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Guided Tour of Kinsakubaru Forest

HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Guided Tour of Kinsakubaru Forest

Explore the untouched nature of Amami Oshima and feel the atmosphere of an ancient forest

Amami Oshima Tourism & Products Federation

Kinsakubaru is a subtropical primeval forest located on Amami Oshima, an island that sits between Kyushu and Okinawa. Covered with lush nature and home to diverse species of flora and fauna, Amami Oshima was registered as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site in 2021, along with the islands of Tokunoshima and Iriomote, and the northern area of Okinawa.

Nestled in the steep mountains of the island, Kinsakubaru is among the most untouched areas of Amami Oshima. The name can be roughly translated to “Golden Wilderness,” because the forest foliage carries a yellow tint in the spring. Kinsakubaru is home to many plants and animals endemic to Amami Oshima, including endangered species, so entry to the forest is restricted. All visitors who wish to explore this natural sanctuary must go with a certified tour guide.

Follow the guide into the forest and feel the mystical atmosphere of this ancient place. During the tour, you can observe and learn about various wildlife. It is not uncommon to come across vulnerable and rare species, such as the Lidth’s jay and Amami tip-nosed frog. Kinsakubaru is also known for its iconic hikagehego, or flying spider-monkey tree ferns, which can grow up to 15 meters tall.

Even if you are unfamiliar with the historical and geographical significance of Amami Oshima, you will be awestruck by the natural splendor of the forest. If you are looking to experience the nature of Amami Oshima, you should definitely plan a tour of Kinsakubaru during your time on the island!

How to get there

There are direct flights to Amami Oshima from Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, Kagoshima, and Okinawa. From Amami Airport, take a bus to Naze, Amami City (1 hour). Kinsakubaru Forest is about 30 minutes by car from Naze, but depending on the tour pickup is available from accommodations in the city area. Visitors must be accompanied by a certified guide to enter the forest.

Asato, Naze, Amami-shi, Kagoshima-ken