Amami Oshima or Okinawa: Which is better? A comprehensive comparison of access, area, sightseeing, activities, and more!

Amami Oshima or Okinawa: Which is better? A comprehensive comparison of access, area, sightseeing, activities, and more!
Update date:
Activity Japan Editorial Department

On this page, we will introduce the remote islands of Kagoshima Prefecture. Amami Oshima "and" Okinawa (including remote islands) "A thorough comparison!

How to get there by plane or ferry, access, travel time, area, culture, fees, activities, etc. We will introduce the charms of each.

" Which is better, Amami Oshima or Okinawa? Let's check out this information for those who are worried about their travel plans.

Which is better, Amami Oshima or Okinawa?

It boasts untouched nature, including a sparkling emerald blue sea. Tropical resort island " Amami Oshima "and" Okinawa " .

While planning your trip, Which is better: Amami Oshima or Okinawa? "I'm sure many people are researching the appeal of each of these.

First of all, Amami Oshima and Okinawa A quick review of the culture and attractions I'll leave it at that.

The culture and tourism appeal of Amami Oshima

Amami Oshima or Okinawa: Which is better? A comprehensive comparison of access, area, sightseeing, activities, and more!

The beautiful nature of the area is represented by the sea known as Amami Blue and the jungle areas such as mangrove forests. Amami Oshima ".

Many endemic species, including the Amami rabbit, live here, fostering a unique ecosystem. Registered as a World Heritage Site on July 26, 2021 It has been done.

Also, Outdoor activity experience tours that make the most of nature It is held frequently and is popular with tourists.

The warm subtropical climate, island culture, local specialties such as brown sugar shochu and Oshima Tsumugi silk, and island cuisine. Full of sightseeing attractions is.

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The charm of Okinawa's culture and tourism

Amami Oshima or Okinawa: Which is better? A comprehensive comparison of access, area, sightseeing, activities, and more!

The undisputed number one popular spot for domestic travel, Okinawa (including remote islands) ".

Owns Naha Kokusai Street In recent years, not only on the main island of Okinawa, Ishigaki Island or Miyakojima , Iriomote Island The popularity of remote islands such as I continue to do so.

The biggest attraction of Okinawa is Enjoy outdoor activities in the emerald blue sea and forest areas Abundance of.

Also, Churaumi Aquarium and Junglia Okinawa Popular tourist spots Okinawa soba and steak Specialty Gourmet The abundance of options is also a factor in the continued popularity of travel.

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Access and Directions to Amami Oshima and Okinawa

Amami Oshima and Okinawa The main ways to access from major cities in Japan are There are two options: plane and ferry There is.

In either case, considering the cost performance in terms of fare and travel time, The most common way to get there is by plane. is.

Amami Oshima and Okinawa Both have direct flights from major domestic cities. We are doing it.

Below are some of the major cities in Japan. Travel time to Amami Oshima and Okinawa We have summarized the following.

Travel time to Amami Oshima and Okinawa

Departure point Amami Oshima Okinawa main island
Haneda Airport Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes Approximately 3 hours
Narita Airport Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes Approximately 3 hours
Kansai Airport Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes
Fukuoka Airport Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes

The above are examples of airports that offer direct flights to Amami Oshima and Okinawa main island.

To Amami Oshima If there are no direct flights to the area, the flight will go via Kagoshima Airport. I will.

It takes about an hour to get from Kagoshima Airport to Amami Oshima. is.

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Area and size of Amami Oshima and Okinawa

Next, Amami Oshima and Okinawa main island Compare the area of Let's try it.

Amami Oshima Approximately 712 square kilometers
Okinawa main island Approximately 1,207 square kilometers

In comparison, it is more beautiful than Amami Oshima. Okinawa Island is nearly twice as large There is.

moreover, Okinawa prefectures also include Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island. This shows how large the area of Okinawa as a whole is.

By the way Amami Oshima is the third largest island in Japan after Okinawa Island and Sado Island. has.

Activities you can enjoy on Amami Oshima and Okinawa

Amami Oshima or Okinawa: Which is better? A comprehensive comparison of access, area, sightseeing, activities, and more!

Amami Oshima and Okinawa Both The common attraction is the wide variety of outdoor activities You can enjoy it.

Popular events allow you to enjoy the sparkling emerald blue sea and lush mangrove jungle areas is.

Below is the latest reservation data from Activity Japan. Popular Activity Experience Tours in Amami Oshima and Okinawa We will introduce you to the following.

POINT!
We expect many reservations and inquiries for each plan on weekends, holidays, and during long holiday seasons such as Golden Week, summer vacation, and Silver Week. We recommend that you check the availability of your schedule and make your reservation early.

Amami Oshima Activity Experience Tour Popularity Ranking

1 rank

[Amami / Northern] Whale Watching (Half-Day Course) Experience the thrill of watching the spectacular whale jumps! Comfortable cruising on a large cruiser ♪

ON SHORE
Amami Oshima Islands and Okinoerabu Island
8,900 yen ~ (tax included)
  • 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.

2 rank

[Kagoshima/Amami Oshima] A quiet night tour in an electric car, the closest you can get to the wild (1 person or more)

Amami Buggy & Night Watching Guide Service
Amami Oshima Islands and Okinoerabu Island
7,500 yen ~ (tax included)
  • 4.8
  • (40 reviews and experiences)

★You will be guided by a guide certified by the Amami Eco Tour Guide Liaison Council (or experienced staff). ・This is the only tour where you can observe while listening to the sounds of nature without being disturbed by engine noise! ・A luxurious time traveling while listening to the whispers of the forest and the sounds of insects and birds. ・In order to preserve the nature of this island for future generations, we offer tours without using engines. ・Small children are not allowed.

3 rank

[Kagoshima Prefecture, Amami Oshima] Be thrilled by the power! "Winter only" Whale watching (half-day course) Participants aged 10 and over are welcome

Native Sea AMAMI
Amami Oshima Islands and Okinoerabu Island
7,700 yen ~ (tax included)
  • 3.6
  • (4 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!

4 rank

[Kagoshima / Amami Oshima] Fully guided mangrove canoeing experience - 2 hours full of attractions you can enjoy all year round!

Island Service
Amami Oshima Islands and Okinoerabu Island
3,900 yen ~ (tax included)
  • 4.9
  • (37 reviews and experiences)

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. Take advantage of our new 2026 pricing plan, which is even more affordable, so that you and your family can create fun memories together (*^^*)

5 rank

Same-day reservations welcome! [Amami Oshima] Sea turtle snorkeling experience tour! Free underwater video included! 99.9% encounter rate! Groups and solo travelers welcome!

Dive Center OKKY
Amami Oshima Islands and Okinoerabu Island
7,700 circle 6,800 yen ~ (tax included)
Discount campaign now underway!
  • 5.0
  • (104 reviews and experiences)

The popular sea turtle snorkeling experience on Amami Oshima! With a 99.9% encounter rate in 2023, we invite you to the beautiful underwater world of Amami with safety as our motto! Don't worry if you can't swim! Our knowledgeable guides will provide you with detailed instruction and support! ☆The appeal of DiveCenter OKKY☆■First-timers, beginners, and those who can't swim

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Okinawa Activity Experience Tour Popularity Ranking

1 rank

Whale watching tour departing from Naha with a full refund guarantee ★ #1 whale tour in 2025 reviews ★ Completely non-smoking boat ★ Free photos, transfers, and raincoats ★ Free for children aged 0-5 ★

Marine Club Berry Naha
Naha
6,300 circle 5,000 yen ~ (tax included)
Discount campaign now underway!
  • 4.6
  • (71 reviews and experiences)

★Our whale guide, who explains the ecology and behavior of whales, is extremely popular★Okinawa's largest shop, established 43 years ago! Special tours based on years of experience★"Tours that will please both your kids and your wallet" recommended for family groups★Stamp rally with prizes that kids will love & family-friendly, completely non-smoking boat + free admission for children 0-5 years old★Photos & transportation & raincoats & motion sickness wristbands

2 rank

[Miyakojima] Same-day reservations accepted up to an hour in advance! Boat tour of the "Phantom Uni Beach" with free drone photography. 1-hour beach landing!

Miyakojima YUKAALAmarine
Miyako Island (Irabu Island, Shimoji Island, Kurima Island, Ikema Island)
8,000 circle 5,000 yen ~ (tax included)
Discount campaign now underway!
  • 4.9
  • (722 reviews and experiences)

★★If you come to Miyakojima, you must visit "Yuni no Hama"★★ It's going viral on TikTok as "The Best Beach in Heaven"!! If you come to Miyakojima, this is a place you definitely want to visit! The famous Uni no Hama tour★ This performance is only possible because the captain and guide are from Miyakojima! It's a popular photo spot for influencers and models, and is also a popular spot for music videos! Create wonderful memories in Miyakojima

3 rank

Same-day reservations welcome! [Okinawa Blue Cave Snorkeling] ★ GoPro photo shoot and free gifts during the tour + free feeding!

Okinawa Diving Shop Sea Mall
Blue Cave, Onna Village
4,000 circle 900 yen ~ (tax included)
Discount campaign now underway!
  • 4.7
  • (2520 reviews and experiences)

[Very popular] We also hold the Blue Cave Pukupuku Snorkeling tour, open to people aged 2 to 70! → https://activityjapan.com/publish/plan/18400 Another plan: [All-day unlimited fun in the Blue Cave] Equipment rental service is now open! → https://activityjapan.com/pu

4 rank

Spectacular parasailing departing from Naha ★ #1 in reviews for parasailing in the Naha & Kerama area in 2025 ★ Okinawa's longest-established parasailing store ★ Okinawa's longest rope at 200m ★

Sea World
Naha
9,000 circle 7,000 yen ~ (tax included)
Discount campaign now underway!
  • 4.9
  • (111 reviews and experiences)

★No.1 in parasailing experience and number of users★Okinawa's longest rope at 200m! Okinawa's longest-established parasailing store★A safety store with 23 years of history that prioritizes preventing accidents on your important trip★We will do our best to help you "make the best memories of this ocean"■Ranked #1 in number of reviews┗2025 Activity Japan Naha & Kerama Islands

5 rank

[Ishigaki Island] Spectacular ocean views!! Small group tour to Kabira ♪ [SNS-focused drone photography x 5.4K latest GoPro photography] Clear SUP or Clear Kayak

Marumarin
Ishigaki Island
9,800 circle 4,000 yen ~ (tax included)
Discount campaign now underway!
  • 5.0
  • (945 reviews and experiences)

[Small group tours] Unlike major tours, we only offer tours in small groups. You can spend a relaxing time with careful attention to each individual group. We also take drone photos during the tour to ensure that your memories are preserved. Depending on the wind direction and wave conditions on the day, we will choose the most suitable location between Kabira Bay or around Kabira Tabaga.

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Which is cheaper, Amami Oshima or Okinawa?

" Amami Oshima and Okinawa Which is cheaper? I'm sure many people are researching travel expenses, such as:

of course, Varies greatly depending on travel plans Therefore, it is difficult to say which is cheaper.

The island is small Prices for hotels and food on Amami Oshima are low, making it easy to keep travel costs down. is located.

on the other hand Okinawa has a large number of low-cost carriers and budget travel tour packages. So you can choose a cheaper plan.

just, There are many leisure facilities and popular tourist destinations on Okinawa's main island, so spending may be more frequent. There is.

Whether it's Amami Oshima or Okinawa A budget-friendly travel schedule The key point is to establish

Similarities between Amami Oshima and Okinawa

Amami Oshima or Okinawa: Which is better? A comprehensive comparison of access, area, sightseeing, activities, and more!

In Japan A common thread: tropical resort islands have Amami Oshima and Okinawa .

That's all for now. The charms of Amami Oshima and Okinawa I think you understand now.

Amami Oshima and Okinawa The similarities are that they have beautiful natural scenery, such as the sea and forest areas. .

Also, The island has its own unique culture, dialect, gourmet food and local specialties. This is also one of the similarities between the two.

Amami Oshima and Okinawa are separate administrative divisions, Both islands are full of charm is.

Families, couples, friends, etc. Japan's world-famous tropical resort island Enjoy your trip.

*The content of this article is current as of August 2025.

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