Can I visit Kume Island without a rental car? A thorough explanation of how to get around the island!

What is July in Kumejima?

You may want to visit Kume Island in Okinawa at the beginning of summer, in July.

Kume Island offers not only recommended summer activities, but also events that can only be experienced in July.

For example, the Masha All-Island Horned Power Tournament is held in early July.

The Masha Zenjima Kakuriki Tournament is a venerable Kakuriki event first held on Kumejima Island.

Sumo is a popular sport on Kumejima Island, and the island-wide sumo tournament is held five times a year.

So, we would like to introduce July in Kumejima, so please take a look at it before your trip.

 

Weather in Kumejima in July

July on Kumejima has a daily maximum temperature of about 31 degrees Celsius.

As a result, the temperature does not often fall below 29 degrees Celsius or above 33 degrees Celsius.

In addition, daily minimum temperatures will be around 27 degrees Celsius, with temperatures rarely falling below 25 degrees Celsius or above 28 degrees Celsius.

And the weather on Kumejima in July will be sunny with fewer clouds in the sky.

There is a 71% chance of mainly cloudy or mostly cloudy skies.

In addition, because of the strong sunlight, UV protection and sunburn protection are necessary.

 

What to wear and bring to Kume Island in July

The weather in July on Kumejima was described earlier.

So, what is appropriate clothing and personal belongings for Kume Island in July?

Next, we will discuss what to wear and what to bring to Kume Island in July.

We hope you will find this information useful in your preparations for your trip to Kume Island in July.

 

Recommended Clothing and What to Bring

Good ventilated clothing is recommended for July on Kume Island.

For example, a T-shirt or sleeveless shirt and shorts are appropriate during the daytime plus tropical nights.

Preparing and wearing an Okinawan kariyushi is also an option.

July in Okinawa Prefecture, including Kumejima, is said to have the strongest ultraviolet rays of the year.

Therefore, wearing clothes that show skin may make you feel hotter than you are.

To avoid direct sunlight on the skin, it is recommended to wear a scarf made of linen or other material, or a light cardigan.

Also, do not forget to wear a hat.

In addition, the July sun on Kumejima is strong enough to burn, so it is important to bring sunscreen.

Other essential items are tablets that can be used to drink and replenish salt to prevent heat stroke.

Not only that, but don't forget to have a folding umbrella for sunny weather and a large towel in case of a sudden shower.

In July, Kume Island's beaches are at their peak of activity.

It is best to wear flip-flops when walking on the sandy beach, which can get so hot that you might burn yourself.

It is also a good idea to have parasols to avoid the sun.

 

Recommended Activities in Kume Island in July

What kind of activities do you recommend in Kume Island in July?

Next, we will tell you about the activities we can recommend on Kume Island in July.

Why don't you enjoy moving your body with all your might in Kume Island in the middle of summer?

 

snorkeling

If you are on Kume Island in July, there are means to enjoy snorkeling.

For example, there is a boat snorkel tour plan.

In this plan, you take a boat to the snorkeling point.

The point of arrival is not only home to a large variety of fish, but also to many large scale corals, making it possible to enjoy the scenery of the coral reefs.

Prices start at 6,000 yen per adult, and snorkel and fin rentals are free.

The feeding experience is also free and includes free transportation.

Another option is to sign up for a snorkeling plan called the Hatohama Landing Tour.

This plan allows you to snorkel freely in the swimming area of Hatoe no Hama.

After landing at Hatohama, you will have free time, so you can spend your time as you wish until the time is up.

In addition to snorkeling, there are also other ways to spend time such as walking on the beach, napping, and reading.

For those who wish to enjoy serious snorkeling, the plan with a snorkel point is suitable.

▼Click here for recommended snorkeling tours.▼

▼Learn more about snorkeling▼

 

Kayak (Canoe)

One way to enjoy Kume Island in July is by kayak or canoe.

For example, there is a plan to take a clear kayak and enjoy every corner of the sea of Kumejima.

In some cases, it is difficult to see what is going on underwater in a typical kayak because of the reflection of the sea surface.

However, with a clear kayak, you can see well to the bottom of the ocean.

The waters around Kume Island are very clear, which is a good match for clear kayaks.

The tour will take you to spots where you can see fish shadows and marbled underwater.

Another option is to indulge in sunset kayaking.

Sunset kayaking is recommended for those who want to enjoy Kume Island until the sun goes down.

From the kayak, there is a possibility of seeing sea turtles, which are abundant on Kume Island.

▼Click here ▼ for recommended kayak and canoe tours

▼Learn more about kayaks and canoes▼.

 

diving

Diving is also a great way to enjoy activities on Kume Island in July.

Experience diving is also available for beginners, and this plan can be enjoyed by those who do not have a diving license.

After practicing in shallow water, divers can experience diving at the experience site, which is less than 6 meters deep.

Diving time for the experience dive is 30 minutes.

Prices start at 16,200 yen and include boarding fee, tank fee, diving equipment rental fee, and weight rental fee.

Fees vary from plan to plan, so please check ahead of time.

Fun diving tours are also offered on Kume Island.

Fun diving is a diving experience for licensed divers (C-card holders).

Recommended for those who have not used equipment for a long time but still want to enjoy diving.

Divers who are familiar with the waters of Kumejima will guide you through the process, so you can enjoy yourself underwater with peace of mind.

Prices for fun diving vary by plan, so it is best to check in advance.

▼Click here ▼ for recommended fun diving tours

▼Learn more about diving▼.

 

SUP

If you visit Kume Island in July, why not try SUP (stand-up paddle), a popular activity nowadays?

SUP is a new marine sport in which you stand on a board and paddle forward.

For example, there is a plan to experience SUP at Arra Beach, which feels like a private beach.

This is a half-day tour and will be conducted in small groups with close proximity to the guide.

SUP not only allows you to paddle along, but also to lie down on the board.

Why not be healed by the clear blue sea, which is called the island of beauty of the sphere?

Kume Island also offers a sunset SUP plan.

You will have the best time when you rent out the beach, which can only be visited by SUP, and watch the beautiful sunset.

▼SUPLearn more about ▼

 

fishing

Kume Island in summer is perfect for fishing enthusiasts.

Kume Island is close to the Kuroshio Current and is famous for its abundance of fish.

When it comes to fishing on Kume Island, the most typical type of fishing is probably tuna fishing around Payao.

A payao is an artificial fishing reef floating on the surface of the sea.

Kume Island was the first island in Okinawa to open its payao to the general fishing public.

Because of this, the area has become nationally known as a tuna fishing clearing.

In addition, between seven and eleven payaos have been set up in the waters near Kume Island, and there is a high probability of encountering large tuna on Kume Island.

The main species caught on Kume Island is yellowfin tuna, and other tuna such as albacore and bigeye tuna can also be caught.

And lure fishing is one way to enjoy Kume Island.

For example, if you want to fish with lures at low tide, the Seal Gachihashi Bridge is a good place to start.

The Seelgachi Bridge can be crossed at low tide.

There are areas where the water is deep and areas where the water is shallow, and the key is to prepare lures that can be targeted at any depth.

Note that the bridge is a path for boats, so be careful when raising lures.

On Kume Island in July, visitors can enjoy tuna fishing and other activities.

▼Learn more about fishing tours▼.

 

Kume Island Recommended Experiences in July

If you visit Kume Island in July, be sure to enjoy this unique Kume Island experience.

Here are some recommended experiences on Kume Island in July, so please check them out in advance and incorporate them into your travel plans!

 

Charcoal baumkuchen making experience

On Kume Island, you can experience making charcoal baumkuchen.

For example, at a campsite on Oku Island, 800 meters from Kume Island, you can make your own charcoal-baked brown sugar baumkuchen.

You can make baked baumkuchen from scratch, using sugarcane from Kumejima as the core and turning the dough.

An interesting point may be that the color and shape of the finished product changes depending on the degree of baking and turning.

Please note that this plan requires an additional fee to use the campground.

The experience can be held in a rainproof space, so there is no need to worry about getting caught in the rain.

 

Walking in Ximei Village

If you visit Kume Island in mid-summer, a stroll through the Nishime village is also recommended.

The earliest settlement on Kume Island is considered to be Nishime settlement.

In other words, the Ximei community has that much history.

While observing the island's flora and fauna, you can also visit famous historic sites such as the Uezu Family Residence, a nationally designated important cultural property, and the Ishi Dantou, said to be Okinawa's oldest stone daring.

And the Kamiezu family will be the keystone of your exploration of Ximei village.

Tours are also available in both morning and afternoon sessions.

 

Eco-tour to learn from nature

Participating in eco-tours to learn from nature is another way to enjoy Kume Island.

For example, there is an eco-tour and trekking tour that takes about two hours.

It is possible to learn about coexistence with nature from the traces of our ancestors' lives in the Nibuti Forest, a Ramsar wetland.

Why don't you come and learn about ecology in the nature of Kume Island?

 

campfire (usually large, and for gathering and singing, etc.)

If you come to Kume Island, enjoying a campfire at night is also an option.

Campfires are especially recommended for group trips.

Singing and dancing around the campfire will surely be a good memory of Kumejima.

For the campfire experience, staff members certified as campfire instructors are in charge of everything from setting up to cleaning up.

Insurance is also provided, so you don't need to prepare anything to have fun.

 

Yaziyagama Cave Exploration

Exploring the mysterious Yajiyagama Cave is another recommended experience on Kume Island.

Exploring Yaziyagama Cave, visitors can learn about the history and topography of Kume Island.

Many people who have experienced it are also excited because some say it is the "world of Jurassic Park.

Please note that you should wear comfortable clothing and sneakers when participating in the program.

The program is conducted in the morning and afternoon sessions.

Therefore, you can enjoy it at your own convenience.

Yaziyagama cave exploration is perfect for those who want to refresh themselves with a different experience.

 

Ryukyu Glass Work Experience

If you are visiting Okinawa, why not try your hand at Ryukyu glasswork?

For example, at Ruri Hotaru, a Ryukyu glass studio, you can make accessories and interior decorations.

It is also possible to choose a lampchade or candlestick to make.

Even if you are new to handmade goods, there is no problem because the staff will help you.

Ruri Hotaru can be reached in about 8 minutes by car from Kumejima Airport and about 2 minutes from Kumejima-Kaneshiro Port.

 

Recommended Sightseeing Spots in Kume Island in July

In July, Kume Island has many sights to enjoy.

Next, we will tell you the recommended sightseeing spots on Kume Island in July.

Checking out the attractive spots on Kume Island in advance will help you enjoy the island to the fullest.

 

EEF Beach

Ihu Beach is a representative beach of Kume Island and is located in the eastern part of the island.

It is also a 2-kilometer-long beach with silky white sand.

Another key point is that the water is shallow enough to walk offshore at low tide.

There are hotels and guest houses, restaurants, and marine sport stores around Eef Beach.

▼Learn more about EEF Beach ▼

 

Arra Beach

Arrahama is a secluded beach on Kume Island.

It is located in the southern part of the island, between the villages of Kaneshiro and Ihu Beach, in Gima, at the far end of the island.

It is also a natural beach that can be reached by going around the back of the sugar factory and crossing bridges and mountains.

Surrounded by mountains, the green of the mountains, the white of the sandy beach, and the blue of the ocean will provide a wonderful contrast.

Please keep in mind that Arra beach is not well equipped with restroom facilities due to the low number of visitors.

However, it can be said that this is the only way to enjoy a landscape that has maintained its natural state.

Arrahama can also be reached by car from Kumejima Airport in about 25 minutes.

▼Learn more about Arrah Beach ▼

 

thinly sliced beach (e.g. dried on a dish after washing)

Shinri Beach is located near Kumejima Airport.

Recommended for those who want to play on the beach as soon as they arrive in Kumejima or for those who want to visit before departing from the airport.

From the shores of Xinli Beach, it is known for its beautiful sunsets over the East China Sea.

In addition, Shinri beach is equipped with a parking lot, showers, and restrooms, making it a convenient beach.

▼More about Shinri Beach▼.

 

Kumejima Sea Turtle Museum

The Kumejima Sea Turtle Museum is a facility where visitors can learn about the living creatures of the globally endangered sea turtles and environmental issues.

The shells that inhabit Kumejima are also on display.

In the large aquarium, visitors can see sea turtles swimming in a leisurely manner.

Other tanks are set up for hatchlings such as green turtles, loggerhead turtles, and hawksbill turtles.

Kumejima Sea Turtle Museum is a 30-minute drive from Kumejima Airport and a 25-minute drive from Kaneshiro Port.

▼More about Kumejima Sea Turtle Pavilion ▼

 

Kumejima Festival

The Kumejima Festival is a popular place for residents and tourists to get to know each other.

This is a major summer event on Kume Island, held for two days in late July or early August every year.

The theme of this event is "Let's connect the bonds of our hearts and expand the circle of exchange.

Then, stages for folk songs, eisa, and live artists will be held.

There will also be food stalls, an amida raffle drawing by the Youth Division of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and other fun activities.

The 2022 Kumejima Festival was held on November 5 and 6, 2022.

The event will be held at Kumejima-cho Fureai Park.

 

Mifgar.

Mihu Gah (Female Rock) is a strange rock formed by wind and tide erosion and has a large hole in it.

And beyond Mihugar is the ocean.

It is also considered a symbol of women, and women who are not blessed with a child are said to benefit from praying for it.

This is why many couples who wish to have children visit.

As if to impress you with this, Kume Island is blessed with the second highest birth rate in Japan.

Please keep in mind that comfortable walking sneakers, not flip-flops, are appropriate when visiting Meehugger.

Mihuger is located on the Yamatodomari shore of Kume Island.

▼Learn more about Miehger▼.

 

Kumejima Horse Farm

At the Kumejima Horse Farm, visitors can experience the unique horseplay of the island.

The Kumejima Horse Farm was started by a couple with only two native horses remaining on the island.

Here, visitors can tour the island with precious horses, mainly Jonagni horses.

You may even be able to get into the water while on horseback.

The horses are accustomed to people, so beginners and children can safely ride them.

In addition to the ocean, visitors can also experience horseback riding in the mountains, using Hiyadai Banta or Tropical Fish House as a meeting place.

 

Ruins of Uejo Castle

Uegusuku Castle Ruins are the ruins of a castle from the Gusuku Period (the first agricultural period of the Ryukyu Islands).

It was built on the summit of Mt. Uejo, about 310 meters above sea level, in the northern Kumejima mountain range.

It is the highest mountain castle among the gusuku in Okinawa Prefecture, and offers an almost total view of Kume Island.

It is said to have been built by Kume Nakagusuku, the eldest son of Chinaha.

It was destroyed in 1510, during the reign of King Shoshin the Second, in the process of unifying the Ryukyu Islands.

The ruins of Uejo Castle are also a historic site and a natural monument of scenic beauty.

▼Learn more about the ruins of Uejo Castle

 

Gushigawa Castle Ruins

The ruins of Gushigawa Castle are believed to be the residence of an angler (aji) who was said to have ruled Kume Island in the early 15th century.

It is surrounded by the sea on three sides, and the southern side of the steep slope is the castle gate.

The special castle walls, called "field piles," are a distinctive feature of the area and are still preserved today.

Based on excavated artifacts, it is believed that the castle was used only for a short period of time between the 13th and 15th centuries.

The ruins of Gushigawa Castle are also a nationally designated important cultural property.

For access by Ito-chan mini, a bus that tours around Itoman City, the nearest bus stop is "M-17 Gushigawa Castle Ruins".

▼Learn more about Gushigawa Castle Ruins ▼

 

the Uesu family

The Uezu family is an old family descended from the lord of Gushikawa Castle on Kumejima Island, who served as a landowner for many generations.

It is also the oldest private house in Okinawa, built 250 years ago.

The mansion, surrounded by dark green fukumoku trees and stone walls, will retain the appearance of the time when it was built.

And, the Kamieju family is designated as a National Important Cultural Property.

The residence of the Uesu family is called Ishigakidennai, and is surrounded by a magnificent stone wall.

Access to Kamiezhuya is a 5-minute drive from Kaneshiro Port and a 5-minute drive from Kumejima Airport.

▼Learn more about the Uezu family

 

Kumejima Museum

A comprehensive cultural facility, the Kumejima Museum provides easy-to-understand explanations of the nature, history, and culture of Kumejima.

The themes of the Kumejima Museum are Kumejima's nature, the changing times, Kumejima's relics, and island life.

This allows visitors to experience the nature or history of Kume Island.

In addition, there are touch panels and video terminals at the entrance that introduce the island, which is open to everyone.

These devices can also be used to learn about Kumejima.

It is recommended to visit the Kumejima Museum before touring the island to learn about the nature and culture of Kumejima in advance.

 

Uimarukan, the home of Kumejima Tsumugi

Kumejima Tsumugi no Sato Yuimarukan has an exhibition and reference center, a Yuimarukan, and hands-on facilities.

In the exhibition and museum, the history and working process of Kumejima Tsumugi, a well-known craft, are displayed in detail.

Kumejima silk accessories are also available for purchase as souvenirs.

And the Yuimar-Kan is a communal workshop for active weavers.

This will be the place where active weavers are making Kumejima tsumugi.

Visitors can also try their hand at making Kumejima silk at the hands-on facility.

Materials such as silk and grass-dyed yarn can be used to make coasters.

Other experiences, such as dyeing cotton bandanas, are also available.

▼Kumejima Tsumugi no Sato More about Yuimar Pavilion ▼

 

A rental car is recommended for sightseeing in the islands!
Book your rental car on Kumejima Island early!

A rental car is recommended for getting around on Kume Island!

It is recommended because we can move around during the trip and also at our own timing, such as early morning (sunrise), sunset, or a short trip outside to see the stars!

▼Learn more about car rentals ▼

 

summary

In this issue, we have introduced various information on the theme of July on Kumejima.

Kume Island in July has clear skies and strong ultraviolet rays, so be sure to take UV protection.

Marine leisure activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and SUP are also recommended on Kume Island in summer.

With this kind of activity, you will be able to enjoy the sea of Kumejima to the fullest!

Other experiences such as glassworking and campfires can also be enjoyed.

If you visit Kume Island in July, please research Kume Island in advance and enjoy it to the fullest.

Thank you for taking the time to read this to the end.