Amami Oshima Island Sightseeing Cruise Shore Excursion

Overview

Often described as a “hidden version of Okinawa,” Amami Ōshima is a jewel of the subtropics, boasting a unique ecosystem that earned it a place as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. This 4.5-hour shore excursion is the perfect introduction for those who wish to experience the island’s sophisticated art scene, diverse flora, and rugged Pacific coastline in a relaxed half-day format.

Your journey begins at Amami Park, a stunning architectural landmark that serves as the island’s cultural gateway. Here, you will explore the lush life of the Ryukyu archipelago through immersive exhibits and visit the Tanaka Isson Memorial Museum of Art, dedicated to the man often called the “Gauguin of Japan.” The tour concludes with a dramatic visit to Cape Ayamaru, where the emerald sea meets the unique “Devil’s Washboard” coral reefs. Traveling in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, you will enjoy a seamless experience tailored to your cruise schedule. With our “Back-to-Ship Guarantee,” you can soak in the island’s tranquility with total peace of mind.

Highlights

• Amami Park: Discover the island’s spirit under a massive shell-like dome featuring high-definition theater experiences and folk art exhibits.
• Tanaka Isson Memorial Museum of Art: Admire the breathtaking masterpieces of Tanaka Isson, whose vibrant paintings of Amami’s birds and flowers are world-renowned.
• Cape Ayamaru: Take in 360-degree views of the Pacific Ocean and the stunning coral reef formations from one of the island’s most iconic lookouts.
• Local Culinary Discovery: Learn about “Keihan” (Chicken Rice), the island’s signature soul food, and perhaps sample it at the park’s scenic restaurant.

Cruise Information

This 4.5-hour tour is perfectly synchronized with cruise arrivals at Naze Port. The northern attractions of the island are approximately 40–50 minutes from the pier. We coordinate our pickup and return times to ensure you are met at the terminal and returned to your ship at least one hour before the “all aboard” time. Our team monitors the port schedule in real-time for your convenience.

Complete Details

Your exploration begins at Naze Port, where your licensed English-speaking guide will meet you for a scenic drive toward the northern tip of the island. The first stop is Amami Park, where the “Story of Amami’s Seas & Forests” audiovisual presentation provides a deep understanding of the island’s rare biodiversity. On-site, you will visit the Tanaka Isson Memorial Museum of Art. Built to resemble traditional high-floor storehouses, the museum showcases Isson’s evolution from a Tokyo artist to a solitary genius inspired by Amami’s tropical wilderness.

While at the park, you can visit the restaurant to try Keihan. This “dish for a feudal lord” consists of rice topped with shredded chicken, omelet, and papaya pickles, over which a rich, golden chicken broth is poured. Finally, we drive to Cape Ayamaru. From the observatory, you can see the white waves breaking over the emerald coral reefs and the “Devil’s Washboard” rock formations. The park also features a cafe and small shops for local souvenirs before we make our comfortable return drive to the port.

Booking with Jasumo

To join one of our Upcoming Shared Tours for 2026 or to request a private vehicle for your family, please contact us via our Contact Us Form.

Jasumo also operates as a Destination Management Company (DMC), providing end-to-end support and reliable local coordination for individual travelers and travel agencies.

Complimentary 10GB eSIM with Every Jasumo Tour Booking

When you book your tour through Jasumo, we provide a free 10GB eSIM to keep you connected. Stay online as you travel across the island—use your data to share photos of the Pacific views from Cape Ayamaru or look up the fascinating history of Tanaka Isson’s art instantly, without worrying about finding Wi-Fi or expensive roaming fees.

FAQs

How far is the drive from Naze Port to the northern sites?

The drive to Amami Park and Cape Ayamaru takes about 40 to 50 minutes each way. Our private vehicles provide a direct and scenic route along the coast, ensuring you spend the majority of your 4.5 hours enjoying the attractions.

Is the Tanaka Isson Museum wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the museum is modern and fully accessible, featuring ramps and elevators. Amami Park is also designed with a wide, shell-like dome that is easy to navigate for guests with limited mobility.

What makes “Keihan” special compared to other Japanese rice dishes?

Unlike most rice dishes, Keihan is a “soup-over-rice” meal. It was originally created to welcome government officials during the Edo period. The broth is exceptionally light and savory, making it perfect for the island’s tropical climate.

What is the best time for photos at Cape Ayamaru?

The cape offers stunning views all day, but the emerald greens of the coral reefs are most vibrant under the midday sun. Your guide will help time your visit to capture the best lighting for your Pacific Ocean panoramas.

Does the “Back-to-Ship Guarantee” cover road delays?

Yes. We are local experts who plan our routes with a generous time buffer. We monitor traffic between Naze and Kasari in real-time to ensure you are back at the pier at least one hour before your ship departs.

Location