This time, I’ll introduce you to Hateruma Island, the southernmost inhabitable island in Japan! In this article, you’ll *nd out the top 5 sightseeing spots on Hateruma Island. It takes 90 minutes by large high-speed boat and 2 hours and 30 minutes by ferry to reach Hateruma Island from Ishigaki Island.
Hateruma Island is Japan’s southernmost populated island, situated approximately 20 kilometers southwest of Ishigaki Island in Okinawa Prefecture. 12.73 km2 is its total area. Approximately 500 people call Hateruma Island home, and its circumference is about 14.8 kilometers.
Hateruma Island, Japan’s southernmost island, translates to “Uruma” in the local Okinawan language. Coral reefs inspired its name. Hateruma Island’s average temperature is 24 degrees Celsius throughout the year, making it pleasant to visit.
There are no buses or traf*c signals on the island, so it’s relaxed down. Hateruma Island’s attractiveness is enhanced by island restaurants and cafés that provide locally sourced food in addition to the natural splendor.
There are no supermarkets or convenience shops on the island. Each hamlet includes a typical shop where residents can buy food and other supplies. Due to the limited selection of things for sale at local community shops, it’s best to do your shopping on Ishigaki Island ahead if you need anything.
Best Time to Visit Hateruma Island
From December through June is the best time to visit Hateruma Island. Southern Cross can be seen wonderfully during this season because of its low latitude. The Hateruma blue is best seen in August, although typhoons on Okinawa are a year-round concern.
The Best Sightseeing Spots on Hateruma Island
Here are some of Hateruma Island’s most popular tourist sightseeing! Let’s take advantage of the beautiful environment and delicious meals. Hateruma Island may be circumnavigated by cycle in about three hours.
The Secret Beach
This beach is completely deserted after travelling through the jungle. An easy trail leads to a stunning beach on a little island. It was a private beach that no one had ever heard of.
Takanazaki
I rode my bike from the secluded beach to the island’s opposite side. There is a stunning view of the Paci*c Ocean from Takanazaki, situated southeast of Hateruma Island. It is known as “Takanazashi” in the local language.
On normal roads, driving from Hateruma Port to Takanazaki takes around 15 minutes. Takanazaki is a cape formed by Ryukyu limestone erosion. The waves breaking against the rocks have a lot of force.
Monument of the Southernmost Peace in Japan
Aimed at the *ftieth anniversary of the end of WWII, Japan erected a monument to commemorate it. It’s made out of stones gathered from all across Japan. This is the southernmost tip of Japan. Moreover, there is a starry sky observation tower in the area. There is also a 1km section of sheer cliff on the shore.
Yaeyama Soba (meal)
A must-try dish is the Yaeyama soba (noodle). I returned to the village on my bicycle and had a meal of Yaeyama delicacies in the village. ‘Yaeyama Soba’…what a satisfying supper after a long day of bicycling!
Nishihama Beach
After cycling, I headed to Hateruma Island’s nicest beach, Nishi Beach. T On Okinawa, the north is known as Nishi. Nishi-Hama is a crystal-clear and tranquil beach. It is about a ten-minute walk from Hateruma Port.
Although I visited it during the day, it is also a popular location for watching sunsets. When combined with the powdered white sand, the result is an absolutely breathtaking image.
Nishihama is one of the most popular beaches in Japan, and it is always competing for the number one place in the beach rankings! For those who like the beach, this is the place to go at least once in their lifetimes.
Things to do at Heteruma Island
Diving at Heteruma Island
Hateruma Island is available for diving throughout the year, except the typhoon season. The purity of the water exceeds 30 meters. Many diving stores may be found on the island.
Pay a Visit to Parlor Minpika
Parlor Minpika is a well-known shaved ice shop in the area! It’s roughly a tenminute bike ride from Hateruma Port. It’s just next to a souvenir store called Monpa no Ki. From the terrace chairs, you get a great view of Nishihama!
What you’re seeing in this picture is “Hateruma Kuromitsu Special Shaved Ice.” Yaeyama is well-known for this bowl with brown sugar. Kinako is sprinkled on top of the molasses (soybean +our).
Make sure to try the Orion beer when dining at the Okinawan restaurant. Lunch is also served at this parlor.
Access from Ishigaki Island to Hateruma Island
Hateruma Island may only be accessed by boat. There is no way to go by air. Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal is roughly a 60-minute boat ride from Ishigaki Port. During the typhoon season, the ferry may be cancelled, so be careful of the weather.
Hateruma Island does not have any public transit. Shuttle service should be used if you want to remain the night. If you’re prone to seasickness, it’s a good idea to take measures before boarding the boat.
I spent a full day cycling around Hateruma Island this time around! I’d want to spend the night the next time I visit. Ryokans, minshukus, and Pensions facilities may be found on the island.
You might lose track of time on Hateruma Island, which is like a tropical paradise. Hateruma Island is a magical place that I hope you will come and discover for yourself.
