Taketomi Island
What is Taketomi Island?
Taketomi Island is one of the Yaeyama Islands in Okinawa Prefecture. It is a remote island that is easily accessible by a 10-minute ferry ride from Ishigaki Island. It is a popular tourist destination where the original landscape of Okinawa remains strong, with traditional villages with red-tile roofs, beautiful white sand roads, and hibiscus flowers in full bloom.
It is possible to take a day trip from Ishigaki Island, and is one of the standard spots that must be visited in Yaeyama sightseeing. The entire island is designated as "Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings" and is highly regarded as a sightseeing spot with culture, history, and nature.
Why Taketomi Island is popular and how to enjoy it
Red tile streets and white sand roads
In the villages of Taketomi Island, traditional red-tile-roofed houses and white coral-sand-lined streets offer picturesque scenery wherever you walk. The tasteful streets are the perfect place to experience the traditional architectural style of Okinawa.
Leisurely tour of the island by buffalo cart
The "buffalo cart tour" is one of the most popular sightseeing activities on Taketomi Island. While being swayed by a slow-moving buffalo, you can enjoy a sanshin (Okinawan traditional three-stringed instrument) performance by a guide and an explanation of the island's history. It is a popular experience that will make you feel like a tourist.
Healing at Kondoy Beach and Kaiji Beach
There are many beautiful beaches on the island. Kondoi Beach, in particular, has shallow, calm waters that are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Kaiji Beach is famous for its star-shaped sand, and visitors can enjoy searching for star-shaped sand as they walk along the beach.
Around the Island by Bicycle Rental
Since Taketomi Island is compact in size, touring the island by bicycle is popular. Using a rented bicycle, you can visit villages, beaches, Utaki (Utaki) and other power spots at your own pace.
Details of Taketomi Island
| name | Taketomi Island |
| Location | Taketomi, Taketomi Town, Yaeyama County, Okinawa Prefecture, JapanView on Map) |
| parking lot | None (walking or bicycling is the basic way to get around the island) |
| toilet | Yes (multiple installations at ports and tourist facilities) |
Taketomi Island is a healing remote island where you can experience the traditional Okinawa firsthand. It is easy to access from Ishigaki Island, and is recommended for people of all ages as a tourist destination filled with nature, culture, and experiences. Why don't you take your time to reset your mind and body in the island time?
