Kerama Islands

Understand

Accessible in under an hour from Naha, the Kerama Islands are a popular getaway from the big-city bustle of the main island. Historically, the Kerama Island group was a part of the Ryukyu Kingdom. For some 600 years, the islanders were employed as skillful navigators for the Kingdom’s trading vessels between Okinawa and China.

Tourist information site The local tourist association has a Japanese-only guide site.

Getting there

Ferries connect Naha to Tokashiki (35/70 min fast/slow ferry), Akajima (50/90 min), Zamami (60/120 min) and Aguni (/130 min). Kerama Airport on Fukaji, connected by bridge to Akajima, serves only charter flights. Kumejima has an airport with regular flights from Naha (35 min) and seasonal charters direct from Tokyo. The other way in is a 4-hour ferry ride from Naha, stopping at Tonaki along the way.

Getting around

Akajima and Zamami are served by the same ferry, as are Tonaki and Kume, but otherwise island-hopping will usually require a detour via Naha.

See

Sights on the islands are pretty low-key. Tokashiki has a small history museum and a number of lookout points for whale-spotting in spring.

Do

The Kerama Islands have spectacular beaches with snorkeling and diving in the surrounding coral reefs.

Drink & nightlife

Kume's Kumesen is one of the most famous brands of awamori from Okinawa.