The areas are all found in the subtropical Nansei island chain that runs between Kyushu and Taiwan and is part of Okinawa and Kagoshima prefectures. The islands have been separated from the continent and other landmasses for millions of years, and therefore harbor a significant number of endemic and rare animals and plants, including the Iriomote leopard cat, the Amami rabbit and the Okinawa rail.
Amami Oshima attracts with its beautiful beaches dotted along its coastline with white sand and clear, warm waters, as well as for its mangrove forest and several unique animals and plants.
Located south of Amami Oshima, Tokunoshima is visited for its relatively uncrowded beaches and its style of bullfighting, as well as the annual Tokunoshima Triathlon.
The Yanbaru region makes up the northern part of Okinawa Island. Compared to the urbanized, southern part of the island, Yanbaru is significantly less developed and more rural. The region contains an abundance of subtropical forested hills and endemic wildlife.
Iriomote is largely undeveloped, with nearly 90 percent of its land covered by dense jungle and mangrove forests. The island's attractions are based around tours to Iriomote's abundant nature including kayaking, fishing, sailing, snorkeling and hiking.
