Taketomi Island

Background

Taketomi Island lies in Taketomi Town, Yaeyama District, Okinawa Prefecture, about 4 kilometres south of Ishigaki Island. Covering 5.42 square kilometres, it is a raised coral island surrounded by coral reefs and part of Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park. In the village at the island's centre, red-tiled roofs, coral stone walls and white-sand lanes run together, Taketomi's most famous sight. The island has a number of rules to prevent modern construction that would spoil its look, such as replacing hand-packed stone walls with concrete walls, so the village has kept its appearance to this day. You can find star sand on the beaches, and an ox-cart ride through the village is the classic island experience. Scholars regard these seemingly traditional red-tiled roofs as in fact a modern product. The island's main industries are tourism and sugarcane growing.

Local customs

• Walk or cycle around the island, exploring the village's white-sand lanes and red-tiled houses
• ride an ox cart through the village as the driver explains island customs
• swim and snorkel at the beaches and look for star sand
• in the evening watch the sunset from Nishi Pier, and stay overnight to see the starry sky.

Travel tips

• Every part of the island is within walking distance, and bicycles are available to rent
• accommodation and restaurants are limited, so book ahead in peak season
• protect yourself from sun and heat in summer. First go to Ishigaki Island, then take a boat of about 10 minutes from Ishigaki Port to Taketomi
• please check the officially published ferry timetable before you travel, especially in typhoon season.
• In spring and summer the sea is clear, ideal for swimming and snorkelling
• autumn is cool and good for cycling
• winter is quiet with few visitors, and the starry sky is at its best.