At Link Adventures, we are committed to respecting the nature, culture, and local communities of Amami Oshima Island, while working toward a sustainable future for tourism.
Here’s a look at what we’re doing to make that vision a reality.
- Enhancing Tours During Off-Peak Periods
- Time and Location Management
- Support local shops
- Wildlife-Friendly Observation Methods
- Educate travelers
1. Enhancing Tours During Off-Peak Periods
The peak season in Amami Oshima is summer, from July to September. Due to the high tourism load during this season, it is ideal for visitors to spread out and visit during other seasons as well. Therefore, we offer several tours only in other seasons. For example. hiking tours specifically from autumn to spring. With lower temperatures and reduced snake activity, this season is perfect for hiking. The tour that takes you along the trail to see the giant Fig tree is truly spectacular.
2. Time and Location Management
Popular tours like mangrove kayaking and wildlife observation often attract many travelers, which can lead to crowded areas and times. For example, the mangroves become especially busy during high tide, as nearby waterways fill with kayaks. To offer a more peaceful experience, we often kayak to more remote areas or schedule our tours during low tide when fewer people are around.
Similarly, wildlife tours commonly take place along forest roads in the central to southern parts of Amami Oshima. These routes can become congested, especially during peak seasons. To avoid traffic and provide a more relaxed experience, we carefully select lesser-known forest roads with fewer cars and minimal human activity.
3. Support local shops
Supporting local businesses is an important part of sustainability. While large supermarkets and chain stores offer a wide variety of products at low prices, many of these companies are based outside the island—meaning much of the profit flows out of Amami Oshima.
To help strengthen the local economy, we make a conscious effort to use local stores whenever possible. For example, the drinks, snacks, and lunch boxes we provide during our tours are all sourced from local businesses. This not only helps keep profits within the community but also supports the development of products that reflect the unique character of the island.
4. Wildlife-Friendly Observation Methods
Wildlife is sensitive to human presence.
We aim to practice sustainable wildlife watching by minimizing our impact on the animals and their natural habitats as much as possible.
Binoculars
Using binoculars allows for observing animals without causing them stress. Maintaining a considerable distance enables thorough observation without alerting the animals.
Red light
Primarily used during night tours, red lights are considered less noticeable to animals compared to regular white lights. When observing wildlife like the Amami Rabbit, incorporating red lights ensures a wildlife-friendly tour.
Coral-Friendly Sunscreen
Sunscreen ingredients can sometimes have harmful effects on coral reefs. Especially during snorkeling tours, we recommend coral-friendly sunscreen to minimize environmental impact on coral reefs.
5. Educate Travelers
Our guides share accurate information with travelers about environmental issues affecting both Amami Island and the wider world, helping to raise awareness about the importance of conservation. We also introduce simple, practical actions that guests can apply in their daily lives to make a positive impact.
Above all, our guides aim to lead by example—demonstrating sustainable practices through their own actions and inspiring others to do the same.
Let’s begin your sustainable adventure
Can you imagine a trip that’s gentle on both nature and local communities?
At Link Adventures, our tours aim to protect Amami’s beautiful nature and unique culture so they can be passed down to future generations.
We hope the experience gives you new perspectives and ideas you can take back home—maybe even something that helps your own community. A better planet starts with small steps like these.
