[2025 Taketomi Attraction] Travel Guide for Kaiji Beach (Updated Apr)

This is a beautiful beach surrounded by natural forests on Taketomi Island. It is also known as the Star Sand Beach, and if you scoop up the sand from the rocks, you may find sand in the shape of a star or the sun, which is said to bring happiness. Name: Kaijihama Other names: Star Sand Beach Location: Taketomi-cho, Taketomi Access: About 7 minutes by bus from the port, about 15 minutes by bicycle This time, we traveled from the port by tour bus. Some people headed to the beach from the port by rental bicycle, but it seemed difficult unless you can read a map reasonably well, have a sense of direction, and are physically fit. I may feel that way because I am not physically fit and have a bad sense of direction. This is the beach that comes to mind when you think of Taketomi Island 😊 #Domestic Travel #Taketomi Island #Okinawa #Remote Islands #Okinawa Travel #Taketomi Island Tourism #Star Sand Beach #Kaiji Beach #Beach #Amazing View #Okinawa Remote Islands

Located on the western side of Taketomi Island, "Star Sand Beach (Kaiji Beach)" is famous for its star-shaped sand grains. These star sands are actually the shells of tiny marine organisms called "foraminifera," which are washed ashore by the waves. Their naturally crafted, beautiful shapes are a unique feature. Visitors to Star Sand Beach can often be seen searching for star-shaped sand grains among the regular sand. However, swimming is prohibited due to strong ocean currents. Near the beach, there are spots where you can observe star sand and shaded areas for resting, making it an ideal place to spend a relaxing time. When visiting Taketomi Island, take a moment to enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of Star Sand Beach for a truly special experience. ⸻ Name: Star Sand Beach (Kaiji Beach) Location: Taketomi, Taketomi Town, Yaeyama District, Okinawa Prefecture Access: About 15 minutes by bicycle or 20–30 minutes on foot from Taketomi Port Facilities: No facilities such as toilets or showers ⸻ Recommended Points Star Sand Searching: Enjoy the fun of finding star-shaped sand grains among the beach sand. Natural Beauty: The crystal-clear sea and white sandy beach make it perfect for photography. Relaxation Space: Rest in the shade or gaze at the sea for a leisurely time.

Kaiji Beach, located on the west side of Taketomi Island, is renowned for its "star sand." If you look closely at the sand, you'll find tiny grains shaped like stars, and discovering them brings a little joy each time. The sea is incredibly beautiful with high transparency, but swimming is prohibited. Instead, visitors can enjoy the view, take photos, and spend quiet moments. Listening to the sound of the waves while searching for star sand makes for a truly relaxing experience. This spot is not overly crowded with tourists, making its tranquil atmosphere even more appealing. If you want to feel the natural beauty and mystique of Taketomi Island, this is a must-visit destination!

We booked a tour with An-ei Kanko. The tour includes hotel pick-up, round-trip bus tickets within the island, and round-trip ferry tickets to Taketomi Island for 2160 yen (online reservation). It takes about 10 minutes by high-speed ferry from Ishigaki Port to Taketomi Island. We took a bus to Kaiji Beach. From Kaiji Beach, we walked to Kondoi Beach. Kondoi Beach has the most beautiful sea ✨✨ There are also toilets and water facilities available. Be careful when leaving your belongings as crows might target your food. We walked to the central part of the island where the villages are clustered. We enjoyed island banana juice and Okinawan-style zenzai at a cafe.

Taketomi Island is a small island about 10 minutes by ferry from Ishigaki Island, and the traditional Okinawan scenery spreads out within a circumference of about 9km! The village, characterized by red tile roofs and white sand roads, is a nationally important conservation district for groups of traditional buildings! ✍️ Recommended points Water buffalo cart sightseeing: You can listen to the history and culture of the island from your guide while being rocked leisurely on a water buffalo cart. Star sand beach: Kaiji Beach, where you can find star-shaped sand, is a popular spot for visitors. Walking around the traditional village: The scenery of red-tiled houses and stone walls, and colorful flowers will make you feel as if you have traveled back in time to old Okinawa. 🛥️Access About 10-15 minutes by high-speed boat from Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal There are many flights, so you can enjoy it even on a day trip◎ 💡Notes There are no rental cars on the island, so bicycles and walking are the main means of transportation #0 yen trip January 2025