New sustainable travel experiences launched in Okinawa, Japan

Two new sustainable tourism experiences have launched in Japan’s subtropical and southernmost prefecture, Okinawa. Both experiences have been launched by local sustainability-focused accommodation and experiential activity provider Yambaru Hotel Nanmei Shinshitsu, located in the north of Okinawa’s main island.

The company’s new Deep Forest Tour: A Miraculous Forest Where Your Five Senses Awaken experience invites travellers on a three-day nature and hiking trip led by a local guide familiar with the rural jungle environment. Guests can expect to encounter a vast range of plants and wildlife during several guided daytime walks and have the chance to stargaze at night under the island’s famous crystal-clear skies. Prices start from 76,900 JPY (approximately £400) per person based on two participants, inclusive of guided activities, 2 nights’ accommodation and selected meals.

Also new, The Essence of Blue Zone experience is a three-day cultural tour celebrating Okinawa’s Blue Zone status. It includes guided visits to remote villages surrounding the densely forested Yambaru National Park where participants may have the opportunity to meet elders full of wisdom and guidance on living a long and healthy life. Alongside sampling the local cuisine, considered a major contributor to a destination being a Blue Zone, guests can also try their hand at traditional Okinawan crafts. Prices start from 162,100 JPY (approximately £844) per person based on two participants, inclusive of guided activities, 2 nights’ accommodation and selected meals.

Yambaru Hotel Nanmei Shinshitsu works closely with Okinawa’s residents to create and offer unique travel experiences that provide a rare opportunity for visitors to connect personally and intimately with the local community and the region’s unspoilt nature. The company also offers a range of private accommodation options in the area, having sympathetically converted several traditional Okinawan houses in villages bordering the Yanbaru National Park.