ABOUT THE RIDE

A whale-spotting journey, binoculars in hand

Just 35 minutes by high-speed boat (or about 70 minutes by ferry) from Tomari Port in Naha, Tokashiki Island is surrounded by the famous "Kerama Blue" sea. From late December to early April, humpback whales visit these waters to breed.

On this tour, you ride an electric-assist bike to hilltops and seaside viewpoints around the island, looking through binoculars for a whale's blow (spout) or breach (jump). Unlike boat-based whale watching that gets up close, this tour lets you enjoy meeting the whales at your own pace — together with the scenery of the island.

Guests looking for whales with binoculars at a viewpoint on Tokashiki Island

Searching for whales with binoculars at a hilltop viewpoint on an actual tour.

SNAPSHOTS

On the ride

Electric-assist bikes and guests at a viewpoint overlooking the Kerama sea

Kanhizakura cherry blossoms blooming during whale season

From January to March, you may also see Kanhizakura cherry blossoms along the way — enjoy the island's seasonal colors as well as the whales.

ROUTE

Island route (start & finish at Sunny Coral)

Meet at Sunny Coral at 11:30 (bike setup & briefing)Map →
Ride to hilltop and seaside viewpoints while looking for whales
Lunch box break
Sunny Coral (finish)

ACCESS

Getting there from Naha (ferry information)

The tour starts and ends at Sunny Coral on Tokashiki Island. From Tomari Port in Naha to Tokashiki Port, take the "Ferry Tokashiki" or the high-speed boat "Marine Liner Tokashiki". Ferry fares are not included in the tour price; please book and board on your own.

Outbound (example)Tomari Port 10:00 → Tokashiki Port 11:10 (Ferry Tokashiki)

Return (example)Tokashiki Port 15:30 → Tomari Port 16:40

Fare (adult, one way)From ¥1,690 (plus environmental tax)

* From March to September, the return ferry departs at 16:00 and arrives at 17:10. Schedules may change, so please check in advance.

Timetable & fares (Japanese) →

DETAILS

Price & details

Price

¥18,700 / person, tax incl.

Group size

2–12 2 guides for 7+

Duration

Half day 3–4 hours of activity

Season

Dec – Apr best: Jan – Mar

Guide language: Japanese and English (everyday conversational level). Guides in other languages can be arranged through our guide network on request (additional fee).

Minimum 2 guests. Solo travelers are welcome, but the tour is charged at the 2-guest rate (¥37,400).

The price includes electric-assist bike rental, guide fee, binoculars, and a lunch box. Ferry fares between Tomari Port and Tokashiki Port are not included. Optional travel accident insurance is available for ¥650 per person (see FAQ below).

Please have breakfast before the tour. Lunch is provided as a lunch box during the tour.

Whales are wild animals, so sightings cannot be guaranteed. Depending on the weather, sea conditions, and the whales' movements that day, you may not be able to see them. Thank you for your understanding.

Book this tour →

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What is included?

E-bike rental, helmet, guide fee, binoculars and a lunch box (tax included). Ferry / high-speed boat fares between Tomari Port and Tokashiki Port are not included.

Is there a cancellation fee?

Free cancellation up to 3 days before the tour. 50% of the fee is charged for cancellations from 2 days before to the day before, and 100% on the day or for no-shows.

What happens if it rains?

The tour is not cancelled for weather alone — it runs even in light rain as long as the ferry or high-speed boat is operating. If the boats are cancelled, the tour is cancelled with a full refund.

How do I pay?

Payment is usually made in advance by credit card via a payment link we send once your booking is confirmed. Cash on the day is also accepted. All prices include tax.

Are there age or height requirements? Is there a child rate?

Riders must be at least 145 cm (4 ft 9 in) tall. Guests aged 15 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Children pay the same rate as adults.

What should I wear and bring?

Comfortable clothes and sneakers are recommended. Please bring a drink, a hat and sunscreen. Helmets are provided free of charge.

Is insurance available?

You can add optional travel accident insurance for ¥650 per person (death / permanent disability ¥5,000,000; hospitalization ¥7,500 per day; outpatient treatment ¥5,000 per day; liability ¥1,000,000; personal belongings ¥50,000; rescue costs ¥1,000,000). Overseas visitors are eligible.

What language is the tour guided in?

Japanese and English (everyday conversational level). Guides in other languages can be arranged through our guide network on request (additional fee).

How soon will you reply?

We reply to all inquiries within 24 hours.

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Tokashiki Whale Watch Ride