Amami (Naze), Amami Oshima, Japan

Amami Oshima is the ideal escape for travelers seeking authentic experiences away from the crowds of traditional tourist destinations. This subtropical paradise presents travelers with the perfect opportunity for relaxation on diverse and pristine beaches, as well as exploration of enchanting mangrove forests. As the gateway to the largest of the Amami Islands, Amami showcases a unique blend of cultures, with a heritage that fuses mainland Japanese traditions and the influences of Okinawa's Ryukyu Kingdom. Visitors can savor the island's traditional cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and unique flavors, such as Umibudo (sea grapes) and the regional specialty, keihan. Nature enthusiasts will be captivated by the island's rich biodiversity, including the endangered Amami rabbit, found nowhere else, and numerous rare and endemic bird species. Birdwatchers and wildlife lovers will find plenty to marvel at on this unspoiled island.