Kerama - 100 Frequently Asked Questions（FAQ)

Summer and fall are popular for ocean fun, while winter and spring are popular for whale watching. Summer is also chosen for easy swimming, and after the rainy season and autumn for a balance between heat and crowds.

It is quite hot and the sun is strong. However, if you are planning to go into the ocean, you will be more than satisfied, and it is an easy season to enjoy if you are prepared with a rash guard, hat, and drink.

Many days feel chilly in just a bathing suit, but it is easy to join a tour wearing a wetsuit. In winter, many visitors come for whale watching rather than ocean fun.

It is generally from mid-May to late June. Rather than continuous rain throughout the day, there are days when the rain intensifies for a short period of time, followed by a return of sunshine.

From summer to fall, Kerama is sometimes affected by typhoons, which may affect travel to the island and return to the main island due to ship cancellations. When traveling to Kerama, it is a good idea to check the operation status of not only airplanes but also boats.

Some tours can be held in light rain, but the ease of enjoyment is affected by sea conditions and wind. Since Kerama is suited for travelers who enjoy the sea and nature as the main attraction, it is easier to make a schedule if you combine it with sightseeing in Naha on days when weather conditions are a concern.

From the end of the rainy season, when the sun is strong, to summer is the time when the so-called "Kerama blue" is most easily felt in its vividness. On the other hand, some people prefer winter and spring for the transparency itself.

There are some Especially in winter, the northerly winds are easily affected, and even on the same sunny day, the ease of swimming and the rocking of the boat can change. In Kerama, it is important to watch not only the temperature but also the wind and waves.

It is quite strong. Since there is sometimes little shade on the boat and on the beach, it is a good idea to prepare not only sunscreen but also a rash guard, hat, and sunglasses.

Summer is often hot and humid, but in winter or on windy days, it can feel chilly in the morning and evening or during boat travel. A lightweight jacket is useful.

The weather on the island is changeable, and even if it is sunny in Naha, it may be windy in Kerama. Check not only the probability of precipitation, but also wind and wave information to make it easier to plan your itinerary.

Yes, there is. On days when waves and winds are strong, the tour may be canceled or points may be changed, and safety will be given priority. Since it is possible that you may not be able to visit the island or point of interest, it is recommended that you allow a little extra time for your itinerary.

First of all, 2 days and 1 night or 3 days and 2 nights are the standard. You can also take a day trip, but if you want to fully appreciate the beauty of the sea and the atmosphere of the island, an overnight stay is likely to be more satisfying.

The Kerama Islands can be accessed by boat from Naha's Tomari Port. The Kerama Islands can be accessed by boat from Tomari Port in Naha, and day tours and individual trips by high-speed boat are also popular. However, the time required and the number of flights vary depending on the destination island and the type of boat, so it is best to check the timetable in advance.

It is enjoyable enough. It is easy to be satisfied if you combine ocean fun on the day of arrival and a walk or another beach on the following day. Even if it is your first time, it is easy to enjoy the Kerama-like atmosphere.

Kerama Tours offers many plans for Zamami Island, Aka Island, and Tokashiki Island. The island that is suitable for you will depend on access, lodging options, and the activities you want to do, so we recommend that you first select the island based on the purpose of your trip.

Three days and two nights make it much easier to move around. Because of the boat transfer, one night can easily feel a bit hectic, and with children, it is easier to reduce the burden by staying consecutive nights and using the same lodging as a base.

Snorkeling and SUP during the day, a walk in the evening while gazing at the ocean, and stargazing at night are popular. Kerama is more compatible with a trip to enjoy the sea and scenery at a leisurely pace rather than visiting fancy sightseeing spots.

Photo-worthy beach walks, SUP, kayaking, and star gazing are popular. The atmosphere varies greatly depending on whether you plan to take a day trip for active fun or stay overnight on the island for a relaxing stay.

You can enjoy it. There are also easy one-person tours such as snorkeling and SUP, and the charm of Kerama is that it is easy to be satisfied just by taking a leisurely stroll while looking at the ocean.

First, there are the boats and accommodations. In Kerama, ship reservations and operation status are more important than in the main island trip, and lodging is often full during the popular season, so it is recommended to make reservations early.

If you want to experience a little of the ocean, take a day trip. If you want to enjoy the tranquility of Kerama and even the starry sky at night, an overnight stay is suitable. Many people choose to take a day trip the first time and stay overnight the next time if they like it.

If it is your first time, it is easier to stay on the same island for consecutive nights. If you move across islands, you are more likely to be tied to boat times, and if you want to take it easy and enjoy yourself, it is easier to move around if you have a fixed base.

It is necessary. Since the places you can go and the experiences you can have in Kerama depend on the sea conditions, it is easier to enjoy Kerama if you have a bit of leeway in your itinerary.

Generally, visitors go by boat from Tomari Port in Naha City. The time required varies depending on the destination island and the type of ship, but you can access the islands by high-speed boat or ferry.

Boats heading to the Kerama Islands generally depart from Tomari Port in Naha City. Since the procedure location and boarding area may differ depending on the island and flight, it is advisable to check the reservation details and official information in advance.

First check the operation information of the ship company and each local government, and adjust your lodging and return plans as necessary. For Kerama trips, even if the plane is running, the ship may be cancelled, so it is a good idea to allow plenty of time for your return date and transfer schedule.

Although it varies by flight, Tokashiki Village guides that boarding tickets must be purchased 30 minutes before departure, and once purchased, boarding must be completed 10 minutes before departure. During peak season, the ticket counter tends to be crowded, so it is best to arrive as far in advance as possible.

If time is a priority, high-speed boats are a good choice; if you want to balance the amount of luggage and your itinerary, ferries are also a good candidate. Since the time required and the number of ferry services vary from island to island, it is recommended that you check the timetable before making your choice.

The ride can be bumpy depending on sea conditions, so those who get easily intoxicated should take anti-sickness medicine beforehand for peace of mind. Especially on windy days, it will be much easier if you take countermeasures for both the round trip.

Not required. In Kerama, there are many situations where you can get around on foot, transportation, rented bicycles, or motorcycles, and the need for these depends on the location of the island and lodging.

You can enjoy it. It is easy enough to fully enjoy the area without a driver's license if you take a lodging near the port or use a tour with a pick-up service.

Some islands can be turned around, but physical fitness is required in places where there are many hills. While it is compatible with those who want to move slowly while enjoying the scenery, it is important not to overdo it in the summer or on sections with many ups and downs.

Transportation varies from island to island. If you plan to use public transportation, it is a good idea to check the information on each island and the availability of transportation for accommodations and tours in advance, as there may be a limited number of services.

You can take it with you, but it is easier to keep it compact considering the boat trip and moving around the island. Because of the steps and walking that are likely to occur, a suitcase that is too large may be a bit inconvenient.

If in doubt, Zamami Island or Tokashiki Island are easy candidates. It is easy to balance lodging and accessibility, and easy to plan even for the first time.

The trend of lodging differs from that of urban areas and large resort areas on the main island, and some islands are more likely to choose minshuku or small inns. On the other hand, the size and atmosphere of accommodations vary from island to island, so it is recommended that you choose one based on its location and facilities.

The total cost will vary depending on the number of nights, type of boat, and whether it is a day trip or overnight stay. Since the budget sensitivity also changes between overnight stay on the main island + day trip and overnight stay on the island, we recommend that you choose according to what you want to prioritize.

It is a good idea to have it on. Since there are not always many restaurants on the island to choose from early in the morning, it will be easier to move around if you can finish breakfast at the inn on days when you have boat time or morning tours.

Weekends during summer vacation, consecutive holidays, and whale watching tend to fill up early. Since the number of accommodations is limited on some islands, we recommend making reservations as early as possible during popular times of the year.

It is quite important. Because of the susceptibility to ship cancellations and poor sea conditions, it is advisable to check the cancellation conditions of accommodations and tours before booking.

If you are staying for a short period of time, you may not have much trouble, but if you are mainly playing at the beach, it is convenient to have a laundry environment. If you are staying for consecutive nights, it is a good idea to check the facilities of the lodge in advance.

It is easier to focus on access to the harbor and beach, the availability of transportation, and the ease of dining. The more accommodations that reduce the burden of traveling around the island, the more likely you are to be satisfied with your trip with children.

There is. The sea itself can easily become the star of a trip, and a view of the sea from a room or dining room can make a big difference in the satisfaction of a stay.

If you are looking for ease of transportation, stay at Naha, but if you want to experience island-like time, staying on an isolated island is the right choice. If playing in the ocean is your main attraction, staying on an island is well worth it.

It is important not to underestimate the travel time after arriving at the airport and to allow time for formalities at the port. It is also a good idea to plan backward to what time you will arrive at the overnight port.

There are places to shop on the island, but the selection and hours of operation may not be as extensive as on the main island. It is recommended that you prepare necessary daily necessities, medicines, children's goods, etc. in Naha.

It gets quite crowded. The boats, lodges, and popular tours tend to fill up in that order, so if you are thinking of taking a series of holidays, it is recommended that you lock in your schedule early.

You can also enjoy From winter to spring, whale watching is popular, and it is easy to enjoy the quiet seascape and island time, which is different from summer.

The nature is abundant in the area. Insect repellent is useful, especially in summer and in green areas, and it is comfortable to take measures when walking at night or using outside seating.

There are also many guided tours for beginners. There are also many tours for beginners, and if you have a guide, he or she will show you how to use the equipment, making it easy to participate even if it is your first time.

You can have fun. Many people are satisfied with glass boats, cruises for scenery purposes, or just a walk on the beach. It is also recommended to choose a tour that does not get wet easily.

The royal road is snorkeling. It is an easy way to experience the Keramas blue ocean and the richness of the fish population, and even first-timers are easily satisfied.

There is a possibility of seeing sea turtles. Tours for sea turtles are also popular, but you may not always be able to see them because they are in their natural habitat.

The whale-watching season usually runs from winter to spring. The approximate timing of the season varies from year to year, but it is mainly enjoyed from January to April, and some tours may start guiding visitors around the end of December.

Experience diving is easy for beginners to participate in. Many people become accustomed to the ocean by snorkeling first, and then move on to experience diving.

You can also enjoy the beautiful scenery of the island. Since this activity is easily affected by the wind, the point may be changed or cancelled depending on the sea conditions of the day, but it is popular among those who want to enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace.

You can enjoy the ocean's transparency from above. Because the clarity of the ocean can be enjoyed from above, even those who do not like to go into the ocean can easily enjoy this extraordinary experience.

Changes. The visibility of the beach and ease of swimming may differ, and if you are mainly playing in the ocean, you are more likely to be satisfied if you are also aware of the tide level.

It is beautiful all year round, but the impression changes with wind, waves, and the weather up to the day before. When clear skies, calm sea conditions, and daylight hours coincide, it is easy to feel the sea color that is typical of Kerama.

Be aware of the sun, dehydration, and wave changes. If you have children with you, it is a good idea to check the facilities and support before choosing a beach or tour.

Conditions of participation differ for each plan. Some marine activities may not allow participation, so please be sure to check the participation requirements for each plan before booking.

You can enjoy it. Even if you don't force yourself to go into the ocean, you can enjoy the views from the boat, walks on the beach, glass-bottom boat trips, and island time itself.

There are many days when you can see beautifully. Staying on the island makes it easier to enjoy the starry sky in the darkness and quietness that is difficult to savor in Naha.

There are also Early morning tours and sunset tours are popular with those who want to enjoy a different look from the daytime.

It depends on the beach and the time of year. Some places have showers and changing facilities, but it is best to check the conditions of use and facility details in advance.

It depends on the time of year and the beach. If peace of mind is important, it is recommended to check in advance whether there is a swimming monitoring period and whether lifesavers are posted, or to take a guided tour.

Kozamami Beach on Zamami Island, Nisibama (Kitahama) on Aka Island, and Awaren Beach and Tokashiki Beach on Tokashiki Island are standard beaches. Each has a different atmosphere, so you will be more satisfied if you choose one with more emphasis on scenery or ease of swimming.

Many are easy to stop by, but showers, rentals, transfers, etc. may cost extra. If you want to be comfortable, it is easy to understand if you include the services you need.

There are restrictions and checkpoints depending on the location. Since the area around the harbor, settlements, and nature conservation aspects are also involved, please be sure to check the latest rules in advance, and if necessary, obtain permission before using the site.

Not recommended. Since this is a place to enjoy nature, it is important to enjoy coral and living creatures on the basis of "see, photograph, and do not harm".

It is realistic to spend time relaxing on the island, resting at a cafe or inn, or switching to sightseeing in Naha if the weather is severe. It is easier to move around if you keep your itinerary flexible.

You can enjoy it. The colors of the sea, the serenity of the village, the roads with good views, and the atmosphere around the harbor make it easy to be satisfied without packing in destinations.

There are many. Beaches, harbors, slopes with good views, sunsets, starry skies, and other natural scenery itself are easy to capture in photographs.

This is the point where the color and serenity of the sea varies greatly, even though it is relatively easy to access from the main island. The main attraction is that even within a day-trip area, you can experience the extraordinary feeling of a remote island.

The standard menu includes island-style diner meals, light meals with a view of the ocean, Okinawan soba noodles, and seafood dishes. Many people enjoy the location more than the luxury.

Reservations are recommended if possible. The island may have a limited number of restaurants, and they tend to be full during peak seasons and weekends, so it is best to confirm when you have decided to stay.

It is not always possible to use the same senses as on the main island. It is recommended that you prepare necessary items in advance on the Naha side.

While you may be able to buy the bare minimum, the selection varies from place to place. It is a good idea to prepare in advance for things such as beach play equipment, medicine, and sun protection products.

It is safer to have it with you. Even though cashless services are increasing, there are still situations where cash is useful in small stores and for some services.

There are places available, but the number and ease of use may not be as great as on the main island. It is recommended that you prepare the necessary amount of money in Naha before heading to Kerama.

It varies quite a bit depending on whether you are taking a day trip or staying overnight, the type of ship, and the number of activities. The total amount is easy to move around depending on which experiences you choose to include.

Early booking is recommended for popular times of the year. Especially for whale watching, consecutive holidays, and popular summer plans, it is recommended that you push as soon as possible after you have decided on the dates.

Some plans are possible if there is availability. However, boat times and sea conditions can affect the plans, so if you know what you want to do, it is safer to make reservations in advance.

There are some. Kerama Tours also offers plans that can be searched by the condition of free photo service, so those who want to preserve their memories can easily find them by using the condition search.

It is convenient. Kerama Tours also offers plans that can be searched for with transportation, making it easier for those who are anxious about transportation or first-timers to make plans.

There are some tours available, but the conditions for participation vary from plan to plan. Kerama Tours offers a search for conditions that allow 0-year-olds to participate, but there are restrictions based on age requirements and sea conditions, so it is safe to make reservations after confirming details.

There are some. It is easier to find a plan that suits you if you narrow down your selection by criteria such as less likely to get wet, less burden of travel, or with transportation.

Available. Kerama Tours can also be searched for foreign language availability, so if you need it, you can search for conditions and check the details of each plan.

There is. The ocean color seen from the boat, the view of the island, the tranquility, and a walk on the beach alone are enough to satisfy many people who are "glad they came" even if they do not go in the ocean.

Many people feel that way. The transparency and gradation of colors are attractive, making this area a good match for those who want to make the ocean the star of their Okinawa trip.

It is to underestimate ship time and to pack too much into the itinerary without considering the risk of sea conditions. Planning with plenty of time to spare is more likely to result in greater satisfaction.

In summer, cool and dry clothing is helpful, and in winter or when traveling by boat, a cloak is useful. If you are mainly playing in the ocean, emphasize clothing that can get wet and sun protection.

Anti-sickness medication, rash guards, waterproof bags, sandals, hats, sunscreen, and a cloak are especially useful. Comfort varies with the ship and sun protection.

It can be used in many situations, but the connection varies depending on the location and communication environment. Electronic tickets and reservation screens can be saved in advance if necessary.

It does not float at all. It also goes well with people who want to enjoy nature quietly by themselves, and in fact, many tours are easy to join alone.

Suitable for. It is especially recommended for those who would rather take their time to share the ocean, sunset, and starry sky than to walk around the bustling city.

You can enjoy. Snorkeling, marine sports, photo opportunities, and the ease of a day trip make it a good fit for group travel.

In addition to weather, be aware of sea conditions, including wind and waves. Since natural conditions can change the places you can go and the experiences you can have, it is easier to enjoy your trip if you leave a little leeway in your itinerary.

Hold the ship, lodging, and tours you want to do early, and don't overcrowd the itinerary. It is easier to be satisfied with a trip that allows you to savor the sea and island time rather than a trip that keeps you on schedule.