A Comprehensive Comparison of Yakushima and Amami Oshima! Plus, How to Get There by Ferry or Plane
Yakushima and Amami Ōshima
What makes each one special?
In this column,Yakushima and Amami ŌshimaWe’ll provide a comprehensive overview of the differences between them, their unique charms, and how to get around.
This will definitely be helpful for anyone who's not sure which one to choose or wants to visit both!
We’ve also included information on how to get there and some recommended spots, so be sure to read all the way to the end.
◆For those who want to plan a trip to both Yakushima and Amami Oshima
◆For those who want to know how to travel between Yakushima and Amami Oshima (ferry or plane)
◆For those who want to enjoy hiking and water activities on a World Natural Heritage island
Yakushima Island
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Comparing the Differences Between Yakushima and Amami Oshima
Both Yakushima and Amami Ōshima are located in Kagoshima Prefectureworld natural heritage siteAlthough these islands are all listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, they differ in terms of their natural environment, activities, and climate.
Here, we’ll take a closer look at four key differences you should be aware of when choosing a travel destination.
Differences in Nature and Landscapes
Yakushima is home to a range of mountains reaching altitudes of around 1,900 meters,The Oceanic AlpsThis island, also known as [...], is home to vast, dense forests teeming with Yakusugi cedars.
Amami Ōshima, on the other hand, is surrounded by the lush greenery typical of subtropical regions, mangrove forests, and coral reefsbeautiful seais attractive.
If you want to enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains, Yakushima is the perfect choice; if you want to enjoy the ocean and subtropical forests, Amami Oshima is the perfect choice!
Differences in Activities
On Yakushima, explore the Jomon Sugi and Shiratani Unsuikyo GorgeTrekking is a popular activityIt is.
Another appealing feature is that you can choose a route to suit your skill level, ranging from serious mountaineering to beginner-friendly walking trails.
On Amami Ōshima, mangrove canoeing, snorkeling, and night tours to spot the Amami black rabbit in the forest are popular activities.
For those who want to enjoy both land and water activitiesI highly recommend Amami Oshima!
For Beginners] Yakushima Trekking Tour
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Trekking Tours in Yakushima
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Differences in Climate and Best Seasons
Yakushima is known as an island with heavy rainfall—so much so that it’s said to rain 35 days out of every month—and humidity tends to be high throughout the year.
If you want to enjoy hiking, spring and fall are recommended, as the weather tends to be more stable during those seasons.
Amami Oshima has a warm subtropical climate year-round, and the swimming season begins around May.
However, from summer through fallImpact of the typhoonSince it’s prone to this, it’s a good idea to check the weather forecast when planning your trip.
▼Click here for more details on the typhoon in Yakushima▼
Differences in accessibility
You can reach Yakushima from Kagoshima by ferry, high-speed boat, or plane.
By high-speed ferry, it takes about 2 to 3 hours from Kagoshima; by plane, from Kagoshima AirportApprox. 40 min.We'll be there in about that long.
Direct flights to Amami Ōshima are available from Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, and Kagoshima, making it easily accessible from various locations on Honshu and Kyushu.
You can also take a ferry from Kagoshima, but keep in mind that the trip takes more than 10 hours.
Access: About 40 minutes by plane from Kagoshima Airport / About 1 hour 50 minutes to 3 hours by high-speed ferry from Kagoshima Port
Access: About 55–75 minutes by plane from Kagoshima Airport / About 11–13 hours by ferry from Kagoshima Port
▼Click here for more information about ferries and high-speed boats▼
Yakushima and Amami Ōshima
Which one would you recommend as a travel destination?
Yakushima and Amami Ōshima are, respectivelyDifferent CharmsIt is an island that has...
Here, we’ll show you which island is best suited for your travel style.
Take a look at the options below to find the island that’s just right for you.
People who enjoy trekking and hiking
If you enjoy hiking and trekking, Yakushima is the place for you.
Mt MiyanouraThere is a wide variety of challenging hiking trails, including the Yajima and Jomon Sugi trails.
If you're a beginner, you might want to start with Shiraya Unsuikyo, which has many well-maintained walking trails.
Just walking through the deep forest is enough to make you feel a sense of peace that lets you forget about your daily life.
Since many of the trails involve significant elevation changes, be sure to bring proper gear, such as hiking boots.
Yakushima Mountain Climbing/Trekking Tour
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Yakushima Mountain Climbing/Trekking Tour
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People who want to enjoy the ocean and marine activities
Amami Oshima is the perfect destination for anyone who wants to enjoy marine activities like snorkeling and diving!
Surrounded by coral reefscrystal-clear seaYou'll get to see all kinds of colorful fish.
Canoe tours through the pristine mangrove forests are also popular, offering a chance to experience the unique natural beauty of Amami Oshima up close.
Of course, you can also enjoy swimming and sea kayaking on Yakushima, so it’s a great choice for anyone who wants to experience both the mountains and the sea.
Amami Oshima Snorkeling Tour
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For those who want to fully enjoy a World Natural Heritage site
Yakushima was designated in 1993, and Amami Oshima was2021It was inscribed as a World Natural Heritage Site.
On Yakushima, you can experience the virgin forests of Yakusugi cedar, while on Amami Oshima, you can explore subtropical forests and mangrove swamps—each offering a unique ecosystem to discover.
If you visit both islands, you’ll be able to enjoy Japan’s two World Natural Heritage sites in a single trip.
To protect our precious natural environment, it’s important to follow the rules when sightseeing.
Enjoy the pristine Yakusugi cedar forest with ease!
Yakusugiland Trekking Tour
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Enjoy the mangrove forests of Amami Oshima!
Amami Oshima Mangrove Tour
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For those looking for a relaxing resort getaway
If you're looking to relax and enjoy a resort atmosphere without the hustle and bustle of sightseeing, we recommend Amami Oshima.
White sandy beaches and blue seasYou might want to relax on the expansive beach or enjoy some local cuisine at the area’s restaurants.
Yakushima also has plenty of spots where you can relax at seaside inns, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of hiking!
If you want to take it easy, plan a schedule that doesn't have too many activities crammed in.
Between Yakushima and Amami Ōshima
A Comprehensive Guide to Transportation
When traveling between Yakushima and Amami Oshima,Ferries and airplanesThere are several methods, such as...
If you know the characteristics of each option, it will be easier to plan your itinerary.
Let’s take a closer look at the main modes of transportation here.
If you're taking the ferry
To get from Amami Ōshima to Yakushima, take the ferry “Ferry Nami no UeThere is a way to access it using [...].
Since the schedule has the ship departing from Naze Port at night and arriving at Miyanoura Port on Yakushima the following morning, you can sleep on board during the voyage.
Please note, however, that this route operates on a reservation-only basis, and whether the ferry runs depends on the number of passengers disembarking on Yakushima.
Also, since there are no direct ferries from Yakushima to Amami Ōshima, you’ll need to consider alternative transportation for your return trip.
If you're flying
There are currently no direct flights between Yakushima and Amami Ōshima.
Therefore, if you're traveling by plane,Kagoshima AirportIt is common to go through [...].
Both Yakushima Airport and Amami Airport have flights to and from Kagoshima Airport, so it is possible to make the trip as a day trip by connecting through Kagoshima.
However, I recommend planning your schedule with plenty of time for connections.
Getting Around the Island (By Car or Bus)
Both on Yakushima and Amami Ōshima, as a means of transportation for touristsrent-a-carIt's convenient to use.
Since the island’s attractions are spread out across the island, renting a car so you can explore at your own pace will make getting around much easier.
There are local buses available as a form of public transportation, but since they run infrequently, be sure to allow plenty of time when planning your trip.
If you're not confident about driving, we recommend taking a guided tour!
Car Rentals on Amami Oshima
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Yakushima and Amami Oshima
A travel itinerary that includes both destinations
Both Yakushima and Amami Oshima are listed as World Natural Heritage SitesA Charming IslandIt is.
If you have time, we recommend a trip that takes you to both islands!
Here, we’ll introduce some sightseeing routes and tips for choosing accommodations and tours.
Recommended Itinerary
If you plan to visit both islands, you should first travel to Kagoshima, and then,This is the standard route to each islandwill be.
Alternatively, you can fly from Kagoshima to Amami Ōshima, enjoy sightseeing there, and then take a ferry to Yakushima.
Kagoshima
↓ Airplane
Yakushima (esp. Yakushima Island)
↓ Plane (via Kagoshima)
Amami Ōshima
↓ Airplane
Kagoshima
◆Route 2: If you want to minimize the number of transfers
Kagoshima
↓ Airplane
Amami Ōshima
↓ Ferry
Yakushima (esp. Yakushima Island)
↓ By plane or ferry
Kagoshima
For the return trip, it’s most efficient to fly or take a ferry from Yakushima back to Kagoshima, and then continue on to your home from there.
Since the ferry schedule is limited,Check the timetable in advanceIt’s important to plan your itinerary.
Tips for Choosing Accommodations and Tours
Since travel time tends to be long on a tour that covers both islands, choosing the right place to stay is crucial.
On Yakushima, in areas near the trailheads, and on Amami Ōshima,Nase and the area around the airportStaying in this area makes getting around much easier.
If you want to enjoy specialized activities such as trekking or snorkeling, it’s a good idea to book a local tour in advance.
To make the most of your limited time, try to plan your itinerary with a good balance between travel and activities.
Top 3 Must-See Attractions on Yakushima
Yakushima offers many attractions worthy of its status as a World Natural Heritage Site.
Here, in particularVery popularHere are three tourist attractions.
If you visit Yakushima, be sure to stop by.
Jomon cedar (Cryptomeria japonica)
The Jomon Sugi is Yakushima’s most iconic Yakusugi cedar, and its size and presence are truly overwhelming.
The estimated age of the tree isthousands of yearsIt’s said that… and you’re sure to be moved by the sight of it having survived for so many years!
To reach the Jomon Sugi, you’ll need to hike a round-trip trail of about 10 hours starting from the Arakawa trailhead.
Since this requires proper mountaineering gear and physical fitness, please make sure to prepare thoroughly before attempting it.
Directions: About a 26-minute drive from Yakushima Airport (to the Arakawa trailhead)
Jomon Cedar Trekking Tour
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Jomon Cedar Trekking Tour
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Shiratani Unsui Gorge (Shiratani Unsui Gorge)
Shiratani Unsui Gorge is,Mossy forestThis enchanting area, which stretches out before you, is one of Yakushima’s most popular tourist attractions.
The landscape, with its rows of rocks and trees tinged with green, creates an atmosphere that feels as though you’ve stepped into a storybook world.
The courses are divided into several levels, so everyone from beginners to serious hikers can enjoy them.
The view from the observation deck is spectacular, so why not plan your visit with plenty of time to spare?
Access: 34 minutes by car from Yakushima Airport
Hakutani Unsui Gorge Trekking Tour
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Hakutani Unsui Gorge Trekking Tour
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abundant natural beauty
Chihiro Falls is a spectacular waterfall that cascades down a massive monolith.
The difference in height isApproximately 60 metersYes, the sheer scale of the granite cliffs surrounding the waterfall is truly overwhelming.
The observation deck is just a short walk from the parking lot, making it easy to stop by.
Take a moment to relax and enjoy the magnificent natural scenery while soaking in the negative ions.
On sunny days, you might even see a rainbow over the waterfall.
Access: 33 minutes by car from Yakushima Airport
Click here for the ranking of waterfall tours on Yakushima
Top 3 Must-See Attractions on Amami Oshima
On Amami Ōshima,Subtropical NatureThere are plenty of tourist spots where you can experience this.
Here, we’ll introduce three classic popular spots.
Be sure to experience the unique charm of this place, which is quite different from Yakushima.
Kinsakuhara
Kinsakuhara is an area reminiscent of a primeval forest teeming with subtropical vegetation.
Giant ferns such as the Hikagehego, as well as those designated as National Natural MonumentsBlue JayYou might even come across some rare creatures.
To protect the natural environment, you are now required to be accompanied by a certified eco-tour guide.
As you walk along and listen to the guide’s commentary, you’ll be able to fully appreciate the depth of the forest and the richness of its ecosystem.
Directions: About a 74-minute drive from Amami Airport
Kinsakubaru Primitive Forest Exploration Tour
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Materia Falls
Materia Falls is,Mount YuwanThis waterfall is located within "Amami Forest Park," a forest park that stretches out at the foot of the mountain.
It is also part of a World Natural Heritage site, and the clear streams flowing from the valley lead to the mangrove forests of Amami Ōshima.
Around noon, sunlight streams into the pool at the base of the waterfall, and you can sometimes see the water surface shimmering beautifully.
Why not come and refresh yourself in this peaceful setting surrounded by the forest, while soaking up the negative ions?
Directions: About an 86-minute drive from Amami Airport
Amami Oshima Materia Waterfall Tour
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Tsumori Beach
Tsumori Beach is a beach with a long stretch of white sand located just a few minutes' drive from Amami Airport.
The contrast between the emerald-green sea and the white sandy beach is just likeTropical ResortAn atmosphere like that.
It's also a popular spot for swimming, where you can relax in the crystal-clear waters.
It’s also known as a great spot to watch the beautiful sunset, so we recommend visiting at a different time of day.
Access: 7 minutes by car from Yakushima Airport
Amami Oshima Marine Sports Experience
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About Yakushima and Amami-Oshima
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yakushima was designated as Japan’s first World Natural Heritage site in December 1993. Amami Oshima was designated in 2021, along with Tokunoshima, northern Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island. If you visit both, you can enjoy Japan’s two World Natural Heritage sites in a single trip.
There are no direct flights between Yakushima and Amami Oshima. Please note that the ferry service is one-way only, running from Amami Oshima to Yakushima, and there are no direct ferry services from Yakushima to Amami Oshima. When traveling between the two islands, you will generally need to go via Kagoshima.
Since travel between islands takes time, we recommend setting aside at least 4 to 5 days for your trip. Be sure to plan a flexible itinerary that allows for time to enjoy trekking and water activities on each island.
summary
Yakushima and Amami Oshima are both charming islands listed as UNESCO World Natural Heritage Sites.
A forest thick with Yakusugi cedarsTrekking in [location], and on Amami Oshima, exploring subtropical forests and beachesMarine ActivitiesYou can enjoy the
Since most travel routes go through Kagoshima, be sure to check ferry and flight schedules in advance.
If this sounds interesting to you, be sure to use this information as a guide when planning your trip.
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