List of recommended places to visit and things to do in Hateruma Island!

What is Hateruma Island?

The beautiful sea and star-filled skyHateruma Island" is the southernmost island in Japan.

The name of Hateruma Island is said to derive from "the coral at the end of the sea (Uruma).

As the name suggests, the sea is surrounded by coral reefs, and the beauty of the sea is outstanding.

It is also famous as "Star Island" where many constellations can be seen.

The beach, acclaimed as "Hateruma blue" because of its unique blue color, is the most popular beach in Yaeyama and the natural planetarium that fills the night sky.

Hateruma Island offers a great natural environment where you can have the best time of your life.

 

How to get to Hateruma Island from Ishigaki Island

(one's) whereabouts

There are three ferry services a day from Ishigaki Island, but they are often cancelled in winter, and if they are, you will not be able to leave the island, so it is recommended that you go when you have enough time in your travel schedule.

 

Ferry Information

• Number of flights: about 3 per daytimetable
• Travel time: large boats: approx. 100 minutes (small high-speed boats: 60-70 minutes)
• Fare (one-way): Adult = 3,550 yen, Child = 1,770 yen

How to get around the island

If you have reserved lodging, they will pick you up according to your arrival time at the port.

If you are using a rental bicycle or bike, ask the staff at the store waiting for you at the port.

There is a microbus that goes to the village and the southernmost monument in Japan.

We recommend renting a bike!

If you have the time and energy, you can tour the island by bicycle, but it is best to rent a motorcycle, as there is little shade once you leave the village and the hot summer sun can be harsh.

 

Major Areas and Popular Spots on Hateruma Island

porgy

A pure white powdery sand beach stretches for about 1.5 km.

The sea, with its multiple layers of shades of blue, is breathtakingly beautiful.

Take pictures, take a walk, or just relax and enjoy the view of the ocean!

Nishi Beach was also voted the best beach in Japan by TripAdvisor in 2018!

 

courtesan

A distant viewing platform from which Iriomote Island can be seen.

A fire guard mori used during the Ryukyu Kingdom period.

From the top of the 4-meter-high peak, sugarcane fields and Iriomote Island can be seen in the distance.

 

Sokina Tameike Observatory

　Source:knowledge gained (information acquired) from various sources

A new observatory located right next to an agricultural reservoir.

The flat surroundings allow visitors to enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view.

The view of the stars at night is also beautiful, but it is dark at night, so be sure to check the location beforehand.

From the entrance of the circular road, follow the signs around to the ocean side to reach the observation deck.

 

Coral Beach (Urapina)

　Source:knowledge gained (information acquired) from various sources

About 18 minutes by bicycle from the port.

The beach is located on the right side (ocean side) down a dirt road from a dead-end road, and is formed by many piles of corals.

A secret place with a gradient sea.

Swimming is prohibited.

Takanazaki (Japan's southernmost monument)

You can enjoy the spectacular view of the bright blue ocean in front of you.

The "Southernmost Monument of Japan" was built in 1975 as a prayer for peace.

The view from the sheer cliffs that stretch for about 1 km is spectacular, but those who are afraid of heights may find it a bit scary as the rough waves off the coast of the Philippines pounding against the cliffs are enough to make you lose your footing..!

 

Hateruma Island Starry Sky Observation Tower, Taketomi Town

Japan's southernmost public observatory.A retractable astronomical dome with a 200mm refractor telescope allows observation of lunar craters and other features.The tower is located at the top of the tower. You can listen to the director's commentary on the starry sky on the roof of the tower. Astronomy fans from all over Japan visit the tower after sunset for guided tours of the starry sky and for astronomical observations through telescopes. From the rooftop, you can see the southernmost coast.

Hamasitan community

An area where the evergreen shrub Hamashitan (Mizugampi), said to be 100 years old, grows in clusters covering the rocks on the beach.

The contrast with the ocean is spectacular.

From here, a 5-minute walk along the coast to Kitagawa will take you to Paehama, a hole-in-the-wall beach.

 

Hateruma Lighthouse

　Source:Lighthouse-JAPAN

The lighthouse stands on a small hill in the center of the island, a short distance from the village center.

It offers a spectacular view overlooking the East China Sea and the Pacific Ocean.

 

Pembichi Beach

A quiet beach in the southern part of the island.

Swimming is prohibited due to the fast currents and deep water.

Go beachcombing or just enjoy the view of the horizon.

The clarity of the ocean and the beautiful blue gradient that extends offshore is a spectacular sight that should be seen at least once.

 

cape (on coast)

　Source:Dendenmushi Cape Tour

Small private beach. Small beach on the south side of Pae beach.

Among the overgrown vegetation are "Hamashitan" trees that are several hundred years old.

Recommended for relaxing and watching the ocean and sunset.

 

Hateruma Brewery

　Source:Rakuten　

A brewery that makes Awamori, "Awami", which is mainly sold on Hateruma Island.

Because it is not mass-produced and is difficult to obtain even for islanders, it is called "phantom awamori.

You can also find them in taverns and guest houses.

If you have any, please bring them back as souvenirs, as they will be appreciated.

Phe beach

Pae Beach is a hole-in-the-wall beach on Hateruma Island.

Hateruma Island is popular for Nishi Beach, which is crowded during the hot season.

On the other hand, La Pei Beach is not so crowded even during the hot season, so you can experience the atmosphere of a private beach.

The gradation of the ocean is so beautiful that you can enjoy just looking at the ocean from the beach, but you can also enjoy snorkeling because of the abundance of coral and tropical fish.

There are no toilets or showers, nor are there vending machines available, so be sure to buy drinks in advance to avoid heat stroke!

 

Monument to the Cenotaph for School Children

During the Pacific War, islanders were forcibly evacuated to the beach of Nanpuda on the east side of Iriomote Island.

Many of the evacuated islanders died of malaria.

The monument was built to prevent the tragedy that occurred to the evacuated school children from happening again.

 

Hateruma Post Office

Hateruma Post Office is the southernmost post office in Japan.

As on the mainland, it is only open on weekdays.

If you send a letter to the counter, you can get a wind seal of the southernmost monument in Japan, so please send a letter to the counter.

 

Nagata Jail

There are few shrines in Yaeyama, and Mitake is the sacred place equivalent to a shrine on the mainland.

Nagata Utaki is said to be the Utaki of Nagata Oyasama, a hero from Hateruma Island in the late 15th century.

Nagata Oshu was an island chieftain who, along with Oyakeakahachi, was one of the most powerful.

The stone monument, surrounded by trees, creates a very atmospheric atmosphere.

 

Hateruma Elementary School

Hateruma Elementary School is the southernmost elementary school in Japan, and all Hateruma Islanders attend this school. Seven goats are kept in the school.

 

Buriuchi Park

Buribuchi Park was created in 1972 on the ruins of Shimotabaru Castle in the northern part of Hateruma Island.

The surrounding area is untouched and lush with tropical vegetation.

There are few private homes or tourist attractions in the surrounding area, making it a perfect place to relax and stretch your wings.

There are four benches in the park, so it is nice to relax.

Nearby are trees and stones of great variety, and the 3,500-year-old Shimotabara shell mound is reminiscent of a former settlement.

 

Recommended Activities on Hateruma Island

glass boat

You can enjoy the endless Hateruma blue Nishi beach from the sea.

As soon as you leave the harbor, a peek inside reveals a world of sparkling sand, colorful coral fields, and fish!

If you are lucky, you may see sea turtles♪

It is a rare experience to stand on the glass and feel as if you are walking on the sea.

Even those who cannot swim can enjoy the coral world that spreads out before their feet.

You can also taste a different glass boat experience on Ishigaki and Taketomi islands.

 

snorkeling

Snorkeling can be easily enjoyed from beaches such as Nishi Beach.

Nishi Beach is shallow, allowing for safe swimming.

If you go offshore, you may see coral and bear clams!

Free showers are also available.

 

starry sky observation

Hateruma Island offers the most beautiful starry sky in Japan.

The stargazing tower on Hateruma Island, which is located at the lowest latitude among the Yaeyama Islands and has a suitable environment for star observation.

After sunset, a starry sky guided tour is held. This famous starry sky spot, which attracts astronomy fans from all over Japan, is not to be missed when visiting Hateruma Island.

Related columns are here↓.

 

5 Gourmet Foods of Hateruma Island

parlor minpica (cocktail)

Parlor Mimpika is a relatively new parlor that opened in 2005.

It is located next to the "Mompa Tree" souvenir shop.

Since it is located near Nishi Beach, a popular beach on Hateruma Island, it is a good place to come for shaved ice after enjoying swimming.

Various flavors of shaved ice are offered.

The store's recommendation is the Hateruma Kuromitsu Special, so check it out!

In addition to shaved ice, coffee, tropical juices, draft beer, and foam waves are offered.

Curry is also available during lunch hours.

Related Rankings:Cafes and coffee shops (other) | Hateruma Island

 

indifferent

Ayahuami not only offers island cuisine, but also dyes and weaves using island materials.

It is a store rich in commitment to traditional rituals and old-fashioned island songs and culture.

Ayafufumi is a Hateruma Island word meaning the time after sunset when the horizon is both bright and dark, and as the island's beautiful scenery suggests, the stores are also places where one can experience the island's culture.

Related Rankings:creative cuisine | Hateruma Island

 

red-banded sand wasp (Ammophila sabulosa)

Izakaya Agan is the southernmost izakaya in Japan, which is crowded with tourists and locals every day.

Awamori bottles are lined up in rows all over the store, making for a spectacular sight.

As expected of Okinawa! I think.

The menu offers a wide variety of dishes using island ingredients, local cuisine, and creative dishes.

Related Rankings:Okinawan cuisine | Taketomi Town and others

 

Izakaya Bamboo

When the sugar factory is in operation, it will be its employee cafeteria.

There are also many Hateruma food items on the menu.

The store is open only when the sugar refinery is closed.

When I asked him, he said it would be until October this year.

If you make a reservation, they will pick you up at the inn at a time when you can watch the sunset on Nishi Beach.

You can walk to the store when the sun goes down.

It's a great place to get a ride home as well.

The Pad Thai with Okinawan soba noodles is excellent.

Also, the green onion chashu pork was finished with a sweet and spicy tenderness that reduced the foam wave rapidly.

The kitchen staff is very efficient, having worked in a Chinese restaurant in Tokyo until last year.

Related Rankings:tavern | Taketomi Town and others

 

Nakasoko Shoten

Nakazoko Shoten is the island's most fashionable restaurant in the form of a standing café.

In the store, you can taste Awaba, a fantastic sake from Hateruma Island, island sake ice cream made with Mariya milk from Ishigaki Island, hibiscus sherbet-like akabanana, mango, and seekwasa.

In addition to meals, the restaurant also sells sundries.

All of the items are handmade by the owner, so you can feel the care that went into them!

We hope you will enjoy it.

Related Rankings:cafe | Taketomi Town and others

 

5 Accommodations on Hateruma Island

(1) Southernmost pension

The "Southernmost Pension" is the southernmost pension in Japan with a view of Nishi Beach, a very popular beach on Hateruma Island.

You can access the ocean at any time and can take a shower and relax in your room right after enjoying a swim in the sea.

The terrace of the pension is also equipped with chairs so that visitors can enjoy the ocean view while taking in the sea breeze all around them.

It is perfect for a comfortable Hateruma life!

At dinner, you can taste the main dish and sashimi.

After the meal, yuntaku, an Okinawan cultural event, is held.

The owner hosts a drinking party where guests can gather around the sake and drink all the awamori they want for free.

Enjoy a resort stay on the nature-rich island of Hateruma at the southernmost point of the pension with excellent service!

 

(2) Hacona Ryokan

Opened in September 2013, it is the newest hideaway ryokan on Hateruma Island.

In the clean interior, you can taste the excellent food prepared by a former sushi chef from Tsukiji.

There are only three Japanese-style rooms (8 tatami mats), but it is a very popular inn, so early reservations are recommended!

The Ryukyu tatami mats and white color scheme create a very nice, relaxed atmosphere.

Rooms are equipped with shower, toilet, TV, refrigerator, hot water pot, and air conditioning.

The amenities and bath and face towels, toothbrushes, shampoo, conditioner, body soap, razors, etc. are also very well stocked.

You can enjoy local cuisine made with island ingredients such as yushi tofu, bonito carpaccio, glutinous millet rice, homemade vegetables, and sashimi and boiled fish from the waters around Ishigaki Island, all prepared by a former sushi chef from Tsukiji.

The volume is sure to satisfy you.

The ryokan has a cafe & bar space, so after dinner you can sip on Orion beer or Awamori while chatting.

The clean interior, hospitable service, and exquisite cuisine will make your trip to Hateruma a satisfying one!

 

(iii) Yutai

If you want to spend a relaxing time in Hateruma Island, please use this service.

Yutai is basically not very hospitable because it allows guests to stay as if they were living on Hateruma Island.

So you have a firm policy.

The Ryukyu tatami mats used in the inn allow for casual use and are recommended for sightseeing in the area or going out to eat the cuisine of Hateruma Island.

Many guest houses in Okinawa have coin-operated air conditioners for a fee, but this one has free air conditioning in all rooms, which is a nice feature.

The shared space includes a kitchen, perfect for cooking meals and relaxing!

 

4) Oceans

Oceans is the only hotel on Hateruma Island.

The facilities and amenities are very good for a hotel.

All guest rooms have wireless LAN available and are very clean.

They are equipped with a bath, toilet, air conditioner, and TV.

Breakfast is included in the basic fee, so you can eat well in the morning and go on your trip to Hateruma with good stamina!

Although the beach is far from this hotel, it is easily accessible with bicycles, electric bicycles, rental bikes, and rental cars available!

 

(5) House Minami

House Minami is a cottage-type guest house with no meals, so it is recommended for those with children or those who prefer privacy!

All rooms are equipped with a kitchen, refrigerator, and cooking utensils for your comfort.

There are also four types of rooms, A-D, with variations such as Western-style rooms, Japanese-style rooms, and rooms with showers.

Rice is available free of charge, so those staying for a longer period of time can bring their own food and enjoy a relaxing stay in Hateruma.

House Minami also offers stargazing tours, so on a clear day, you can end your day with a starry night sky over Hateruma Island!

 

Model Course of Hateruma Island

8:00 Departure from Ishigaki Island

9:00Arrive at Hateruma Island

9:05Board a rental car at Oceans Rent-a-Car

9:15 Swimming at Nishi Beach

12:00 Lunch at Ayahuasca

Related Rankings:creative cuisine | Hateruma Island

13:15 Arrival at Japan's southernmost monument

14:30 Tea at Sunflower Cafe

Related Rankings:Cafes and coffee shops (other) | Taketomi Town and others

15:30 Hotel check-in

16:00 Enjoy the view at Hateruma Island Lighthouse

16:50 Enjoy marine activities and sunset at Pemuch Beach

19:00 Dinner at Izakaya Agang

Related Rankings:Okinawan cuisine | Taketomi Town and others

21:15 Return to the inn.

summary

Hateruma Island is filled with blue sea and star-filled sky.

In order to coexist with the nature that still remains and to travel safely in Hateruma, please be sure to observe the following points!

• Be careful not to step on coral. It may cause death or injury to your precious coral.
• At low tide, the offshore coral is so shallow that it dries up. Check the tide times in advance.
• If you swim out to sea, you will see a lot of coral and fish, but be sure to wear a life jacket and swim with at least two people.
• There is no shade except for a small pavilion, so be prepared for sunburn!

It is not easy to go there because of the ship, but if you have the time and timing, please go there at least once and see the best beach in Japan and the star-filled sky!

All the fun of Ishigaki Island is here↓.
Ishigaki Island Tours