Kume Island:
Tropical seascape
Kume island also known as Kumejima is one of the islands that make up the Okinawa Shoto island group. Like many other of the small islands surrounding Okinawa Honto, Kumejima offers a much less developed version of the beaches and Okinawan culture for which the prefecture is well known.Like elsewhere in Okinawa, the beaches of Kumejima, snorkeling and diving are among the principal attractions for visitors.
Places Not To Miss:
Hatenohama Beach:
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Hatenohama Beach, an approximately seven kilometer long sand bar surrounded by water just east of the island, is Kumejima’s most famous attraction. The beach is highly regarded for its white sand, but can only be accessed by joining a tour.
Uezu Residence:
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Uezu House is a traditional Ryukyu Governor’s house dating back hundreds of years. The walled grounds contain gardens, a main house, and outlying buildings. The house is a quiet and peaceful look back into the history of Okinawa. It was built in 1750 for a high ranked family. The house cannot be entered but only viewed from the outside.
Pools of Tropical Fish:
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On the northern coast of Kumejima exists an interesting spot along the coast where old coral flats meet the ocean, tide pools host a variety of ocean life. A few large pools are perfect for swimming, observing sea creatures, and enjoying the incredible views of ocean and Kumejima mountains.
Tatami Ishi Rocks:
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The Tatami Ishi are a rock formation on a small island connected to Kumejima by a bridge. During High tide, the rocks are covered in the beautiful blue waters surrounding Kume Island, but during low tide, the waters recede, leaving the uniquely shaped rock formation visible. Over centuries, geologic forces have pressed rocks together, giving them a unique appearance that many say resembles the tatami mats common to Japanese households.
