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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Hateruma Island is an inhabited island located at the southernmost tip of the Yaeyama Islands, belonging to Taketomi Town, Okinawa Prefecture, and is known as the "southernmost inhabited island in Japan." A unique lifestyle and dialect have long been part of Yaeyama culture, and traces of this can be seen in the settlements and traditional events. Its greatest attractions are the crystal clear waters, pure white sand beaches (especially Nishihama Beach), and the beauty of the starry sky, considered one of the best in the world. The blue of the ocean is sometimes referred to as "Hateruma Blue," and visitors can enjoy the colorful coral and schools of fish while diving or snorkeling. The star-shaped sand mixed in with the sand, known as "Hoshizuna," is also a popular tourist attraction.
Highlights
- Nishihama Beach: The island's best beach, with white sand and crystal clear waters. The shallow waters are dotted with spots suitable for snorkeling.
- Japan's southernmost monument and observation deck: A monument marking the southernmost point of Japan and an observation point. If the weather is good, you can see a beautiful view across the horizon.
- Around Hateruma Lighthouse: A walking route overlooking the sea and sky. There are monuments and vantage points scattered around.
- Stargazing: With almost no light pollution, it's a great place to see the Milky Way and the starry sky. At night, the inn sometimes offers stargazing tours.
- Star sand hunting: You can find small star-shaped sand (star sand) in parts of Nishihama Beach. Please check the local rules before taking any home with you.
- Village walks and private house scenery: You can see traditional red-tiled houses and stone walls, as well as scenes of island life. The islanders can also enjoy staying at guesthouses and interacting with the locals.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest airport: Painushima Ishigaki Airport (New Ishigaki Airport). From the airport to the city center (Ishigaki Port), it takes about 30 to 45 minutes by bus or taxi.
- Access by boat: Take a ferry or high-speed boat from Ishigaki Port (Remote Island Terminal) bound for Hateruma. The travel time depends on the type of boat and the operating company, but the approximate travel time is about 40-60 minutes by high-speed boat and about 60-90 minutes by ferry. There are only a few departures per day, so be sure to check the timetable in advance.
- Railway：There is no railway on the island. The most common way to get around the island is on foot, by bicycle, or by rental motorbike (scooter) or bicycle. Rentals are available in the villages and around the port after landing.
- Points to note: Cancellations and delays are likely to occur due to weather and sea conditions, so please plan your round-trip ferry trip well in advance and be sure to check reservations and operating status in advance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day trip: Including the round trip boat time and the time spent at the beach, the actual trip will take about 6 to 10 hours. You can spend a short time at Nishihama Beach and explore the village, but you won't be able to see the starry sky.
- Accommodation (2 days, 1 night): Recommended. You can relax and enjoy the quiet of the evening, the starry sky, and the ocean the next morning. If you plan to do diving or snorkel at multiple spots, a one- to two-night stay is ideal.
- Long-term stay: If you want to soak up the island atmosphere or relax, stay for two nights or more.
Nearby spots
- Ishigaki Island (Ishigaki City): The gateway to Hateruma. There are many tourist spots such as the city, Kabira Bay, Yonehara Beach, Ishigaki Yaima Village, etc.
- Taketomi Island (Taketomi Town): Famous for its red-tiled villages, water buffalo carts, and traditional townscapes.
- Iriomote Island (Taketomi Town): Jungle, mangroves, and plenty of activities.
- Kohama Island, Kuroshima Island, and other islands in the Yaeyama Islands: Each island has its own unique natural environment and culture, so it is efficient to base your itinerary around Ishigaki Island.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Number of flights and cancellations: There are few ferry services, and they are prone to cancellations due to sea and weather conditions. Be especially careful during typhoon season (summer to autumn) and in stormy weather. Make sure to make and confirm your round-trip ferry reservations.
- Bring cashATMs on the island are very limited or almost non-existent, so be sure to bring cash. Many stores also do not accept credit cards.
- Nature Conservation and Manners: Do not harm the corals or marine life. Do not take shells or corals home (especially protected species). Regarding star sand collection, please check the local rules and refrain from excessive collection.
- Safety measures：There are some areas with strong currents and sudden deep waters, so snorkeling and other ocean activities are at your own risk. We recommend not going out too far alone and wearing a life jacket.
- Protection from sunlight and insects：Because the UV rays are strong, bring a hat, sunscreen, and thin long-sleeved clothing. In the evening, mosquitoes and black flies may appear, so bring insect repellent.
- congestion: Accommodations and some sightseeing spots are particularly crowded during the tourist season (summer and long weekends), so make reservations for accommodation and boats early.
- Take your trash home: The island's resources are limited, so please be considerate and take your trash home with you and cooperate in sorting it.
Hateruma Island is a place where you can enjoy untouched nature and quiet island time. Be sure to carefully check the weather and arrange your boat and accommodations to ensure a safe and memorable stay.
