5-DAY AMAMI ADVENTURE
OCEAN, RIVER, JUNGLE
Step into the full spectrum of Amami Oshima’s natural and cultural world on this private 5-day journey. From turquoise seas and coral reefs to mangrove rivers and subtropical rainforest, this experience blends adventure, tradition, and deep local connection—at a relaxed, unhurried pace.
Paddle, snorkel, kayak, and explore on foot through remote landscapes. Share meals sourced directly from sea, river, and forest. Meet local producers, artisans, and musicians, and experience Amami not as a visitor—but as a welcomed guest.
Quick Highlights
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Paddle and snorkel Amami’s clear coastal waters with tropical fish and sea turtles
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Hands-on Amami Oshima Tsumugi mud-dyeing, a 1,300-year-old silk tradition
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Kayak through UNESCO-listed mangroves rich with wildlife
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Explore Uken Village, jungle trails, and hidden waterfalls
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Guided night wildlife experience in rivers and forest
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Visit a local distillery and sample Amami shōchū
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Island-style dining, traditional dessert, and live Shima-Uta music
Your Guide
Your journey is led by Matt Pride, founder of Amami Adventures and a licensed eco-tour guide with over 25 years of experience in Japan. Deeply connected to Amami’s people, landscapes, and traditions, Matt specializes in creating authentic, low-impact experiences that go far beyond standard sightseeing.
— Day 1 —
Arrival & Beach Welcome
Arrive in Amami and meet your private guide. Enjoy a coastal drive and a relaxed café stop to discuss the journey ahead before checking in. Unwind with a swim or beach walk, then settle into island time with a sunset and seasonal local dinner.
— Day 2 —
Ocean & Island Craft
After breakfast by the sea, explore Amami’s pristine coastline—paddling calm waters and snorkeling vibrant coral reefs with tropical fish and sea turtles.
After a relaxed seaside lunch, experience Amami Oshima Tsumugi, the island’s 1,300-year-old silk tradition, through a hands-on mud-dyeing workshop, followed by a sunset dinner of refined island cuisine.
— Day 3 —
Mangroves & Uken Village
Travel south through rainforest and coastal scenery to Amami’s UNESCO-listed mangroves. Kayak winding channels alive with crabs, mudskippers, and birdlife.
Enjoy lunch at a historic kominka beside a culturally significant waterfall, then continue to Uken Village to relax at your log cabin, explore Yakeuchi Bay, or visit the local market.
In the evening, savor a shabu-shabu dinner followed by a guided night wildlife tour.
— Day 4 —
Rainforest & Village culture
Spend the morning exploring Uken’s jungle and village trails, discovering hidden waterfalls, rare wildlife, and the close connection between forest and village life.
After lunch at a century-old eatery, visit a local distillery to sample Amami shōchū crafted with Mt. Yuwan’s pure spring water and a unique acoustic aging process.
In the evening, enjoy an island-style dinner, followed by a traditional Amami dessert and live Shima-Uta music under the stars.
— Day 5 —
Waterfalls & Farewell
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, pick fresh seasonal fruits, and visit a sacred power spot and waterfall before departing Uken.
Enjoy a final traditional Amami Keihan lunch—an iconic island dish—before your private transfer to Amami Airport.
Included
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2 nights accommodation in Thida Moon — Oceanfront Retreat
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2 nights in Yakeuchi no Yado — Log Cottages
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4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners (Meal types can be changed upon request)
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Guided activities and all equipment
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Private transport including airport transfers
Recommended Gear
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Comfortable walking shoes, outdoor clothing, swimwear for water activities, hat, and sunscreen (rainwear provided if needed)
Difficulty / Physical
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SUP & Snorkel: Difficulty: Novice — No SUP experience is necessary. Physical: Easy
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Hiking / eBike Trails: Difficulty: Novice — Easy terrain. Note: Private tours include the option to reach trailheads by eBike, then walk or hike the trails at a comfortable pace
Accommodation
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Thida Moon — Oceanfront Retreat (Northern Amami)
A refined seaside hideaway overlooking the open ocean and star-filled skies — a calm, design-focused retreat rooted in Amami’s nature and culture.
〒894-0508 Kagoshima-ken, Amami-shi, Kasari-cho Yoan 1264-5 Tel: +81-997-69-4958 | Website
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Yakeuchi no Yado — Log Cottages (Southern Amami)
Peaceful handcrafted cabins surrounded by forest, rivers, and starry skies — the perfect base for an immersive nature escape.
2937-86 Yudan Ōgata-hama, Uken-mura, Kagoshima 894-3301
Tel: 0997-56-5656 | Website
Enquiries & Planning
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Please feel free to get in touch with Matt to plan your private Amami journey. I’m happy to chat by phone, email, or Google Meet to tailor a trip to your interests.
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This itinerary is flexible and can be adapted to weather, interests, and seasonal highlights.