Which do you prefer? Amami Oshima VS Okinawa ! Thorough comparison of sightseeing attractions and access methods!
Table of Contents
- 1 Which is your preference? Amami Oshima vs. Okinawa
- 2 What is Amami Oshima and Okinawa like? What are Amami-Oshima and Okinawa like? Check basic information
- 3 Amami and Okinawa: Which do you recommend for sightseeing?
Which do you recommend?
- 3.1 Popular Tourist Spots on Amami Oshima Island Kanasakubara primeval forest
- 3.2 Popular Tourist Spots on Amami Oshima Island Cape Ayamaru
- 3.3 Popular Tourist Spots on Amami Oshima Island Tsuchimori Coast
- 3.4 Okinawa Popular Tourist Spots Churaumi Aquarium
- 3.5 Okinawa Popular Tourist Spots Shuri Castle
- 3.6 Okinawa Popular Tourist Spots Kokusai Street
- 4 Amami, Okinawa Activity/Experience Comparison
- 5 To Amami Oshima and Okinawa Comparison of access methods!
- 6 Climate in Okinawa and Amami Oshima Best Season Comparison
- 7 Okinawa vs. Amami Oshima｜Travel Cost Which is cheaper?
- 8 summary
Which is your preference? Amami Oshima vs. Okinawa
A healing island full of natureAmami Oshimaand popular resorts with plenty of sightseeing and activities.Okinawa (prefecture)A thorough comparison of the
This section provides easy-to-understand information on tourist attractions, accessibility, travel costs, best season, and other useful information for choosing a travel destination.
We are sure you will find the perfect destination for you!
◆For those who want to know the charms of both Amami Oshima and Okinawa.
◆For those who are looking for activities to enjoy in Amami Oshima
In this column, we compare Amami Oshima and Okinawa, and introduce their respective tourist attractions, accessibility, travel costs, best seasons, etc. in an easy-to-understand manner.
Please use this information to help you choose a destination for your next trip.
Recommended activities in Amami Oshima are here☆↓.
What kind of Amami-Oshima and Okinawa
Place? Check basic information
Okinawa and Amami Oshima are bothJapansouthBeautiful islands located in the westHowever, each has different characteristics.
Okinawa is located at the southernmost tip of Japan and stretches about 600 km south of mainland KyushuCollective name for islandsIt is.
The main island of Okinawa and other remote islands such as Ishigaki and Miyako are also popular tourist destinations.
Amami Oshima, on the other hand, belongs to Kagoshima Prefecture and is located between the main island of Kyushu and the main island of Okinawa.
Much unspoiled nature remains,world natural heritage siteIt is also registered with the
Like Okinawa, it offers beautiful beaches and a rich culture, but with a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.
Features and Attractions of Amami Oshima
Amami Oshima Island belongs to Kagoshima Prefecture,world natural heritage siteThe island has a beautiful natural environment and is registered as a
With its pristine mangrove forests and crystal clear waters, it is an ideal destination for travelers who want to relax.
In addition, while the culture is similar to that of Okinawa, its own history and dialect have taken root, and visitors can enjoy the island's unique traditional culture.
Click here for the plan to fully enjoy the World Natural Heritage of Amami Oshima☆↓↓ Click here for the plan to fully enjoy the World Natural Heritage of Amami Oshima
Characteristics and Attractions of Okinawa
Okinawa is the southernmost resort area in Japan, with a mild climate and emerald green waters.
Sightseeing spots are plentiful, with such landmarks as Churaumi Aquarium, Shurijo Castle, and Kokusai-dori Avenue.
Okinawan cuisine is another attraction, with specialties such as bitter melon stir-fry, rafte, and awamori.
Amami, Okinawa] If you want to go sightseeing
Which do you recommend?
Amami Oshima Island offers unspoiled nature and is suitable for those who want to spend a quiet time or enjoy nature in an active way.
Okinawa, on the other hand, offers a wide range of sightseeing facilities and is recommended for those who want to enjoy family trips and gourmet food.
Each of the three recommended tourist attractions are listed below♪
Popular Tourist Spots on Amami Oshima Island
Kanasakubara virgin forest
Amami OshimaKanasakubara virgin forestis a spot where you can enjoy the island's rich natural environment.
The jungle-like environment is lush with subtropical vegetation and colorfulPlaces to see wildlife and birdsIt is.
This is the perfect place for those who want to spend a pleasant moment in nature.
Access: 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Amami Airport
Fee: Free of charge
Parking: Available
↓Click here for popular guided tours ☆↓.
Popular Tourist Spots on Amami Oshima Island
Cape Wrong
Cape Ayamaru is one of the most popular viewing spots on Amami Oshima.
From here, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the ocean and sky, especially at sunset.
The quiet atmosphere will surely soothe your soul♪
Access: 15 minutes by car from Amami Airport
Parking: Available
Closed: Saturday and Sunday
Business hours: 8:30~17:15
Popular Tourist Spots on Amami Oshima Island
embankment
The Tsuchimori Coast is,Beautiful beaches with high transparencyIt is known for its
snorkelingis a great place to enjoy and see colorful fish and coral up close.
The gentle waves and quiet sea make for a relaxing time.
Access: 6 minutes by car from Amami Airport
Facilities: showers and toilets available
Parking: Available
Closed: No holidays
↓Click here for popular recommended tours☆↓.
Okinawa Popular Sightseeing Spots
Churaumi Aquarium
Located in the northern part of Okinawa's main island, Churaumi Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in Japan.
The large tank in which whale sharks swim is particularly impressive and overwhelming in its size and power.
This is a very popular tourist spot representing Okinawa where you can experience both learning and fun while experiencing the marine ecosystem☆.
Access: 1 hour and 45 minutes by car from Naha Airport
Parking: Available
Business hours: 8:30~18:30
Okinawa Popular Sightseeing Spots
Shuri Castle (in Kyoto)
Shurijo Castle is a World Heritage Site located in Naha City on the main island of Okinawa, where visitors can feel the history of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
The red-roofed royal palace and gardens are beautiful, and there are plenty of exhibits to learn about the kingdom's culture.
After the fire in 2019, restoration work is underway and the spot is looking forward to being rebuilt in the future.
Access: Approximately 40 minutes by car from Naha Airport
Parking: Available
Business hours: 8:00~18:30
Okinawa Popular Sightseeing Spots
International Street
Kokusai-dori is a bustling downtown area located in the center of Okinawa.
Souvenir stores and brand-name stores line the street, and there are also a variety of restaurants where visitors can enjoy Okinawa's unique gourmet cuisine.
A favorite place for both tourists and locals, visitors can enjoy shopping while experiencing the culture and atmosphere of Okinawa.
Access: 20 minutes by car from Naha Airport
Parking: Available
Amami, Okinawa
Activities & Experiences Comparison
Amami Activities
Mangrove Canoe Experience
On Amami Oshima Island,One of the largest virgin mangrove forests in Japanis spreading.
This popular activity allows visitors to explore nature at a leisurely pace while canoeing on the calm surface of the water.
The scenery changes with the ebb and high tides, and different attractions can be enjoyed at different times of the day. Even beginners can participate safely with a guide.
Click here for recommended canoe tours ☆↓↓
Amami Activities
Night tours (observing creatures at night)
Amami Oshima at night,A treasure trove of rare plants and animalsThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
One of the most attractive features is the chance to see the Amami rabbit, a national special natural treasure.
Walk slowly through the forest with a guide and quietly observe nocturnal creatures.
You can feel the depth of Amami's nature, which you cannot experience during the daytime.
↓Click here for recommended night tours to see rare animals☆↓.
Amami Activities
Snorkeling and Diving
The sea of Amami is clear and colorful.Coral reefs and tropical fish are spread out.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
From beach snorkeling for beginners to full-scale boat diving, we offer a wide range of activities for all levels.Plans aboundThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
Sea turtles can also be encountered, making this activity a must for ocean lovers.
↓Swim with sea turtles☆Snorkeling is here↓.
Okinawa Activities
Snorkeling and Diving
Marine experiences in the ocean with beautiful coral reefs and colorful fish are a staple of Okinawa.
There are also a variety of tours for beginners, allowing them to enjoy the world of the sea in an easygoing manner.
Okinawa Activity Marine Sports
(banana boats, jet skis, etc.)
There are also plenty of marine activities popular among active people.
Because it gives you a sense of speed and thrill,Good for group trips and families.It is.
Okinawa Activities
Ryukyu Culture Experience
Many programs allow visitors to experience traditional culture unique to Okinawa.
It is a great way to create memories of your trip or to enjoy a rainy day.
To Amami Oshima and Okinawa
Comparison of accessibility!
Okinawa from major citiesPlenty of direct flightsAccess is convenient with the following
On the other hand, direct flights to Amami Oshima are limited, and there are no flights from Tokyo or Osaka.few flightsBecause of,Requires advance planningThere are
Let's take a closer look at how to access each of them.
When flying to Amami Oshima
Time & Fees
Airplane is the fastest and most convenient transportation to Amami Oshima.
From Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, etc.direct (nonstop) flightThe flight takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes from Tokyo and about 1 hour and 45 minutes from Osaka.
One-way fees range from approximately 5,000 to 65,000 yen.
*Even lower prices may be available if you use early-bird discount or LCC!
| Departure Airport
|
the time required
|
one-way fare |
| Haneda Airport
|
Approx. 2 hours and 30 minutes
|
Approx. 20,000-65,000 yen |
| Narita Airport
|
Approx. 2 hours and 30 minutes
|
Approx. 7,000 to 40,000 yen |
| Kansai International Airport
|
Approx. 1 hour and 45 minutes
|
Approx. 5,000-30,000 yen |
| Itami Airport | Approx. 1 hour and 45 minutes
|
Approx. 10,000-55,000 yen |
| Fukuoka Airport | Approx. 1 hr. 30 min.
|
Approx. 15,000-50,000 yen |
| Kagoshima Airport
|
Approx. 1 hour
|
Approx. 5,000-15,000 yen |
| Naha Airport | Approx. 1 hour
|
Approx. 17,000-30,000 yen |
*As of March 2025
As of March 2025, there are no direct flights from Nagoya (Central Japan International Airport) to Amami Oshima, but access is possible via Kagoshima Airport.
When flying to Okinawa
Time & Fees
Flying is the fastest and most convenient mode of transportation to Okinawa.
There are plenty of direct flights from Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, and other parts of Japan, and it takes about 3 hours from Tokyo, 2 hours and 20 minutes from Osaka, and 1 hour and 45 minutes from Fukuoka.
One-way trip costs about 7,000-55,000 yen.
*If you use the early bird discount or LCC, you can save even more money!
| Departure Airport
|
the time required
|
one-way fare |
| Haneda Airport
|
Approx. 3 hours
|
Approx. 10,000-55,000 yen |
| Narita Airport
|
Approx. 3 hours
|
Approx. 9,000-50,000 yen |
| Kansai International Airport
|
Approx. 2 hours and 15 minutes
|
Approx. 7,000-40,000 yen |
| Itami Airport | Approx. 2 hours
|
Approx. 10,000-55,000 yen |
| Fukuoka Airport | Approx. 1 hour and 45 minutes
|
Approx. 8,000-45,000 yen |
| Kagoshima Airport
|
Approx. 1 hr. 30 min.
|
Approx. 15,000-45,000 yen |
| Amami Airport | Approx. 1 hour
|
Approx. 17,000-30,000 yen |
*As of March 2025
Ferry to Amami-Oshima and Okinawa
Comparison of access times & fees
You can also enjoy a relaxing sea trip to Amami Oshima and Okinawa by ferry.
MARUEI FERRY and MALIX LINE alternately operate from Kagoshima Shinko Port to Nase Port to Amami Oshima Island,Time required: approx. 11:00 a.m.Between.
one-way trip14,880 yen to 30,000 yenand an additional fee (2,000 yen to 6,000 yen) will be charged if you use a sleeper berth.
Similarly, there is a ferry service to Okinawa (Naha) from Kagoshima New Port,The time required is approximately 25 hours.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
one-way trip14,880 yen to 35,000 yenand an additional fee (about 4,000 yen to 6,000 yen) will be charged if you use a sleeper berth.
It can carry a car or motorcycle along with it and is recommended for those who plan to drive long distances.
It takes time, though,Those who want to enjoy a relaxing boat tripand ...,For those who wish to bring their own carFerries are the perfect means of transportation for
Climate of Okinawa and Amami Oshima
Best Season Comparison
Both Amami Oshima and Okinawa areWarm subtropical climateand the temperature is slightly higher in Okinawa.
Both are popular for snorkeling and other activities in summer.
July through September, when typhoons are common.Check the weather frequentlyLet's do it!
Click here for recommended snorkeling tours ↓ Click here for recommended snorkeling tours ☆ Click here for recommended snorkeling tours
Best season on Amami Oshima Island
& Recommended time of year
What is the best season for Amami Oshima?Spring (March - May)andAutumn (September to November)It is.
This time of year is mild and comfortable, with little precipitation.
Summer season is good though,Be careful during the rainy season (June) and typhoon season (July-September).It is.
↓Click here for Amami Oshima recommended chartered tours☆.
Best Season in Okinawa
& Recommended time of year
What is the best season in Okinawa?Spring (March - May)andAutumn (September to November)It is.
The mild climate and low humidity make it an ideal time for sightseeing.
Summer (June to August) is also the peak tourist season, ideal for swimming and diving, but the high temperatures make it unsuitable for the purpose of a summer retreat.
Okinawa vs. Amami Oshima｜Travel Costs
Which is cheaper?
Transportation costs tend to be lower in Okinawa, where there are many LCCs, than in Amami Oshima.
On the other hand, Amami Oshima tends to have modest lodging and local prices, making it easier to keep overall expenses low.
It depends on the time of year,Overall, Amami is cheaper.There are also times when
bothEarly booking is the key.It is!
Comparison of Accommodation and Hotel Rates
In Okinawa, lodging costs are relatively high due to the large number of resorts and luxury hotels.
The cost of one night's lodging is inexpensive.61,000 to 10,000 yenThe cost of a room at a high-end hotel can be more than 40,000 yen per night.
Amami Oshima Island has fewer lodging facilities than Okinawa, and accommodations are available at relatively reasonable rates.
5,000 to 9,000 yen per nightMany of the accommodations in the
Dining & Gourmet Price Comparison
Okinawa is a well-developed tourist destination, and meal prices are generally touristy, ranging from 1,000 yen to 2,000 yen per meal.
Meals on Amami Oshima are inexpensive compared to those in Okinawa, and can be enjoyed at local eateries and taverns for 500 to 1,000 yen per meal.
Check out the difference in tourism costs
Okinawa's tourist attractions are costly in terms of entrance fees and activities.Tends to be higherThere are
For example, admission to Churaumi Aquarium costs 1,850 yen for adults, and activities and tours are also relatively expensive.
In contrast, the sightseeing spots and activities on Amami Oshima are much more limited than those in Okinawa.Relatively low-cost enjoymentMany of these are available for budget travel.
Recommended activities in Amami Oshima are here☆↓.
summary
Okinawa has a wide variety of tourist attractions and resort facilities,People who want to be active and have funFor.
Amami Oshima Island isPeople who want to spend a relaxing time while enjoying nature.Recommended for
Both islands are attractive, so you should choose the one that best suits your travel goals and style.
↓Click here to read the article.
