Active Japan: Kyoto & Okinawa Island Hopping image
Save 25% off, auto-applied, ends 2026-06-05
Operated by G Adventures

Active Japan: Kyoto & Okinawa Island Hopping

From
CAD 4,349
Duration
10 days
Countries
Japan
Activity
moderate

The adventure

It’s easy to forget that Japan stretches over 2,000 miles, and there’s way more to explore beyond the typical tourist spots. This 10-day island-hopping adventure kicks off in Kyoto before heading southwest to the paradise of Ishigaki Island. After soaking in the history and charm of Kyoto, make your way to Okinawa for thrilling day hikes, sea kayaking, and cycling through Yambaru National Park, Taketomi, and Iriomote Islands. Recharge with Okinawa’s famous lifestyle and delicious cuisine — known for helping locals live some of the longest, healthiest lives on the planet. Get ready to explore Japan in a whole new way.

At a glance

Duration
10 days
Route
Kyoto → Ishigaki
Countries
Japan
Activity level
moderate
Style
Active & Multi-Sport, Beach & Islands, Culture & History, Cycling, Food & Drink, National Parks & Wilderness, Sailing & Marine, Trekking & Hiking
Group size
Ask
Flights
Not included
Solo travellers
Welcome

Where you'll go

Active Japan: Kyoto & Okinawa Island Hopping image

Day by day

Tranquil autumn scenery of a Japanese garden pond in Kyoto with colorful foliage.
Your journey through

Japan

Day 1Arrival dayArrivalArrive at any time. Join your CEO for a welcome briefing and an optional dinner in Kyoto.
Arrive at any time. Join your CEO for a welcome briefing and an optional dinner in Kyoto.
Day 2Start your Kyoto based explorations with one…
Stunning autumn foliage at Tōfuku-ji Temple in Kyoto, Japan, showcasing vibrant red and orange leaves.Kyoto
Start your Kyoto based explorations with one of the iconic hikes outside the Kyoto downtown area. Hike from Kurama village to Kibune-two villages that mark the start and endpoint of the hike. As you wind your way through the canopied forest, visit the Yuki shrine and Kurama-dera temple.
Map showing Kyoto
Day 3The final day in Kyoto begins…
An Asian woman walks her dog through a traditional Kyoto alley, surrounded by lanterns and wooden houses.Kyoto
The final day in Kyoto begins with the iconic visit to Fushimi Inari shrine. Walk for around 2 hours under the vibrant torii gates as you make your way along the various trails. Although this is a popular activity, it's worth it for the expansive views across Southern Kyoto.
Map showing Kyoto
Day 4Let the island hopping begin
Let the island hopping begin. Board a domestic flight bound for Naha airport, in Okinawa. Naha is the main gateway for travelers in and out of Okinawa. Upon arrival, hop onto a private transport and make your way north towards Yanbaru National Park. This area is not popular on the tourist route due to its more remote location, and indeed feels a bit like a hidden gem.
Day 5Embark on a guided walk through part…
Embark on a guided walk through part of Yambaru Forest, spotting native flora and fauna on the Ibe-dake Forest Trail Trek. After a picnic lunch, head towards to the seaside and join your local guide on a guided sea kayaking excursion to Yasuda island. After a busy day, enjoy a dinner out together.
Day 6Another dayIshigaki
Explore the stunning beaches and turquoise waters of Ishigaki, Okinawa with scenic boat views.Ishigaki
Another day, another island. Today, head even further south to Ishigaki island. Still part of Okinawa, Ishigaki technically sits closer to Taiwan than to mainland Japan. Join your CEO and fellow travelers for a delicious dinner sampling famous Okinawan ryōri (food).
Map showing Ishigaki
Day 7In the Hirakubo Peninsula in northern Ishigaki
Panoramic view of Okinawa cityscape with traditional and modern buildings.Ishigaki
In the Hirakubo Peninsula in northern Ishigaki, hop aboard a Sabani, the traditional Okinawan sailboat, and cruise along the shores of the peninsula. Hop into the water to snorkel if you choose, or just admire the stunning untouched environment. These boats are hand carved in the traditional way from hollowed logs, and only hold 6 persons per boat. Enjoy this rare opportunity to enjoy a piece of Okinawan cultural heritage. During the paddle, we'll jump out of the boat for a chance to snorkel out above the coral reef.
Map showing Ishigaki
Day 8The island hopping continues as you head west…Ishigaki
Charming coastal cityscape with waterfront steps, modern buildings, and blue sea under a clear sky.Ishigaki
The island hopping continues as you head west again towards Iriomote island. Spend the day kayaking in a mangrove area, spotting birds and local flora you can only find in this area. After an epic day exploring the island, choose to join your CEO and fellow travelers for a farewell dinner back in Ishigaki.
Map showing Ishigaki
Day 9Just off the coast of the Ishigaki Port…
Calm turquoise water of ocean washing shore with small town and green tropical forest under cloudy skyIshigaki
Just off the coast of the Ishigaki Port area is Taketomi Island, part of Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park. Surrounded by coral reef, the island is actually constructed of coral walls and structures, creating a unique architectural look within Japan. The central Ryukyu village is the most well known feature of the island, full of red tiled roof buildings and tropical flowers. There are plenty of ways to explore Taketomi, but in true G Adventures style we opt for a bicycle to be able to zip around and see as much as possible.
Map showing Ishigaki
Day 10Departure dayDepartureDepart at any time.
Depart at any time.

Discover Japan

A glimpse of the destination you'll explore.

Serene scene of a traditional Japanese garden with lush greenery and a small waterfall.
Peaceful twilight view of snow-capped Mount Fuji overlooking Kawaguchiko, Japan.
A tranquil view of a Japanese garden in Tokushima with a serene lake and lush greenery.
A peaceful Japanese garden in Kyoto featuring lush greenery and a calm pond.
Breathtaking aerial perspective of Lake Kawaguchi surrounded by mountains in Japan.

Upcoming departures

Last Minute 25% off AJIN260605 · ends 2026-06-05 · auto-applied
DatesPrice / personAvailability
19 Jun 202628 Jun 2026CAD 6,069unknownBook my trip
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