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Whether you’re working from home, sheltering in place or just staying home, if you’re like us, you’re probably dreaming of open skies, sandy beaches, tall mountains, or perfect powdery slopes. Our travel plans may be on hold, but that doesn’t mean we can’t dream up where we’ll go next.
Welcome to virtual vacation video series where we can explore destinations from the comfort of our homes.
Join us as we take a short virtual journey to Kume Island.
From Tokyo, it takes a four- and a half hour flight to get to this remote island west of Okinawa’s main island. From Naha, you can take either a 40-minute flight or a three-and-a-half-hour ferry ride.
Kume Island is a popular tourist destination with plenty of nature, culture, activities, and food.
Some of the must-see spots in Kume Island include:
Hiyajo-banta— This cliff on the northeast coast of the island towers 200 meters above the surface of the water. When the weather is nice, this location offers a superb view of Aguni and Tonaki islands as well as the beautiful ocean.
Tatamiishi – A curious site on the east coast where the beach is carpeted with more than 1,000 flat stones shaped like pentagons and hexagons. Visit this natural wonder at low tide.
Uegusuku-castle ruins— You’ll find this site high above on Uegusuku-dake, a 310-meter-high mountain, which is thought to date back to the 15th century. These ruins are on the highest elevation amongst all of Okinawa’s castle ruins.
Last, but not least, Hatenohama is a destination you don’t want to miss. This sand reef off the east coast of the island runs about 7 km, drawing a stark contrast with the blue ocean. Take a 20-minute boat ride to get to this extraordinary spot.
While touring Kume Island, make sure you try some shrimp. Whether garlic shrimp, shrimp sashimi or shrimp soba noodles, the island’s signature seafood will be a delight to your taste buds.
I hope you enjoyed a look at Kume Island through travel photos and that it's inspired your next trip. Stay safe and get ready to travel with us in our next video. Thanks for watching!
