Taketomi Island: Summer Memories

Taketomi Island is a small island located in the Yaeyama Islands of Okinawa Prefecture. It is easily accessible, just a 10-minute ferry ride from Ishigaki Island, and is a popular tourist destination that retains the traditional Okinawan scenery. The village, with its red-tiled roofs, white sandy paths, and traditional houses surrounded by stone walls, is designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings by the Japanese government. On the island, bicycles are the main mode of transportation, allowing visitors to enjoy the beautiful scenery and immerse themselves in nature. While the summer sun can be intense and the weather hot, there are eateries scattered around the island where you can take breaks and enjoy a leisurely time. Visitors can enjoy the stunningly clear blue sea at places like Kaiji Beach, famous for its star-shaped sand, the Nishisanbashi Pier, which is a Registered Tangible Cultural Property of Japan, and Kondoi Beach, known for its shallow and beautiful waters. Whether you're a sea lover or someone looking to create nostalgic summer memories in a traditional setting, Taketomi Island is highly recommended! 💰 Cost per person: Ferry → Adults: One-way 790 yen, Round-trip 1,520 yen Bicycle rental → Prices vary by shop, but as a reference, the place we rented from charged 1,250 yen for 2.5 hours.