Akajima Travel Guide

Discover the natural beauty, cultural attractions, and must-see destinations of Akajima with this comprehensive travel guide. Find out the best places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


Introduction to Akajima

Akajima is a small island located in the Kerama Islands, in the Okinawa prefecture of Japan. It is known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and rich marine life. This scenic island is a popular tourist destination for those looking for a peaceful and idyllic vacation spot.

List of Places to Visit in Akajima

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Satisfy your cultural cravings by visiting the numerous museums and historical sites located in Akajima. The Ryukyu Mura is a living museum showcasing the traditional lifestyle, culture, and crafts of the Okinawan people. The museum has various performances, workshops, and exhibits that give visitors a glimpse of the island’s heritage.

Another historically important location is the Nagannu Island Ruins, which was once a significant center of trade and commerce in Okinawa. The ruins can be explored on foot and feature artifacts such as pottery and coins.

Natural Attractions of Akajima: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Akajima is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The island has several hiking trails and biking routes that lead to stunning views of the ocean and mountains. The most popular hiking route is the Akajima Nature Trail, which takes visitors to the island’s highest point, Myojin Mountain, where they can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views.

Visitors can also go whale watching, snorkeling, scuba diving, paddle-boarding, and kayaking in the waters surrounding Akajima. The island is known for its diverse marine life, including sea turtles, manta rays, and tropical fish.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Akajima

With its rolling hills, rugged coastline, and panoramic views, Akajima is a hiker and biker’s paradise. The island has several hiking and biking routes of varying degrees of difficulty, catering to both experienced and novice travelers.

The Akajima Nature Trail is the most popular hiking trail that takes visitors to the island’s highest point. Cyclists can rent mountain bikes and explore the island at their own pace.

Best Things to Do in Akajima: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, Akajima offers a range of other activities that visitors can partake in, such as whale watching, snorkeling, scuba diving, paddle-boarding, and kayaking. There are also several tours that visitors can sign up for, including island hopping tours, glass-bottom boat tours, and boat fishing tours.

For those looking to relax and unwind, the island has various massage spas and hot springs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Akajima

Day 1-2: Explore the island’s cultural attractions, such as Ryukyu Mura and Nagannu Island Ruins.

Day 3-4: Hike or bike through the island’s scenic trails and take in the panoramic views.

Day 5-6: Go snorkeling, scuba diving, or take a glass-bottom boat tour to explore the island’s diverse marine life.

Day 7: Relax and rejuvenate at one of the island’s massage spas or hot springs.

Food and Drink Scene of Akajima

Must-Try Dishes

Akajima’s local cuisine features various seafood dishes, including grilled fish, squid, and octopus. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Okinawan dishes, such as goya champuru (bitter melon stir fry) and soki soba (pork and noodle soup).

Local Beverages

Okinawa is known for its unique local beverages, such as awamori (a distilled alcoholic beverage made from rice) and Orion beer.

Where to Stay in Akajima: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Akajima has several accommodation options that cater to various budgets and preferences. Visitors can choose from high-end hotels, traditional guesthouses, or cozy hostels.

Best Budget Option: Kerama Terrace

Kerama Terrace is a highly-rated guesthouse located near the Akajima ferry terminal. The guesthouse offers modern facilities, comfortable beds, and a communal kitchen.

Best Luxury Option: Ama Beach Resort

For those looking to splurge, Ama Beach Resort is a luxury hotel located on the island’s picturesque Ama Beach. The hotel features spacious rooms, private balconies, and stunning ocean views.

What to Buy in Akajima: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can take home unique souvenirs and local products, such as pottery, handmade crafts, and traditional textiles. Local shops also sell products made from seashells and coral.

Local Culture and Customs of Akajima

Okinawa has a unique culture influenced by the Ryukyu Kingdom, which was a separate nation before being annexed by Japan in the 19th century. Visitors should be respectful of local customs, such as removing their shoes before entering a home or temple and refraining from noisy behavior.

Best Time to Visit Akajima

The best time to visit Akajima is from April to June or from September to November, when the island has mild weather and fewer crowds. The island is also beautiful during the cherry blossom season in late March and early April.

Do’s and Don’ts of Akajima

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs, such as removing shoes before entering a home or temple.
  • Try local dishes and beverages.
  • Check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly for outdoor activities.
  • Take your trash with you and dispose of it properly.

Don’t:

  • Make loud noises or disrupt the peaceful environment.
  • Touch or damage the coral reefs or marine life.
  • Use flash photography in museums or historical sites.
  • Smoke in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Akajima

Akajima is a relatively safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, visitors should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially when engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking and water sports.

Health in Akajima

Akajima has several medical clinics and pharmacies that offer basic medical care. However, visitors are advised to bring any necessary medication and get travel insurance before visiting the island.

Getting to Akajima: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Akajima

The nearest airport is Naha Airport in Okinawa, from which visitors can take a taxi or a bus to the Tomari ferry terminal in Naha City.

Bus Stations Near Akajima

The Kerama Islands ferry departs from Tomari Ferry Terminal in Naha City, Okinawa. From there, visitors can take a fast ferry to Akajima.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a private boat charter from Naha or hire a tour operator.

How to Get Around in Akajima

Akajima is a small island, and visitors can explore most of it on foot. Bicycles and small electric carts are also available for rent.

Where to Go Next from Akajima: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore the other islands of the Kerama Islands, such as Zamami Island and Tokashiki Island. Several tour operators offer day trips to nearby destinations, such as Shuri Castle in Okinawa City.

Conclusion

Akajima is a beautiful and enchanting destination, offering a perfect combination of natural beauty and cultural attractions. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can plan their trip to Akajima and explore the island’s hidden gems. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat, an adventure-filled vacation, or a cultural experience, Akajima has something for everyone.

Bridge between Akajima Island (left) and Gerumajima Island (right) Bridge between Akajima Island (left) and Gerumajima Island (right) Locals from Akajima Island perform an acrobatic farewell for the evening ferry Locals from Akajima Island perform an acrobatic farewell for the evening ferry