A stunning island just three hours away from Tokyo must be added to your Japan bucket list, as it was one of the most memorable days of our five-week trip. The little-known island is about 15 minutes by boat from Ishigaki, off Okinawa. Our journey involved a flight from Osaka to Ishigaki, but after a cancellation and a tight connection via Okinawa, we finally arrived. Despite initial doubts, Taketomi exceeded all expectations.
Discovering Taketomi Island
Taketomi is located in the Yaeyama District of Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. It is part of the Yaeyama Islands, a tropical archipelago in southwestern Okinawa Prefecture, known as the nation's southernmost and westernmost inhabited islands. These islands feature coral reefs, lush jungles, and a laid-back, rural atmosphere, making them popular for snorkelling, diving, and experiencing traditional Ryukyu culture.
Water Buffalo Cart Ride
Upon arrival, we took a minibus to catch a ride on water buffalo carts. This iconic 30-minute guided tour winds through a traditional Ryukyu village with red-tile roofs and sandy streets. Our guide played traditional Okinawan music on a sanshin, a stringed instrument, creating a cinematic experience. We even purchased a professional photo to remember the moment.
Local Dining and Beaches
With only 300 to 360 residents, Taketomi has no chain restaurants, offering a complete change of pace from big Japanese cities. After lunch, we visited the beach, where golden sands and crystal-clear sea left us in awe. The warm water was perfect for paddling, though swimming requires going further out.
Travel Tips
For those visiting Japan, consider adding Okinawa or Ishigaki to your itinerary. Ishigaki, less touristy than Okinawa, is ideal for scuba diving enthusiasts. However, note that Ishigaki is in an earthquake-prone area, so tsunami awareness is essential. Typhoon season runs from June to November, with peak risk from July to October.
Our love for the Yaeyama Islands has us planning a return trip. Taketomi offers an unforgettable blend of culture, nature, and tranquility.
