Frequently asked questions

Why choose a private tour on Amami Oshima?Private tours offer complete flexibility, allowing the itinerary, pace and experiences to be tailored to your interests. Whether you're interested in wildlife, culture, photography or simply exploring the island, your day is designed around you.Do you offer hotel pickup and drop-off?Yes. Door-to-door transport is included from most accommodation on Amami Oshima, making it easy to relax and enjoy your day without worrying about driving or navigation.Can I customise my itinerary?Absolutely. Every tour is private and can be customised to match your interests, available time and the season.Do I need to speak Japanese?No. Tours are led by a native English-speaking guide, making them ideal for international visitors wanting to experience Amami Oshima with confidence.What is included in the tour price?Tour prices include your guide, door-to-door transport, entrance fees where applicable, tax and insurance. Food and drinks are generally not included unless otherwise stated.

Where is Amami Oshima?Amami Oshima is a subtropical island in Kagoshima Prefecture, southern Japan, located between Kyushu and Okinawa. It is part of the UNESCO World Natural Heritage-listed Amami Islands and is renowned for its unique wildlife, pristine nature and rich island culture.How do I get to Amami Oshima?There are regular direct flights from Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, Kagoshima and Okinawa, making Amami Oshima easily accessible from across Japan.How many days should I spend on Amami Oshima?Three to five days allows enough time to experience the island's wildlife, beaches, forests, culture and local cuisine, although longer stays provide greater opportunities to explore different regions at a relaxed pace.When is the best time to visit Amami Oshima?Amami Oshima can be enjoyed throughout the year. Each season offers different wildlife, flowers, marine life and outdoor experiences, making it a rewarding destination whenever you visit.What makes Amami Oshima special?Amami Oshima is one of Japan's most biodiverse islands, home to many endemic plants and animals found nowhere else on Earth. Combined with its traditional island culture, pristine coastline and subtropical forests, it offers a unique experience unlike anywhere else in Japan.

What birds can I expect to see on the tour?Amami Oshima is home to several endemic and native species, including the Amami jay, Amami thrush, Ryukyu robin, Ryukyu green pigeon, Ruddy kingfisher and Owston's woodpecker. Sightings vary depending on the season, weather and a little luck.When is the best time of year for birdwatching on Amami Oshima?Birdwatching is rewarding throughout the year, with each season offering different species and behaviours. Your itinerary is tailored to maximise your chances based on the season and current conditions.Is this birdwatching tour suitable for beginners?Absolutely. Whether you're new to birdwatching or an experienced birder, the tour is tailored to your interests, pace and experience level.Do I need to bring binoculars or a camera?You're welcome to bring your own binoculars or camera, but they aren't essential. The focus is on enjoying the experience, and I'll help you spot and identify birds throughout the tour.Can you guarantee sightings of specific birds?No. This is a genuine wildlife experience, so sightings can never be guaranteed. However, local knowledge, seasonal planning and current conditions are used to maximise your chances of seeing Amami Oshima's unique birdlife.

What cultural experiences can I enjoy on Amami Oshima?Depending on your interests, cultural experiences may include Oshima Tsumugi silk weaving, traditional mud dyeing, kokuto shochu distilleries, local cuisine, island music and other authentic experiences that showcase Amami Oshima's unique heritage.What is Oshima Tsumugi?Oshima Tsumugi is one of Japan's finest silk textiles and has been produced on Amami Oshima for over 1,300 years. Many tours include the opportunity to learn about the traditional craftsmanship behind this world-renowned fabric.What is kokuto shochu?Kokuto shochu is a spirit unique to the Amami Islands, made using traditional kokuto (dark sugar) and rice koji. Visiting a local distillery offers a fascinating insight into the island's history, culture and centuries-old craftsmanship.Can I customise a cultural tour?Yes. Every cultural tour is private and can be tailored to your interests, whether you're interested in traditional crafts, local cuisine, kokuto shochu, island music or learning about Amami Oshima's unique culture and history.Are cultural tours suitable for families?Absolutely. Cultural tours can be adapted for couples, families and visitors of all ages, with experiences tailored to your interests, available time and preferred pace.

When is the best time to go mangrove kayaking on Amami Oshima?Mangrove kayaking can be enjoyed year-round. The experience changes with the tides, weather and season, so departure times are planned to make the most of the conditions on the day of your tour.What wildlife can I see while kayaking through the mangroves?The mangroves are home to a variety of wildlife, including mudskippers, crabs, fish, herons, kingfishers and other native birds. Depending on the season and a little luck, you may also encounter other fascinating wildlife along the way.Is the mangrove kayaking tour suitable for beginners?Yes. No previous kayaking experience is necessary. A safety briefing and paddling instruction are provided before the tour, making it suitable for beginners, couples and families.Do I need to be physically fit to join the tour?A reasonable level of mobility is recommended, but no special fitness is required. The tour is conducted at a relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery and wildlife.What should I bring for a mangrove kayaking tour?Comfortable clothing that can get wet, sun protection, drinking water and a change of clothes are recommended. Depending on the weather, insect repellent and a waterproof bag for valuables can also be useful.

Where can I snorkel with sea turtles on Amami Oshima?Sea turtles can be found at several locations around Amami Oshima, although sightings can never be guaranteed. Tour locations are selected based on sea conditions, weather and the best chance of encountering turtles while ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.When is the best time of year to snorkel on Amami Oshima?Snorkeling is possible for much of the year, with the warmer months generally offering the best water temperatures. Conditions vary daily, so tour locations are chosen based on the weather and sea conditions.Do I need previous snorkeling experience?No. The tour is suitable for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. A safety briefing is provided before entering the water, and the pace is tailored to your experience and confidence.What marine life can I see besides sea turtles?Depending on the location and sea conditions, you may encounter colourful reef fish, coral, sea snakes, sea cucumbers, starfish and a variety of other marine life. Lucky guests may also spot octopus or even a reef shark, although these sightings are much less common.Is snorkeling suitable for children?Yes, provided children are comfortable in the water and accompanied by a responsible adult. The tour is adapted to the group's experience and sea conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable outing.

What can I see on a nature tour on Amami Oshima?Nature tours showcase Amami Oshima's subtropical forests, waterfalls, scenic viewpoints and diverse habitats. Depending on the season, you may encounter endemic wildlife, unique plant life and some of the island's most remarkable natural landscapes.When is the best time to experience nature on Amami Oshima?Nature can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering something different. Throughout the year you'll experience changing flowers, insects and wildlife activity, making every visit to Amami Oshima unique.What wildlife might I see on a nature tour?Depending on the season and location, you may encounter iconic species such as the Amami rabbit, Amami jay, Amami thrush, Amami woodcock, Ryukyu robin, Ryukyu wild boar, Ryukyu long-haired rat and Amami spiny rat, as well as endemic frogs, reptiles and a remarkable diversity of insects. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but every tour is planned to maximise opportunities.Are your nature tours suitable for families?Yes. Every private tour is tailored to your group's interests, pace and experience, making it suitable for couples, families, photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.Can I customise a private nature tour?Absolutely. Every tour is private and can be tailored to your interests, whether you're looking for wildlife, photography, waterfalls, quiet forest drives or simply experiencing the natural beauty of Amami Oshima.

Yes! We are happy to customize tours to most places. Please get in touch with your ideas here.

We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB, Diners Club, and Discover payments via Square. Once your tour has been confirmed, we will forward a payment request to your email for secure payment processing. We also accept payment via PayPal. Please get in touch to find out more.

Customer Cancellations​ Cancellations made 10 days or more before the tour date (Japan Standard Time) are eligible for a refund, minus a 10% administrative fee to cover planning and reserved booking time. ​ Cancellations made within 10 days of the tour date are non-refundable. ​ Any third-party costs or payment processing fees incurred during the refund process (e.g. credit card, PayPal, or banking fees) will also be deducted from the refund amount. ​ Tour Cancellations by Amami Tours Tours may be cancelled by Amami Tours for safety reasons, severe weather, or circumstances beyond our control. In such cases, a full refund will be provided, and customers will be notified as soon as possible. ​ Transport Disruptions A refund will be provided to guests unable to participate due to official flight or ferry cancellations issued by the operator, minus any third-party or payment processing costs incurred. For questions regarding cancellations, please contact here. Effective April 9, 2026

Yes, all tour prices include transport by private vehicle and include hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Yes! Discounts start from bookings of 3 people or more. Please get in touch to find out more.

Yes! Children under the age of 16 get 50% off when booking with two full-paying adults. Persons unders 17 years of age that are not accompanied by an adult (18 years and over) will require their guardians written conscent to participate on any tour. Please confirm discounts with us to have them reflected on your booking. Proof of age and identity will be required before payment is made and on the day of your tour. Contact us here to get an invoice or quote for discount.

Tours are generally conducted in untoward weather such as rain, cold or heat. However, if the weather is to an extent that it inhibits us from conducting a quality tour, including extended traffic delays, the tour may be cancelled at our discretion at any time. In such instances a full refund will be provided, and customers will be notified of tour cancellation as soon as possible. Please be prepared for cold, hot and wet weather conditions and wear/bring appropriate seasonal clothing on the day of your tour. Clothing and equipment not provided.

Yes, both kayaking and SUP, as well as snorkeling, boat charters and other water activities are available. Simply let us know what you want to do.

English and Japanese only.

Yes! However there are some limitations you will need to note. Persons 17 years old and younger need to be accommodated by an adult 18 years and older. Baby seats and strollers are not provided on tours. However, you are welcome to bring your own, which can be stored in our vehicle. The guardian is responsible for any children brought on a tour. Amami Tours is very flexible in terms of adjusting the itinerary to accommodate customers with children, however, some attractions may be forfeited if departure times are delayed while accommodating the needs of young children. Click here to make any further inquiries.

No. Your booking will be confirmed and secured after we receive payment and send you a confirmation email. If you have any questions about your booking request, please get in touch here.

It depends on your intended usage. Please get in touch before using any of the images/photos on our webpage and we are more than happy to consider your request.