Amami Oshima Island Tokunoshima Island Northern Part of Okinawa Island and Iriomote Island
Guide to Hidden Gems in Japan: Exploring Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island
Are you ready to venture off the beaten path and discover some of Japan’s most breathtaking islands? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will take you on a journey to four enchanting destinations: Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, the Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island. Get ready to immerse yourself in stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences.
Amami-Oshima Island
Located in the southernmost part of Kyushu, Amami-Oshima Island is a tropical paradise waiting to be explored.
Getting There
The easiest way to reach Amami-Oshima Island is by flying into Amami Airport (ASJ) from Fukuoka or Osaka. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Kagoshima Port, which takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Must-Visit Attractions
Tanaka Isson Memorial Museum
This museum showcases the life and works of Tanaka Isson, a renowned Japanese artist who spent his later years on Amami-Oshima Island. The museum features an impressive collection of his paintings, sculptures, and other artworks.
Sumiyo Village
Step back in time and explore this traditional village, where you can see old-fashioned houses, experience the local way of life, and enjoy delicious homemade cuisine.
Tomori Beach
Relax on this stunning beach, known for its crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand, and picturesque sunsets. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the tropical atmosphere.
Outdoor Activities
Snorkeling and Diving
Discover Amami-Oshima Island’s incredible marine life, including sea turtles, rays, and colorful fish. The island is home to numerous dive sites suitable for all levels of experience.
Hiking and Trekking
Explore the island’s lush forests, scenic coastlines, and rugged mountains on foot. Popular hiking trails include the Kinsakubaru Forest Trail and the Tomori Beach Trail.
Local Cuisine
Goya Champuru
Savor this traditional Amami dish, made with goya (bitter melon), tofu, eggs, and other local ingredients.
Rafute
Indulge in this delicious braised pork belly, slow-cooked in a sweet soy sauce-based broth.
Accommodation
Choose from a range of accommodations, including luxury resorts, budget-friendly guesthouses, and cozy vacation rentals. The Amami-Oshima Island Hotel is a popular choice, offering comfortable rooms and stunning ocean views.
Tokunoshima Island
Located north of Okinawa Island, Tokunoshima Island is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
Getting There
The easiest way to reach Tokunoshima Island is by flying into Tokunoshima Airport (TKN) from Fukuoka or Okinawa. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Naha Port on Okinawa Island, which takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Must-Visit Attractions
Tokunoshima Museum
Learn about the island’s history, culture, and natural environment at this informative museum.
Innojofuta Beach
Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on this picturesque beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand.
Mount Inokawa
Hike to the summit of this 319-meter mountain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and the East China Sea.
Outdoor Activities
Fishing
Try your hand at fishing in Tokunoshima Island’s rich waters, home to a variety of species including tuna, marlin, and sailfish.
Kayaking
Explore the island’s rugged coastline and discover hidden coves and secluded beaches by kayak.
Local Cuisine
Tokunoshima Beef
Savor this premium beef, known for its tenderness and rich flavor. Enjoy it in a variety of dishes, from yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) to steak.
Umi Budo
Indulge in these delicious sea grapes, harvested from the island’s crystal-clear waters.
Accommodation
Choose from a range of accommodations, including luxury resorts, budget-friendly guesthouses, and cozy vacation rentals. The Tokunoshima Island Hotel is a popular choice, offering comfortable rooms and stunning ocean views.
Northern Okinawa Island
The northern part of Okinawa Island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and adventure.
Getting There
The easiest way to reach Northern Okinawa Island is by flying into Naha Airport (OKA) on Okinawa Island. From there, take a bus or rent a car to explore the northern region.
Must-Visit Attractions
Churaumi Aquarium
Marvel at the incredible marine life of the surrounding waters at this state-of-the-art aquarium.
Ocean Expo Park
Explore this sprawling park, featuring various exhibits, interactive displays, and stunning ocean views.
Motobu Peninsula
Discover this picturesque peninsula, home to scenic coastal drives, secluded beaches, and historic sites.
Outdoor Activities
Snorkeling and Diving
Explore the incredible coral reefs and marine life of Northern Okinawa Island’s waters.
Kayaking
Paddle through the island’s tranquil waters and discover hidden coves and secluded beaches.
Local Cuisine
Goya Champuru
Savor this traditional Okinawan dish, made with goya (bitter melon), tofu, eggs, and other local ingredients.
Rafute
Indulge in this delicious braised pork belly, slow-cooked in a sweet soy sauce-based broth.
Accommodation
Choose from a range of accommodations, including luxury resorts, budget-friendly guesthouses, and cozy vacation rentals. The Hotel Moon Beach is a popular choice, offering comfortable rooms and stunning ocean views.
Iriomote Island
Located southwest of Okinawa Island, Iriomote Island is Japan’s southernmost island, boasting unparalleled natural beauty and adventure opportunities.
Getting There
The easiest way to reach Iriomote Island is by flying into Iriomote Airport (IRM) from Okinawa or Ishigaki. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Ishigaki Port, which takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Must-Visit Attractions
Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center
Learn about the island’s unique wildlife, including the Iriomote cat, at this informative center.
Takachiho Beach
Relax on this stunning beach, known for its crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand, and picturesque sunsets.
Urauchi River
Take a scenic boat tour or kayak down this tranquil river, surrounded by lush tropical forests.
Outdoor Activities
Hiking and Trekking
Explore the island’s rugged mountains, scenic coastlines, and lush forests on foot. Popular hiking trails include the Mt. Komi Trail and the Urauchi River Trail.
Snorkeling and Diving
Discover Iriomote Island’s incredible marine life, including sea turtles, rays, and colorful fish.
Local Cuisine
Iriomote Beef
Savor this premium beef, known for its tenderness and rich flavor. Enjoy it in a variety of dishes, from yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) to steak.
Pineapple
Indulge in Iriomote Island’s famous pineapples, grown in the island’s tropical climate.
Accommodation
Choose from a range of accommodations, including luxury resorts, budget-friendly guesthouses, and cozy vacation rentals. The Hotel Nikko Yaeyama is a popular choice, offering comfortable rooms and stunning ocean views.
Conclusion
These four enchanting islands offer a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and adventure opportunities. Whether you’re looking to relax on picturesque beaches, explore lush forests, or indulge in delicious local cuisine, Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island have something for everyone. So why wait? Start planning your dream trip to these hidden gems in Japan today!