Introducing activities to enjoy the beautiful coral reefs of Kohama Island!
Table of Contents
- 1 Let's learn about the coral reefs of Kohama Island.
- 2 Where is Kohama Island?
- 3 Coral species found on Kohama Island
- 4 Actual coral found on Kohama Island
- 5 Encounter coral reefs around Kohama Island Beaches and other spots
- 6 Coral Reefs on Kohama Island Recommended Activities
- 7 Points to note for enjoying the coral reefs of Kohama Island
- 8 Enjoy Kohama Island more! Recommended Activities
- 9 About Coral Reefs of Kohama Island Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 10 summary
Let's learn about the coral reefs of Kohama Island.
Surrounded by crystal clear waters, Kohama Island is a paradise of colorful coral reefs. Snorkeling and diving are available in itsMystical WorldYou can enjoy the
In this article, we will introduce in detail the coral reefs that can be seen on Kohama Island.
◆Planning to dive in Kohama Island
◆ Those who plan to snorkel at Kohama Island.
◆If you are interested in the coral found on Kohama Island
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours in Kohama Island.
Where is Kohama Island?
Kohama Island is,It is located almost in the middle of Ishigaki Island and Iriomote Island,Population about 700.(January 2026 data)It is a small island in the
The highest elevation on the island is about 99 meters above sea level.UfudakiFrom there, you can look out over the island and the surrounding ocean and experience the beautiful Kohama Island, which is small but surrounded by world-class coral reefs.
Access: 5 minutes by car from Obama Port
Kohama Island is also the center of the Yaeyama Islands, so it is also called "Yaeyama no tenbusu" (meaning "navel").
Stage for NHK's drama series "Churasanand became famous throughout the country.With sugar cane fields and ranches spreading out, visitors can feel the beauty of nature and the old-fashioned simplicity of Okinawa.
Many traditional events are held on the island, especially the "Sukhumi," which begins with the Boshihai Sukhumi in the eighth month of the lunar calendar and lasts for four days.Kitsugansai (Festival of the Conclusion of the prayers,Kitty Gun)"Many performing arts are dedicated to the gods on the stage at the
The performing arts of Kohama Island, including "Yugansai," were designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property in 2007.
Click here to book a ferry to Kohama Island
Coral species found on Kohama Island
Including Kohama Island,Yaeyama Islands (Okinawa)The following is a list of the main corals found in the
Asian greenling (Hexagrammos agrammus)
There are so many corals in the Green Coral family that most of the corals called table corals are made up of the Green Coral family. There are so many different species that it is difficult to classify them.
Not only greenColorful colorsI am working on a new project.
coral reef
Domed or rock-like shapeand is extremely tough and long-lived. It is relatively resistant to bleaching and typhoons, and can be found stably inside reefs.
queen coralbead (Cocculus orbiculatus)
Ryukyu kikka (Ryukyu chrysanthemum) coral is,Shaped like a cabbageThe flowers look like carnations or roses. It looks like a carnation or rose.
As the name suggests, it looks like a flower blooming in the sea.
Actual coral found on Kohama Island
Although they are very beautiful coral reefs, they are in a critical condition due to various factors.
If the situation does not improve,One-third of the world's corals extinctIt is said that it is possible to do so.
Impact of Global Warming on Corals
One of the negative effects on corals is that global warmingRising sea temperatures and sea level riseThese are environmental stresses such as
In addition, regional factors such as eutrophication (increase in phosphorus and nitrogen nutrients) due to ocean pollutionenvironmental stressAlso.
Due to global warmingseawater temperature risesThe coral skeleton becomes transparent because the zooxanthellae that live in symbiosis with the coral disappear from the coral's body.bleachingI will do so.
If the coral continues in this state, it will not be able to receive nutrients and will die.
Large typhoons and overtourism have also had an impact.
Other,Due to a large typhoonPhysical Destructionand muddy water inflow can damage corals.
Also, sunscreen ingredients and plastic waste,Chemicals and marine debrisalso contribute to bleaching.
Trampling and dropping anchors due to excessive tourism.artificial damageThere are also
The Ministry of the Environment (MOE) has established a basic policy for the conservation of coral reef ecosystems, as well as specific actions to be taken.Coral Reef Ecosystem Conservation Action PlanThe "MFCA" has been formulated.
We also promote eco-tourism, comprehensive management to address sources of sediment and pollutants, and removal of predatory species.
By each of us acting consciously,The Future of the Bounty of the SeaProtect the
Encounter coral reefs around Kohama Island
Beaches and Holey Spots
One of Japan's largest coral reef groups, "Lake ShihshihshanKohama Island, embraced by the "Kohama River," is dotted with charming spots, from places just a short walk from the beach to special places visited by boat.
This is because the types of coral and fish that can be encountered at each point are different,Purpose and levelIt is recommended that you choose the one that best suits your needs.
Here are some coral reef sights that you should not miss when visiting Kohama Island!
Tumal Beach
It is only a 10-minute walk from the port of Obama,Calm shallowsThis is the island's most representative beach, with a wide expanse of
Because the waves are quietEven beginnersSnorkeling is easy, and if you go a little further out to sea, you can observe vivid coral reefs up close.
Because at low tide, the tide may be so low that it is impossible to swim,Time near high tideThe key is to visit with the aim of â
Access: 5 minutes by car from Obama Port, 20 minutes on foot
Phantom Island (Hamashima)
This sandy island appears only at low tide and is surrounded by colorful corals for snorkeling.sacred placeIt is.
The white sand beach surrounded by 360-degree emerald green ocean is as beautiful as a scene from a movie.
Because corals are scattered even at depths where you can put your feet up,Even if you are not a good swimmer or a childYou can enjoy the world of coral reefs in peace.
↓Click here for the Phantom Island Tour
Learn more about the Phantom Island Tour
Access: 15 minutes from Obama Port by tour boat
Kayama Island
Located just a few minutes by boat from Kohama Island, this uninhabited island is a treasure trove of coral with a rich, untouched natural environment.
Just a short swim from the beach, there is a gapless expanse of eda coral and table coral.Overwhelming viewYou can meet the
Although tours are generally used, this is an ideal spot for those who want to have the reef all to themselves in peace and quiet, with fewer crowds!
Access: 10 minutes from Obama Port by tour boat
Yonara Channel
This area between Kohama Island and Iriomote Island is known among divers asmanta rayIt is a world-class coral reef spot known as the
Because of the depth of the water, snorkeling and diving from boats are the main methods, but if you are lucky, you may see manta rays gracefully dancing above the coral.
Beautiful coral reef slopes and large marine life perform together,A powerful viewYou can enjoy the
Coral reefs can be seen on Kohama Island.
Recommended Activities
Kohama Island is home to one of Japan's largest coral reef groups, "Seokseo LagoonThe island is surrounded by "theShihsi Lagoon is home toMore than 400 species of corals live here.
Here are some recommended activities to observe these precious corals.
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours in Kohama Island.
Kohama Island Snorkeling
Snorkeling is the most recommended activity to enjoy the many fish and beautiful coral reefs!
Designated as an endangered species.manta rays and sea turtlesThere are many ways to enjoy the area, such as spots where the coral reefs come and go, spots with beautiful table corals and eda corals and many tropical fish, and spots with very clear waters and visibility exceeding 50 meters even underwater.
Even in cold weatherThe water temperature rarely drops below 20 degrees Celsius, so as long as you wear a wetsuit, you can enjoy snorkeling without problems.
Click here for recommended snorkeling tours
See more Kohama Island snorkeling tours!
Kohama Island Diving
Kohama Island is also a great spot for diving, as the water is so clear that the seafloor can be seen from the sea!
Of those who experience diving in Kohama Island.About 80% are beginners.
No license is required for experience diving.The instructor will give you a detailed lecture on ear removal, breathing exercises, and how to put on a wetsuit.
Basically, you don't need to bring anything at all except your swimsuit, even if you are a beginner or can't swim,safe and secureThe following is a list of the most popular products in the world.
Click here for recommended diving tours
See more Kohama Island diving tours!
Points to note for enjoying the coral reefs of Kohama Island
Looking at the many creatures and coral reefs,I got carried away.It can become....
To protect the beautiful ocean and rich coral reefs of Kohama Island, we must properlyFollow the rules.Let's have fun.
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours in Kohama Island.
Do not touch or step on it unnecessarily
Coral reefs may look like plants, but they are actually animals.In the jellyfish and anemone family,Cnidaria (luminal animals)The company is classified as a
Coral reefs take a very long time to grow, only a few centimeters per year.Therefore, it is very difficult to touch or step on them.
Always take your trash with you.
Be sure to take back any garbage generated.In fact, it has the most negative impact on coral reefs,we the peopleIt is.
Red soil runoff from development, reclamation, and domestic wastewaterWater pollution and dumping of garbageWe must once again keep in mind that it is human beings who have killed many coral reefs, including those caused by ill-mannered tourists and damage from fishing.
Although not well known, corals play an important role in the comfort of human life.
I explained earlier that corals are animals, just like plants.carbon dioxide absorptionand produces oxygen.
In addition, coral reefs serve as natural breakwaters,Works to purify the oceanThere are also
It also affects other living things, not only the organisms in the ocean and the environment, but also the planet we live on.Big RoleThey are fulfilling the
Enjoy Kohama Island more!
Recommended Activities
The charm of Kohama Island is not limited to the sea! Kohama IslandEnjoy the great outdoorsHere are some recommended activities!
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours in Kohama Island.
Kohama Island SUP Tour
SUP on Kohama Island is,Outstanding transparency of the seaThe appeal of this type of boat is that it allows you to cruise in a relaxed manner. At first glance, it may seem difficult, but it is stable and even beginners will soon be able to proceed smoothly.
Even beginners can enjoy watching coral reefs and tropical fish from the water.
Click here for recommended SUP tours
Learn more about Kohama Island SUP
Kohama Island Kayak Tour
Kohama Island's kayaking experience is a great way to experience the mangroves and calm waters of the island.Leisurely tourThe charm of this place is that it is a place to be. Surrounded by nature,Unusual healing timeYou can enjoy the
Kayaks can accommodate two people, so you can experience kayaking with your children!
Click here for recommended kayak tours
Learn more about Kohama Island Canoeing (Kayaking)
Kohama Island Fishing Tour
In the waters around Kohama Island,400 kinds of fishIt is said that there are Let's go for the big one☆.
The guide will carefully select the best points of the day and guide you to them! We will help you with everything from how to put on the bait to how to fish.Even beginnersIt is a fun way to fish.
Click here for recommended fishing tours
Learn more about Kohama Island Fishing
Kohama Island Night Tour
Let's go on a night adventure on Kohama Island, where different creatures come to life than during the day, a privilege for those who stay on Kohama Island!
The guide will lead you through the jungle at night to observe the unique subtropical flora and fauna under a star-filled sky that is unique to the island.
Not seen in Honshu from late December to mid-June.Southern Cross (asterism formed with the brightest four stars of the constellation Crux)can also be seen!
Click here for recommended night tours
Learn more about night tours on Kohama Island.
Coral reefs on Kohama Island
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The area can be enjoyed throughout the year, but summer (June to September) is especially recommended when the clarity of the sea increases! The water temperature is high, and you can comfortably observe colorful corals and tropical fish without a wetsuit.
Yes, you can! Coral reefs can be found even in the shallow waters around the "Phantom Island" where you can easily reach your feet. Also, you will wear a life jacket on the snorkeling tour, so you can enjoy the spectacular view just by floating around.
First of all, let's make sure not to touch or step on corals. It is also important for each of us to be aware of the importance of choosing sunscreen that is "non-chemical" (no UV absorbents), which is gentle to coral, and to never throw trash into the ocean!
summary
Kohama Island has an inseparable connection with coral reefs.In addition to the activities introduced here, there are many other ways to enjoy the area.
You can enjoy the traditional, laid-back scenery and the tropical resort atmosphere of ".Healing Paradise』。
Why not visit Kohama Island with your family, friends, or lovers?
↓Click here to read the article.
