Complete Guide to Tarama Island! How to get there, Sightseeing, Accommodation
Tarama Island Sightseeing Guide
Summary of how to get there, what to see and where to stay
Tarama Island, located roughly halfway between Miyako Island and Ishigaki Island in Okinawa, is a healing remote island where the original landscape of old Okinawa remains.
You can enjoy the charm of nature that is not overly touristy, such as crystal clear waters, star-filled skies, and tranquil village scenery.
◆If you want to know the recommended sightseeing spots in Tarama Island
◆If you want to know how to get to Tarama Island and how to access the island.
◆Tarama Island, looking for a place to stay in a relaxed atmosphere.
In this article, we’ll provide easy-to-understand information to help you plan your first trip to Tarama Island—from how to get there to recommended sightseeing spots and lodging options!
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours to Mizuna Island.
What is Tarama Island like? Basic Information
Tarama Island is located between Miyako Island and Ishigaki Island.Picturesque circular islandIt is.
Because the transportation system is not yet developed within Tarama Island,rent-a-carand ... andrent-a-cycleIt is recommended to tour the island by There are buses that circle the village at regular intervals, so it is a good idea to use them if time permits!
It takes about 30 minutes by car, or about 2 hours by bike, to go all the way around the island!
▼Click here for recommended plans for Minna Island▼
▼Learn more about the tour that includes round-trip ferry tickets to Minna Island▼
Location and Island Overview of Tarama Island
Tarama Island is a remote island belonging to the Miyako Islands in Okinawa Prefecture,Located almost halfway between Miyako Island and Ishigaki IslandI am doing this.
Although it is a small island with a circumference of about 20 km, it is an island of healing where the original landscape of Okinawa remains strong, including villages with traditional red-tile roofs, sugar cane fields, and the crystal clear ocean.
◆Access: 25 minutes from Miyako Airport to Tarama Airport
In recognition of its beautiful landscape and traditional culture, Tarama Village has been recognized by the "Most Beautiful Village in Japan" federation.
Its charm lies in its unspoiled, rustic atmosphere—one that hasn’t been overrun by tourism—making it perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy the island’s laid-back pace!
Climate and recommended travel season for Tarama Island
Tarama Island has a mild subtropical climate throughout the year, making it relatively comfortable even in winter. The average temperature is warm, around 20 degrees Celsius, and from spring to fall, visitors can enjoy ocean activities and sightseeing to the fullest.
Particularly recommended travel seasons are sunny days and high sea clarity.April-Octoberapproximate ☆
Summer is the best season to enjoy snorkeling and walking on the beach. Winter, on the other hand, attracts fewer tourists and is recommended for those who want to enjoy a quiet trip to the islands and stargaze under the stars.
▼Click here for our great value one-day package to enjoy Minna Island▼
▼About Our Great Value One-Day PackageLearn more▼
How to get to Tarama Island (access)
There are two ways to reach Tarama Island: by plane or by boat from Miyako Island.
There are many airplanes operating from the main island of Okinawa to Miyako Island,Approx. 50 min.The hotel arrives at the
(2) Miyako Island to Tarama Island
◆ By Air: From Miyako Airport to Tarama Airport
For ◆Boat: "Ferry Tarama III" from Taira Port to Tarama Island,9:00 A.M.The ship will depart on
*Since the service is closed on Sundays and the hours may vary depending on the time of year, it is recommended that you inquire in advance to confirm the hours when you plan to travel to Tarama Island.
We will even detail what you need to know before your trip!
How to fly from Miyako Island
(Time required and fees)
The fastest way to reach Tarama Island is to fly from Miyako Island. From Miyako Airport to Tarama AirportAbout 25 to 30 minutesThe best part is that you can get there quickly and move around easily!
It is operated by Ryukyu Air Commuter (RAC), with two round trips per day. The normal fare is 8,700 yen one way, and the round-trip discount is 5,600 yen per way (11,200 yen round-trip). (as of May 2026).
Because of the limited number of flights, early reservations are recommended, especially during the tourist season.
How to go by ferry from Miyako Island
(Ferry Tarama III, Rates and Notes)
For those who want to enjoy the feeling of traveling, another popular option is to take a ferry from Miyako Island. The "Ferry Tarama III" makes a round trip from Hirara Port to Tarama Island once a day.About 2 hoursThe hotel arrives at the
At 2,510 yen one way, it’s relatively affordable compared to flying! (As of May 2026) Another attraction is the chance to enjoy the unique scenery that only a boat trip can offer.
However, it is recommended that you allow plenty of time for your travel itinerary, as the ship may be cancelled due to sea conditions or weather. Please check the latest sailing information before boarding.
▼Click here for recommended plans for Minna Island▼
▼Learn more about the tour that includes round-trip ferry tickets to Minna Island▼
Getting Around the Island
(rental cars, rental bicycles, and paid buses)
Tarama Island is a relatively small island, but transportation is recommended if you want to visit tourist spots efficiently. Rent-a-car, rent-a-bike, and rent-a-cycle are available on the island, allowing you to enjoy sightseeing at your leisure.
Rental bikes are popular among those who want to enjoy a leisurely stroll through the village! On the other hand, rental cars are convenient during hot weather or if you want to see the area in a short amount of time.
Some inns may also offer a shuttle service or paid bus service. Since the number of buses is limited, it is advisable to make reservations in advance during peak season.
Popular tourist spots on Tarama Island
Although Tarama Island is not a tourist destination, there are still several spots that are popular among tourists.
We have carefully selected a few of them, so let's check them out in order.
▼Click here for day trip plans to Minna Island▼
![[Minna Island] License Required! 2-Dive Recreational Diving Course (Includes Underwater Photography Service)](https://minnatour.world-tours.jp/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/74232794_519381342177234_7403042043565441024_n-825x510.jpeg)
▼ Departing from and returning to Okinawa Main Island! Minna Island Day TripLearn more▼
Furusato Seaside Park
On Tarama IslandMost popular beach! If you want to enjoy the sea on Tarama Island, Furusato Seaside Park is the place to go.
◆With a view of Mizuna Island
◆Calm waves in shallow water
◆Snorkeling can also be enjoyed
◆Barbecue available
◆showers, toilets, parking available
Short walk from Maedomari Port
Approximately 14 minutes by car from Futenma Port
Take a paid bus and get off at Tarama Island Town Hall, then walk about 15 minutes.
Yaeyama Observation Deck
Tarama Island's most scenic spotsOh my god!!!The Yaeyama Observatory is a nationally designated historic site and is located at an elevation of 33 meters, the highest point on Tarama Island.
◆Nationally designated historic site
◆Masonry watchtower remaining from the 17th century
◆Overlooking Tarama Island
◆ and enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding ocean.
If you rent a car...
◇About 15 minutes from Tarama Airport
Approximately 15 minutes from Futenma Port
Approximately 25 minutes on foot from Maedomari Port
Shiokawa Utaki (Okinawa sanctuary with Fukugi trees)
Shiokawa Utaki is known as a spot where visitors can feel the traditional culture and faith of Tarama Island.
Utaki is a “place of prayer” that has been cherished in Okinawa since ancient times, and Shiokawa Utaki is a sacred place that is still carefully protected by the local people today.
The area is lined with a beautiful row of Fukugi trees, creating a quiet and enchanting atmosphere—another of its charms! It’s popular not only as a tourist attraction but also as a place to experience the history and culture of Tarama Island.
Sacred Utaki unique to Okinawa
◆Healing space lined with fukugi trees
◆Quiet and calm atmosphere
◆Popular as a photo spot
◇About 8 minutes by car from Maedomari Port
Approximately 12 minutes by car from Futenma Port
Accessible by renting a bicycle.
Furusato Folk Learning Center
Enjoy learning about the history, folklore, and culture of Tarama Island.Furusato Folk Study Hall is a popular recommendation on Tarama Island.
You can feel the culture of both Miyako Island and Yaeyama.
◆Listen to commentary by staff
◆Learn about the culture and dialect of Tarama Island.
◆Traditional event "August Dance
◆Experience the unique culture of Tarama Island
◆Reasonable admission fee (200 yen for adults)
Tarama Island offers much more than just beautiful seas—it’s packed with plenty of unique charms that can only be found on an island. Here, we’ll take a closer look at Tarama Island’s unique attractions and local specialties! One of Tarama Island’s greatest attractions is its beautiful, crystal-clear ocean, known as “Tarama Blue.” The gradation of colors in the sea, shifting from emerald green to deep blue, is truly a breathtaking sight! Because the island is not overly touristy, it is also characterized by its pristine nature. White sand beaches, sugar cane fields, and star-filled skies create a relaxing and healing atmosphere throughout the island. It is perfect for those who want to enjoy a quiet, remote island time away from the hustle and bustle of the city. On Tarama Island, you can enjoy local gourmet specialties that make the most of the island’s abundant natural resources. One of the most famous is “Tarama Island Brown Sugar,” made from the island’s sugarcane. It’s known for its rich, deep sweetness and flavor, and is a popular souvenir! Tarama beef, carefully raised on the island, is another notable specialty. Its tender meat and delicious flavor are appealing, and can be enjoyed at local restaurants. In addition, visitors can enjoy simple gourmet foods unique to Tarama Island, such as island tofu, Okinawan soba noodles, and home cooking using local ingredients. The "Hachigatsu Odori (August dance)" is known as one of the representative traditional events of Tarama Island. It is a traditional performing art dedicated to praying for a good harvest and good health during the harvest festival held in August of the lunar calendar. The entire island is enveloped in a festive mood as dancers in colorful costumes perform dances, kyogen, kumiodori, and other forms of dance. Because of its high historical and cultural value, the festival is designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Asset of Japan. If you’d like to experience the traditional culture unique to Tarama Island, we recommend visiting during the August Dance festival! On Tarama Island, visitors can enjoy activities that take advantage of the beautiful sea and nature. In addition to diving and snorkeling in the crystal-clear “Tarama Blue” waters, cycling through the peaceful villages and along the coast is also a popular activity! Because the islands are not overly touristy, visitors can enjoy a relaxing time on the islands. Click here to see the ranking of popular tours to Mizuna Island.
The waters of Tarama Island are crystal clear, and the island is popular as a diving spot where visitors can enjoy the beautiful sea scenery known as "Tarama blue. The underwater world, teeming with coral reefs and tropical fish, offers a breathtaking view that’s truly unique to Okinawa’s outlying islands! Another attraction is the chance to dive at a leisurely pace in a quiet environment, thanks to the relatively few visitors. Some shops also offer introductory diving experiences for beginners. ▼Click here for popular diving tours on Minna Island▼ ▼About the Minna Island Diving TourLearn more▼ Snorkeling and swimming are recommended for those who want to casually enjoy the sea. At Furusato Seaside Park, for example, you can enjoy the shallow, calm waters. In the crystal-clear waters, you might even spot colorful fish in the shallows! You can enjoy a leisurely time relaxing by the beach or watching the beautiful sunset. ▼Click here for the Minna Island Beach Access Plan▼ ▼About the Minna Island Beach Access PlanLearn more▼ Cycling around the island is also popular among those who wish to take their time and enjoy the nature and village scenery. Tarama Island is relatively small and can be circumnavigated by bicycle in about two hours. One of the main attractions is the chance to enjoy scenery typical of a remote island—such as villages with red-tiled roofs, sugarcane fields, and coastal roads! Since you can explore at your own pace, it’s perfect for anyone who wants to relax and savor the island’s laid-back atmosphere. Tarama Island is dotted with homelike guest houses and small accommodations. While there aren’t many large-scale facilities like tourist hotels, the island’s charm lies in the opportunity to interact with the locals and enjoy its warm atmosphere. Take your time during your stay and fully immerse yourself in the nature and culture unique to Tarama Island! Tarama Island has several guest houses and home-stays for tourists. Each offers different attractions, such as inns where you can enjoy home-style cooking and accommodations for long-term stays. Some accommodations offer shuttle services to the airport or harbor, so even first-time visitors can feel at ease! Since many of these places have a limited number of rooms, we recommend booking early during the tourist season. This is the best-equipped village-run cottage facility on Tarama Island. Surrounded by Fukugi trees, the red-tiled buildings create an Okinawan atmosphere, and each of the four buildings has three twin rooms, for a total of 12 general guest rooms. The inn is especially suitable for travelers who value comfort, as it is equipped with necessary facilities such as toilets, showers, kitchens, and laundries for common use, and is well cleaned. The bright yellow and blue exterior of this casual lodging facility catches the eye. It consists of two buildings, "COCO House" with 8 Japanese-style rooms and "COCO Land" with 10 Western-style rooms, and the reception desk is common. COCO House is based on half-board with flexible meal plans, and COCO Land is based on overnight stays with no meal plans, but meals are available next door. All rooms are equipped with Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and refrigerators, and there is also a free training room and equipment washing and drying facilities, making it ideal for active travelers☆. This is a reasonably priced simple overnight stay facility operated by Daitoku Shoji. Although it specializes in overnight stays with no meal, each room is equipped with an air conditioner, shower, and toilet, and barbecues can be enjoyed on the shared veranda. It also serves as the only bicycle store on the island, and guests can easily rent bicycles. This location is a great advantage because bicycles are an important means of transportation on Tarama Island, where there are no cabs. Tarama Island can be visited on a day trip, but an overnight stay is recommended to fully appreciate the island's charms. Day trips can take you to the main spots, but you will need to be on time for the ferry or plane. On the other hand, if you stay overnight, you can take your time enjoying the charms unique to a remote island, such as the star-filled sky and the tranquil nighttime scenery of the village! Tarama Island and Mizuna Island are both popular remote islands in Okinawa, but there are significant differences in access, atmosphere, and enjoyment. Since the best islands to visit depend on the purpose of your trip, let's compare their features and see which ones suit you best! Click here to see the ranking of popular tours to Mizuna Island.
Tarama Island is a remote island located between Miyako and Ishigaki Islands, accessible by plane or ferry from Miyako Island. Mizuna Island, on the other hand, is located off Motobu-cho in the northern part of Okinawa's main island, and can be reached by ferry from Tokuchi Port in about 15 minutes. While Tarama Island offers an “unexplored” island getaway, Mizuna Island is popular as a remote island that can be easily accessed from the main island of Okinawa. ↓Click here for details on access to Mizuna Island. For those who want to enjoy relaxing island time and traditional Okinawan scenery, Tarama Island is recommended. With relatively few tourists, you can enjoy a quiet trip to the remote islands. On the other hand, Minna Island is perfect for a casual day trip, making it ideal for those who want to focus on water sports and beach activities! We recommend choosing your destination based on your travel style. ↓For more information on activities on Mizuna Island, click here↓. Tarama Island is a remote island full of charm, with its beautiful "Tarama blue" sea, traditional Okinawan scenery, and traditional culture. In addition to visiting tourist attractions and enjoying water sports, one of the island’s biggest draws is the chance to relax and enjoy the island’s laid-back pace of life! Since it has a different atmosphere from Mizuna Island, we recommend that you choose the island according to your travel style. If you want to enjoy a healing trip unique to the remote islands of Okinawa, please visit Tarama Island. ↓Click here to read the article.
◇About 9 minutes by car/25 minutes on foot from Maedomari Port
Approximately 13 minutes by car from Futenma Port
◇ ◇Bus: Get off at "Tarama Village Hall" and walk about 8 minutes.
Attractions and Specialties of Tarama Island
Tarama Blue" and untouched nature
Brown Sugar, Tarama Beef, Gourmet Specialties
dance performance held in August
Traditional Performing Arts of National Important Intangible Folk Cultural PropertiesActivities on Tarama Island
Diving (enjoy Tarama blue)
Snorkeling and swimming
Cycling around the island
Accommodations on Tarama Island
List of recommended inns and guest houses
Dream Patio Tarama
Access: 15 minutes by car from Tarama Airport / 5 minutes by car from Maedomari Port (village bus available, 400 yen one way)
Fee: Adults 6,600 yen and up (tax included) / Children 4,950 yen and up (tax included) *includes 2 meals
COCO House
Access: 10 minutes drive from Tarama Airport / 5 minutes drive from Maedomari Port (pick-up and drop-off available, reservation required)
Rates: Adults 6,600 yen with half board / 4,800 yen with/without meals, Elementary school students 4,800 yen with half board / 3,000 yen with/without meals (tax included)
Guesthouse Daitoku
Access: Village bus (400 yen one way) available from Tarama Airport and Maedomari Port. Approximately 8 minutes walk from Tarama Village Hall bus stop.
Rates: 3,400 yen per night and up (overnight stay only)
Which do you recommend, a day trip or an overnight stay?
Thorough comparison of Tarama Island and Mizuna Island
Difference in location and accessibility
Recommendations by Travel Style
(Which is better suited?)
FAQ for Tarama Island Sightseeing
summary
![[From Northern Okinawa Main Island / Motobu Town] Easy Snorkeling at a Beach with a View of the "Gorilla Chop" Rock—Open to Ages 5 and Up☆《Free Photo Download》](https://minnatour.world-tours.jp/wp-content/uploads/2000/01/GOPR0337-825x510.jpg)
