31)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Approx. 8 hours14,000 yen →directional marker or indicator13,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.⬇︎Learn more about the Amami Oshima Mangrove Tour⬇︎
Amami Oshima Mangrove Tour Enjoy the subtropical virgin forest! World Heritage Amami Oshima Mangrove Tour Experience the nature of Amami Oshima through the mangrove experience. The mangrove is a treasure trove of life where a wide variety of plants and animals live, such as the "Ojirugi," "Mehirugi," "Ryukyu Ayu," and "Shiomaneki". [...]. (49 total) アクティビティの詳細を見る
Amami Nature Observation Forest
This forest park, where visitors can easily learn about the island’s natural environment, features well-maintained walking trails.
The view from the observation deck is one of the highlights, too.
Kuroshio Forest Mangrove Park

A facility where you can observe mangroves and go canoeing,FamiliesIt's also popular there.
With plenty of shops and rest areas, it’s a great spot to stop by between sightseeing activities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Rivers on Amami Oshima
While many tours are open to children as young as elementary school age, age restrictions vary by company. If you’re traveling with young children, it’s a good idea to check in advance.
The tour usually goes ahead even in light rain, but it may be canceled in case of severe weather. Be sure to check the rain policy when making your reservation.
Since most tours include a guide who rides along and provides support, even beginners can participate with confidence. You’ll also receive thorough instructions on how to operate the equipment before departure.
summary

The rivers and mangroves of Amami Oshima are home to the rich natural environment nurtured by the Kuroshio Current, andRare Freshwater FishAn encounter with [...], is waiting for you.
Since the canoeing experience offers different attractions depending on whether it's high tide or low tide, be sure to check the reservation status in advance and come give it a try.
▼Click here for articles to read in conjunction with this article.
Amami Oshima, Naze] 10 Sightseeing Spots! A Complete Guide to Gourmet Food, Oshima Tsumugi, and Recommended ToursContents1 What kind of place is Nase, the center of Amami Oshima Island? 2 Attractions of Nase area2.1 ① Many popular sightseeing spots2.2 ② Home of Oshima silk 2.3 ③ Enjoy shopping and gourmet 3 How to get to Nase3.1 Access from Amami Airport [...]
8 Recommended Sauna Facilities on Amami Oshima! A Complete Guide to Everything from Day-Trip-Friendly Spots to Villas and Cottages with SaunasTable of Contents 1: A Comprehensive Guide to Popular Sauna Facilities on Amami Oshima! 2 How to Enjoy Saunas on Amami Oshima? 3 8 Recommended Sauna Facilities on Amami Oshima 3.1 Hotel New Amami 3.2 Amami Sauna & Stay (SAUNA & STAY) 3.3 THE SCENE ama […]
7 popular izakaya on Amami Oshima! From reservation required restaurants to popular restaurants where you can enjoy folk music!Table of Contents 1: Izakayas on Amami Oshima Are Full of Charm! 2 The Charms of Amami Oshima’s Izakayas 2.1 Enjoy Local Cuisine 2.2 Live Folk Music Performances—Savor the Night on Amami Oshima! 3 With the “Free Plan,” You’ll Even Get a Ride Back to the Izakaya at the End! 4 During the Day […]













