20 Must-See Attractions on Kohama Island! We Also Feature Recommended Itineraries! Our staff, who live on Ishigaki Island, provide a comprehensive guide!

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To get right to the point,Kohama IslandDo you know about that?

 

It’s also famous for being the setting of the morning drama “Chura-san,” and many people probably think of this scenery when they imagine the traditional landscape of Okinawa.

 

In this article, we’ll introduce Kohama Island.

 

About Kohama Island

Kohama Island is one of the remote islands that make up the Yaeyama Islands.

 

It is a small island with an area of just under 8 square kilometers, a circumference of 16.5 km, and a population of 568.

 

From the summit of Mount Ufudaki, which stands 99 meters above sea level in the center of the island, you can see not only the entire island but also the surrounding islands.

Kohama Island still retains much of its traditional Okinawan character, as seen in its old-style houses and streets.

 

Many traditional festivals are held here, and the Ketsugan Festival, which takes place in the eighth month of the lunar calendar, is a major event on Kohama Island.

 

Numerous traditional performing arts are dedicated to the gods, and the performing arts of Kohama Island—including the Yugan Festival—have been designated as Important Intangible Cultural Properties of Japan.

 

The Charms of Kohama Island

Kohama Island is a remote island known for its beautiful scenery, featuring emerald-green seas and expansive white sandy beaches.

 

The entire island is surrounded by sugarcane fields, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere.

 

Filming Locations for NHK's Morning Drama "Chura-san"It is also known as [...], and there are spots scattered throughout the area where you can get a feel for the world of the drama.

Also, luxury resort hotels"Haimurubushi"...and being able to enjoy a luxurious experience is one of its attractions.

 

From the Ufudaki Observation Deck, located on a hilltop on the island, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the Yaeyama Islands.

 

There are relatively few tourists, andEnjoy a leisurely island pace surrounded by natureThat is the greatest appeal of Kohama Island.

 

Getting to Kohama Island

There is no airport on Kohama Island, andOnly by ferry from Ishigaki IslandI cannot access it.

 

The Ishigaki Port Remote Islands Terminal is the only point of access for traveling to the remote islands of the Yaeyama Islands, including Kohama Island.

 

However, since there are only a few ticket counters in the Ishigaki Port Terminal, it is very crowded and "difficult to buy tickets" occurs.

 

Therefore,It's better to buy tickets online rather than at the venueI recommend it.

 

How to Get Around the Island

Kohama Island is a remote island known for its tranquil atmosphere, with vast sugarcane fields stretching as far as the eye can see, and its beautiful ocean.

 

Since there are tourist attractions scattered throughout the area,We recommend using public transportation to efficiently explore the island.It is.

 

rent-a-car

Since the circumference of Kohama Island is 16.7 km, renting a car is recommended if you want to explore the island at a leisurely pace within your limited time.

 

You can also cycle around the area, but if you think the hills and other challenges might be too much, you should rent a car instead.

 

bicycle

They can be rented at low cost at inns and other places, and because they make it easy to get around, they're popular with tourists.

 

Since there are many reservations during peak season, be sure to apply for a rental at the same time you book your lodging.

 

On foot

If you plan your route and destinations in advance, walking is the best way to sightsee.

 

You can also enjoy a leisurely walk while taking in nature.

 

If you're exploring on foot, be sure to check out the suggested itineraries below!

 

Recommended Spots on Kohama Island
20 Must-See Tourist Attractions

Kohama Island is a remote island known for its beautiful scenery, surrounded by emerald-green seas and lush nature.

 

From here on, we’ll introduce the tourist attractions scattered throughout the island.

 

① Kubazaki Beach

Jutting out from the westernmost tip of Kohama IslandKubazaki BeachIt is a beach where unspoiled nature remains.

 

From the white-sand beach, you can see Iriomote Island and Yubu Island in the distance. However, because the currents are strong, this area is not suitable for swimming, so please do not go into the water.

 

The contrast between the beautiful Kohama Blue sea and the pier, and the white sandy beach, makes for a breathtaking view.

 

② Ōtake Observation Deck

Ohtake (Ufudaki) Observation DeckIt is an observation deck located on Mt. Ōdake, the highest peak on Kohama Island at 99 meters above sea level.

 

Located at the summit of Mt. Ōtake, it offers a sweeping panoramic view of Kohama Island, which is surrounded by the ocean on all sides.

 

Since Kohama Island is located right in the middle of the Yaeyama Islands, you can see the surrounding islands—including Ishigaki Island and Taketomi Island—and on a clear day, the breathtaking beauty of the view is sure to fill your heart with wonder.

 

③ Hamajima (The Phantom Island)

Hamajima (The Phantom Island)It is located between Kohama Island and Taketomi Island and is a crescent-shaped island that emerges from the sea at low tide. It takes about 15 minutes to reach from Ishigaki Island.

 

There are no regular ferry services, so you can't get to Hamajima unless you join a tour.

 

The gradient from the pure white sand to the blue sea is absolutely beautiful.

 

Couples, families, and groups of friends can have a lively time taking photos and splashing around in the water—everyone can enjoy their time just the way they like.

 

④ Nishi-Ufudaki Observation Deck

Nishi-Oodake Observation Deckis an observation deck located on the west side of Mt. Ohtake.

 

After a slightly steep slope, climb about 100 steps to reach the summit.

 

The view is spectacular. Although it’s not as high as the neighboring Ōdake Observation Deck, the scenery is just as good, and you can reach the summit with fewer stairs.

 

We recommend this option for families with children!

 

⑤ Uminchu Park

."Uminchu Park" is a park located in a spot with a great view facing the harbor of the Hosozaki settlement, which is also home to Hosozaki Beach.

 

There is also an observation deck here where you can watch the giant manta rays swimming in the surrounding waters and take in the magnificent view of the ocean off the coast of Kohama Island.

 

Manta rays inhabit the area, and monuments of the same size have been built.

 

⑥ The Oomori Family Residence

The Omori Family ResidenceIt is a traditional folk house designated as a nationally registered tangible cultural property.

 

Signs used in the TV drama *Chura-san*, a monument designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property, and an NHK sign indicating that it was used in *Chura-san* have been installed here.

 

⑦ Tumar Beach

Tumal Beachis an easily accessible beach on Kohama Island. You can see Ishigaki Island across the water.

 

Since the water gets shallow quickly, this beach is perfect for snorkeling and swimming.

 

⑧ Sugar Road

sugar roadThis place became famous as a filming location for the TV drama "Chura-san," and sugarcane fields stretch as far as the eye can see on both sides of a narrow path that runs straight ahead.

 

This spot is considered the symbol of Kohama Island.

 

⑨ Katre Observation Deck

Catre Observation DeckThis is a relatively new observation deck that was completed in early fall 2013. It offers a panoramic view of the mangroves along Ishinagata Beach and Iriomote Island.

 

At sunrise, you can see a beautiful sunset over Iriomote Island.

 

⑩ Ishinata Beach

Ishinagata BeachThis is a rare spot on Kohama Island where mangroves grow naturally.

 

Since you can get right up close to the mangroves, you can experience the nature of Okinawa’s Kohama Island firsthand.

 

⑪ Kohama Island General Information Center

Kohama Island General Information Centeris an information center that offers a wide variety of tours for enjoying marine activities.

 

The information center can help you make the most of your time on Kohama Island by arranging trips to “Phantom Island,” providing transportation to Shinshijima and other locations, and guiding you to fishing tours and snorkeling spots based on the day’s weather conditions.

 

⑫ Kobama-bushi Monument

Monument to the Kohama Folk SongThis is a commemorative monument honoring the Kohama-bushi, one of the three most famous songs of the Yaeyama Islands.

 

There is a stone monument engraved with the lyrics at the entrance to Ōdake. The meaning of the song is written at the bottom of the monument, so please take a moment to read it.

 

⑬ Kohama Island Country Club

Kohama Island Country ClubThis golf club features the southernmost and westernmost holes in Japan.

 

Not only does the course layout showcase the tropical scenery, but you can also fully enjoy the fun of golf itself.

 

⑭ Oyake Akahachi Forest

Oyake Akahachi ForestThis is a forest where there is a stone bearing the footprints of “Oyake Akahachi,” a historical figure from the Yaeyama Islands who stood up to the Ryukyu Royal Court during the Ryukyu Kingdom era.

 

Oyake Akahachi rose up to defend the people, who were suffering under the head tax at the time, and fought against the Ryukyu Royal Court, but was ultimately defeated by it.

 

"Oyake Akahachi's Forest," located on Kohama Island, is said to be the forest where Oyake Akahachi fled after being defeated in battle.

 

⑮Obama Sugar Refinery

Sugarcane is the main industry on Kohama Island, where large quantities are produced every year. This facility squeezes that sugarcane to refine brown sugar—Obama Sugar RefineryIt is.

 

You can tour the production process, from the raw sugarcane to the finished brown sugar.

 

⑯ Chura-san Plaza

Chura-san PlazaThis is the plaza located at the entrance to the Otake Observation Deck on Kohama Island.

 

Sugarcane fields stretch out as far as the eye can see all around. When there are events or gatherings, the islanders gather here.

 

⑰ Kohama Island Folk Museum

Kohama Island Folk MuseumIt is a museum where you can learn about the history and culture of Kohama Island.

 

In addition to historical items, there are photographs and memorabilia related to folklore, vow-fulfillment festivals, and harvest festivals on display—there are many fascinating exhibits here.

 

It's the perfect way to learn about the island's history.

 

⑱ Boundary Marker

Joint Marker StoneIt is one of the historic sites on Kohama Island.

 

On Kohama Island in the past, these stones—known as “season-marking stones”—were used to determine the planting seasons for crops by inserting poles into the 12 holes on their surface that indicated the cardinal directions; they are stones of significant cultural value.

 

The site where this stone is currently located has been beautifully landscaped and was designated as a historic site on August 30, 1972.

 

⑲ Haebana Beach

"Located in the southern part of Kohama Island, 'Minamikaze-hana Coast" is a coastline that stretches widely from east to west. On the western side, reddish-brown sand stretches out, interspersed with small rocks, creating a unique landscape.

 

Uta BeachIt is also known as [name], and the eastern shore features a vast stretch of pure white sand; the natural landscape remains completely untouched, making it a truly beautiful beach.

 

Another characteristic of this place is that it doesn't get many visitors, so it's a laid-back spot where you can take your time and enjoy your own little world.

 

⑳ Kabuniwan

KabuniwanIt is the utaki (sacred site) located closest to the village in the center of Kohama Island, where the “Yugansai,” Kohama Island’s largest festival, is held to give thanks for that year’s bountiful harvest and to pray for a bountiful harvest of the five grains in the coming year.

 

Next to the torii gate stands the “Kandura Stone,” used for rainmaking rituals.

 

A Two-Day, One-Night Trip to Kohama Island
Recommended Model Course

Kohama Island is dotted with tourist attractions, andObservation decks offering breathtaking views and TV drama filming locationsThere are plenty of highlights, such as...

 

To make the most of the laid-back island pace while exploring efficiently, we recommend planning your itinerary in advance.

 

From here,A Two-Day, One-Night Sample Itinerary to Fully Enjoy Kohama IslandLet me introduce...

 

Day 1

10:30 a.m. Departure from Ishigakijima Terminal

About 30 minutes by boat

11:00 a.m. Arrival at Kohama Island

Check in at the inn and have lunch

1:00 p.m. Obama Sugar Refinery

 

Sugar cane is the main industry on Kohama Island, where large quantities are produced every year. This factory processes that sugar cane to produce brown sugar. Visitors can tour the entire production process, from the raw sugar cane to the finished brown sugar.

 

 

2:00 p.m. Tumar Beach

 

Tumaru Beach is an easily accessible beach on Kohama Island. You can see Ishigaki Island across the water. With its shallow waters, it’s the perfect spot for snorkeling and swimming.

 

Approx. 10 minutes on foot

4:30 p.m. Sugar Road

 

This place became famous as a filming location for the TV drama “Chura-san.” A narrow path stretches straight ahead as far as the eye can see, flanked on both sides by vast fields of sugarcane. If you picture Kohama Island, this is likely the scene that comes to mind.

 

About a 30-minute walk

5:30 p.m. Cattleya Observation Deck

 

This is a relatively new observation deck that was completed in early fall 2013. It offers a panoramic view of the mangroves along Ishinagata Beach and Iriomote Island. At sunrise, you can see a beautiful sunset over Iriomote Island.

7:00 p.m. Settlement

 

2nd day

9:00 a.m. Village

20-minute walk

10:00 a.m. Oodake Observation Deck

 

This observation deck is located on Mt. Ōdake, the highest peak on Kohama Island at 99 meters above sea level. Situated at the summit of Mt. Ōdake, it offers a sweeping 360-degree panoramic view of Kohama Island, which is surrounded by the ocean on all sides. Since Kohama Island is located right in the center of the Yaeyama Islands, you can see the surrounding islands—including Ishigaki Island and Taketomi Island—and on a clear day, the breathtaking beauty of the view will surely fill your heart with wonder.

 

 

12:00 Return to the village for lunch

1:00 p.m. Kohama Island Folk Museum

 

This museum offers insights into the history and culture of Kohama Island. In addition to historical artifacts, it features photographs and memorabilia related to folklore, the Yugan Festival, the Harvest Festival, and other events, with a wide array of fascinating exhibits on display. It’s the perfect place to learn about the island’s history.

 

 

3:00 p.m. Return to the village and check out

4:00 p.m. To Kohama Port

 

16:30 Arrive at Ishigakijima Remote Island Terminal

 

Things to Keep in Mind When Visiting Kohama Island

Kohama Island is located relatively close to Ishigaki Island—about a 30-minute boat ride away—and attracts many tourists.

 

The ocean is beautiful and there are plenty of water activities to enjoy, but since this is a southern island, the UV rays are extremely strong, so please take thorough precautions against sun exposure.

 

in the end

We’ve introduced you to Kohama Island. What did you think?

 

It’s easily accessible from Ishigaki Island, and the coexistence of the local fishing port and the resort area gave me a very fresh impression.

 

Since it's close to Ishigaki Island, the cultural hub of the Yaeyama Islands, it's easy to see that the area is rich in cultural and historical sites.

 

We hope you’ll take an interest in Kohama Island, where you can enjoy both its traditional, laid-back atmosphere and its luxurious ambiance.

 

Thank you for reading to the end.

 

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This article was written by.

Hello! I'm Niwa-chan, your source for all things Ishigaki Island. I have loved to be in touch with nature since I was a child, and I am especially fascinated by the rich natural environment of Okinawa. Currently based in Ishigaki Island, I provide information on how to enjoy activities such as snorkeling, SUP, and kayaking, as well as the hidden charms of the island.

I want to experience the best activities in Ishigaki Island! and "I want to get local information about Ishigaki Island! We provide detailed information on recommended spots and activities on the island to those who want to "experience the best activities in Ishigaki Island! We aim to deliver unforgettable experiences for our customers by interacting with the local nature every day.

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