With crystal-clear blue waters, a slower pace of life, and stunning natural scenery, Japan’s remote islands are the perfect summer destination. From Awaji Island, which is easily accessible from the Kansai region, to the resort paradise of Miyako Island in Okinawa, and the coral-fringed Ishigaki Island, each island offers its own unique charm.
This article features a carefully selected list of Japan’s remote islands that are perfect for summer travel. Why not plan a relaxing island getaway for your next holiday?
*By purchasing or reserving products introduced in this article, a portion of the sales may be returned to FUN! JAPAN.
1. Awaji Island | Hyogo Prefecture
Awaji Island is located between Hyogo Prefecture and Shikoku, and it's incredibly convenient to reach from mainland Japan. You can get there in about an hour by car from central Kobe via the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. There are also direct buses from Osaka International Airport and Kobe Airport to Awaji Island, making it easy to get there from the airport. The ferry from Akashi Port to Iwaya Port takes about 13 minutes and is a popular option for a short, scenic boat trip.
Awaji Island is dotted with places where nature and art come together. At the popular theme park "Nijigen no Mori," visitors of all ages can enjoy attractions inspired by anime and scenic nature walks. The "Awaji Yumebutai," designed by architect Tadao Ando, is a striking modern structure surrounded by greenery and ocean views. Another architectural highlight is "Honpukuji Mizumido," which appears to float on water and offers a tranquil space for reflection.
Awaji Island is perfect for active summer fun. Shallow and clear-water beaches like "Taga no Hama Beach" and "Ura Kenmin Sun Beach" are great for swimming and stand-up paddleboarding. Cycling along the coastline and fishing are also popular activities.
And of course, don't miss the local food. Highlights include the sweet and flavorful "Awaji Island onions," premium "Awaji beef," and seafood-filled rice bowls and burgers that let you enjoy the island’s gourmet offerings to the fullest.
2. Miyako Island | Okinawa Prefecture
Miyako Island is the main island of the Miyako Islands, located about 300km southwest of Okinawa’s main island. Direct flights are available from Tokyo (Haneda and Narita), Osaka (Kansai International Airport), and Naha Airport, with air travel being the most common way to get there. It takes about 3 hours from Tokyo and around 50 minutes from Naha. Shimojishima Airport also offers international flights from Seoul, Hong Kong, and Taipei, making the island easily accessible from overseas. The main city and beach areas are about 15 to 30 minutes away from the airport by car, and rental cars are the most popular means of transportation.
The biggest draw of Miyako Island is its breathtakingly beautiful ocean. Particularly famous is "Yonaha Maehama Beach," often referred to as the most beautiful beach in the East, with its white sands and crystal-clear emerald waters. The "Irabu Bridge," which connects to Irabu Island, is the longest free bridge in Japan and perfect for a scenic drive. At "Higashi Henna-zaki," you can enjoy dramatic views of cliffs and a lighthouse against the ocean backdrop.
There are plenty of ways to enjoy the water in Miyako Island, from snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding to kayaking and diving. In the evening, relaxing on the beach while watching the sun set into the sea is the perfect way to unwind.
Local food is also a highlight of any trip. Be sure to try regional specialties like Miyako soba and tempura made with island-grown shallots.
Related Articles
Miyakojima, a remote island in Okinawa blessed with beautiful seas
5 Snorkeling & Diving Spots in Okinawa
3. Ishigaki Island | Okinawa Prefecture
The largest of the Yaeyama Islands in Okinawa Prefecture, Ishigaki Island offers numerous direct flights from major cities such as Tokyo and Osaka. It takes about 3.5 hours from Tokyo and around 1 hour from Naha. From Painushima Ishigaki Airport, it's about a 30-minute drive to the city center, and you can get around by rental car, bus, or taxi.
The main highlights of Ishigaki Island are its emerald-green sea and breathtaking natural scenery. "Kabira Bay," which once earned three stars in the Michelin Green Guide, is a must-see spot, and taking a glass-bottom boat ride in the bay is especially popular. From observation points like "Tamatorizaki Observatory" and "Uganzaki," you can enjoy expansive panoramic views.
Marine activities abound on Ishigaki Island, including snorkeling, diving, and stand-up paddleboarding. At night, don't miss the chance to stargaze under the tropical sky — the area around Nagura Bay is especially known for its star-filled views. In the city, you'll find plenty of restaurants serving Ishigaki beef barbecue and cozy izakayas offering local island cuisine.
Related Articles
Let's eat Ishigaki beef & Agu pork in Okinawa! 5 popular restaurants with English support
4. Shodoshima | Kagawa Prefecture
Part of Kagawa Prefecture, Shodoshima is located between Honshu and Shikoku. You can reach it in about an hour by ferry from Takamatsu Port. There are also ferries from Honshu cities such as Okayama, Himeji, and Kobe, making it a convenient destination for day trips. Due to its thriving olive cultivation, it's often called the "Island of Olives."
Famous as a filming location for the movie "Twenty-Four Eyes," the island is known for its nostalgic streets and beautiful coastline. A popular highlight is the "Angel Road," a magical sandy path that appears and disappears with the tides.
You can enjoy scenic views of the Seto Inland Sea from the Kankakei Ropeway and take part in olive-themed craft workshops. Exploring the island’s charming cafés is also a relaxing way to enjoy the slower island pace.
👉 Kankakei Ropeway Ticket Reservation (Shodoshima, Kagawa Prefecture)
Related Articles
Let's go to the olive garden of Shodoshima, Kagawa Prefecture!
5. Amami Oshima | Kagoshima Prefecture
There are direct flights from Kagoshima Airport, Tokyo (Haneda and Narita), and Osaka (Kansai International and Itami Airports), taking about 1 to 2 hours. From Amami Airport, getting to tourist spots by car is the most convenient option.
The island is known for its lush forests and pristine seas, and is registered as a World Natural Heritage Site. Nature lovers will be drawn to the vast mangrove forests, the heart-shaped tide pool "Heart Rock," and the white sands and clear waters of "Tsumugi Coast."
Outdoor experiences include canoeing through mangroves, surfing, snorkeling, and more. Be sure to try local island delicacies like kokuto shochu (brown sugar liquor) and regional cuisine made with fresh local ingredients.
👉 Kagoshima Amami Oshima Snorkel
6. Yakushima | Kagoshima Prefecture
Located about 130km south of Kagoshima City, Yakushima can be reached by a 40-minute flight from Kagoshima Airport to Yakushima Airport. There are also high-speed ferries from Kagoshima Port that take about 1 hour and 50 minutes to 3 hours, as well as regular ferries.
The entire island, designated a World Natural Heritage Site, is a haven of untouched nature. It’s home to awe-inspiring sights like "Jomon Sugi," a cedar tree said to be over 7,000 years old, and the moss-covered, mystical forest of "Shiratani Unsui Gorge."
Trekking is a major draw, with trails suitable for all levels from beginners to experienced hikers. Waterfall-hopping, hot springs, and sea turtle watching are just a few of the nature-based experiences that make a trip to Yakushima unforgettable.
👉 [5% OFF] High-speed jet foil "Toppy" or "Rocket" round-trip ticket to Yakushima!
7. Sado Island | Niigata Prefecture
Sado Island is the largest island in Niigata Prefecture, floating in the Sea of Japan. From Niigata Port, it takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes to reach Ryotsu Bay by jetfoil, or about 2 hours and 30 minutes by car ferry. If you're coming from the Kansai region, it's also convenient to take a ferry from Joetsu City's Naoetsu Port to Ogi Port.
Highlights of Sado Island include scenic spots like "Senkaku Bay Ageshima Park," known for its dramatic cliffs, "Myosenji Temple," home to a five-story pagoda designated as an Important Cultural Property, and "Toki no Mori Park," where you can see the endangered Japanese crested ibis.
There are also plenty of unique activities such as riding a traditional washtub boat or trying your hand at gold panning. The island's food is another major draw, with fresh seafood and high-quality Koshihikari rice grown on Sado.
👉 Niigata to Sado Jetfoil (High Speed Boat) One-Way Ferry Ticket Reservation
8. Yoron Island | Kagoshima Prefecture
Yoron Island is the southernmost island of Kagoshima Prefecture. It’s accessible via a 40-minute flight from Naha Airport or about 1.5 hours from Kagoshima Airport. There are also ferries from Naha and Kagoshima’s mainland, although they take longer.
The island’s biggest charm is its stunningly clear blue waters and white sandy beaches. The most iconic spot is "Yurigahama," a sandbar that only appears at low tide — a dreamlike scene that symbolizes the island.
Yoron boasts some of the clearest waters in Japan, making it perfect for snorkeling, SUP, and diving. The local tradition of "Yoron Kenpo," a unique hospitality ritual, adds to the experience. In this custom, participants sit in a circle and take turns drinking brown sugar shochu from a shared cup while introducing themselves and sharing messages — a special way to connect with locals.
9. Chichijima, Ogasawara Islands | Tokyo
Chichijima is part of the Ogasawara Islands under Tokyo’s jurisdiction. The only way to get there is by ferry — the "Ogasawara Maru" departs from Takeshiba Pier in Tokyo and takes about 24 hours one way. There are no flights to the island.
Registered as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, the Ogasawara Islands are home to many endemic species and untouched natural environments. On Chichijima, you can enjoy emerald-green beaches, "Chihiroiwa" (also known as Heart Rock), which resembles a heart-shaped red rock when viewed from the sea, and the "Weather Station Observatory," which offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean.
Unforgettable nature-based activities include dolphin watching, dolphin swim tours, and night tours where you can see "Green Pepe," a bioluminescent mushroom unique to the islands.
10. Taketomi Island | Okinawa Prefecture
Located in the Yaeyama Islands, Taketomi Island is just a 10-minute high-speed ferry ride from Ishigaki Island. Once there, getting around is mainly done on foot or by bicycle.
The island is known for its charming village lined with traditional red-tiled roof houses and white sand paths. The town of Taketomi has been designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, giving visitors a glimpse of authentic Okinawan life and scenery.
One of the island’s signature experiences is touring the village on a water buffalo cart. Stargazing and relaxing on the island’s white sand beaches, such as "Kondoi Beach" and "Kaiji Beach," are also highly recommended.
Related Articles
Taketomi Island - An island where you can meet traditional Okinawa
11. Iki Island | Nagasaki Prefecture
Iki Island is located in the Genkai Sea, northwest of Nagasaki Prefecture. From Hakata Port, it takes about 1 hour by high-speed boat and around 2 hours by ferry. You can also fly from Nagasaki Airport to Iki Airport in about 30 minutes.
Iki Island is rich in history, home to the remains of the Harunotsuji Settlement, a moated village from the Yayoi period. With over 150 shrines scattered across the island, it’s often referred to as the "Island of the Gods." Nature lovers can also enjoy the white sands of "Tsutsukihama Beach" and the dramatic rock formation known as "Saruiwa" (Monkey Rock).
In addition to sampling delicious Iki beef and fresh seafood, touring the island’s shochu distilleries is another popular experience.
12. Tanegashima | Kagoshima Prefecture
Tanegashima lies southeast of Kyushu. It’s about a 40-minute flight from Kagoshima Airport or approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by high-speed ferry from Kagoshima Port.
What makes Tanegashima unique is the blend of nature and cutting-edge technology. The island is home to the "Tanegashima Space Center," one of the world's largest rocket launch sites, where you can tour the Rocket Garage and Command Center to get a closer look at space exploration. Natural wonders like "Chikura-no-Iwaya," a sea cave shaped by strong Pacific waves, and the "Male and Female Dragon Rocks" glowing at sunset, also offer stunning views.
A tour of the Tanegashima Space Center is highly recommended, along with marine activities like clear kayaking, SUP, and snorkeling.
13. Iriomote Island | Okinawa Prefecture
Located in the Yaeyama Islands of Okinawa, Iriomote Island can be reached by flying to Ishigaki Island (about 1 hour from Okinawa’s main island), followed by a 40–50 minute high-speed ferry ride from Ishigaki Port. Getting around the island is easiest by rental car or sightseeing tour.
Around 90% of the island is covered in subtropical jungle, and it’s home to the endangered Iriomote wildcat, a national natural monument. The river areas around "Urauchigawa" and "Nakamagawa," as well as the mysterious "Hoshizuna no Hama" (Star Sand Beach), are just a few of the untouched natural spots waiting to be explored.
Canoe tours through mangroves, trekking, and canyoning adventures offer thrilling ways to experience the island’s wild beauty.
👉 Okinawa / Iriomote Island|Half-day canoe experience
14. Rebun Island | Hokkaido
Rebun Island is Japan’s northernmost inhabited island, known as the "Floating Island of Flowers" for its abundance of alpine plants. You can reach it by a ferry ride of about 2 hours from Wakkanai Port in Hokkaido.
Despite its low elevation, rare alpine plants bloom all the way down to the coast — a rare sight. Spots like the "Momoiwa Observatory" and "Cape Sukoton" offer breathtaking views of flowers, cliffs, and the sea all at once.
From June to August, the island is in full bloom, and even beginners can enjoy hiking through flower-filled trails. Local seafood like uni (sea urchin) and hokke (Okhotsk atka mackerel) is also a must-try.
15. Kashiwajima | Kochi Prefecture
Located at the tip of Otsuki Town in Kochi Prefecture, Kashiwajima is about a 3-hour drive from Kochi Ryoma Airport. If you're using public transport, it takes about 1.5 hours by bus from JR Sukumo Station.
The sea around Kashiwajima is so clear that boats appear to float in mid-air — it’s considered one of the most beautiful coastal areas in Japan. The vivid contrast of deep blue water and lush green mountains creates a stunning view that feels almost otherworldly. Known as a diver’s paradise, the island is teeming with marine life.
Snorkeling and diving are popular ways to explore this underwater wonderland, where colorful fish abound. In summer, you can also enjoy SUP, or simply relax on a quiet beach and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
Japan’s remote islands are the perfect summer getaway. With untouched nature, crystal-clear waters, unique cultures, and delicious local foods, they offer a refreshing escape from daily life. Since transportation and accommodations can get crowded during summer holidays or Obon season, it’s best to plan your trip early. This summer, why not discover your own perfect "island time"?
Comments