The Complete Guide to Driving on Kumejima! Recommended Sightseeing Spots & Sample Itineraries for Your Rental Car Trip

The Charms of a Road Trip Around Kumejima

Kumejima is a remote island in Okinawa located about 60 km from Naha, andCar and Bike RentalsThe biggest attraction is being able to sightsee while taking a leisurely drive around the island.

In this column, we’ll provide detailed information on everything from how to get to Kumejima to choosing your mode of transportation, recommended sightseeing spots, and suggested itineraries.

It's packed with useful information for anyone planning a day trip!

Click here to see the ranking of popular tours on Kume Island.

Basic Information on Kumejima and
Best Season

To get the most out of your trip to Kumejima, start by familiarizing yourself with some basic information about the island and the best time of year to visit.

Just knowing this in advance,Quality of TravelIt goes way up.

Kumejima's Climate and Seasonal Characteristics

Kumejima has a subtropical climate and is warm year-round.

It’s especially popular because the weather is stable and you can enjoy water activitiesApril–June and September–OctoberThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.

Since summer (July–August) is typhoon season, be sure to check the weather forecast before traveling.

Although temperatures drop during the winter (December through February), the appeal is that there are fewer tourists, so you can take your time exploring the island.

By Season! How to Enjoy Kumejima
▼For more information, please click here.

Spring has arrived! How to enjoy spring in Kume Island and recommended activities!What is spring like on Kume Island? Spring (March to May) is the best season to enjoy Kume Island in a relaxed atmosphere! The cold winter weather eases up and the transition to summer brings more tourists, but if you avoid the crowds, you can enjoy the relaxing atmosphere [...].

Introducing summer fun on Kume Island! 5 recommended activities!The Charms of Summer on Kumejima☆ Here’s How to Enjoy It! Summer on Kumejima is the perfect time to fully enjoy the typical summer weather and that tropical resort vibe♪ We’ll cover everything from Kumejima’s summer climate and what to wear to our top recommended sightseeing spots! If you’re planning a trip to Okinawa this summer, be sure to check out […]

Here's what to do in winter on Kume Island! Recommended Sightseeing Spots and ActivitiesWhat is winter like on Kumejima Island? Kumejima Island in Okinawa Prefecture is in winter from mid-December to February. And among them, February is the midwinter. There are also New Year's parties and coming-of-age ceremonies in January, and the Kumejima Mayor's Cup Golf Tournament in February, when enthusiasts gather from all over the country [...].

Access from Naha
(Airplane/Ferry)

There are two main ways to get from Naha to Kumejima:2Yes, there is.

For day-trip ferry trips, the standard schedule involves taking an early morning ferry to the other side and returning in the evening.

For those looking to keep costs downWe also recommend taking the ferry!

How to Get to Kumejima
▼For more information, please click here.

Direct flights available from Naha and Tokyo! Detailed information on flights and fares to Kumejima IslandWhere is Kumejima? Kumejima is an island located about 100 km west of the main island of Okinawa, and it is the fifth-largest island in Okinawa Prefecture. Okinawa Prefecture is made up of many islands, and Kumejima, along with Miyako Island, Ishigaki Island, and Iriomote Island, each has its own unique charm. […]

[A Must-Read for First-Time Visitors] Local Staff Provide a Comprehensive Guide to Getting to Kumejima! We’ll Also Introduce Transportation Options on the IslandWhere is Kume Island? Kumejima Island may be a little less well known than the main islands of Okinawa, Miyako, Ishigaki, and Iriomote. Among those who are familiar with tourism in Okinawa Prefecture, there are many repeat visitors who only go to Kumejima [...].

Kumejima Island
Car Rental and Transportation Guide

To sightsee efficiently on Kumejima,Choosing a Mode of Transportationis very important.

The island covers an area of about 60 square kilometers, and since tourist attractions are scattered throughout the island, be sure to choose a mode of transportation that suits your style.

How to Choose a Rental Car and Estimated Rates

A rental car is the most convenient way to get around while sightseeing on Kumejima.

The island's major car rental companies are concentrated near the airport and the port, so it's best to make your reservation online in advance to ensure a smooth experience.

The fare for a kei car isApproximately 5,000 to 8,000 yen per day...as a general guideline.

Since the number of vehicles is limited during the busy summer season, we recommend making your reservation as early as possible.

Since there aren't many gas stations, it's a good idea to fill up before you leave!

Click here for Kumejima Car Rental Ranking

▼Click here for our recommended plans▼

Kumejima Island/Car Rental】☆Early reservation recommended☆Compact class car rental plan for up to 5 persons ★Includes airport pickup & exemption compensation ★Cancellation free until 3 days before (No.r-1)開始時間8:00-19:00所要時間Negotiable4,950 yen

Kumejima Island/Car Rental] Departure from the airport possible☆One-box type car (max. 8 people) with car navigation system as standard equipment, free pick-up and drop-off, and exemption from liability (No.r-4)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Negotiable14,200 yen

Kumejima Island/Car Rental] Minivan Type《Maximum 7 Passengers》 Standard car navigation system, free pickup and drop-off, and exemption from liability (No.r-3)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Negotiable12,650 yen

Areas You Can Explore by Rental Bike and Things to Keep in Mind

For those who want to enjoy the island’s scenery while getting some exercise, we also recommend renting a bike.

A Tour Around Kumejima isAbout 60 kmSince it’s quite a distance, you can cover it easily on an electric bike.

However, there are many roads with steep inclines and declines, so you should be careful not to overexert yourself under the scorching summer sun.

I recommend taking half a day to a full day to enjoy a short course, as it allows you to sightsee at a comfortable pace.

Tips for Getting Around and Having Fun Without a Car

Even if you're planning to visit Kumejima without a car, there's no need to worry.

On the island, there areCommunity BusThese buses operate and cover the major tourist attractions.

However, since there are only a few trains, be sure to check the schedule in advance.

Combining taxi rides with sightseeing is one efficient way to explore.

Sightseeing Spots Along the Kumejima Drive
6 Top Picks

Kumejima offers everything from breathtaking natural scenery to historic cultural sites,A Variety of Tourist Attractionsare available.

Be sure to stop by while driving around the island in a rental car!

Tatami Stone

One of Kumejima’s most iconic scenic spots is located on Okushima."Tatami Stone"It is.

The hexagonal rocks spread out along the coast in neat rows look just like natural tilework.

It has been designated as a National Natural Monument and is one of the places you definitely want to visit when you come to Kumejima.

At low tide, you can even walk across the rocks to explore!

beach on the far side of the ocean

"Hate no Hama," located off the coast of Kumejima, is surrounded by emerald-green watersOne of Japan's Longest SandbarsIt is.

It takes about 30 minutes by boat from the port of Kumejima to get there.

The contrast between the white sandy beach and the crystal-clear sea is breathtaking, and you can also enjoy snorkeling.

This is a must-see highlight of any trip to Kumejima!

Click here for the Hatenohama Tour Rankings

Hate no Hama Tour
▼Click here for our recommended plans▼

Kumejima】Hate-no-hama beach landing & tropical snorkeling tour with pick-up service (No.802)開始時間Summer season from May to October
9:00-12:00 / 14:00-17:00
Winter season: November to April
9:00-11:00 / 14:00-16:00所要時間Summer season from May to October
Approx. 3 hours
Winter season: November to April
Approx. 2 hours7,000 yen

Kumejima】Hate-no-hama Beach Landing Tour (with free snorkel set rental) (No.801)開始時間Summer season from May to October
9:00-12:00 / 14:00-17:00
Winter season: November to April
9:00-11:00 / 14:00-16:00所要時間Summer season from May to October
Approx. 3 hours
Winter season: November to April
Approx. 2 hours4,500 yen

Kumejima/3 hours] Let's go ashore to "Hate-no-hama", the most beautiful beach in Kumejima, and snorkel with tropical fish in the clear water.開始時間9:00~12:00/13:00~16:00所要時間3 hrs.8,500 yen

HIYATA BANTA

"Hiyasada Banta" is a viewpoint located on a sheer cliff on the west coast of Kume Island.

Elevation: approximately 200 metersThe view of the East China Sea from here is breathtakingly beautiful.

On clear days, you can sometimes see as far as the Kerama Islands.

If you visit around sunset, the sight of the sky and sea bathed in orange is truly breathtaking!

Ojima

Okushima, a small island connected to Kumejima by a bridge, is a popular spot to visit while sightseeing at Tatami-ishi!

The area surrounding the island isJust about 1 kmIt's just the right pace for a leisurely stroll.

It is also known as a habitat for sea turtles, and if you're lucky, you might even spot them swimming in the ocean.

It's a spot where you can relax in a quiet atmosphere.

Click here for the Okunoshima Tour Rankings

Okubujima Tour
▼Click here for our recommended plans▼

Kumejima・Okubu-Island】Barbecue with nothing to cook☆Resort atmosphere BBQ plan☆Cancellation free until 12:00 the day before 《Usea play & Park golf also available》（No.823)開始時間9:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Last admission 16:30所要時間Varies depending on start time3,800 yen

Kumejima, Okubujima] Leave all the setting up to us! Campfire Plan with a resort atmosphere★Recommended for company trips and circle camps (No.824)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Varies depending on start time50,000 yen

Kumejima/Okubujima/40 min! For those who seek deep relaxation and forget about everyday life (No.827)開始時間High tide (depending on the time of year)所要時間Approx. 40 min.15,000 yen

Ruins of Uejo Castle
(Ruins of Uegusuku Castle)

The “Uejō Castle Ruins” are the remains of a mountain castle located at an elevation of approximately 310 meters—the highest of all the gusuku in Okinawa—andNational Historic Sites, Places of Scenic Beauty, and Natural Monumentsdesignated as the

The breathtaking view, which takes in nearly 360 degrees of Kumejima, is truly spectacular!

On clear days, you can even see as far as the main island of Okinawa.

Take a moment to reflect on the history and culture of Okinawa’s Gusuku era while enjoying the magnificent panoramic view.

Kumejima Sea Turtle Museum

The "Kumejima Sea Turtle Museum" is a facility where visitors can learn about Kumejima's natural environment and the ecology of sea turtles.

Inside the building,Sea Turtle Care and Exhibition...is also available, and it's fun for everyone from kids to adults.

Kumejima is also known as a sea turtle nesting site, and the conservation efforts there are covered in detail.

It's the perfect spot for families to visit!

▼Click here for more information about the Kumejima Sea Turtle Museum▼

A complete guide to enjoying Kumejima Sea Turtle Pavilion! Sea Turtle Petting & Learning JourneyThe Complete Guide to Enjoying the Kumejima Sea Turtle Center! Introducing a Hub for Interaction and Learning The Kumejima Sea Turtle Center, located on Kumejima Island in Okinawa Prefecture, is a facility where visitors can deepen their understanding of sea turtles while interacting with them. Inside the center, you’ll find loggerhead sea turtles, green sea turtles, and other species that are actually being protected and cared for […]

A Drive Around Kumejima
Sample Itinerary (Day Trip)

To make the most of your time on Kumejima, it’s important to choose an efficient itinerary.

Here, by purpose,Three Sample Itinerariesto the following.

Classic Routes to Explore by Rental Car

Once you pick up your rental car at the airport or port, make the most of your morning by efficiently visiting various spots.

In just one day, you can see the main attractionsVirtually comprehensiveSure thing!

When Using the Ferry for a Day Trip
The Most Efficient Way to Get Around

Since the day-trip ferry allows for a stay of about 5 to 6 hours,Places Near the HarborIt’s more realistic to focus on those areas.

Let's save Hatenohama for our stay.

Enjoy a Bike Rental
Short Course

This is a short route that takes you on a leisurely ride on an electric bike, focusing on the area around the harbor, Okushima Island, and Tatamiishi.

Feeling the breezeBe sure to give cycling on Kumejima a try!

Things to Enjoy on a Drive Around Kumejima
Food & Souvenirs

What makes sightseeing on Kumejima even more enjoyable is,Island-Exclusive Cuisine and SouvenirsIt is.

Be sure to stop by while you're out for a drive.

Recommended Restaurants for Lunch and Coffee

For lunch on Kumejima, try this local favoriteRestaurants and izakayasis popular.

"Namiji" is a popular izakaya where you can enjoy fresh sashimi, set meals, and Kumejima soba; it's a favorite among both locals and tourists.

There are also cafes dotted around the area where you can stop by between sightseeing trips, as well as spots where you can take a leisurely break while gazing out at the ocean.

Be sure to fully enjoy the local cuisine!

▼Click here for more details on Kumejima cuisine▼

15 Recommended Lunch Spots on Kumejima! Staff Who Know the Area Well Introduce Local Delicacies and Popular Restaurants!Here are some recommended lunch spots on Kumejima! Because Kumejima has a different climate than Honshu, it’s known for offering many exquisite culinary delights that you can’t find on Honshu. However, for first-time visitors to Kumejima, it might be unclear what kinds of culinary delights the island has to offer […]

Thorough explanation of recommended gourmet food on Kume Island! Introducing 9 popular restaurants you must try!You definitely want to eat it! Popular Gourmet Foods in Kumejima Kumejima is the fifth largest of the islands of Okinawa and is known as a rice-producing island due to its abundant water. Therefore, there are many delicious foods and gourmet foods such as rice, which is indispensable for Japanese people, and fresh fish from the beautiful sea [...].

10 Dinners in Kumejima! The best restaurants you must go to!Enjoy a Delicious Dinner on Kumejima! 10 Top Dinner Picks on Kumejima, Carefully Selected by Local Staff Kumejima is a popular tourist destination famous for its lush natural scenery and beautiful ocean, attracting many visitors with its vibrant marine activities. But beyond these activities, Kumejima also offers a wealth of culinary delights […]

Places to Buy Kumejima Specialties and Souvenirs

A famous souvenir from Kumejima is,"Kumesen from Kumejima"Awamori, including [...], and traditional crafts,"Kumejima Tsumugi"It is.

You can purchase them at Kumejima Airport and at souvenir shops on the island.

Sea grapes and salt from Kumejima are also popular souvenirs.

It's convenient to buy everything at once at shops near the airport or port before your return flight or ferry ride.

▼Click here for more information about souvenirs from Kumejima▼

Top 10 Popular Souvenirs from Kume Island!What are popular souvenirs from Kume Island? When you go on a trip to Kumejima, you will want to choose rare souvenirs that you can buy only in Kumejima as gifts for your family and friends. However, many people may not know what kind of souvenirs are actually popular in Kumejima [...].

About Sightseeing by Car on Kumejima
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

summary

You can drive around Kumejima in a rental car and fully enjoy the stunning sights, such as Tatami-ishi, Hatenohama, and Hiyasada Banta.Charming Remote IslandsIt is.

You can also get there on a day-trip ferry and enjoy short bike rides on rental bikes.

If you plan your trip based on your mode of transportation and the season, even first-time visitors can fully enjoy Kumejima.

We hope you'll use this column as a guide to create your very ownA Drive Around KumejimaGive it a try!

▼Click here for articles to read in conjunction with this article.

What Is “Hate no Hama,” Kumejima’s No. 1 Scenic Spot!? A Comprehensive Guide to Why It’s So Popular, Plus Recommended Tours and Snorkeling Plans!What is Hate-no-hama, the most popular spot on Kume Island? Hate-no-hama" is located about 30 minutes by boat from Kume Island. This is an uninhabited island consisting of "Hate-no-hama, Nakano beach, and Maenohama island" and is a spectacular spot that has been called "the most beautiful in the East" [...].

Let's join a tour and enjoy Kume Island! Advantages of joining a tour & recommended tours!Take a tour and enjoy Kumejima to the fullest! Whether you’re thinking about a trip to Okinawa but aren’t sure where to go or what to do, or you’re wondering whether a tour is better—considering cost and convenience—or if you should plan everything yourself, here’s how to make your trip the best it can be […]