Taketomi

Taketomi-jima is a tiny coral island in the Yaeyama Archipelago, famous for its preservation of traditional Okinawan culture. The village in the center of the island impresses with its red-tiled roofs, low stone walls, and white powdered sand paths. A definite highlight is a water buffalo cart ride, accompanied by the sounds of the sanshin guitar. The island's beaches are of extraordinary beauty. While Kondoi Beach is known for its shallow, turquoise water, Kitotchi Beach and Kannaaji Beach offer quieter retreats on the wilder coast. A special phenomenon is the star sand at Aiyaru Beach and Nārasa Beach, where tiny exoskeletons of foraminifera are shaped like small stars. Fusaki Beach is located on the neighboring Ishigaki Island but is an important reference point for travelers commuting between the islands. Gastronomy on Taketomi gives specialties such as Yaeyama Soba and Sata Andagi. Since few cars are allowed on the island, most visitors explore the area by bicycle. Taketomi is not just a place for beach lovers, but a living open-air museum that has deep insight into historical Japan and the unique identity of the Ryukyu Islands.

Nearby cities

Naha

As the political and commercial center of Okinawa, Naha reflects the rich heritage of the Ryukyu Kingdom.

Uruma

A city in Okinawa, famous for the 'Mid-Sea Road', historic castle ruins, and beautiful offshore islands.

Urasoe

A historic coastal city in Okinawa, offering a perfect blend of modern beaches and ancient Ryukyu ruins.

Tomigusuku

A dynamic city south of Naha, known for its premium shopping outlets and the impressive Chura SUN Beach.

Nago

A vibrant city in northern Okinawa, known for its luxurious resorts, coral reefs, and early cherry blossoms.

Itoman

Okinawa's southernmost city, famous for its fishing heritage and historic peace memorials.

Yomitan

A cultural village in Okinawa, famous for traditional pottery, Cape Zanpa, and stunning coral-fringed beaches.

Nishihara

A vibrant coastal town in Okinawa, home to the University of the Ryukyus and the popular Kirakira Beach.

Yaese

A charming town in southern Okinawa known for its rich history, agriculture, and stunning limestone coastlines.

Kadena

A coastal town in Okinawa, known for its strategic importance and relaxed beaches along the East China Sea.

Motobu

Okinawa's gateway to the Churaumi Aquarium and the paradise beaches of Sesoko Island.

Onna

Okinawa's premier resort village on the west coast, famous for Cape Manzamo, world-class diving spots, and luxury beach hotels.

Nakijin

A historic village in Okinawa, famous for the Nakijin Castle ruins and its pristine, turquoise beaches.

Amagi

A charming town on Tokunoshima Island, known for its coral coasts and unique subtropical nature.

Tatsugo

A cultural hub on Amami Oshima, famous for Oshima Tsumugi silk and breathtaking, untouched coastlines.

More places

Iriomote Island

The largest of the Yaeyama Islands in Okinawa, over 90% of which is covered by dense jungle and mangrove forests.

Kerama Shotō National Park

A group of islands off the coast of Okinawa, renowned for their exceptionally clear waters known as 'Kerama Blue'.

Okinawa Peace Memorial Park

A memorial park in southern Okinawa Island commemorating the Battle of Okinawa in 1945.