10 Best Hotels and Ryokan Inns for Sightseeing on Amami

Amami Oshima, situated between Kagoshima Prefecture and the main island of Okinawa, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and luxurious resort areas. For those seeking to immerse themselves in the island's unique charm, here are the 10 best hotels and ryokan inns that offer an unparalleled sightseeing experience.

1. Le Grand Bleu

Located a 15-minute drive from Amami Airport, Le Grand Bleu is a luxurious and private facility on the coast of Ashitoku in Tatsugo. This resort features mobile home-style accommodations with earth tones, blending seamlessly into the natural surroundings. Guests can choose between the one-room Twin with a large terrace or the Royal, which offers the entire unit for larger groups or families. The rooms provide breathtaking views of the emerald sea, and guests can enjoy barbecuing with rented equipment. Additional amenities include marine goods such as snorkeling sets and SUPs, allowing for a fun and active stay.

2. Denpaku Amami Hotel

Denpaku Amami Hotel is a highly recommended base for exploring Amami Oshima, located a 50-minute drive from Amami Airport. This reasonably priced business hotel is situated near the best restaurant district on the island and offers compact, functional guestrooms with free Wi-Fi, TVs, and desks. The hotel's bathhouse features a spacious sauna, large shared bath, hot tub, and cold water tub, ensuring ultimate relaxation. The hotel restaurant serves a Japanese or Western breakfast buffet, including fresh handmade tofu.

3. Petit Resort Native Sea Amami

Petit Resort Native Sea Amami is another gem on the island, known for its beautiful beachside location. This resort offers rooms such as the "Beachside Family Room," which can accommodate up to eight people and features a spacious living room and terrace with stunning sea views. Guests can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine, creative Western dishes, and local Amami cuisine at the restaurant "Forest," which is popular among locals as well.

4. Miru Amami

Miru Amami is a resort hotel in the northern part of Amami Oshima, about 20 minutes by car from Amami Airport. The hotel's conch shell-like building is inspired by traditional architectural styles and offers villas with privacy and luxury. The restaurant "AMANARI" serves creative island cuisine using local ingredients and Japanese culinary techniques. The hotel's location provides a serene atmosphere with the blue sea spreading out in front of the villas.

5. Coral Palms

Coral Palms is set in Amami and features a garden, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, and air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms. This hotel is ideal for those looking for a relaxing stay with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy the hotel's restaurant and take in the beautiful ocean views.

6. Hotel New Amami

Hotel New Amami is located near the best restaurant district on the island and is a 50-minute drive from Amami Airport. This business hotel offers simple yet functional rooms with free Wi-Fi and a range of amenities. The hotel's bathhouse includes a sauna, large shared bath, hot tub, and cold water tub, making it an excellent choice for relaxation.

7. Golden Mile Hostel

Golden Mile Hostel is a guest house located just a 2-minute walk from Yanigawa Street, known for its many restaurants and bars. This hostel is perfect for solo travelers and backpackers, offering a variety of accommodations from twin rooms to co-ed dormitory rooms. Private rooms come equipped with refrigerators, wash basins, washing machines, shower rooms, and toilets, making them ideal for extended stays. The hostel also features a lounge with manga, video games, and a large TV, as well as bicycle and snorkeling set rentals.

8. Amami Port Tower Hotel

Amami Port Tower Hotel is located just a 3-minute walk from Naze Port and features spacious public baths and a restaurant on the 10th floor with great ocean views. This hotel is a great choice for those who want to be close to the port and enjoy the local seafood.

9. Denpaku Akakina Hotel

Denpaku Akakina Hotel is situated near Akakina Beach and offers accommodations with a terrace and free Wi-Fi. This hotel is known for its comfortable rooms and convenient location, making it an excellent base for exploring the island.

10. Amami Resort Bashayamamura

Amami Resort Bashayamamura is located right in front of its private beach, offering simple Western rooms. This resort is ideal for those seeking a beachfront experience with easy access to the ocean. Guests can enjoy the serene atmosphere and beautiful clear blue waters of the Kurasaki Coast.

Additional Amenities and Activities

Many of these hotels and ryokan inns offer additional amenities that enhance the sightseeing experience. For instance, Le Grand Bleu and Petit Resort Native Sea Amami provide marine goods and water sports facilities, allowing guests to engage in snorkeling, SUP, and other activities. Miru Amami and Coral Palms offer exquisite dining experiences with local and international cuisine. Hotel New Amami and Denpaku Akakina Hotel feature relaxing bathhouses and saunas, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

Location and Accessibility

The hotels and ryokan inns on Amami Oshima are strategically located to ensure easy access to the island's attractions. Le Grand Bleu and Miru Amami are within a short drive from Amami Airport, while Hotel New Amami and Denpaku Akakina Hotel are close to the restaurant districts and public transportation hubs. Golden Mile Hostel is conveniently located near Yanigawa Street, making it easy for guests to explore the local culture and nightlife.

Dining and Local Cuisine

Dining is a significant part of the experience on Amami Oshima, with many hotels offering unique culinary experiences. Miru Amami's restaurant "AMANARI" serves creative island cuisine, while Petit Resort Native Sea Amami's "Forest" restaurant offers authentic Italian and local dishes. Hotel New Amami's breakfast buffet includes fresh handmade tofu, and Coral Palms features a restaurant with ocean views.

Cultural and Natural Attractions

Amami Oshima is rich in cultural and natural attractions, and staying at these hotels and ryokan inns provides the perfect base for exploration. Guests can visit the Amami City Museum of History and Folklore, Ayamaru Misaki Tourist Park, and the beautiful beaches like Akakina Beach and Uchitahara Beach. The island's unique culture and stunning natural beauty make it an ideal destination for sightseeing and relaxation.