Hatoma Island from Ishigaki

Maenohama beach, Hatoma Island. Photo: Paipateroma, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

A tiny forested island north of Iriomote with a lighthouse, empty beaches and almost no services. Its boats are among the first to stop in rough sea.

What to see and know

• Tiny island just north of Iriomote, birthplace of the Hatomabushi folk song. Hatoma Nakamui hill gives a panoramic view of Iriomote. (Taketomi Town, Hatoma Island (English))
• Under one square kilometre with a very small population. A tiny village sits near the port and the rest is forest. (Visit Okinawa Japan, Hatoma Island)
• The beaches are unspoiled, with blue coral communities off the north coast. (Taketomi Town, Hatoma Island (English))
• Trails lead through forest to a white lighthouse on the highest point, past remains of a hibanmui beacon lookout, with views of Iriomote. (Visit Okinawa Japan, Hatoma Island)
• Visitors mainly explore on foot along forest and coastal trails. (Visit Okinawa Japan, Hatoma Island)
• Caution: only a few small inns and guesthouses, and restaurants are scarce, so day visitors should consider bringing lunch. (Visit Okinawa Japan, Hatoma Island)
• The Hatoma Island Music Festival is held each year on May 3. (Taketomi Town, Hatoma Island (English))

Boats

Highlighted: the next departure in Japan time. Tickets work only on the operator that sold them.

Hatoma ferry timetable

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