Amami Ōshima

AMAMI

Humpback whales in March

According to the Okinawa Churashima foundation, humpback whales travels through 2 major routes within Japan: from Hokkaido (northern island of the archipelago) (1) to Amami Oshima and Okinawa before aiming for Philippines or (2) to Ogasawara islands (Tokyo prefecture) until the Mariana trench.

Tourism for whale watching and whale swimming has risen substantially in Okinawa mainland as whales come to breed in winter in Naha bay. Amami Oshima being a less touristic destination remains a preserved and wealthy nature hub both on land and under water. Luxurious forest, mangroves and corals, it is a jewel yet to be discovered. The shore of the western side of the island is particularly striking with its dreamy landscape as you drive on the side of the blue lagoon.

Sperm whales in August

Sperm whale has been observed in various locations around Japan archipelago: Hokkaido Nemuro strait, Tokyo surroundings, Ogasawara islands and Amami oshima mainly.

Sperm whales are visiting the Amami waters in summer. Instigated in 2022, sperm whale watching and swimming has been set up on trial basis. Thanks to the Amami Marine Life Research Group, conservation measures are put in place to preserve the island oceanic fauna.

Explore the programs

March Session (FULL FOR 2026)
August Session
奄美大島

Amami Ōshima

Nature hideout

Amami Ōshima, located in Japan’s subtropical Ryukyu archipelago, is renowned for its lush forests and rich biodiversity. The island is home to rare species like the Amami rabbit and Ryukyu robin, found nowhere else in the world. Dense mangroves, coral reefs, and crystal-clear rivers contribute to its vibrant ecosystems. Protected as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, Amami Ōshima offers a pristine example of untouched island nature.

Cetacean Monitoring

Since 2013, the Amami Whale and Dolphin Association records year by year the flukes of humpback whales visiting Amami. A smaller sample of sperm whale is also recorded since individuals are observed since 2019. The association showed that the number of visiting humpback whales increased from 971 in 2019 to 1750 in 2022. Such activities are key to understand the cetacean behaviors and naturally triggers marine protection.

Cultural wealth

The island has a unique culture shaped by a blend of Ryukyuan, Japanese, and indigenous influences. Traditional crafts like Oshima Tsumugi silk weaving and folk music using the shamisen reflect the island’s deep artistic heritage. Local customs, dialects, and festivals continue to thrive, preserving the island’s distinct identity within Japan.

"[Humpback whales] don't all just travel along the island, many groups with mothers and calves stay here. The waters surrounding Amami are believed to be suitable for raising calves."

Katsuki Oki,
Amami Dolphin & Whale association Head
Marine conservation program

23-28 March 2026

This program aims at contributing to the effort of censing humpback whales. During our whale swims, we will conduct individual identification (fluke, size, scars, etc.) without disturbing the animal. The data recorded will support citizen science as well as local marine research. 

Program fees: €880
  • High interest for marine conservation
  • Health check with no contra-indication for snorkelling
  • Good swimmer certification 
  • Health insurance including water sports
  • 3 days of whale swim
  • 5 nights with personal room or shared room
  • Car rides around the island + back and forth to the airport
  • English support for day by day needs
  • Data collection guiding through snorkelling
  • Data collection for conservation knowledge material
Apply (FULL FOR 2026)
Data collection method

20-25 August 2026

The goal of this program is to support the recording of sperm whales visiting Amami Oshima. During our whale swims, we will conduct individual identification without disturbing the animal. The data recorded will support citizen science as well as local marine research. Additionally, we will conduct coral health assessments of two beaches around the island and train into coral identification during our diving session.

Program fees: €975
  • High interest for marine conservation
  • Health check with no contra-indication for snorkelling
  • Good swimmer certification 
  • Health insurance including water sports
  • 2 days of whale swim
  • 1 diving and 1 snorkeling day
  • 5 nights with personal room or shared room
  • Car rides around the island + back and forth to the airport
  • English support for day by day needs
  • Data collection guiding through snorkelling
  • Data collection for conservation knowledge material
Apply
Data collection method

Not Included

  • Flights or transportation before and after program start
  • Insurance
  • Meals during the stay
  • Snorkeling and diving gears