Kohama Travel Guide

Visit Kohama, a beautiful island in Yaeyama Islands, Okinawa, Japan. This comprehensive Kohama travel guide covers itinerary, places to visit, stay and eat, transport options and more.


Introduction to Kohama

Kohama is a picturesque island in the Yaeyama Islands in Okinawa, Japan. Nestled between Ishigaki and Iriomote islands, Kohama Island boasts of white sandy beaches, lush greenery, and crystal clear waters. The island is known for its laidback atmosphere, making it a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover the must-visit places, the best places to stay and eat, and everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to Kohama.

List of Places to Visit in Kohama

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Kohama Traditional Crafts Center - Located in the center of the island, the Kohama Traditional Crafts Center is dedicated to showcasing the island’s traditional crafts, including weaving, pottery, and dyeing.

  2. Kohama Shinto Shrine – The island’s main shrine that pays homage to the deified ancestors, Kohama Shinto Shrine is a tranquil and serene place to visit.

Natural Attractions of Kohama: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Haimurubushi beach - Surrounded by coral reefs, Haimurubushi beach is the perfect spot for snorkeling or diving. The crystal-clear waters offer a glimpse into the underwater life of the island.

  2. Mt. Nachisan observation point - The Mt. Nachisan observation point offers a stunning panoramic view of the Kohama Island and its surrounding areas. Make sure to visit during sunset or sunrise.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kohama

Kohama Island is best explored on foot or by bicycle. Two of the most popular trails on the island are:

  1. Kohama Island Trail - A 6-kilometer paved loop trail that takes you through the island’s villages and stunning scenery.

  2. Ufuudaki Trail – A 7-kilometer hike that leads to Ufuudaki observation deck, offering a panoramic view of the island and its surroundings.

Best Things to Do in Kohama: Activities and Tours

  1. Island Hopping - Visit nearby islands like Iriomote and Taketomi on a day trip.

  2. Sunset Cruise - Admire the stunning sunset over the East China Sea while enjoying dinner and drinks onboard a catamaran.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kohama

Day 1 - Arrival and Relaxation: Stroll around the island’s villages and enjoy its laidback atmosphere. Take a dip at nearby beaches like Haimurubushi beach.

Day 2 - Cultural Exploration: Visit the Kohama Traditional Crafts Center and Kohama Shinto Shrine.

Day 3 - Outdoor Adventure: Hike or bike the Kohama Island Trail or the Ufuudaki Trail.

Day 4 - Snorkeling or Diving: Discover the abundant marine life of the East China Sea.

Day 5 - Island Hopping: Visit the nearby islands of Iriomote or Taketomi.

Day 6 - Sunset Cruise: Relax and enjoy the stunning sunset over the sea onboard a catamaran.

Day 7 - Departure.

Food and Drink Scene of Kohama

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Goat meat dishes - Kohama Island is known for its delicious goat meat dishes, including goat curry and goat steak.

  2. Seafood dishes – Fish and shellfish are popular dishes in Kohama, served raw in sushi or grilled as a main course.

Local Beverages

  1. Awamori - A traditional Okinawan distilled liquor made from long-grain rice, is widely consumed in Kohama Island.

  2. Shikwasa Juice – Made from a citrus fruit called shikwasa, the juice is a refreshing drink to cool off from the island’s tropical climate.

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

Kohama Island has a handful of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses to choose from. Some of the best accommodation options include:

  1. Haimurubushi Resort - A luxury resort that offers stunning views of the East China Sea and Ishigaki Island.

  2. Kohama Island Guesthouse - A cozy and affordable guesthouse that offers a homely ambiance.

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

  1. Traditional Crafts - Kohama Island is known for its traditional crafts, including weaving, pottery, and dyeing.

  2. Ryukyu Glassware – The island is home to several glass workshops, producing unique and colorful Ryukyu glassware.

Local Culture and Customs of Kohama

Kohama Island is a part of the Yaeyama Islands, which has a unique culture and tradition. The islanders celebrate several festivals throughout the year, and visitors are welcome to join the festivities.

Best Time to Visit Kohama

The best time to visit Kohama Island is between April and November when the weather is warm and sunny. The island experiences a tropical climate, and visitors should expect high humidity with occasional rains.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kohama

Do:

  1. Respect the island’s culture and tradition.

  2. Try the island’s specialty dishes and drinks.

Don’t:

  1. Litter the island’s beaches and parks.

  2. Disrupt the island’s natural environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kohama

Kohama Island is generally a safe place to visit, with low crime rates. Visitors should exercise caution while swimming, especially during high tide.

Health in Kohama

Kohama Island has several medical facilities, including a small hospital and clinics. Visitors with severe medical conditions should consult with their doctor before making travel plans.

Getting to Kohama: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kohama

Ishigaki Airport is the nearest airport to Kohama Island, located approximately 30 kilometers from the island. From Ishigaki Airport, visitors can take a ferry to Kohama Island’s port.

Bus Stations Near Kohama

There are no bus services on Kohama Island.

Other Options

Visitors can reach Kohama Island by ferry from Ishigaki Island’s port. Ferries operate several times a day to and from Kohama Island and Ishigaki Island.

How to Get Around in Kohama

Kohama Island is best explored on foot or by bicycle. Visitors can rent bicycles from various rental shops on the island.

Where to Go Next from Kohama: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Iriomote Island – Known for its tropical rainforests and waterfalls, Iriomote Island is a popular destination for nature lovers.

  2. Taketomi Island - A traditional Okinawan village that boasts of well-preserved Ryukyu houses and sandy beaches.

Conclusion

Kohama Island is a hidden gem in the Yaeyama Islands. Its tropical climate, stunning beaches, and rich culture and tradition make it an ideal destination for a relaxing and enjoyable vacation. From outdoor adventures to cultural exploration, there is something for everyone on this island. Make sure to add Kohama Island to your travel list and experience its beauty firsthand.

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