Have you ever visited a mangrove? It’s quite common for those from Europe to answer with a “no.” Mangroves are unique forests found in subtropical to tropical regions. Today, I’d like to introduce you to the mangroves and our eco-tour on Amami Oshima.
What’s a Mangrove?
Mangroves are a collective term for forests that form in estuarine areas where saltwater and freshwater mix. Composed of salt-tolerant plants, they thrive in the intertidal zones between land and sea.
Amami Oshima is home to numerous mangrove forests of varying sizes. Among them, the mangroves in Sumuyō, located in the central part of the island, stand out as the largest. Covering an expansive area of 71 hectares, it is the second-largest mangrove in Japan.
Eco-tours in the Mangrove
One of the most popular eco-tour in the mangroves of Amami Oshima is kayaking. We offer kayak tours, suitable for everyone from children to the elderly, as the mangroves provide a calm and wave-free environment. The scenery within the mangrove tunnels is exceptionally beautiful, offering a tranquil natural experience.
Time Schedule for Mangrove Eco-tour
- 9:00 Arrival at kayak station
- 9:10 Brief participants on kayaking techniques and relevant information.
- 9:20 Start kayaking
（Kayaking: 1~2km） - 9:40 Go waterway or tidal flat
（Since the times of low tide and high tide vary daily, you can specify your preference during the booking.） - 10:00The guide will share interesting knowledge about the mangroves.
- 11:00 Return to the kayak station
Explore the Mangroves When Visiting Amami Oshima
The mangroves stand as one of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in Amami Oshima. While it’s true that they can attract a crowd depending on the season, our eco-tours strive to guide you through less frequented waterways. We also offer early morning kayak tours with breakfast included, providing a unique and serene experience. When you visit Amami Oshima, don’t miss the opportunity to join our mangrove tours.