Summary of remote islands in Okinawa! What do you recommend for day trips, families with children, and diving?

A remote island in Okinawa where you can enjoy the rich nature and beautiful sea. There are 160 remote islands in terms of numbers, so where should I go? You may be worried. Therefore, this time, we will introduce the remote islands that can be reached on a day trip from the main island of Okinawa, the remote islands where you can stay with peace of mind even with children, and the remote islands recommended for snorkeling and diving.

Let's know about remote islands in Okinawa! Where is it on the map?

Okinawa Prefecture When you think about it, you may think of the main island where Naha is located. However, the prefecture area is wide, Approximately 1,000km east-west, 400km north-south It also extends to.

Not only on the main island but also in the prefecture area 160 islands Are scattered around, and even though they are remote islands, they have various geographies and cultures. In terms of distance, there are some that can be reached by car from the main island of Okinawa, as well as those that can be reached by ferry or plane. In terms of culture, there are places like the Yaeyama Islands where dialects and food culture that are slightly different from the main island of Okinawa take root.
Each remote island has sightseeing spots and attractions unique to that island, and when you visit for sightseeing or leisure, what is the main island? Another atmosphere You can taste.

People live in remote islands 47 manned islands and 113 uninhabited islands is. On uninhabited islands, there are places where you can fully enjoy the feeling of a resort, which has been developed as a tourist destination.
Looking at these remote islands on a map, " Okinawa Islands Islands in "," Kerama Islands Islands in "," Miyako Islands Islands in "and" Yaeyama Islands It is roughly divided into four "islands in". Except for the Okinawa Islands, the Kerama Islands, Miyako Islands, and Yaeyama Islands are lined up in order of proximity to the main island of Okinawa. Let's take a look at each feature.

Islands in the Okinawa Islands

About 113 islands are scattered around the main island of Okinawa, and these are collectively called. Okinawa Islands I call it. Of these, 26 are manned islands.
From the main island Connected by a bridge You can easily visit the 11 islands from Naha while driving. The islands that can be reached by car include Senagajima, which is known for its hot springs, Sesokojima, which is loved by the cobalt blue sea, and Shirumichu and Amamichu's tombs, which are some of the best power spots in the prefecture. There is a certain Hamahiga Island.

In addition, you can visit from the main island by ferry in about an hour, Day trip from Naha There are also islands where you can do it. A typical example is Minna Island. About 40km west of the main island of Okinawa, there is Kume Island, the westernmost island of the prefecture, which is the closest to Hate no Hama, which is famous for its spectacular scenery in the Orient, and attracts scenic fans.

In Okinawa prefecture 148 islands excluding 11 islands connected by a bridge from the main island are positioned as "remote islands" I am. For this reason, this article mainly focuses on remote islands that are accessed from the main island by ferry.

Kerama Islands

The highly transparent emerald green sea is called "Kerama Blue" Kerama Islands .. It is a group of islands consisting of about 20 islands, about 40km west of the main island of Okinawa. There are only five inhabited islands inhabited, Tokashiki Island, Zamami Island, Aka Island, Geruma Island, and Maejima, but sightseeing. There are also uninhabited islands such as Nagannu Island, which was prepared for this purpose.

The Kerama Islands are relatively close to the main island of Okinawa among the remote islands, so Sightseeing is possible on a day trip That is the point. It boasts a beautiful landscape, with the islands and the surrounding sea designated as a national park in 2014. In designating the national park, it is said that the area around the island was praised for being a breeding ground for humpback whales and for its beautiful coral reefs.
In the surrounding waters, you can also meet the Kerama Blue Sea and beautiful coral reefs, sea turtles, manta rays, humpback whales, and coral spawning. The sea that divers long for But there is also.

When going to the islands in the Kerama Islands, take a ferry from Tomarikou in Naha. .. There are flights to Tokashiki Island, Zamami Island / Aka Island, and Naganu Island, so let's use it.

Miyako Islands (Miyako Islands)

The Miyako Islands are about 30km west of the main island of Okinawa. Islands centered on Miyakojima is. Ishigaki Island is about 130km west. It is located between the main island of Okinawa and the Yaeyama Islands, where Ishigaki Island is located. Surprisingly, Miyakojima is a famous food production area that many people think of as Okinawa, such as snow salt, sugar cane, Miyako beef, and mango. It is also recommended to taste gourmet locally.

In addition to Miyako Island, the Miyako Islands include Irabu Island, Ikema Island, and Tarama Island. 8 islands Each island has a flat shape with uplifted coral reefs. There are many beautiful beaches, and it is also popular as a diving and snorkeling spot.

When going from Haneda or Naha to the islands in the Miyako Islands, first Go to Miyakojima Airport, which is a hub, and transfer by ferry from Taira Port on Miyakojima to the surrounding remote islands. To do.
From Tokyo or the main island of Okinawa Only airplanes can travel to Miyakojima .. Please note that there is no ferry from Naha to Miyakojima.

Yaeyama Islands

About 400km west of the main island of Okinawa, the westernmost islands in Japan Yaeyama Islands is. There are about 23 islands scattered around. Of these, 12 are manned islands, including Ishigaki Island, Kohama Island, Taketomi Island, Nishiomote Island, and Hateruma Island.
On the map Closer to Taiwan than the main island of Okinawa , Hot and humid subtropical oceanic climate in the climate classification. Tropical flora and fauna that can only be found in this area, such as Yamapuki, a type of mangrove, Nipa palm of the palm family, Iriomote cat and Iriomote firefly, also inhabit. Rare ecosystem I keep.

In the surrounding sea, colorful corals, sea turtles, manta rays, sea slugs and herds of sea slugs are like Underwater scenery like Ryugu Castle Is popular with divers. The fun of the sea topography, such as crevasses (cracks in rocks), reef edges (edges of coral reefs), and underwater caves, is also a popular secret. From beginners to advanced diving, you can fully enjoy the world of the sea.

First of all, to the islands in the Yaeyama Islands Go to New Ishigakijima Airport, which will be the hub, and then move to each island by ferry. To do.

In the next chapter, we will introduce recommended remote islands in Okinawa for each access and activity.

羽田or成田,大阪,Nahaから飛行機でDirect flightが出ているのは？

If you want to go to a remote island but are worried about access, don't worry. From Haneda, Narita and Naha Direct flight There are also remote islands where

A remote island with direct flights from Haneda Airport

From Haneda Miyakojima Miyako Airport, Ishigaki Island New Ishigaki Airport (Nannushima Ishigaki Airport), Kumejima There is a direct flight to Kumejima Airport.
It takes about 2 hours and 50 minutes from Haneda to Miyako Airport, about 3 hours to New Ishigaki Airport, and about 2 hours and 40 minutes to Kumejima Airport. Please note that flights to Kume Island are seasonal in July and August and are not scheduled. Book early as it can fill up with reservations during the high season ..

A remote island with direct flights from Narita Airport

From Narita New Ishigaki Airport There are flights to. It takes about 3 hours and 40 minutes.

A remote island with direct flights from Kansai International Airport

From Kansai International Airport Miyako Airport When New Ishigaki Airport There is a direct flight to. It takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes to Miyako Airport and about 2 hours and 30 minutes to New Ishigaki Airport. There are no flights to Kumejima Airport.

A remote island with direct flights from Naha

From Naha Miyakojima , Ishigaki Island , Kumejima Besides Yonaguni Island There is a direct flight to Yonaguni Airport. It takes about 50 minutes at Miyako Airport, about 1 hour at New Ishigaki Airport, about 40 minutes at Kumejima Airport, and about 1 hour at Yonaguni Airport. There are regular flights from Naha to Kume Island.
In addition, there is an airfield called Kerama Airport on Akajima Island in the Kerama Islands, which is mainly used for charter flights and transporting emergency patients.

A day trip from Naha is also OK! A remote island where you can enjoy the feeling of a petite resort

Among the islands in the Okinawa Islands and Kerama Islands, there are also islands that can be reached on a day trip from the main island of Okinawa. Feel free to feel like a resort You can enjoy Naganu Island, Zamami Island, and Minna Island.

Naganu Island

The closest island to the Kerama Islands from Naha is Naganu Island .. About 20 minutes by ferry from Naha White sand beach and shining emerald green sea It is popular when you can taste it.
Although it is said to be an uninhabited island, the island is equipped with restaurants and rest cottages (Azumaya) for tourists, making it easy to spend time. You can also stay overnight.

Snorkeling, hands-on diving, parasailing, ocean walk (underwater walk wearing a helmet that contains oxygen), etc. Various marine activities Also available. From adults to children, you can participate in activities and fully enjoy the beauty of the sea. Activities include those that can be booked on the island, as well as tours from Naha.

Since the Kerama Islands are a breeding ground for humpback whales, whale watching is also held from January to March. There is no doubt that you will want to repeat once you visit the various activities and the beautiful sea.

Zamamoto Island

Among the Kerama Islands, Beautiful landscape registered in the Michelin Green Guide Is proud of Zamamoto Island is. From Naha, you can reach the island in about 1 to 2 hours by ferry. The island is a manned island, and there are shops, guest houses, hotels, restaurants, etc. on the island, making it suitable for staying for a few days and enjoying sightseeing.

Furuzamami Beach, with its shallow coral reefs, is a famous snorkeling spot. Because the shallow sea continues, children and beginners can rest assured Snorkeling You can enjoy encounters with corals, tropical fish, and sea turtles.

Minna Island

It is popular as "Croissant Island" because of the shape of the island. Minna Island Is a popular island 1km from Naha main island and about 15 minutes by boat. Since it is not connected to the main island, it has a reputation for being able to encounter untouched remote island-like scenery. Many people come not only from outside the prefecture but also from the main island of Okinawa.

Minna Beach is known for its white sand and clear water Then, coral and tropical fish also inhabit the swimming area. It is also popular with children if you can encounter the underwater scenery unique to the southern country while swimming.
Snorkeling SUP Please enjoy the beautiful sea to your heart's content!

A lot of facilities and Activity! A remote island you want to visit with children

Some may say, "I want children to enjoy the rich nature of Okinawa! But I'm worried if my child gets sick." When traveling with children, you want to choose a place that is well-equipped in terms of safety and facilities.
Therefore, we have summarized the places on the remote islands that are well-equipped with facilities such as hotels and medical facilities and have abundant activities. Enjoy the nature of Okinawa with peace of mind with children I can do it!

Iheya Island

About 45km northwest of the main island of Okinawa, the northernmost island of Okinawa Prefecture Iheya Island is.
One of the reasons why it is recommended for families with children is that it is easily accessible by ferry from the main island of Okinawa. There is no convenience store, only one traffic light. Children from the city should be able to shine in a completely different environment!
Although you can enjoy the idyllic scenery, there are hotels, guest houses, restaurants, souvenir shops and clinics, so you can stay with your children with peace of mind.
The beauty of the sea has a good reputation, The color of the clear sea is called Iheya Blue .. You can also meet coral reefs and colorful tropical fish.

The administrative division is Iheya Village, and the village itself is an auto campsite, marine leisure, etc. BBQ And so on. "The village runs" Iheya Ai Land Yonezaki You can rent camping goods, sea kayaks, and barbecue sets, so it's nice to visit empty-handed and enjoy leisure with your children!
Diving goods can be rented at privately run diving shops.
There are diving spots such as Sukabuya, where you can meet large schools of migratory fish such as dogtooth tuna, great barracuda, bigeye trevally, and horse mackerel, and flowers where you can see herds of Ryukyu Kikka coral and giant clams.

Marine leisure is also reasonably priced, so the whole family can enjoy it. Kayak There is also a plan where you can appreciate the coral with box glasses from above, so even children and those who are not good at swimming can easily enjoy the underwater scenery.
In addition, village trails and marathon events are held by the village, so if you are interested, you should participate.

Ishigaki Island

The commercial and administrative center of the Yaeyama Islands, Ishigaki Island Is one of the remote islands that can be reached by plane from Tokyo, Osaka, and Naha. It is easily accessible and has a full range of facilities such as resort hotels, guest houses, Euglena Mall with shops, convenience stores, and hospitals.
On the island, there are underground beaches, Maesato beaches, Yonehara beaches, Ishigakijima sunset beaches, etc. Lots of beautiful beaches .. Marine activities such as snorkeling, diving and SUP are also popular.

Be aware that the famous scenic spot, Kabira Bay, has a fast tide and swimming is prohibited. Activities such as SUP can be experienced.

On the island, there are mangrove forests, Ishigaki Island limestone cave, and Ibaruma Sabichi limestone cave. A spot where you can enjoy natural modeling There is also a tour where parents and children can feel adventurous. Since the Southern Cross can be seen from the end of December to around June the following year in the Yaeyama Islands, Starry sky observation tour Also held. You can apply for these tours via the internet, island diving shops and travel agencies. Some resort hotels that own private beaches accept reservations for their own activities.

Miyakojima

The center of the Miyako Islands, Miyakojima In addition to beautiful beaches, the theme parks "Ueno German Culture Village", "Miyakojima Tropical Botanical Garden", making shisa and making bitter gourd champuru, etc. Various experiences There are many spots that families can enjoy, such as "Miyakojima City Experience Craft Village" where you can do it!

Yonaha Maehama, which is known as "the most beautiful beach in the Orient", Yoshino Kaigan, which is so transparent that you can see coral from the sea surface, and Sunayama Beach, which has huge rock arches. , Has a good reputation for the beauty of the sea and is perfect for marine activities. There are plenty of facilities such as resort hotels, guest houses, convenience stores, and hospitals, so you can stay with your children with peace of mind.

Yonaha Maehama Beach, which is popular on the island, is full of activities. There are plenty of plans that you won't find anywhere else, such as banana boats, jet skis, and commemorative photos on the beach.

Iriomote Island

90% of the island is a tropical rainforest in the Yaeyama Islands Iriomote Island .. It has its own ecosystem such as Iriomote cat and mangrove forest. It is called "Oriental Galapagos" ..
In addition to resort hotels, there are clinics on the island, so parents and children can have a comfortable stay. The beaches such as the star sand beach where you can find star-shaped sand are also famous. You can also experience snorkeling and diving in the surrounding sea.

Besides marine activities, in mangrove forests trekking From (mountain walking) to canyoning (mountain descent) to SUP, there are activities that make the most of the rich nature! There are many things that adults and children of elementary school age can participate in, so let's participate in activities with your family and enjoy the nature of Iriomote Island.

Boasts a beautiful sea! A remote island recommended for diving and snorkeling

Speaking of diving on the remote islands of Okinawa, the Kerama Islands are relatively major, but there are other recommended remote islands. This time, I dare A remote island where you can enjoy a little-known place Pick up. It is a great diving spot where you can meet beautiful underwater scenery and sea turtles.

Kume Island / Hate no Hama

The Okinawa Islands boast the most beautiful sea in the Orient Hate no Hama is.
Hate no Hama is not the name of the beach, but a general term for three small uninhabited islands made only of crushed sand from Kumejima coral. You can land from Kume Island by connecting boat or boat, A spectacular place surrounded by the emerald green sea 360 degrees Known as.

In addition to swimming on the island Snorkeling or diving Many people enjoy the beauty of the sea! The water is highly transparent, and you can snorkel to see colorful tropical fish and corals from near the surface of the sea. If you are lucky, you may meet sea turtles.

The shallow waters continue, so if you want to dive in earnest, the sea around Kumejima is also recommended. There are plenty of hidden spots where you can also meet manta rays, dogtooth tuna and whale sharks.

Shinjojima (Aragusukujima)

Shinjojima (Aragusukujima) Is an unexplored island at the southern tip of the Yaeyama Islands. It is nicknamed "Panari Island," which means "away" in the Yaeyama dialect.
It consists of two islands, Kamijijima and Shimojishima, and has untouched nature. Emerald green sea called Panari Blue It is popular to be able to touch. Snorkeling is active on the island, and you can immerse yourself in the underwater scenery unique to the tropical country, such as colorful coral and anemone anemone!

In diving, go around spots with a depth of 3 to 5 m Fun diving tour Because there are abundant, even beginners of diving can enjoy the beautiful sea.
There is no connecting boat to the island, and it is normal to take a tour from Ishigaki Island, Kuroshima, and Iriomote Island in the same Yaeyama Islands and go to Shinjo Island by boat. You can apply for tours from local travel agencies, marine activity shops, or online.

Kohama Island

The Yaeyama Islands, where you can enjoy a relaxing landscape such as a sugar cane field Kohama Island .. The surrounding sea is inhabited by a variety of corals such as about 400 types of table coral and eda coral. A good spot for diving, also known as the "rainforest of the sea" ..
In Japan's largest coral reef area (where coral colonies grow), about 20km east-west and 15km north-south, you can also encounter creatures such as anemone anemones, sea turtles, and manta rays. A set tour of the phantom island "Hamajima" landing plan and snorkeling diving that appears only when the tide is low is popular.

Let's go to a remote island in Okinawa where you can meet beautiful nature and the sea!

A remote island in Okinawa where you can meet untouched nature and the beautiful sea. There are also islands that are easy to visit for families and girls, such as islands that can be reached by a single plane and islands that are full of resort facilities and can be spent comfortably. Take part in marine activities and tours Enjoy the nature and sea of the island please!

* Information such as plans, prices, timetables, and phone numbers is as of July 2020.