Amami Oshima Canoeing and Kayaking Guide: What to Wear, Prices, Seasonal Recommendations, and More
This time Canoeing and kayaking experience on Amami Oshima Featured!
Canoe and kayak tours held in mangroves or the sea: average prices, recommended clothing, duration, how to enjoy at high tide, whether same-day reservations are available, and age restrictions etc. We will introduce all the points that you may be interested in.
In addition
Recommended set plans
We have also picked out some great ones, so be sure to check them out.
Why not try an authentic adventure experience on a southern island on your next vacation?
table of contents
- 1 What is the appeal of canoeing and kayaking on Amami Oshima?
- 2 Basic information on Amami Oshima canoeing and kayaking
- 3 There are two types of canoe and kayak plans to choose from on Amami Oshima
- 4 Things to note when participating in a canoe tour on Amami Oshima
- 5 Top 10 recommended canoeing and kayaking activities on Amami Oshima
- 6 Other than canoeing and kayaking! Top 10 popular activities on Amami Oshima
- 7 Create amazing memories with a canoeing and kayaking experience on Amami Oshima!
- 8 Feature articles recommended by the editorial department
What is the appeal of canoeing and kayaking on Amami Oshima?
"
Galapagos of the Orient
"A tropical paradise also known as
Amami Oshima
.
If you want to enjoy the magnificent nature of the island, which is registered as a World Heritage Site,
Canoeing and Kayaking Experience
is perfect!
The island's rivers are home to the second largest mangrove forest in Japan, and many cruise tours are held here. It has been done.
Densely overgrown Canoeing through the mangroves It's truly an extraordinary adventure, something you can only experience on a subtropical island!
The trees block the wind and waves, so even beginners and those with children can enjoy cruising in a stable environment. Yo.
on the other hand,
Sea Kayak Tour
Here you can relax and enjoy the crystal clear "Amami Blue" sea.
There are plenty of scenic spots, and depending on where the tour is held,
Encounter with sea turtles
You can also expect this.
Sunset tour at dusk or, Stargazing Night Tour Why not choose one and create some photogenic and romantic memories!
In the following, Amami Oshima Mangrove Canoe and Sea Kayak Tour We have posted the following.
Please take into consideration the information below, find a plan that interests you, and make a reservation!
[Kagoshima / Amami Oshima] Mangrove canoeing Starts at any time to prevent the three Cs (9:00-16:00)
Even beginners can feel at ease and enjoy the beautiful mangroves of Amami at a relaxed pace.
[Kagoshima / Amami Oshima] Experience Diving & Mangrove Canoe 1-Day Tour Experience Diving
This popular tour allows you to fully enjoy Amami Oshima! Only those who have been there can experience the relaxed atmosphere of the coral teahouse, with guides who are always in the nature of Amami. We strive to provide authentic diving so that you can fully enjoy the ocean, even during the trial diving.
This plan does not support English.
Enjoy the great outdoors at your leisure on this World Heritage island♪ Canoe through the mangroves where time flows at a leisurely pace☆ Guided tours of waterways that are only accessible with a guide Take a walk on the water through the mangrove forests of Amami Oshima, one of the largest in Japan☆ Mangroves are a general term for plants that live in wetlands and tidal flats in tropical and subtropical regions. The mangroves in Sumiyo are Kandelia candel and Ohi
[Perform when there are fewer people!] This tour can be carried out in the evening, so you can avoid the sun during less crowded times and enjoy the time as if you had the mangroves of Amami Oshima all to yourself! After a canoe cruise, you will depart into the night forest. Look for rare animals such as Amami rabbits and Ishikawa frogs! On sunny days, the sky is full of light.
Basic information on Amami Oshima canoeing and kayaking
In the following,
Basic information on canoeing and kayaking on Amami Oshima
We will explain the following.
Before you start looking for a tour, let's take a look at all the points you need to know!
1. Price range
Amami Oshima x Canoe/Kayak Tour
The going rate is,
2,000 to 15,000 yen is typical
.
Prices vary depending on the set plan, duration, and required time.
Keep it simple I want to enjoy canoeing and kayaking alone Or Participate in other activities Or, Length of experience on the day How much is it?
Find a plan that's perfect for you and your travel companions and decide on a budget.
2. What to wear and what to bring
Amami Oshima x Canoe/Kayak Tour When participating in Clothes that can get wet Let's join!
It is also recommended to bring sunglasses, a hat, and thin, long-sleeved clothing to protect yourself from the sun.
It is a good idea to wear a swimsuit or leggings (strenka) assuming you will get wet, and bring a change of clothes.
is!
Paddles and boats required for participation will be provided on-site.
Basically, there is no problem if you come empty-handed,
As a minimum, towels and drinks
Let's take it with us.
3. Time required and schedule
Below is An example of the duration and schedule of the Amami Oshima canoe/kayak tour is.
- Meeting and reception (10 minutes before)
- Changing clothes and lecture
- Canoe experience
- Other activities available for set plans
- Shower, change clothes, and leave
The total tour time varies depending on the plan.
The canoe/kayak experience plan is approximately 60 to 90 minutes. in, There are a wide variety of set plans with other activities, ranging from 90 minutes to over 6 hours. is!
4. Best season and recommended time
Amami Oshima So, throughout the year Canoeing and Kayaking You can enjoy .
The best season to visit the island
March to October
.
Among them,
Late June to July
It is especially recommended during the end of the rainy season.
is!
on the other hand,
If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the park at your leisure, winter is the best time to visit.
.
In the clear winter air, you can enjoy a slow outdoor experience that is different from the tourist season!
5. Do I need to make a reservation? Can I make a reservation on the day?
Amami Oshima x Canoeing and Kayaking teeth, Advance reservations are recommended !
Some depending on availability Same-day reservation plans However, it is best to make a reservation online in advance.
If you are taking a tour during busy periods such as long holidays or summer vacation, be sure to make your reservation early!
6. Age restrictions and participation conditions (with children/solo participants)
Amami Oshima x Canoe/Kayak Tour The age at which participants can participate is generally Ages 3 and up "is!
When participating Life jackets are required Safety measures have been taken, so it is safe to bring children along.
There are tours that are open to people up to 100 years old, so if you are a healthy senior citizen, you can easily participate. is!
The number of people who can be booked varies depending on the plan, but in recent years Tours for single participants There are also many.
Amami Oshima When joining a tour during your solo trip in Check the booking conditions in advance Let's do it!
There are two types of canoe and kayak plans to choose from on Amami Oshima
Canoe and kayak plans on Amami Oshima
What kind of things are there?
Below, we will broadly divide
Two types of plans
We will explain about:
Mangrove Canoe
Mangrove Canoe
is a standard activity on Amami Oshima!
They are often held in stable waters with little current, making them a great choice for beginners and those with children.
Things to keep in mind when booking a tour:
Event time
!
High tide
Then,
Rising water levels allow for more routes to be explored
You can also go through the mangrove tunnels.
On the contrary
At low tide
for,
The mangrove roots are exposed, allowing you to observe crabs and other creatures that live on the shore.
.
You can enjoy a different atmosphere than at high tide!
In the following,
Recommended plan for Amami Oshima x Mangrove Canoe
is currently being posted.
Check the time and area to find the perfect tour for you!
[Kagoshima/Amami Oshima] Sunset Mangrove Canoe Tour ★Private Tour Available★
[Are the mangroves most beautiful in the evening?] ・The mangroves are especially beautiful as the sun sinks into the mountains and the sky turns crimson red! ・Everything is gently enveloped in an elegant time, as if you had the mangroves of Amami Oshima all to yourself. [Recommended points] ・Private tours for one group and guide are also available (separate option) ・Tours conducted in the evening
You will canoe down the 3km upstream of the Yakugachi River, one of Amami Oshima's two major rivers, to the mangrove forest. This plan is perfect for those who want to enjoy canoeing to the fullest. (Morning session) Starts at 10:00 (Afternoon session) Starts at 14:00
This plan does not support English.
Even first-time visitors can feel at ease with the guidance of a veteran guide! At low tide, you can land on the wide tidal flats and stroll around to observe the cute creatures. At high tide, you can walk through the dense jungle. Limited-time special offer: Family-friendly rates from December 10, 2025 to March 31, 2026. The normal adult rate is for junior high school students and above, but during this period, the rate is 4,000 yen (
Sea kayaking
Sea kayaking experience
This is also a popular activity on Amami Oshima!
At each venue,
Enjoy the beautiful Amami blue sea
can.
Among them The calm sea conditions and high-quality water of the Oshima Strait make it a great place to enjoy coral reef cruising, and is recommended for beginners. That's right.
However, since sea kayaking is held in the ocean, Be aware that it is easily affected by weather and wind is.
If you are a beginner, be sure to check the plan information and venue characteristics in advance.
[Amami Oshima] Feel like you're traveling by sea kayak! 1-day sea kayaking tour!
Even beginners can feel at ease as you will be guided by a guide who is a qualified sea kayak instructor! Start from the coast in the calm bay of Oshima Strait. Practice operating the kayak on the beach and then paddle out into the sea! We use professional sit-in kayaks. There are single and double-seater kayaks! Beautiful coral reefs spread across the entire seabed, and snorkeling is a breeze.
This plan does not support English.
It's becoming increasingly popular! Experience Amami in style on a sea kayak. The ocean scenery is different from that of a mangrove canoe. Even if you can't swim, you can easily stroll on the water! You can also see the beautiful coral and fish of Amami! ・We have many customers with children, so we have a large selection of life jackets in children's sizes available, so families are welcome to visit us.
This plan does not support English.
It's becoming increasingly popular! Experience Amami in style in a clear kayak. Even if you can't swim, you can easily stroll on the water! The kayak has a transparent bottom, so you can see the beautiful corals and fish of Amami! We have many customers with children, so we have a large selection of children's size life jackets available, so families are welcome to visit us.
Mangrove Canoe vs Sea Kayak: Which Should You Choose?
Mangrove Canoe and Sea kayaking Both activities are equally great.
From the above mentioned characteristics, Mangrove canoeing is suitable for beginners and families with children, as the current is gentle and there is a sense of adventure. .
Sea kayaking is recommended for those who want to take in spectacular views and photos. is.
Choose the perfect plan for your travel group!
Things to note when participating in a canoe tour on Amami Oshima
Safety is the first priority when it comes to water activities
!
The tour may be cancelled at short notice due to sudden changes in weather.
When booking a tour, be sure to check the cancellation policy and keep in mind what to do in the event of a thunderstorm, strong wind, or typhoon!
Generally, the tour will proceed if there is light rain, but if the instructor determines that it is not safe to proceed, such as in the case of a thunderstorm or approaching typhoon, the tour will often be cancelled.
Top 10 recommended canoeing and kayaking activities on Amami Oshima
[Kagoshima / Amami Oshima] Mangrove canoeing Starts at any time to prevent the three Cs (9:00-16:00)
- 4.4
- (114 reviews and experiences)
Even beginners can feel at ease and enjoy the beautiful mangroves of Amami at a relaxed pace.
- 4.6
- (11 reviews and experiences)
You will canoe down the 3km upstream of the Yakugachi River, one of Amami Oshima's two major rivers, to the mangrove forest. This plan is perfect for those who want to enjoy canoeing to the fullest. (Morning session) Starts at 10:00 (Afternoon session) Starts at 14:00
- 4.8
- (194 reviews and experiences)
Enjoy the great outdoors at your leisure on this World Heritage island♪ Canoe through the mangroves where time flows at a leisurely pace☆ Guided tours of waterways that are only accessible with a guide Take a walk on the water through the mangrove forests of Amami Oshima, one of the largest in Japan☆ Mangroves are a general term for plants that live in wetlands and tidal flats in tropical and subtropical regions. The mangroves in Sumiyo are Kandelia candel and Ohi
★Activity Japan to launch in 2025★ Amami Oshima, Utoro Base is a secret base nestled on the banks of the mangroves. This small group tour is limited to one tour per day and is led by a guide who was born and raised in this area. At Utoro Base, the mangroves and the Hikage Hego Forest are within walking distance. Let's go on an adventure from the secret base! [Schedule for the day of the tour]
- 4.5
- (2 reviews and experiences)
This is a private mangrove canoe tour, a popular activity on Amami Oshima. Now that it has been designated a World Heritage Site, mangrove canoeing can become very crowded. On this tour, we will guide you along paths that can only be reached with a private tour guide, so that you can avoid the crowds and relax while experiencing the majestic mangroves with all your senses.
- 4.9
- (8 reviews and experiences)
This tour is only available during times when you can take a jungle cruise through the mangrove tunnel! ★High tide is the most popular time in the mangroves! This tour takes you on a canoe ride through the waterways that resemble tree tunnels, which you often see in guidebooks, on TV, and on social media! Some days it is held in the morning, and other days it is held in the afternoon, but no matter which time you choose, you will be able to enjoy the mangrove tour at high tide.
- 4.7
- (10 reviews and experiences)
It has been 30 years since we first started our eco-tour guide business in Amami Oshima in 1994. Limited-time special offer: Family-friendly rates from December 10, 2025 to March 31, 2026. The normal adult rate is for junior high school students and above, but during this period, high school students and above will receive 10,800 yen (per person). The child rate is for elementary school students and below, but during this period, junior high school students and below will receive 7,800 yen (per person). Don't miss this opportunity!
- 4.7
- (45 reviews and experiences)
It's becoming increasingly popular! Experience Amami in style in a clear kayak. Even if you can't swim, you can easily stroll on the water! The kayak has a transparent bottom, so you can see the beautiful corals and fish of Amami! We have many customers with children, so we have a large selection of life jackets in children's sizes available, so families are welcome to visit us.
[Kagoshima / Amami Oshima] Experience Diving & Mangrove Canoe 1-Day Tour Experience Diving
- 4.9
- (49 reviews and experiences)
This popular tour allows you to fully enjoy Amami Oshima! Only those who have been there can experience the relaxed atmosphere of the coral teahouse, with guides who are always in the nature of Amami. We strive to provide authentic diving so that you can fully enjoy the ocean, even during the trial diving.
- 4.9
- (42 reviews and experiences)
This is a greedy one-day tour that lets you experience Amami's proud green forests and emerald green sea in one day. In the mangrove area, we will take you deep into the forest, which can only be reached with a guide. For snorkeling, we will take you to a spot where you have a 95% chance of encountering sea turtles, and to the sea full of coral and fish. We will guide you through each course, divided into morning and afternoon sessions.
Other than canoeing and kayaking! Top 10 popular activities on Amami Oshima
- 4.9
- (4 reviews and experiences)
A special whale watching experience only available on-shore on a large cruiser! Go see humpback whales on a large cruiser that is stable and has little rocking.
- 5.0
- (97 reviews and experiences)
A night tour exploring the rare wildlife of Amami! Many wildlife species live here, including the Amami rabbit. Limited to one group per day! Solo travelers are also welcome.
[Kagoshima / Amami Oshima] Mangrove canoeing Starts at any time to prevent the three Cs (9:00-16:00)
- 4.4
- (114 reviews and experiences)
Even beginners can feel at ease and enjoy the beautiful mangroves of Amami at a relaxed pace.
It's even darker than the night tour! Explore Amami on the midnight tour! You can observe a variety of nocturnal creatures, including the rare Amami rabbit, which only lives on Amami Oshima and Tokunoshima. As a World Heritage Site, restrictions on entry to the night tour have been put in place and reservations are now required. If you apply at the last minute, you may not be able to enter the mountain at the time you wish to.
- 4.6
- (11 reviews and experiences)
You will canoe down the 3km upstream of the Yakugachi River, one of Amami Oshima's two major rivers, to the mangrove forest. This plan is perfect for those who want to enjoy canoeing to the fullest. (Morning session) Starts at 10:00 (Afternoon session) Starts at 14:00
- 3.3
- (3 reviews and experiences)
[Winter only] Whale watching is an activity where you go to see whales on a cruise ship. The species you can observe are mainly "humpback whales." These species can reach up to 15 meters in length and are the most performative of all whales. If you are lucky enough to witness their dynamic behavior, you will definitely be impressed!
[Pickup available in Amami Oshima and Naze area] Kinsakuhara virgin forest tour
If you come to Amami, we highly recommend it! Enjoy a walk through the forests of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Why not spend some time relaxing in Kinsakubaru, a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Come see the Okinawan white oak trees that are over 200 years old in the Kinsakubaru National Forest. The round-trip course is about 4km long and takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, with commentary from a certified guide.
- 4.8
- (194 reviews and experiences)
Enjoy the great outdoors at your leisure on this World Heritage island♪ Canoe through the mangroves where time flows at a leisurely pace☆ Guided tours of waterways that are only accessible with a guide Take a walk on the water through the mangrove forests of Amami Oshima, one of the largest in Japan☆ Mangroves are a general term for plants that live in wetlands and tidal flats in tropical and subtropical regions. The mangroves in Sumiyo are Kandelia candel and Ohi
Swim with sea turtles in the blue waters of Amami! [Advanced Course] Sea Turtle Swim
- 4.9
- (17 reviews and experiences)
This is the advanced course for the extremely popular Amami Oshima Umigame Swim. At the drop-off point, you'll find a tropical world with gracefully swimming sea turtles, schools of tropical fish, coral reefs, and white sand. This course is recommended for those with experience in skin divers, diving, and snorkeling, but beginners will also receive thorough instruction, so feel free to join us.
- 4.3
- (3 reviews and experiences)
This plan is for experienced SUPers who want to enjoy it by themselves. Delivery and pickup services are also available at an additional cost. We will introduce you to the best spots on Amami Oshima.
Create amazing memories with a canoeing and kayaking experience on Amami Oshima!
This time, Important points about canoeing and kayaking on Amami Oshima We have explained everything about it at once!
On the southern islands, where magnificent nature remains, you can enjoy canoe and kayak cruising in both the mangroves and the beautiful sea.
Please use this special feature as a reference and prepare it for your next holiday. Amami Oshima Come experience canoeing and kayaking in this wonderful place and create some amazing memories!
*The content of this article is current as of December 2025.
