Kohama Island or Taketomi Island? A simple comparison of attractions, access, and how to spend your time!
Table of Contents
- 1 Do you want to go to Kohama Island or Taketomi Island?
- 2 Kohama Island and Taketomi Island How to choose
- 3 A quick look at the highlights of Kohama and Taketomi Islands
- 4 Kohama Island and Taketomi Island Comparison of Access and Directions
- 5 How to choose a model course and tour
- 6 How to get around the area and rent a bike
- 7 Combination of excursion plan and Iriomote Island
- 8 Lodging and Resorts
- 9 Which is better for beginners, Kohama Island or Taketomi Island?
- 10 Frequently Asked Questions
- 11 summary
Do you want to go to Kohama Island or Taketomi Island?
Two remote islands that can be reached by day trip from Ishigaki Island, ".islets of Ogasawara (islands)and "Taketomi Island".
."Walking around the village with red tiles and coral sands"water buffalo trainIf you are looking for a "very short boat ride from Ishigaki Island," Taketomi Island is the place to go.
The tranquil original landscape, the panoramic view from the heights, theStay on quiet beaches or in authentic resortsKohama Island is the place to be.
This article explains the highlights of both islands and how to access them by ferry, in an easy-to-understand manner for first-time visitors!
◆If you are planning to visit Taketomi Island
◆Those looking for tours to Kohama Island and Taketomi Island
◆I'm not sure whether to go to Kohama Island or Taketomi Island.side (e.g. "on my mother's side")
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours in Kohama Island.
Kohama Island and Taketomi Island
How to choose
First, let's imagine "what kind of fun we can have.
Both are accessible from Ishigaki Island's remote island terminal.Smooth by high speed boat♪
First, envision your plan and enjoy creating a theme for your trip.
Motorized to Nishiodake. Panoramic view of the Yaeyama islands and the sea
◆Quiet seaside
Beach picnic with the sound of waves as background music in Tumar, Hosozaki
◆Resort Activities
Enjoy pool, spa, SUP, clear kayak
◆Starry sky
After sunset, relax and enjoy the star-filled sky.
◆Style of stay
Combining the "luxury of doing nothing" and "a little active".
◆ Required
We recommend a whole day - stay overnight for a relaxing experience.
Capturing the view of red tile houses, white sand road, coral stone wall and flowers
◆Buffalo cart
Leisurely tour around the island while listening to the history and lifestyle of the island
◆Beach
Cool down in the shallow waters of Kondoy Beach
◆Star Sand
Searching for star sand at Kaiji beach
◆Evening view
End the day with a sunset at the West Pier
◆ Required
Experience the "traditional Okinawan flavor" in a half-day to a full day
A quick look at the highlights of Kohama and Taketomi Islands
First, to get an idea of the journey,Typical AttractionCompare ◎
| (data) item | Contents |
|---|---|
| scenery | Sugarcane fields, rolling hills, idyllic island views |
| Main Spots | Kubazaki Beach, Nishidake Observatory, Tumar Beach |
| personal experience | Bicycle and car rental, observation deck tours, sightseeing buses |
| movement | Bicycle, motorcycle, and car rental center (sightseeing buses available) |
| Resort Stay | Hoshino Resort Risonare Kohama Island |
| Ease of day trip | Half a day to a full day with 25-30 minutes to spare on the boat. |
| (data) item | Contents |
| scenery | Traditional red-tile villages, white sand roads, coral stone walls |
| Main Spots | Kondoy Beach, Star Sand Beach (Kaiji Beach), walking in the village |
| personal experience | Buffalo cart sightseeing, bicycle rental, glass boat |
| movement | Walk + bike + island bus (buffalo carts are also popular) |
| Resort Stay | Hoshinoya Taketomi Island |
| Ease of day trip | Super easy with a 10-15 minute boat ride. |
The "Tower of Nagomi" on Taketomi Island isNo TrespassersOnly the exterior of the building can be visited at the
Please check the latest status at the site.
Kohama Island and Taketomi Island
Thorough comparison of access and directions
From Ishigaki Island and Euglena Ishigaki Port Terminalhigh-speed vesselAccessed at!
The terminal has a window for both companies, waiting area, stores, and coin lockers,advance payment in advanceYou can use either electronic tickets or purchase at the counter on the day of the event.
Click here for ferry congestion column
Ferry Basics (Routes, Number of Ferries, Boarding Places)
The two operating companies are An-ei Kanko and Yaeyama Kanko Ferry.
Ishigaki⇄Obama and Taketomi in both cases.Operates dailyThe number of flights may be increased during the peak season.
Boarding is at the terminal pier,Be sure to check the departure noticeLet's do it!
What if the ferry tickets are full?
Measures to know before you travel
How to read the timetable and the seasonal timetable
The time isFluctuates with season and demand(Flights may increase in summer, and may decrease or be detoured in winter depending on sea conditions.
In particular, the last flight time changes from day to day, so it is recommended to check the official "Flight Status" and "Timetable" pages on the morning of the day.
◆Latest timetable
Click here for today's operation
Estimated fees and time required
For those who tour around the remote islands, Ishigaki and Iriomoteunlimited bus ridesIn addition to,Round-trip tickets to outlying islandsCan combine etc.Digital Tour Free Passis also convenient.
◆Ishigaki ↔ Obama (High Speed Boat): Approximate Fare
| one-way (trip) | round-trip ticket | |
| adult | 1,560 yen | 3,020 yen |
| child | 790 yen | 1,520 yen |
Approximate time required: 25 to 30 minutes
◆Ishigaki ↔ Taketomi (High Speed Boat): Approximate Fare
| one-way (trip) | round-trip ticket | |
| adult | 880 yen | 1,700 yen |
| child | 460 yen | 890 yen |
Approximate time required: 10-15 minutes
◆Toll rates as of 8/7/2025
Click here for the latest information
Day trip notes and recommended time allotment
Kohama Island has ups and downs, so if you want to go around the observatory and Hosozaki area, use an electric bicycle or a sightseeing bus.Allow 4-6 hoursThen there is room to spare.
Taketomi Island is a compact island, and the departure time is in the morning and the return time is in the late afternoon.Half-day SightseeingBut satisfaction is high ◎
Because weather conditions may cause delays or cancellations,It is safe to plan to return to the port with the goal of returning one flight before the last flight!
If your flight supports electronic ticketing and touch paymentBoarding without going through the counterThis saves time because it can be done.
How to choose a model course and tour
You can go around by your own arrangement, but there are also someLocal Tourto make all transportation and embarkation arrangements in one easy step!
discounted set(round-trip high-speed boat + bike rental, etc.) is also available,Increased efficiency of short staysThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
Model courses (half-day, full-day, day trip)
According to the length of stayA model course that can be toured without difficultyare available for half a day and one day on Kohama Island and Taketomi Island, respectively.
The lineup is easily adjusted to the time and last flight of the high-speed boat to/from Ishigaki Island, so it can be used for both day trip and overnight stay plans ◎.
Port → Nishiodake Observatory by electric bicycle → Kohagura-so (exterior) → Tumar Beach → Port
◆1 day
Port→Nishiodake→round Hosozaki Beach→island cafes→tour bus (about 1 hour)→sunset at the beach→port
Sample timetable for a one-day tour
| time | path |
| 09:30 | From Ishigaki |
| 10:00 | Arrival at Obama, electric bicycle to the observatory, Hosozaki, cafes on the island, 1-hour sightseeing bus tour |
| 16:20 | From Obama to Ishigaki |
Port → Bicycle rental → Star Sand Beach → Kondoi Beach → Explore the village (buffalo cart for those who wish) → Port
◆1 day
Half-day course + glass boat → relax at an island cafe → port
Sample timetable for a one-day tour
| time | path |
| 09:00 | From Ishigaki |
| 09:15 | Arrival at Taketomi, pick-up at bike rental store, star sand beach, Kondoi beach, walking in the village, buffalo cart (about 30 minutes), lunch, souvenirs around the port |
| 15:30 | From Taketomi to Ishigaki |
How to choose a tour
The tour from Ishigaki includes a round-trip high-speed boat, transportation within the island (bicycle, bus, and pick-up), and an experience in one set.
Less anxiety about time management and connections,for the first timeand ... andShort stay, ,family tripIt is suitable for
Local departures are more flexible, with stops depending on weather and sea conditions.Flexible and easy to changeis the attraction.
Early-bird and web-based discounts may be available for both, so be sure to check seat availability at least as early as possible.
No need to make arrangements
Round trip high speed boat + transportation + experience included
In the event of inclement weather, alternative arrangements will be made.
Easier to lower the risk of missing the last flight
◆(the police) wanting (someone) for questioning
Easy to keep costs down
Stop by and adjust time as you wish.
Ideal for those who are more interested in photography and visiting cafes.
When in doubt, ask for the "Morning tour to major spots, free afternoonHybrids of the "I" are also recommended!
During peak season, the total of individual arrangements (boat, bike, and experience arranged separately) is likely to rise, and the difference in price from the package tour may be small or even reversed,Check both estimates.Choose the best one for you.
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours in Kohama Island.
How to get around the area and rent a bike
Taketomi Island isflatBicycles are comfortable in
Kohama Island ismany slopesThe use of electric bicycles, sightseeing buses, and rental cars is convenient.
Both of these are due to the presence of rental stores in front of the port and in the village,Same-day use is basic'good work' (equiv. of silver star awarded to children at school)
How to rent bicycles and recommended routes
Bicycles are the most efficient way to visit the island's regular spots in a short time!
according to season and fitness.Combine sightseeing busesand reduce time loss.
Recommended route：Nishiodake Observatory→Kohagura-so (exterior view)→Tumar Beach→Hosozaki→Harbor
Approximate time required: 3.5 to 5 hours. Take protection against headwind and sun (beverages, hat, sunscreen).
Recommended route: Star Sand Beach → Kondoi Beach → village → harbor (beach in the morning / village in the afternoon to avoid backlighting)
Approximate time required: 2-4 hours, flat. Plan to return to the port 30 minutes before the last flight.
Buffalo cart, island bus, cab
Combination Movement Technique
Kohama Island is basically devoid of local buses and resident cabs,Pick-up and drop-off of sightseeing buses and lodgesTake advantage of the
Taketomi Island is served by buffalo carts (about 20-30 minutes) and island buses,Combine walking + bikingand even easier ◎
Combination of excursion plan and Iriomote Island
The number of inter-island transfers such as "Taketomi in the morning, Kohama in the afternoon" is limited.Basically via IshigakiThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
Due to limited number and seasonality of direct inter-island flights,Be sure to check the day's flight status and last flightLet's do it!
At Ishigaki Port and the ports on each island, passengers should allow 30-45 minutes for connections.
Connecting Kohama Island↔︎ Taketomi Island↔︎ Iriomote Island
island hopping
The basic island hopping is "Ishigaki↔Taketomi", "Ishigaki↔Obama", and "Ishigaki↔Iriomote (Uehara/Ohara)".Combining triangular flow linesThings to do!
On days when the schedules mesh, direct flights such as Kohama⇄Takefu may be set up, and if there is an operation, travel time can be compressed by taking shortcuts.
On the other hand, direct flights may not be available during the season or on certain days, so please plan on the assumption that you will go through Ishigaki Terminal first, and then check the schedule on the day of your visit.Watch the operation.Realistic to switch to direct flights◎.
interpoint (interword separation)basic flowIshigaki ↔ Taketomi/Ishigaki ↔ Kohama/Iriomote (Uehara/Ohara).
interpoint (interword separation)direct (nonstop) flightThere are some days of operation, such as Kohama and Taketomi. Shortcuts are possible if there is a flight available (confirmation required on the day).
interpoint (interword separation)Handling of flight cancellationsWhen Uehara is cancelled, switch to Ohara arrival + take a local bus to the north side (approx. 1 hour travel time)
interpoint (interword separation)trickLeave your luggage at the terminal lockers or lodgings and board the ship 10-15 minutes before departure.
Lodging and Resorts
Each island offers large resorts, small red-tiled inns, private villas, and family-friendly condominiums.Wide range of optionsThere are
If you value beach access and activities, a resort is a good match. If you want to enjoy the tranquility and atmosphere of the village, a small inn or villa is a good match.
The trick is to choose based on the theme of your trip, your budget, and ease of travel.
Risonare Kohama Island
All rooms are suitesThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
You can enjoy the "luxury of doing nothing" with a 10-minute port transfer, the beach in front of you, and a wide variety of experiences♪.
Good for family trips
Hoshinoya Taketomi Island
A group of red-tiled villas, a tranquil lodging like living in a village.
Swimming pool is available 24 hours ◎
Morning walks in the village, beach and activities during the day,Star gazing is the standard at night.It is.
Which is better for beginners, Kohama Island or Taketomi Island?
If you have a short time to decide,Priority experiencesIt is best to choose by
The ease of travel, the depth of scenery and stay, the pleasure of touring around... Decide on one main feature of your trip.
◆ "Quickly."Yaeyama's character (i.e. of the Yaeyama Islands)"Condensed "Taketomi Island"
10-15 minutes from Ishigaki. Efficiently walk + bike to red-tile village, buffalo cart, Kondoi Beach, and Star Sand Beach.
◆Silence andpanoramaKohama Island" for staycation
Electric bicycles + sightseeing buses are comfortable due to the ups and downs. If you want to visit the observatory and Hosozaki, take a day trip for 4 to 6 hours, and stay overnight if possible.
◆ on three islandsactive tourTaketomi + Kohama + Iriomote
Basically via Ishigaki, but if direct flights are available, make use of them. Allow 30-45 minutes at each port for peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the difference between the two?What is the best season?
Q. What is the difference between the two?What is the traffic like on the island?
Q. What is the difference between the two?Can I enjoy a day trip?
Q. What is the difference between the two?How long does it take for a buffalo cart and how much does it cost?
Q. What is the difference between the two?Do you have a circular pass?
summary
Tranquility andspectacular viewIf you are looking for a "I'm in Kohama Island, in a red-tiled village."OkinawannessTaketomi Island is the place to go if you want to feel "the
Both are a 10-30 minute high-speed boat ride from Ishigaki!
Check the morning schedule, return to the port before the last flight, and take advantage of the free pass for a round-trip tour.
Then, in any order you like, go out to the island that fits your mood!
⬇︎Read the article together: ⬇︎
