Station Amami Oshima Sumiyoshi

Discover the Living Heart of Amami Oshima

Amami Oshima Sumiyoshi, nestled along National Route 58 in the lush coastal town of Sumiyoshi, is a roadside station where nature, culture, and adventure converge. Surrounded by 94% forested terrain and bordered by the pristine waters of Sumiyoshi Bay, this unique destination sits within a National Park Special Protection Zone, home to rare species like the Amami Black Rabbit and the endangered Ryukyu Amami Trout.

More than a pit stop, it's a gateway to immersive experiences. Visitors can glide through ancient mangrove forests on a guided canoe tour, explore the island’s biodiversity at the Amami World Heritage Center, or enjoy eco-friendly activities like Segway rides and ground golf. The on-site restaurant offers local flavors like chicken rice and tuna bowl, while the nature trail invites quiet reflection. With its seamless blend of conservation, education, and recreation, Amami Oshima Sumiyoshi offers a rare glimpse into the untouched beauty of Amami’s natural heritage.

Amami Oshima Sumiyoshi stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering guided mangrove canoe tours through a UNESCO World Heritage-listed ecosystem. Paddle through the pristine, ancient mangrove forests of the Satsuma Peninsula, where rare species like the Amami Black Rabbit and the Ryukyu Ayu fish thrive. At the adjacent World Heritage Center, experience immersive exhibits that recreate the island’s unique forest ecology. This is a rare chance to explore and learn about one of Japan’s most biodiverse and protected natural landscapes—only possible here.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM to secure a spot for the 10:00 AM Kanoo Tour, which operates daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM and often fills up by midday, especially on weekends.

• Hidden Gems: Check the information terminal located inside the roadside station between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM to access QR codes that provide real-time updates on road closures and detours due to weather or maintenance on National Route 58.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the World Heritage Center’s exhibit hall between 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM to experience the seasonal forest simulation display, which features rotating seasonal themes such as the blooming of rare orchids in spring and the migration of the Ryukyu Amami Gekko in autumn.

• Dining Tip: Order the chicken rice or tuna bowl at the Mangrove Park Restaurant between 11:30 AM and 12:30 PM to avoid the lunch rush, as the restaurant closes at 2:00 PM and often sells out of its signature dishes by 1:30 PM.

• Experience Timing: Reserve the 90-minute Kanoo Tour in advance by calling 090-1517-3973, as this longer tour requires pre-booking and is only available from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM with the last booking window at 4:00 PM the previous day.

• Best Access Route: If arriving by bus, take the Kunitaya-bound bus and get off at the “Mangrove Park” stop; the walk from the stop to the roadside station entrance is just 3 minutes, and the park’s walking trail begins directly from the station’s south exit.

• Seasonal Activity: On weekdays, visit the Ground Golf field between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM when the staff offers complimentary lessons to new players, as the facility is less crowded and staff are more available during weekday mornings.

Spring (March-May): Peak season for mangrove kayaking (mid-March to May) and fresh local seafood available at the roadside station.

Summer (June-August): Ideal for kayaking and visiting the mangrove forest; summer events include the Three-Taro Festival in early August.

Autumn (September-November): Best time for the mid-September village harvest festivals and calm waters for kayaking.

Winter (December-February): Limited activities due to seasonal closures; visit the World Heritage Center to experience seasonal exhibits.