Discover 4 hidden attractions, cool sights, and unusual things to do in Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park (Japan). Don't miss out on these must-see attractions: Kayama Island, Aragusuku Islands, and Kuro. Also, be sure to include Hatoma in your itinerary.
Below, you can find the list of the most amazing places you should visit in Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park (Okinawa).
Table of Contents
Kayama Island
Island in Taketomi, Japan. Kayama Island is a small uninhabited island located in the Yaeyama Islands of Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. It situated 2 kilometers northeast of Kohama Island.
It is known for its rabbit population, numbering anywhere between 500 and 1,000. Travel agencies offer tours to the island.[1]
Aragusuku Islands
The Aragusuku Islands consist of two smaller islets, named Kamiji and Shimoji. They are located in the Yaeyama Islands of Okinawa Prefecture, Japan.
Aragusuku has a population of 15, all of them living on Kamiji. Shimoji is used as a pasture for cattle. Aragusuku is administered by the town of Taketomi on nearby Iriomote. The island can be accessed via tours.[2]
Kuro
Also known as: 黒島
Island in Taketomi, Japan. Kuroshima, also known as "Kuro Island", is an island in Taketomi Town, Okinawa, part of the Yaeyama archipelago. The island has the approximate shape of a heart symbol when viewed from the air, and is marketed as "Heart Island". The name means "Black Island".
The island has an area of about 10 km2 (4 sq mi) and a population of approximately 210 as of 2006. Kuroshima is a comparatively flat island, as the highest point is just 15 metres (49 ft) above sea level.
Cattle raising is a major economic activity and a yearly "cow festival" is held. Sometimes the island is marketed as "Island of Cows" as well, as there are more cows than inhabitants living on it. Tourist activities include diving and sunbathing.[3]
Hatoma
Also known as: 鳩間島
Island in Taketomi, Japan. Hatoma is a small island of the Yaeyama Islands, barely 1 kilometer in diameter. It is under the administration of Taketomi District, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. In local language, the island's name is pronounced Patuma.[4]