Why was Amami Oshima Island registered as a World Natural Heritage site? Guide to Attractions, Points to Note, and Recommended Activities to Know Before Your Trip
Table of Contents
- 1 When will Amami Oshima Island become a World Natural Heritage site?
- 2 What is Amami Oshima like?
- 3 What are the features of Amami Oshima World Natural Heritage Site? Reasons and Criteria for Registration
- 4 Amami Oshima World Heritage Center" was born! Recommended as a place to visit
- 5 Experience the World Heritage Sites of Amami Oshima Recommended Activities and Tours
- 6 Let's protect the nature of Amami Oshima Island 5 points to keep in mind while traveling
- 7 About Amami Oshima World Natural Heritage Site Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 8 summary
Book a rental car with airport pick-up and drop-off at a reasonable price☆.
Click here to easily compare & book cheap car rental plans at ⬇︎
When will Amami Oshima Island become a World Natural Heritage site?
In 2021, Amami Oshima Island will follow Yakushima, the Shirakami Mountains, Shiretoko, and the Ogasawara Islands.Japan's fifth World Natural Heritage siteregistered in the
This article introduces the background of Amami Oshima's registration as a World Natural Heritage site and recommended tours to fully enjoy Amami.
◆If you are considering a trip to Amami Oshima
◆Amami Oshima history and culture
◆For those who want to know about activities to enjoy the nature of Amami Oshima Island.
Held on Amami Oshima!
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours
What is Amami Oshima like?
Amami Oshima Island is located between the Kagoshima mainland and Okinawa, and has a subtropical climate.
The island has a circumference of 461 km, an area of 712 square km, and a population of approximately 60,000, making it the No. 1 remote island in Kagoshima Prefecture in both area and population.
Not only people,Amami rabbit and Ryukyu long-eared ratMany plants and animals (endemic species) are found only here, such as
In 2017 (Heisei 29), Amami Oshima and other islands in the Amami ArchipelagoDesignated as the 34th national park in JapanThe first time the company was founded, it was in the process of being reorganized into a new company.
In July 2021, Amami Oshima and Tokunoshima Island, along with the northern part of Okinawa Island and Iriomote Island, will beworld natural heritage siteThe company has attracted a lot of attention by being registered with the
Held on Amami Oshima!
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours
What are the features of the Amami Oshima World Natural Heritage Site?
Reasons for and Criteria for Registration
Amami Oshima was registered as a World Natural Heritage site mainly because of itsUnique natural environment and biodiversityThis is because the company was recognized for its
Topography
Ecosystems
Biodiversity
Amami-Oshima and Tokuno-shima, northern Okinawa Island and Iriomote Island were nominated and registered based on the "Biodiversity" registration criteria.
*"Biodiversity" is a criterion for areas where organisms that are most important for biodiversity conservation live and grow, such as habitats for endangered wildlife.
↓Enjoy the World Natural Heritage
Click here for recommended tours
Held on Amami Oshima!
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours
Home to many rare plants and animals, including endangered species
Since ancient times, the Amami Islands have repeatedly been connected to and separated from the Chinese mainland and the Japanese archipelago.
Therefore, there are many endemic species that have evolved on their own and rare species that have already become extinct in other regions.The Galapagos of the Orient.It is also said that
The national government, the prefecture, and Amami City are committed to the preservation of rare plants and animals for future generations.protective designationand penalties will be imposed for the capture or collection of these animals and plants.
Recognized worldwide as a treasure trove of valuable endemic species
Amami Oshima Island is also home to a number of globally valuable endemic species and subspecies that are found only here.
The Amami rabbit is an endangered species and a national special natural treasure.The name is designated in the
*The Lidth's jay is the prefectural bird of Kagoshima Prefecture and a natural treasure found only on Amami Oshima Island.It is.
◆Amphibians: 10 species including warty newts, Otto's frogs, and Amami Hanasaki frogs
Insects: 3254 species including Amami yamma, Amami marubane stag beetle, and Marudaikoku kokugake
◆Land and aquatic crustacean decapods: 14 species including the Amami southern king crab, the Ryukyu king crab, and the Sakamoto king crab
↓Let's go see rare animals♪ Click here for recommended tours.
Held on Amami Oshima!
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours
Amami Oshima World Heritage Center" is born!
Recommended as a spot to visit.
Following the registration of Amami Oshima Island as a World Natural Heritage site, the Amami Oshima World Heritage Center will open in July 2022.
Inside the museum, through full-scale dioramas and videos,Realistic feeling as if you are actually walking in the forestYou can taste theSince the audio and other information changes with the seasons, you will find something new no matter how many times you visit. We hope you will visit.
Access: 1 hour and 10 minutes by car from Amami Airport
Admission: Free
Hours of operation: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Closed: Thursday, Year-end and New Year holidays (Dec. 29-Jan. 3)
Experience the World Heritage Sites of Amami Oshima
Recommended Activities and Tours
Among the various activities you can experience on Amami Oshima Island, here are five recommended activities that allow you to experience the great outdoors in particular!
Held on Amami Oshima!
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours
(1) Walking in Kanasakubara Wilderness Forest
Located almost in the center of Amami Oshima Island, the Kanasakubara primeval forest is a treasure trove of subtropical plants.
From February 2019 (Heisei 31), the Kanezakuhara Wilderness Forest will be closed to individuals for the protection of the natural environment,Must be accompanied by a certified eco-tour guideThe company was
You can see a colony of lizard lizards over 10 meters long, as if you were transported back in time to the Jurassic period.
Walking with a guide for about 2 km round trip
Experienced and certified guides will introduce the names and ecology of rare plants and animals, as well as power spots known to those in the know.
◆Excitement of discovering endemic plants and animals
Many endemic species are found only here in Japan. Visitors can sometimes encounter rare species such as the Amami rabbit and the Lidth's jay.
◆Famous movie locations
It is also known as a filming location for the movie Godzilla. You can actually touch the leaves of the Japanese knotweed that Totoro uses as an umbrella in "My Neighbor Totoro" and other items.
◆Experience with nature
The wilderness walking trail is a dirt road, about 900 meters long each way, but it is gentle enough for small children and the elderly to participate without worry.
Recommended Kinsaku Wilderness Forest Walking Tour
Reviews & Testimonials
↓Recommendations as applicable
Click here for Kanezakuhara Wilderness Forest Walking Tour
↓Other recommendations
Click here for Kanezakuhara Wilderness Forest Walking Tour
Kanasakubara Wilderness Forest Tour
Click here to see the popularity ranking!
(2) Mangrove Canoeing
Mangroves are a general term for plants that grow where seawater and freshwater mix in tropical and subtropical regions.Approximately 700,000 square metersIt is.
As you navigate through a narrow channel that can only be accessed by canoe, the branches and leaves of the mangroves arch above your head, giving you the sensation of passing through a tunnel of nature.
◆Observation of organisms at low tide
At low tide, visitors can disembark from the canoes and walk on the mudflats to get up close and personal with species such as the Southern Flying Goby and the Blue-Tailed Goby.
◆Guided ecological interpretation
Accompanied by local guides with expert knowledge of the area, they will explain in detail about the mangrove ecosystem and the organisms that inhabit it.
◆Seasonal plant observations
The mangrove flowers and surrounding plants change with the seasons. For example, in the summer, the flowers of the duckbill bloom and give off a distinctive fragrance.
◆A wide range of ages can participate
Canoes are extremely stable, and even beginners can easily participate, making them suitable for people of all ages, from children to the elderly.
Recommended Mangrove Canoe Tours
Reviews & Testimonials
↓ Click here for applicable mangrove canoe tours.
↓Click here for other recommended mangrove canoe tours
Mangrove Tour
Click here to see the popularity ranking!
Trekking
Trekking tours that allow you to fully enjoy the rich nature of Amami Oshima with all your senses are available,From BeginnersThere is a full range of courses that can be enjoyed by all levels of experience.
The scenery varies with the season, from fresh greenery in the spring to autumn colors in the fall.
◆Enjoy the rare birdsong
Visitors can enjoy the sounds of rare wild birds inhabiting Amami Oshima, such as the drumming of the Great White-backed Woodpecker and the chirping of the Red-winged Stint.
◆Detailed explanations by certified guides
Guides certified by the Amami Islands Ecotourism Promotion Council will accompany you and provide detailed explanations about the characteristics of plants and animals, history and culture.
◆Experience the fantastic atmosphere of a rainy day
On rainy days, visitors can enjoy the magical atmosphere of the primeval forest with its misty air. The fragrance and colors of the plants stand out even more, giving visitors the feeling of being lost in another world.
Recommended trekking tours
Reviews & Testimonials
↓ Click here for recommended trekking tours as applicable.
↓Click here for other recommended trekking tours.
trekking tour
Click here to see the popularity ranking!
4) Eco-tour
The eco-tour is a tour of Amami-Oshima Island.While protecting the ecosystemThis is a sustainable activity that allows you to experience the charm of this â
In the Kanasakuhara Primeval Forest, visitors can observe up-close rare plants such as the giant fern, the lizard hego, and the kakucho orchid, which is listed on the Red List of plants by the Ministry of the Environment.
◆Expert commentary by certified guides
An Amami Islands certified eco-tour guide will accompany you and provide in-depth knowledge of the island's ecosystem, history, and culture.
◆Tour of waterfalls in Amami
The guide will take you to hidden natural treasures such as Materia Falls and Funangyo Falls, which are famous as power spots.
◆Enjoy the sea and mountains
You can explore the vast jungle and coral reefs of the ocean in a single day. ATVs and kickboards will take you around the spectacular scenery recommended by the guide.
◆Local cultural experiences
As part of the eco-tour, Amami Oshima also offers programs to experience the culture of Amami Oshima, such as visits to local traditional crafts and sake breweries, and tastings of local cuisine.
Recommended Eco-tour Reviews and Testimonials
↓Click here for recommended eco-tours as applicable.
↓Click here for other recommended eco-tours
↓Click here for a tour of power spots
Click here to see the eco-tour popularity ranking!
⑤Night Tour
Night tours are not available during the daytime.nocturnal animalThe jeep drives around the jungle at night in order to search for
This is a chance to observe nocturnal animals such as the Amami rabbit, a natural treasure, as well as the Ryukyu kite, Amami palm creeper, and habu!
◆Stargazing in the sky
On Amami Oshima Island, where there is little light pollution, you can enjoy a star-filled sky on clear days. You can experience the vastness of the universe as you gaze upon the Milky Way and shooting stars.
◆Exploring mangrove forests at night
Canoeing through mangrove forests at night allows visitors to experience a different kind of serenity and mysterious atmosphere than during the day.
◆Jungle experience by jeep
Tours last approximately 2 to 3 hours, and some tours are available without getting out of the car, and are recommended for people of all ages.
In addition, although the price is slightly higher, you can explore the night longer than the regular night tours.Midnight Tour(Course departing in the middle of the night) is also recommended â
Recommended Night Tour Reviews and Testimonials
↓ Click here for recommended night tours as applicable.
↓Click here for other recommended night tours
↓arrow (mark or symbol)Night kayak tourAlso recommended!
Click here to see the night tour popularity ranking!
Let's protect the nature of Amami Oshima
Five things to keep in mind while traveling
To preserve the nature of Amami Oshima Island for the future, I want to know before my trip.important pointThe following is a summary of the
↓About Sightseeing Spots in Amami Oshima
For more information
(1) Drive slowly on mountain roads at night.
Amami Oshima Island hasnatural monumentAmami rabbit (Pentalagus furnessi)in addition tonocturnal animalare living in large numbers.
Very unfortunately, in recent years, the Amami rabbittraffic accident deathis increasing.
Rabbits are natural creatures and can be found anywhere. If you see a roadkill prevention sign, slow down, especiallyThe mountain roads at night,Slow drivingKeep in mind that the
(2) Do not disturb the life of animals and plants
Various creatures live in the mountains and ocean of Amami Oshima. When walking in the primeval forests, do not stray from the walking paths.
In addition, the following considerations should be made when observing animals
◆ Do not threaten loudly!
◆Minimize the amount of light when shining!
(iii) Prohibition of bringing in and taking out animals and plants
As mentioned above, the introduction of various alien species to Amami Oshima has a negative impact on the island's original ecosystem.
In particular, the predation of native species by non-native species, such as mongooses released on the island as a measure against hubs, and dogs and cats that used to be pets, has become a major problem.
31 species designated by the government as domestic rare wild animals and plantsHa,Prohibited to catch, collect, etc.The following is a list of the most common problemsViolations are subject to penaltiesNote that this will be the case.
(4) Use an eco-tour guide!
Eco-tour guides provide tourists with easy-to-understand explanations about rare endemic species and the biodiversity of the forest.
Sightseeing in the Kanezakuhara Wilderness Forest isMust be accompanied by a certified eco-tour guideIt is. The use of eco-tour guides is recommended for other night tours.
(5) Be sure to take trash home with you.
There are few places on Amami Oshima where trash cans are installed.
especiallyplastic wasteis a global problem, and the marine life that inhabits the oceansThreat to health.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
In addition to sea turtles and whales, Amami Oshima Island is home to numerous rare species.
To maintain a clean ocean where these creatures can live in good health indefinitely, let's make sure to take our garbage home with us.
World Natural Heritage Site on Amami Oshima Island
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, Amami Oshima Island was registered as a World Natural Heritage site in 2021. It was registered together with northern Okinawa Island, Iriomote Island, and Tokunoshima Island in recognition of its rich ecosystem and rare flora and fauna.
Amami Oshima Island is home to many creatures that have evolved in their own unique way, and was recognized for its high biodiversity. The precious natural environment, which is home to endemic species such as the Amami rabbit, is considered to be of global importance.
In the World Natural Heritage Area of Amami Oshima, visitors can see subtropical virgin forests, mangroves, and rare wildlife. The natural environment is characterized by the integration of forests, rivers and the sea.
Yes, you can go sightseeing, but there are rules in some areas to protect nature. Taking a guided tour is a great way to learn about nature while sightseeing safely.
You can experience the nature of Amami Oshima more deeply by participating in mangrove canoeing, trekking tours, and night tours. You can also learn more about the flora and fauna on guided tours.
In order to protect the natural environment, it is important to observe good manners such as taking garbage home with you. Also, be careful not to damage animals and plants, and enjoy sightseeing according to the rules.
summary
In this issue, we have introduced the reasons why Amami Oshima was registered as a World Heritage site, points to note about nature conservation, recommended activities, etc. What do you think?
How can we preserve pristine nature for many years to come?one by onenaturallyconsiderate behaviorI would like to be aware of the following.
This article is an opportunity for you to visit Amami Oshima and actually experience the great nature of Amami!
↓Click here to read the article.
