Kumejima, located approximately 90 kilometers west of mainland Okinawa, boasts stunning natural landscapes, historical landmarks, and a wealth of activities to experience local culture. We hope the following information serves as a valuable reference for planning your Kumejima trip.
What Kind of Place is Kumejima?
Kumejima is renowned for its crystal-clear seas, breathtaking natural scenery, and vibrant local culture. Located about 90 kilometers west of mainland Okinawa, it is celebrated as a tranquil haven, attracting many island enthusiasts.
Within Okinawa Prefecture, Kumejima is the fifth largest island, following the main island, Iriomote, Ishigaki, and Miyako, with a population of approximately 7,308 (as of October 2023, source: Kumejima Town Office website).
Kumejima is the birthplace of Ryukyu Karate and was historically a key trading hub. Its warm and welcoming islanders always greet visitors with open hearts.
The Charm of Kumejima
One of Kumejima’s greatest attractions is its natural environment, with endless white sandy beaches and highly transparent waters perfect for snorkeling and diving!
Additionally, Kumejima’s mild climate makes it ideal for activities like trekking or cycling, allowing visitors to connect with its lush mountain landscapes.
In terms of traditional culture, Kumejima preserves handicrafts like “Kumejima Tsumugi.” Its culinary scene is famous for shrimp farmed in Kumejima’s deep-sea water, sea grapes, and awamori (Okinawan distilled liquor).
With minimal tourist development, Kumejima is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat and natural beauty, making it a favorite among island lovers.
Kumejima’s Climate and Clothing
Kumejima enjoys an average annual temperature of 23.2°C, offering a pleasant climate year-round.
| Season | Average Temperature | Average Monthly Rainfall |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (March–May) | 21.6°C | 217.5mm |
| Summer (June–August) | 28.4°C | 219.8mm |
| Autumn (September–November) | 25.2°C | 172mm |
| Winter (December–February) | 17.8°C | 136mm |
| Annual Average | 23.2°C | 186.9mm |
The climate is warm year-round, but sun protection is needed in summer, and light layers are recommended for winter. Be sure to bring lightweight long-sleeve clothing.
While there are a few convenience stores on the island, some shops do not accept credit cards, so it’s advisable to carry some cash.
| Clothing & Items | Details |
|---|---|
| Clothing | Hat, cap, lightweight long-sleeve shirt or windbreaker, sports tights/leggings, sneakers/sandals, spare T-shirts and pants |
| Items | Sunglasses, water bottle, sunscreen, insect repellent, towel, cash |
How to Get to Kumejima
Kumejima can be reached primarily by airplane or ferry. Choose the best option based on your itinerary and budget.
Airplane
Daily flights operate from Naha Airport to Kumejima, with a flight time of about 30 minutes, making it very convenient. When approaching Kumejima, you can catch a stunning aerial view of “Hate no Hama,” so booking a window seat is highly recommended!
During the summer peak season, direct flights from Tokyo (Haneda Airport) are available, with a flight time of approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes.
Ferry
If opting for a ferry, you can depart from Naha’s Tomari Port (Tomarin). There are routes via Tonaki Island and direct routes to Kumejima, so be careful to choose the correct ticket. Ferry schedules vary by season, so check in advance (reference: Kume Shosen Co., Ltd.).
Naha (Tomari Port) → Tonaki Island → Kumejima (January 1 – December 31)
| Ferry | Depart Naha (Tomari Port) | Arrive Tonaki Island | Depart Tonaki Island | Arrive Kumejima |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ferry 1 (via Tonaki Island) | 9:00 | 10:55 | 11:10 | 12:30 |
| Ferry 2 (direct to Kumejima, no service on Mondays) | 14:00 | - | - | 17:00 |
Kumejima → Tonaki Island → Naha (Tomari Port) (January 1 – March 31, November 1 – December 31)
| Ferry | Depart Kumejima | Arrive Tonaki Island | Depart Tonaki Island | Arrive Naha (Tomari Port) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ferry 1 (via Tonaki Island) | 9:00 | 10:20 | 10:35 | 12:30 |
| Ferry 2 (direct to Naha, no service on Mondays) | 14:00 | - | - | 17:00 |
Kumejima → Tonaki Island → Naha (Tomari Port) (April 1 – October 31)
| Ferry | Depart Kumejima | Arrive Tonaki Island | Depart Tonaki Island | Arrive Naha (Tomari Port) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ferry 1 (via Tonaki Island) | 9:00 | 10:20 | 10:35 | 12:30 |
| Ferry 2 (direct to Naha, except Mondays and Fridays) | 14:00 | - | - | 17:00 |
| Ferry 2 (direct to Naha, Fridays only) | 14:00 | 15:20 | 15:35 | 17:30 |
Transportation on Kumejima
Kumejima’s terrain is quite hilly and expansive, so renting a car is recommended as the primary mode of transportation. While public buses are available, their schedules are limited and may not cover all desired destinations, so they are not highly recommended.
You can also rent bicycles or scooters (a Japanese driver’s license is required). On pleasant weather days, exploring the island by scooter is a great option.
More Than Just Hate no Hama! Exciting Activities
Top 5 Must-Visit Attractions in Kumejima
Don’t miss these carefully selected top 5 attractions when visiting Kumejima! These are some of the most iconic sights among Okinawa’s islands, well worth a visit. Enjoy your island adventure in Kumejima’s relaxed atmosphere!
- Hate no Hama
One of Kumejima’s most iconic attractions, located 5 kilometers east of the island in the sea, consisting of three uninhabited sandbars: Maeno Hama, Nakano Hama, and Hate no Hama. - Eef Beach
Another popular spot on Kumejima. Perfect for swimming in the summer, and ideal for leisurely strolls to soak in the beach atmosphere during other seasons. - Tatami Rocks of Oujima
Located on Oujima, accessible via an underwater road, these rocks are a nationally designated natural monument. At low tide, you can see a unique landscape of turtle-shell-like rock formations. - Uegusuku Castle Ruins
Situated at the peak of Uegusuku Mountain, the highest point on the island. On clear days, the summit offers panoramic views of the island and even distant Tonaki and Aguni Islands. - Kumejima Firefly Museum
Centered around the Kumejima firefly, a prefecturally designated natural monument, this facility educates and protects the island’s rich natural environment. Perfect for families with kids, it’s a great resource for summer vacation projects!
Top 7 Recommended Tours and Activities in Kumejima
Here are seven carefully selected activities and tours to immerse yourself in Kumejima’s stunning nature. From Hate no Hama to crystal-clear snorkeling, sea kayaking, and nature tours, enjoy unique island experiences. Create unforgettable memories on your Kumejima trip!
- Hate no Hama Tour
Kumejima’s seas are known for their clarity, but Hate no Hama’s waters are unparalleled. The white sandy beaches under sunlight create a surreal atmosphere, far removed from everyday life.- Summer Glass-Bottom Boat Tour: Approx. 4–4.5 hours, underwater sightseeing + landing on Hate no Hama
- Spring/Summer Glass-Bottom Boat Half-Day Tour: Approx. 3 hours, cruising and landing on Hate no Hama
- Snorkeling Tour
Experience Kumejima’s majestic outer seas! Its spherical waters are renowned for exceptional clarity, abundant marine life, and a unique underwater world.- Boat Snorkeling: Approx. 1.5 hours, explore the grandeur of Kumejima’s outer seas
- Beach Snorkeling: Approx. 1.5 hours, enter from the beach, suitable for ages 6 and up
- Sea Kayaking
Paddle to secluded secret beaches rarely visited by others, perfect for those seeking a quiet beach experience.- Kayaking + BBQ: Approx. 3 hours, land on a secret beach and enjoy a barbecue
- Sunset Kayaking: Approx. 1.5 hours, watch the sunset, suitable for ages 6 and up
- Introductory Diving
Curious about Kumejima’s clear underwater world? Healthy individuals aged 6 and up can dive up to 6 meters without a diving license!- Snuba Introductory Diving: Approx. 2.5 hours, enjoy diving without carrying an oxygen tank
- Shisa Making Experience
In a workshop with stunning Kumejima views, create your own shisa using 100% Kumejima clay!- Shisa Making: Approx. 1 hour, craft an original piece
- Kumejima Guided Walking Tour
Perfect for those wanting to dive deeper into Kumejima’s charm, history, and culture, with a local guide of 30 years customizing the itinerary to your interests.- Walking Guide Tour: Deeply experience Kumejima
- Nature Guided Tour
Beyond its stunning seas, Kumejima’s clear waters and unique species, like fireflies, make wildlife observation tours highly popular.- Nature Tour: Experience the island’s rich natural bounty
