Saiyu Travel Japan

03/10/2026

Encountering S***m whales in Amami Oshima is sure to be an unforgettable experience. We are now open for 2027 tour reservations!

Amami Ocean Discovery:
Encounters with S***m Whales & the White-spotted Pufferfish

■ Dates: June 24–30, 2027 (6 Nights / 7Days)
■ Group size: Limited to 7 participants
■ Tour fee: JPY430,000
■ Single room supplement: JPY12,000 

***mwhale

02/10/2026

Guided by Paul Whitton, Paul Whitton wildlife photographer, a private tour to Eastern Hokkaido for a wonderful Australian couple came to a successful and safe close today. They are now heading home, full of fond memories and big smiles.

Just before departing for the airport, they were treated to a delightful encounter with one of Hokkaido’s beloved icons—Long-tailed Tit. Set against vibrant autumn foliage, watching this adorable little bird was the perfect way to wrap up their journey.

22/09/2026

We just received yesterday’s photos from nature guide Paul Whitton, who is currently guiding a wonderful couple from Australia around Hokkaido!

Mt. Daisetsu National Park is famous for having the earliest autumn colors in Japan. Around an elevation of 1,600 meters, the foliage is right at its peak, and they enjoyed breathtaking views that looked like a vibrant red carpet spread across the slopes.

Also they explored the Biei area, taking in the stunning cobalt-blue pond and picturesque waterfalls.

Their journey now continues east into Eastern Hokkaido, where thrilling wildlife encounters await!

19/09/2026

Here is a glimpse of our s***m whale underwater encounters in Amami Oshima this past June. We were blessed with fantastic sea conditions and weather, allowing us to head out to the whale grounds every single day—each trip was filled with breathtaking surprises!

We’ve already announced our 2027 Amami Oshima Whale Swim Expedition, so don't miss out on this incredible opportunity!
Next year’s tour is a very special edition: along with the whales, it includes diving to observe theWhite-spotted puffer fish—an endemic species famous for sculpting mesmerizing underwater "crop circles" in the sand!

***mwhales

14/09/2026

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our 2027 “Amami Ocean Discovery” tour, following the great success and wonderful feedback from our tour held during the same season in 2026.

Over the course of five full days on the ocean, we will venture out into open waters on private charter boats in search of S***m whales. Sea conditions permitting, you will have the rare chance to swim with these gentle ocean giants, observing their awe-inspiring presence up close.　

Furthermore, this season coincides with the courtship period of the White-spotted pufferfish, a species endemic to Amami Oshima Island known for creating mysterious geometric circles on the seabed. In the latter part of the tour, the itinerary also includes a dedicated dive day to observe this extraordinary underwater marvel!

Amami Ocean Discovery:
Encounters with S***m Whales & the White-spotted Pufferfish
▪️Dates: June 24–30, 2027 (6 Nights / 7Days)
▪️Group size: Limited to 7 participants
▪️Tour fee: JPY430,000
▪️Single room supplement: JPY12,000

Check the link in our profile and visit our website for more details!

***mwhale

08/09/2026

A glimpse into dolphin swimming from our August tour in the Ogasawara Islands.

Swimming alongside friendly Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins in the mesmerizing, deep "Bonin Blue" waters is an absolute highlight you cannot miss when visiting the islands!

It was an unforgettable moment!

08/09/2026

S***m Whales of Amami Oshima

Amami Oshima is a hidden paradise for diverse cetaceans, a fact that is still surprisingly little known. In winter, humpback whales cross the ocean to raise their calves here, while Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins can be seen along the coast. And if you venture out to the Amami Basin, located a little further offshore, you will find s***m whales inhabiting the area....

The sea area where we encounter s***m whales lies about 15 to 20 kilometers off the western coast of Amami Oshima. This is the Amami Basin

02/09/2026

The quiet beauty of Eastern Hokkaido.
An Ezo Ural Owl rests in a natural moss-lined tree cave, a peaceful resident of this snowy landscape. Grateful for this fleeting moment of natural perfection.

30/08/2026

📍 National Treasure: Himeji Castle
　 (White Heron Castle) 🏯✨

Known as the "White Heron Castle" for its resemblance to a bird taking flight, its brilliant white walls against the clear blue sky were truly breathtaking. The imposing stone walls, the flawless reflection in the moat, and the main keep standing timelessly—it was a day spent truly feeling the majestic presence of this Japanese World Heritage Site.

This single shot captures the very essence of Japanese aesthetics and craftsmanship.

27/08/2026

With a massive wingspan and an unmistakably bright yellow beak, this incredible bird is one of the world's largest raptors. It travels from Siberia to Hokkaido every winter to hunt for fish among the floating ice, creating one of the most spectacular wildlife spectacles in Japan.