Enjoy the Year-End and New Year Holidays on Kohama Island! A Complete Guide to Temperatures, Weather, and Recommended Sightseeing Spots in December and January
The end-of-year and New Year's holidays on Kohama Island are perfect for sightseeing!
Kohama Island is a small remote island in the Yaeyama Islands of Okinawa, and even during the New Year's holiday season,Mild climate...and being able to enjoy the beautiful natural scenery is its greatest appeal.
In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide covering everything from December and January temperatures, weather, and ocean conditions to tourist attractions and lodging information.
◆For those interested in winter temperatures, weather, and what to wear on Kohama Island
◆For those who want to know if they can enjoy the ocean and water activities in December and January
◆For those considering a stay at Haimurubushi or Risonaire Kohama Island
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours in Kohama Island.
Temperatures and Weather on Kohama Island in December and January
During the year-end and New Year’s holidays, the weather on Kohama Island is much warmer than on Honshu, and the climate remains pleasant even in winter.
However, since north winds can pick up in December and January, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the typical weather conditions in advance.
↓Click here for our recommended winter tours↓
December Temperatures and Weather
The average temperature on Kohama Island in December isAround 20–22°CSo, there are days when you can get by in short sleeves during the day.
However, temperatures can drop to around 15°C in the mornings and evenings, so a light jacket is a must.
Although there will be more cloudy and rainy days, when the sun does come out, the contrast between the blue sea and the blue sky is beautiful—making for perfect sightseeing weather!
↓Click here for more about Kohama Island in December↓
January Temperatures and Weather
In January, the average temperature isAbout 18–20°CTemperatures will drop slightly, and there will be more days with a north wind.
Although Okinawa’s winters can sometimes bring prolonged periods of cloudy and rainy weather due to a “winter-type pressure pattern,” there’s no doubt that they are significantly more pleasant than winters on Honshu.
On a sunny day, you can fully enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the remote islands☆
↓Click here for more on Kohama Island in January↓
Clothing and Items to Bring for the Year-End and New Year Holidays
During the year-end and New Year's holidays on Kohama Island,Long-sleeve shirts and light jackets・We recommend items that can be layered, such as cardigans.
When it's sunny during the day, UV rays are strong, soSunscreen and sunglassesDon't forget that, either.
Also, to be prepared for sudden rain, a compactfolding umbrellaIt's handy to bring that along, too!
Click here for details of the ferry to Kohama Island.
Can you swim in the ocean off Kohama Island during the New Year's holiday season?
I’m sure many of you are wondering, “Can you swim on Kohama Island in winter?”
We’ll also provide a detailed explanation from the perspectives of sea surface temperature and climate.
↓Click here for recommended snorkeling tours.
Is it possible to go swimming and snorkeling in December?
The sea surface temperature around Kohama Island in December isAround 24–25°CThe water remains warm, so you can enjoy snorkeling if you wear a wetsuit.
However, on days when the north wind is strong, the waves can get high, making it difficult to go in the water.
Check the weather forecast regularly and pick a calm day to enjoy the ocean!
January Sea Conditions and Precautions
In January, the sea surface temperature isAround 23°CThe temperature drops to the point where swimming in the ocean without a swimsuit becomes difficult.
Even so, many people still enjoy snorkeling and diving when they wear wetsuits.
Swimming may be prohibited on windy days, so we recommend checking with the tour company in advance.
Water Activities You Can Enjoy Even in Winter
Even on days when it's hard to go swimming,Kayaking, SUP, and fishingThere are activities like these where you can fully enjoy the ocean.
Why not come experience the unique charm of the ocean—a little different from summer—amidst the crisp air and beautiful scenery?
Be sure to give it a try to create some special memories over the New Year’s holiday.
Click here for recommended tours ↓↓.
Five recommended sightseeing spots on Kohama Island
Kohama Island is dotted with tourist spots rich in natural beauty.
Take this leisurely time over the New Year’s holidays to fully savor the island’s charm.
↓Click here for our recommended winter tours↓
sugar road
One of Kohama Island's most iconic scenic spots issugar roadIt is.
This farm road stretches in a straight line through a sugarcane field and is also known as a filming location for the NHK morning drama series “Chura-san.”
The contrast between the endless green path and the blue sky is breathtaking, making this a hugely popular spot among tourists who come to walk or cycle.
Access: 5 minutes by car from Obama Port
↓Sugar Road for more information↓.
↓Click here for rental bike plan
Hosozaki Coast
Located at the western tip of Kohama IslandHosozaki (Kumasaki)It is a quiet spot with crystal-clear waters stretching out before you.
This area is home to tropical fish, including clownfish, and is a popular spot for snorkeling.
On calm days, you can enjoy a spectacular view of Iriomote Island in the distance.
The view on a sunny day, even in winter, is truly special.
Access: 20 minutes by car from Obama Port
Ufudaki Observatory
At an elevation of approximately 99 meters,Oodake (Ufudake)It is the highest peak on Kohama Island, and from the observation deck at the summit, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view.
The breathtaking view, which takes in the Yaeyama Islands—including Iriomote Island, Ishigaki Island, and Taketomi Island—is sure to leave visitors in awe.
There’s a well-maintained walking trail, so even if you’re not very fit, you can climb it with confidence.
Access: 5 minutes by car from Obama Port
Mangroves at Ishinagata Beach
On Kohama Island, there is an area covered with mangrove forests, andKayaks and canoesSo you can explore at a leisurely pace from the water.
It’s a rare opportunity to observe a unique ecosystem up close, and it’s a spot that everyone—from children to adults—can enjoy.
Why not take this opportunity to enjoy a relaxing experience in nature during the quiet days around the New Year?
Access: 10 minutes by car from Obama Port
↓Click here for recommended tours in Mangrove.
Phantom Island (Hamashima)
A sandbar floating between Ishigaki Island and Iriomote IslandUninhabited Island “Phantom Island (Hamajima)”It is a mysterious spot where the shape of the island changes with the tides.
You can visit by boat tour from Kohama Island, and the pure white sandy beach surrounded by emerald-green waters is breathtakingly beautiful.
Tours are often held on sunny days, even during the year-end and New Year’s holidays, so be sure to give it a try!
↓Click here for recommended plans that include landing on the island.
If you're staying on Kohama Island over the New Year's holidays, this is the place to stay!
2 Recommended Hotels
Since there are only a limited number of accommodations on Kohama Island, this is especially true during the year-end and New Year's holidaysEarly reservations are a mustIt is.
Here are two recommended places where you can fully enjoy the island’s atmosphere.
Let's explore Kohama Island together!
Click here for recommended tours ↓↓.
Japanese playing cards (12 suits of 4 cards, each suit repr. a month indic. by a flower)
A leading resort hotel on Kohama Island"The Festering Fist."is a spectacular resort set on a vast 360,000 tsubo site, surrounded by tropical nature.
From the guest rooms, you can enjoy views of the Yaeyama Sea and the starry sky, and special events—such as special dinners and fireworks—are sometimes held during the New Year’s holiday season.
This is the perfect place to stay for those seeking an extraordinary resort experience.
su_box title="Basic Information on Haimurubushi" style="bubbles" box_color="#bdc109" radius="5"]Address: 2930 Kohama, Taketomi Town, Yaeyama District, Okinawa Prefecture 907-1292
Access: 7 minutes by car from Obama Port
↓Click here for more details on Haimurubushi↓
Risonare Kohama Island
Hoshino Resorts"Resonare Kohama Island," operated by [Company Name], is a luxury resort that blends seamlessly with nature.
Set on an open grounds dotted with cottage-style guest rooms, you can enjoy a stay filled with privacy.
Special year-end and New Year's packages are often available, making it the perfect choice for a special trip with your partner or family.
Access: 15 minutes by car from Obama Port
↓Click here for details on Risonaire Kohama Island↓
Things to Keep in Mind When Visiting Kohama Island During the Year-End and New Year Holidays
To enjoy your trip to Kohama Island during the year-end and New Year’s holidays, it’s important to check transportation options and crowd information in advance.
To ensure a smooth trip, keep the following points in mind.
Access by Ferry from Ishigaki Island
To get to Kohama Island from Ishigaki Island,Ishigaki Port TerminalFrom there, take the An-ei Kanko or Yaeyama Kanko Ferry.
The trip takes about 30 minutes, and there are multiple departures per day.
Since there are direct flights to Ishigaki Island from Naha Airport and major airports on Honshu, be sure to plan your travel arrangements based on your itinerary.
↓Click here for details on the ferry to Kohama Island↓
Ferry Crowds and Precautions During the Year-End and New Year Holidays
Because of the large number of tourists during the year-end and New Year's holidays, the ferriesIt's not uncommon for it to be fully booked.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
We strongly recommend booking your boarding pass online in advance.
Also, since ferry service may be canceled due to weather conditions, it’s a good idea to allow some extra time in your itinerary.
Since north winds tend to pick up in January, make it a habit to check the flight status in advance!
Click here for details of the ferry to Kohama Island.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Year-End and New Year Holidays on Kohama Island
The average temperature in December is about 20–22°C, and in January it’s about 18–20°C. While the weather is relatively pleasant during the day, it can get chilly in the mornings and evenings, so it’s a good idea to pack lightweight jackets, cardigans, and other layers.
In December, the sea temperature stays around 24–25°C, and in January, it hovers around 23°C. You can enjoy snorkeling and diving if you wear a wetsuit. However, on days when strong north winds blow, the waves can get rough, and tours may be canceled, so we recommend checking the conditions in advance.
An'ei Kanko and Yaeyama Kanko Ferries will continue to operate from the Ishigaki Port Remote Islands Terminal throughout the year-end and New Year’s holidays. However, as crowds are expected during this period, advance online reservations for tickets are required. Additionally, since cancellations may occur due to weather conditions, be sure to allow plenty of time in your itinerary.
summary
During the year-end and New Year's holidays on Kohama Island, you can leisurely enjoy the beautiful nature and scenic spots in a warm climate.Special Travel DestinationsIt is.
Although temperatures drop slightly in December and January, the weather is much more pleasant than in Honshu, allowing you to fully enjoy the quiet charm of the island that is unique to winter.
Be sure to book your transportation and accommodations well in advance, and why not create some special year-end and New Year’s memories on Kohama Island?
↓Click here to read the article.
