# Unwind and recharge with a (multi)day trip to the stunning Kerama Islands > Looking for a respite from the busy-ness of Japan’s big cities? Come to the charming Kerama islands. Here is all you need to know for a rejuvenating getaway. > URL: https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/japan-okinawa-kerama-islands-travel-guide/ > Last modified: 2024-12-31T19:00:00+00:00 With crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches and colourful coral reefs, the Kerama Islands offer a wonderful respite from the busyness of Japan’s mainland cities. Whether you choose to explore charming Zamami [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/7tRqyQQUWbqx6eVy5)] on foot or by bicycle, join a whale-watching tour off Tokashiki [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/Dprumhq71X2FT42DA)] or snorkel among vibrant marine life off Aka island [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/JQx3HbUXsvPhMEpHA)], our travel guide to the Keramas will help you plan a getaway that leaves you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed. ## Planning your trip to the Kerama Islands at the last minute?  Book your [flights to/from Naha](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/naha-flights/) (nearest airport to the Kerama Islands), keeping your carbon footprint in mind.    Find your perfect accommodation on [Zamami Island](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/zamami-accommodation/) or [Tokashiki Island](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/tokashikiaccommodation/) with Booking.com. We recommend these traditional, small-scale and centrally located options near public transport: - [Minshuku Yadokari](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/minshuku-yadokari/), Zamami - [Shima Stay Holoholo](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/shima-stay-holoholo/), Zamami - [Kamekame House](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/kame-kame-house/), Tokashiki - [Hotel Kanaloa](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/hotel-kanaloa/), Tokashiki  When managing money across countries, we keep fees low and decisions deliberate. We use [XE](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/xe-money-transfer/) to check exchange rates, [Wise](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/wise/) to move and spend money internationally, and [PocketSmith](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/pocketsmith/) to track where it all goes.  Buying travel insurance can feel overwhelming. Start by reading our [buyer's guide to finding insurance that suits your needs](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/find-insurance-suiting-needs/). Then compare options on the [Insubuy marketplace](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/product/insubuy-marketplace/) (with all the information you need to find the one that's right for you).  Explore the wonders of the Kerama Islands with the best tours and activities powered by [GetYourGuide](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/kerama-getyourguide/), [Tinggly](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/kerama-islands-tinggly/) and [Viator](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/kerama-viator/). We recommend these options with local providers: - [Whale Watching](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/kerama-islands-half-day-whale-watching-tour/) (from Naha) - [Half-day Kayak Tour](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/kerama-islands-half-day-kayak-tour/) (from Zamami) - [Kayak and Snorkel](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/tokashiki-kayak-and-snorkel/) (from Aharen Beach/Tokashiki)  We buy an [eSIM](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/airalo/) before we head overseas, so we have mobile data the moment we land - no more searching for and swapping out physical SIM cards. We've used [Airalo](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/airalo/) around the globe - on trips from just a few days to more than a month. Kerama Blue is the unique colour of the sea around Zamami, Aka and Tokashiki islands ## What and where are the Kerama Islands? The Kerama Islands are an island group off the southwest coast of [Okinawa Hontō](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/japan-okinawa-naha-travel-guide/), the largest island of the archipelago that is Japan’s southernmost prefecture. The Keramas (also called the Keramas) comprise 36 islands and islets. Only four are inhabited: Tokashiki, Zamami, Aka, and Geruma (the latter two are connected by a bridge). All islands and surrounding waters are part of the [Kerama Shotō National Park](https://www.env.go.jp/park/kerama/). The waters surrounding the Kerama islands are so beautiful that they were given their own name: *Kerama Blue*. ## Map of Accommodation, Points of Interest, Eateries and Transport Below is a map of the recommended accommodations, points of interest, eateries, and transport terminals or stops mentioned in this article. Subscription Form - Responsible Travel Checklist Contact ### Download your Responsible Travel Checklist and show the world you care As travellers, we should all be aware of our travel behaviour and its environmental, economic and social impact; and make conscious decisions about it. Too often, we hear negative stories in the media about tourists behaving badly. Here is your chance to tick some boxes and check out what it really takes to travel with a responsible mindset. DOWNLOAD The fine print: I agree to receive the Minimalist Journeys newsletter full of news, actionable tips and practical advice every month. I know I can unsubscribe at any time. I have read and agree to the [Terms of Use](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/terms-of-use/) and [Privacy Policy](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/privacy-policy/). ## Which of the islands should you choose? While theoretically, you could visit all four inhabited islands in a day; it would be very rushed—quality over quantity! We’ve compiled a summary of each island so you can choose the one (or two) you’d like to spend time on. And if you’ve got more than a day to spend – even better: you’ve got all the information you need to plan a multi-day island adventure. Prev - [1](#pac_dtm_child_0) - [2](#pac_dtm_child_1) - [3](#pac_dtm_child_2) Next - [Zamami](#pac_dtm_child_0) - [Aka/Geruma/Fukaji](#pac_dtm_child_1) - [Tokashiki](#pac_dtm_child_2) ### What to see and do on Zamami - Explore Zamami Island and its many observatories, all with different views - Join a [whale-watching tour](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/kerama-islands-half-day-whale-watching-tour/) or try and glimpse the gentle giants from Inazaki Observatory Deck [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/q1RXpa1WRxEK8L1g6)] - Join a [half-day kayak tour](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/kerama-islands-half-day-kayak-tour/) - Hire snorkel gear and snorkel at Ama Beach [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/xWF8YsV7iB7s7BcD8)] and/or Furuzamami Beach [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/df64uPocQ1x2Cgj38)]. ### How to get around Zamami island - Take the bus – here is the [timetable](http://www.kotsu-okinawa.org/en/time/zamami/down1.html) – and walk/hike OR - Hire an electric bike, scooter or small two-seater EV vehicle. ### Where to eat on Zamami - Shinya Shokudo [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/S8DU1v7ipn1BsfCD7)] - Wayama Mozuku [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/MK7AM98bnmfgswAQ8)] OR - Izakaya Ao-no-Umi [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/FDvdnkdY59WJrsuQ8)]. ### What to see and do on Aka/Geruma/Fukaji - Hire snorkel gear and snorkel at Nishibama Beach [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/kZP84PhhA95N2SdA9)], Hizushi Beach [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/b3TdFe5byMK7w1ig7)] or Kushibaru Beach [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/Dy8VLHgqHtwk78yB6)] - Encounter Kerama Deer in their natural habitat - Visit the starting point of the Battle of Okinawa (now the Peace Memorial) [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/Jk5PENgMoQS6q5sm8)] on Fukaji island - Check out Azanamui Observatory [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/XD2tUPuqdnJ1s9H99)] and/or Ama-Gusuku Observation Deck [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/Mfu6AnDFqaL5ZzTg8)]. ### How to get around the islands Walk/hike OR hire a bicycle ### Where to eat on Aka - Yoshidaya [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/2wQxQdmYMyndw56k8)] - Aka Island Cafe and Food guu guu [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/3iEAAy9r8Mo4h38o6)]   ### What to see and do on Tokashiki Island - Join a [whale-watching tour](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/kerama-islands-half-day-whale-watching-tour/) - Hire snorkel gear and snorkel at Aharen Beach [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/gPTvABUKoT59Ng4KA)], Rijuishi Beach [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/EKCHN2kYsRMaRmKw6)] or Tokashiku Beach [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/yb5HCug8S1VBfZpR8)] - Hire a kayak or Stand Up Paddleboard at Aharen Beach - Check out Teruyama Observatory [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/q2AAyG3p6TNKmAPd8)], Kerama Straits Observation Station [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/UgPtibhGzz6HQS988)], Kubandaki Observatory [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/LDfckUTJzEdRbuPNA)] and Aharen Cape First Observatory [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/TyGy3eQTEpvc7NFW7)] ### How to get around Tokashiki - Take the bus (here is the [timetable](http://www.kotsu-okinawa.org/en/time/tokashiki/up1.html)) and walk/hike OR - Hire a scooter ### Where to eat on Tokashiki - Aharen: Cafe Shimamun+ [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/tTU4EUsoroSqrAx88)] OR Octopus Garden [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/gVnF7LAp7YnCpEz1A)] ## Where to stay on Kerama Islands For accommodation, it pays to shop around and compare like with like. When we book, we check several platforms to find the option that offers the best overall value, and we also look closely at what is and isn't included. Tourist taxes, cleaning fees, breakfast, cancellation terms, and payment timing can vary, so always read the fine print before you book. If you want to see which booking platforms we use and why, visit our [Accommodation Travel Resources](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/travel-resources/#accommodation). Below are our recommended places to stay, well-located for public transport and the main points of interest. NameProperty FeaturesLocationTypePrice IndicatorBook Now Hanamuro inn Aka-islandBicycle rental Laundry facilities Close to beach and ferry portAka IslandCottages$$$[Book Now](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/hanamuro-inn-aka-island/) Pension Sea FriendSteps from Aharen Beach On-site restaurant and laundry facilities Good base for diving and snorkellingTokashiki IslandGuesthouse$$$[Book Now](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/pension-sea-friend/) Kame Kame HouseAbout 3 minutes’ walk from Aharen Beach Homemade breakfast and laundry facilities Near the village shop on Tokashiki IslandTokashiki IslandGuesthouse$$$[Book Now](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/kame-kame-house/) Minshuku YadokariJapanese style or Western rooms Bicycle Rental Laundry Service Zamami IslandGuesthouse$$[Book Now](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/minshuku-yadokari/) Shima Stay holoholoPrivate bathrooms and free parking Walk to Zamami Port and Furuzamami Beach Simple island stay with bicycle parkingZamami IslandApartment$$$[Book Now](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/shima-stay-holoholo/) $ is USD50 and below. $$$$ is USD150 and above. A marks where we stayed and would highly recommend to our friends and family. Visiting Okinawa's Kerama islands in winter means having gorgeous beaches all to yourself ### Stay connected the moment you land We use Airalo eSIMs on (almost) every trip to avoid roaming charges and the hassle of buying a local SIM. You can install your eSIM before you travel and get online as soon as you arrive. Airalo works in 200+ countries (we've used it across the Americas, Europe and Asia), but not everywhere - so check coverage before you buy. New to Airalo? [Use code NEWTOAIRALO15 for 15% off](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/airalo-new-customer-promotion/) Already a customer? [Use AIRALOESIM10 for 10% off](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/airalo-existing-customer-promotion/) [Check coverage and compare eSIM plans](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/airalo/) ## How do I get to Zamami and/or Aka (from Naha)? There are two types of ferries servicing Zamami and Aka: - the [*Queen Zamami 3*](https://www.oki-islandguide.com/getting-here-and-around/from-tomari-port-naha-city-to-zamami-aka-port), a passenger-only high-speed catamaran (reaching the first of the two islands in 50 minutes), and - the *Ferry Zamami*, a passenger and vehicle ferry (reaching the first of the two islands in 1 hour and 30 minutes). In winter, there are two daily services by the *Queen Zamami 3* and one service by the *Ferry Zamami* – [check the ferry schedule here.](https://www-vill-zamami-okinawa-jp.translate.goog/tourismIndex.html?_x_tr_sl=ja&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=ja) The Queen Zamami gets you from Naha to Zamami in less than an hour Note that ferry services may be cancelled if the weather makes operating unsafe. Services are confirmed at 0800h on the day of operation, so [check the website](https://www-vill-zamami-okinawa-jp.translate.goog/tourismIndex.html?_x_tr_sl=ja&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=ja) before heading to the ferry terminal. Speaking of the ferry terminal, Both ferries leave from Tomari Port in the centre of Naha, albeit from different piers: - the *Queen Zamami* departs from the northern pier [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/kTTZUXPYjEi8TeDW9)] and - the *Ferry Zamami* from the southern pier [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/tnDztNvCEgPjxpJB7)]. Ferry tickets can be booked in advance online or purchased no more than one hour before departure from the ticket office at the northern pier (*Queen Zamami*) or the ticket office at the southern pier (*Ferry Zamami*). ### Want to learn some Japanese before your trip? You don’t need fluency to find your way around and connect with locals on your travels. But knowing some Japanese can make everyday situations easier and more meaningful. [Busuu](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/busuu/) offers a [structured way to learn ](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/busuu-review/)[the basics of a language](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/busuu-review/)before you go, and it’s easy to combine the app with [language school studies](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/choose-language-school/), too. [Check out Busuu](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/busuu/) ## How do I get to Tokashiki (from Naha)? As with Zamami and Aka, there are two types of ferries that service Tokashiki: - The *Marine Liner Tokashiki*, a passenger-only high-speed catamaran (reaching the island in 40 minutes), and - The *Ferry Tokashiki*, a passenger and vehicle ferry (reaching the island in 1 hour and 10 minutes). [Timetables](http://www.vill.tokashiki.okinawa.jp/for-visitor) are published three months in advance. For daily service updates, check out the [operator’s website](https://tokashiki-ferry.jp/Senpaku/portal). Both ferries also leave from Tomari Port, though from different piers: - The *Marine Liner Tokashiki* from the northern pier (in front of *Queen Zamami*) [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/w4AWSJUiJT3m17ca8)], and - The *Ferry Tokashiki* is from the southern pier (behind the *Ferry Zamami*) [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/9Ne6FmvWKSUQwFDD9)]. Naha's Tomari Port Northern Pier is the departure point for the Jinbei Marine Ferry, the Marine Liner Tokashiki and the Queen Zamami ### What does it actually cost to travel in Japan? Japan can feel expensive—until you understand where your money actually goes. We break down our real travel costs and share how we manage spending across currencies, payments, and everyday decisions—without overcomplicating things.  [See Our Real Japan Travel Costs](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/japan-travel-costs/) The ferries from Naha arrive at/depart from Tokashiki Port [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/Fs6tt4z1VJiNkEzr8)], located on the island’s north-eastern side. Note that ferry services may be cancelled if the weather makes operating unsafe. Ferry tickets can be booked in advance online or purchased no more than one hour before departure from the ticket office at the northern pier (*Marine Liner Tokashiki*) or the ticket office at the southern pier (*Ferry Tokashiki*). Extra Tip: There are modern and informative visitor centres at the ports of Zamami [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/cxCZTLHgm3oWtZDbA)], Aka [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/Kurvtd1oc2df81Jn9)], and Tokashiki [[Google Maps location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/WkZLBaoEbNKLF2m87)], so make sure you pop in as soon as you arrive, pick up the handy map of the island you’re visiting, check out the information boards, and ask the staff for any recommendations. The visitor centres at the ports of Zamami, Aka and Tokashiki are jam-packed with information about the area - Make sure to pop by ## Can you travel between Zamami, Aka and Tokashiki? Apart from the ferry services from Naha, there is also an inter-island boat, the *Mitsushima*, connecting Zamami with Aka and Tokashiki: It is worth noting, however: - The *Mitsushima* service to Tokashiki requires booking. - The *Mitsushima* arrives at/departs from Aharen Port (southwest of Tokashiki Island). If you want to take the ferry back to Naha from there, you will have to take the bus (or walk) from Aharen to Tokashiki Port. The Mitsushima inter-island boat connects Zamami with Aka and Tokashiki ## Are there organised day trips from Naha to the Kerama Islands? If you prefer to leave the logistics of organising a day trip to the Keramas to a professional, you may want to consider joining an organised tour from Naha. Here are a few recommended options: - [Full-Day Snorkeling Experience](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/naha-full-day-snorkeling-experience-in-the-kerama-islands-okinawa/) - [Full-Day Introductory Diving and Snorkeling](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/go/full-day-introductory-diving-snorkeling-kerama-islands/) ## How to stay safe when visiting the Kerama Islands? Crime is not something to be worried about when visiting the Kerama Islands, but use common sense and don’t leave any valuables lying around. ### How to swim and snorkel safely - Only swim in designated areas (to avoid dangerous undercurrents). - Wear a life jacket when snorkelling. - Don’t swim or snorkel at low tide. - Wear sandals when walking in the water, and don’t step on corals or sand in the vicinity of reefs. - Don’t touch any marine life. - Wear a long-sleeved swim shirt or wetsuit to protect yourself from the sun and stings or bites from marine animals. - If you get bitten or stung: Squeeze out the venom and get to the nearest hospital immediately. The Kerama Islands are generally very safe, but that does not mean you should leave everything to chance. When your trip includes ferries, time in the water, and a more remote island setting, it is worth checking that your [travel insurance](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/internal/insurance/) suits the activities you actually plan to do. Enjoy the fascinating underwater world of the Kerama Islands safely | Image courtesy of Kanenori on Pixabay ### How do you avoid snake bites, and what do you do when you get bitten? Sunburn and snake bites are other risk factors to be mindful of. While [Okinawa](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/japan-okinawa-naha-travel-guide/) has eight venomous snakes, most of them are not dangerous. Those to watch out for include *habu* (pit vipers), which are most active between March and October. They hibernate over winter in a sheltered place, so it's unlikely you encounter one during the coldest season. If you do, move back and leave them alone. Also, wear long pants and closed shoes, and stay on hiking/walking trails. If a snake bites you, stay calm and limit movement to slow the spread of venom. Do not attempt to suck out the venom or apply a tourniquet. Seek immediate medical attention and call emergency services, providing details about the snake if possible. For further guidance, consult the [World Health Organisation's](https://www.who.int/teams/control-of-neglected-tropical-diseases/snakebite-envenoming/treatment)information on snakebite. Watch out for habu (pit vipers) when visiting Okinawa - especially when you see signs like this one ### Which island/s have you explored? What time of the year did you visit? And what was your favourite experience? I wrote this Kerama Islands travel guide based on our own experience. If you have been to the Kerama Islands and have something to add to this list of affordable things to do, please feel free to contact me. [Let Me Know](https://www.minimalistjourneys.com/contact/) Before you go, if you liked our article and found it helpful, we would appreciate it if you could share it with your friends and family via the Share buttons below. Even better: Leave a short review on [Trustpilot](https://www.trustpilot.com/evaluate/minimalistjourneys.com) or [Google](https://g.page/r/CUZifDxrpp0iEBM/review), which would help us further build our online reputation as a (trustworthy and helpful) travel and lifestyle blog.