Kyushu and Okinawa

Keramashoto National Park

national parks
The Kerama Islands, located approximately 40 km west of Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture, is an island grouping of more than 30 large and small islands and numerous reefs, and was designated as the 31st national park on March 5, 2014 (Coral Day). The park has a variety of land and sea landscapes, including highly transparent marine landscapes, coral reefs densely populated with a variety of corals, breeding grounds for humpback whales, a multi-island seascape, white sand beaches, sea cliffs, and vegetation unique to windswept areas developed on the sea cliffs. The majority of the park area is marine area. It is easily accessible from the main island of Okinawa (Tomari Port in Naha City) by high-speed boat, which takes about 35 to 50 minutes. Visitors can enjoy diving and snorkeling in the beautiful sea, known as Kerama blue, and whale watching in winter. (Source: Ministry of the Environment website https://www.env.go.jp/nature/nationalparks/list/)

Activity

Kerama Boat Snorkeling

JPY 11,800
 

Highlights

Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Kerama Islands, renowned for their world-class visibility and vibrant coral reefs. This beginner-friendly snorkeling tour includes a relaxing boat ride, guided support in English and Japanese, and visits to carefully selected snorkeling spots teeming with tropical marine life. Perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to experience the underwater beauty of Okinawa.

 

Detail

Join a half-day snorkeling adventure to the stunning Kerama Islands, departing from Naha. After a short boat ride, you’ll explore one or two top snorkeling locations known for their calm waters and abundant sea life. The tour includes all necessary equipment, optional wetsuits, and professional instructors who provide safe and fun guidance for all skill levels. Whether you're new to snorkeling or an experienced swimmer, this tour offers an unforgettable encounter with Okinawa’s vibrant marine ecosystem.

 

Summary

Location Kerama Islands

Operating Hours Full day

Required time 8 - 8.5 hours

Transportation Meet-Up or Pick-Up (Within Naha City)

Meal None

Kerama Islands Snorkeling Tour Choose from Five Marine Activities

JPY 6,000~
 

Highlights

Experience the dazzling beauty of Okinawa’s Kerama Islands with your choice of five exciting marine activities, including snorkeling, diving, and sea walking. With crystal-clear waters and colorful coral reefs, the Kerama Blue ocean offers the perfect setting for both adventure and relaxation. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned ocean lover, this tour lets you customize your island experience in one of Japan’s most breathtaking marine environments.

 

Detail

Departing from Okinawa Main Island, this marine adventure takes you to the idyllic Kerama Islands, famous for their vivid blue waters and vibrant marine life. Choose from a variety of activities including snorkeling, beginner diving, sea walking, and more—guided by experienced instructors in a safe and friendly setting. The tour includes round-trip boat transportation, gear rental, and optional photo services, making it ideal for solo travelers, couples, and families seeking an unforgettable day at sea.

 

Summary

Location Kerama Islands

Operating Hours In the morning or In the afternoon

Required time more than 2 hours

Transportation Pick-up and drop-off available (conditions apply)

Meal None

Kerama Boat Diving (2 Dives): A Scuba Diving Tour for Certified Divers

JPY 20,000
 

Highlights

Embark on a thrilling scuba diving adventure in the crystal-clear waters of the Kerama Islands, one of Okinawa's most celebrated diving destinations. This boat diving tour offers two exciting dives at carefully selected sites, showcasing vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and exceptional visibility. Designed exclusively for certified divers, the tour provides all equipment and guidance from experienced instructors, ensuring a safe and unforgettable underwater experience.

 

Detail

This full-day boat diving tour is tailored for certified divers seeking to explore the rich marine biodiversity of the Kerama Islands, located just a short ride from Okinawa’s main island. With two dives at some of the region’s best spots, you’ll discover colorful coral gardens, swim alongside schools of tropical fish, and possibly even encounter sea turtles. All diving gear is included, and a licensed instructor will accompany you throughout the experience. Whether you're visiting Okinawa for the first time or returning to dive again, this tour offers a perfect blend of excitement, natural beauty, and professional support.

 

Summary

Location Kerama Islands

Operating Hours Full day

Required time 8 - 8.5 hours

Transportation Pick-up and drop-off available (conditions apply)

Meal None

Kerama Experience Diving <1–2 Dives / Half-Day> by Ocean Links Co., Ltd.

JPY 14,000
 

Highlights

Discover the mesmerizing underwater world of the Kerama Islands with a beginner-friendly diving experience, perfect even for first-timers. Departing from Naha, this half-day tour takes you to some of Okinawa’s clearest and most beautiful waters, where you can enjoy 1 or 2 dives under the guidance of certified instructors. No license is required, making it an ideal choice for anyone curious about scuba diving in a safe and supportive environment.

 

Detail

This half-day Kerama diving tour offers an unforgettable introduction to Okinawa’s vibrant marine life and crystal-clear seas. Operated by Ocean Links Co., Ltd, the program is designed for beginners and non-certified divers who want to try scuba diving without prior experience. After departing from Naha by boat, you'll arrive at carefully chosen dive sites within the Kerama Islands, where professional instructors will provide personalized support in small groups. Choose between one or two dives depending on your comfort level, and make the most of this easy, scenic, and accessible marine adventure.

 

Summary

Location Kerama Islands

Operating Hours In the morning or In the afternoon

Required time 4.5 hours

Transportation Pick-up and drop-off available (conditions apply)

Meal None

Okinawa Half-Day Snorkeling Tour to Kerama Islands with Free Banana Boat Ride

JPY 6,500
 

Highlights

Embark on an unforgettable half-day snorkeling tour to the Kerama Islands, renowned globally for their incredibly clear, vibrant "Kerama Blue" waters, ranked among the top three for clarity. Dive into this pristine marine paradise to explore stunning coral reefs and swim alongside an abundance of colorful tropical fish, even having the unique chance to feed them up close. Your adventure begins with a comfortable and scenic 30-minute luxury catamaran cruise from Naha. As a special summer bonus, enjoy one complimentary banana boat ride, adding an exhilarating splash of fun to your day. All your precious underwater moments will be captured with free commemorative photos taken during the tour. This experience is designed to be beginner-friendly and fully supported by experienced instructors, including all necessary snorkeling gear and life jackets, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable adventure for all, especially families and beginners. For your convenience, the tour also offers a hassle-free pickup service from designated locations in Naha City.

 

Detail

Discover the Kerama Islands, located just a 30-minute luxury catamaran ride from Naha, famous for their globally top-ranked, crystal-clear "Kerama Blue" waters. Once at the snorkeling spot, fully equipped with snorkeling gear and life jackets, you'll explore vibrant coral reefs and swim among tropical fish, with the unique chance to feed them under expert guidance. A free banana boat ride is included as a special summer bonus, with additional marine activities available on-site for purchase. Choose between convenient morning or afternoon departures, with Naha pickup service available from designated locations or the option to meet directly at Naha Miegusuku Port (parking available for ¥500 all day). Please note, there is no island landing during this tour. The tour is open to participants aged 6 to 60, though specific health and weight restrictions apply for safety. Don't forget to bring essentials such as a towel, swimsuit, change of clothes, sunscreen, and water-friendly footwear.

 

Summary

Location Kerama Islands

Operating Hours In the morning or In the afternoon

Required time about 3.5 - 4 hours

Transportation None

Meal None

Explore Kerama Blue by Ferry or High-Speed Boat: Swim and Snorkel w/ Easy Access

JPY 8,700〜
 

Highlights

This day trip to Tokashiki Island offers a chance to experience the stunning "Kerama Blue" sea within the Kerama Islands National Park. A key highlight is the flexibility to choose your ideal beach experience: swim in the calm, gentle waves of Aharen Beach, or opt for a snorkeling tour at Tokashiku Beach with the possibility of encountering colorful fish and sea turtles. The tour ensures a hassle-free day with convenient shuttle bus transportation and a satisfying local lunch.

 

Detail

The tour is designed for a full day of fun and relaxation. You'll be provided with a shuttle bus service for easy travel between the port and the beach. A delicious lunch is included in both tour options, with curry rice served for those at Aharen Beach and those on the snorkeling tour. For the snorkeling experience at Tokashiku Beach, all necessary gear is provided, including snorkel sets, and wetsuits are available during the winter season, ensuring you're well-equipped for an exciting underwater adventure with an instructor. This worry-free trip allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Tokashiki Island.

 

Summary

Location Kerama Islands

Operating Hours Full day

Required time 7.5 - 8 hours

Transportation Pick up not Available

Meal Yes

Parasailing Enjoy a breathtaking aerial walk overlooking the sea of Kerama!

From JPY 7,000
 

Highlights

Experience the thrill of a breathtaking "aerial walk" over the stunning "Kerama Blue" sea with this parasailing tour. Key highlights include soaring to heights of 60-70 meters, offering a spectacular panoramic view of expansive coral reefs and vibrant tropical fish from above. With a convenient location just 10 minutes from Naha Airport, this tour is perfect for those seeking an unforgettable marine adventure with minimal travel time.

 

Detail

This tour is designed for an exhilarating yet worry-free experience. The total duration is approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, with the parasailing flight itself lasting about 10 minutes. For your convenience, a free GoPro camera rental is available to capture dynamic video footage of your flight. The meeting point is at Miigusuku Port. The tour also offers a package that includes introductory diving and snorkeling, allowing you to combine your parasailing adventure with an underwater exploration of Okinawa's beautiful sea life.

 

Summary

Location Kerama Islands / Okinawa

Operating Hours In the morning or In the afternoon

Required time 2 hours

Transportation Pick up not Available

Meal None

Kerama Boat Diving & Snorkeling Experience

JPY 14,800
 

Highlights

This tour provides an immersive experience in the beautiful Kerama Islands, offering both diving and snorkeling adventures in the stunning Okinawan sea. Key highlights include exploring 2-3 of the area's best diving spots, with a seamless experience for both beginners and experienced divers. A complimentary underwater photo service allows you to capture your unforgettable moments, with same-day downloads. You'll also benefit from thoughtful amenities like free motion sickness remedies and towel rentals.

 

Detail

Designed for a full day of aquatic fun, the tour starts with convenient meet-up and transport from Naha City. Once aboard the private boat, you'll cruise for about an hour to reach the dive sites. The tour ensures safety with a thorough explanation and practice session for beginners, utilizing a rope for a secure descent. The spacious cabin, changing rooms, and hot showers on the boat add to your comfort. In addition to diving, you can enjoy a thrilling 4-meter jump into the water and, from January to March, a chance to spot whales. An extra dive can also be added for an additional fee. The tour concludes with a relaxing return and drop-off in Naha City.

 

Summary

Location Kerama Islands / Okinawa

Operating Hours Full day

Required time 8 - 8.5 hours

Transportation Pick-up and drop-off available (conditions apply)

Meal None

Whale Watching Tour with Photo Gift and Guidebook Included 【Departure from Naha】

JPY 6,000~
 

Highlights

Discover the best of Okinawa with a thrilling whale-watching tour! Your adventure begins on a large, stable catamaran, so you can enjoy the experience without worrying about the waves. A humorous and knowledgeable whale guide will be on board to share fascinating facts about the whales and the local marine life. As a special memento, you'll receive a photo gift to remember your amazing experience. Even if you decide at the last minute, same-day bookings are often available, making it easy to jump on this unforgettable tour.

 

Detail

This 3-hour daily whale-watching tour departs from Naha, Okinawa. The tour includes a free pick-up service from select locations in Naha City. On the catamaran, you'll find a Japanese-speaking guide ready to assist you. The tour also provides a life jacket rental for your safety and a downloadable whale guidebook so you can learn even more. It’s a perfect way to experience the majestic beauty of whales in their natural habitat and create lasting memories.

 

Summary

Location Kerama, from Naha

Operating Hours In the morning or In the afternoon

Required time 3 hours

Transportation Pick-up and drop-off available (conditions apply)

Meal None

Access

How to get there

Keramashoto National Park comprises over 30 islands and their surrounding waters and is between 35 minutes and two hours by boat from Okinawa's main island. Only four of the park’s islands are inhabited, including Tokashikijima, Zamamijima and Akajima islands. It is possible to enjoy many areas of the park without a private vehicle by relying on hotel and tour operator shuttle services, renting a bicycle or walking. However, renting a car provides more freedom. There is no vehicle hire on Akajima Island, so consider hiring a car in Naha and taking it to the Kerama Islands via a car ferry or renting a bicycle to facilitate visits to the smaller islands that connect to Akajima Island by bridge.

From Tokyo

Fly from Haneda Airport to Naha Airport on Okinawa Island in about three hours. From there, take the Yui Rail monorail to Miebashi Station, and walk to Tomari Port Terminal (10 min) or take a taxi from the airport (10–20min). Once at the port, take a Tokashiki Ferry boat to Tokashikijima Island, Zamamijima Island, or Akajima Island. The trip from Naha to Tokashiki takes 35 minutes by high-speed boat or 70 minutes by car ferry, while the journey from Naha to Zamamijima Island takes 1 hour by high-speed boat or 2 hours by car ferry, including the transfer at Akajima Island. Demand is high, so book your tickets in advance.

Getting Around

Tokashikijima Island has three small villages, Tokashiki, Tokashiku and Aharen—ports are located at Tokashiki and Aharen. The villages are connected by infrequent bus service, timed to coincide with the ferries from Naha (arriving at Tokashiki Port) and Akajima Island (arriving at Aharen Port). The Mitsushima Ferry operates inter-island services between Tokashikijima, Zamamijma and Akajima islands. Daily trips between Akajima and Zamamijima do not require reservations. Traveling between Zamamijima and Akajima to Tokashikijima's Aharen Port requires reservations made through the Zamami Village Office the day before travel. Car rental companies are located near Tokashiki Port (pick-up from/to Aharen Port available upon arrangement). Renting a car makes it easier to travel around the islands, and also allows you to visit Gerumajima Island and Fukajishima Island using the bridges from Akajima Island. Renting a car in Naha and taking it on a car ferry (Ferry Zamami) is an option. However, as previously mentioned, it’s possible to enjoy the islands without a car by walking or hiring a bicycle and using pickup services provided by accommodation and tour companies.

National Park or Japan
Hokkaido
Tohoku
Kanto
Chubu
Kinki
Chugoku and Shikoku Region
Kyushu and Okinawa