Okinawa is in the middle of summer. It's definitely the best time to travel there.
Blue skies and blue seas... August, with its strong sunshine, makes the already beautiful ocean shine even brighter.

But even when it comes to "Okinawa," many people might be wondering where to go and what to do for fun, right?
So, this time, I'd like to introduce some ways to avoid the crowds when traveling to Okinawa in August.

I'd also like to share some information about the weather and things to be aware of, so I hope it will be of some help to you!

<Table of Contents>
~Recommended spots in August | How to avoid crowds on remote islands~
1. Kuroshima | Enjoy the great outdoors to the fullest on Heart Island
2. Tarama Island | Is this really Okinawa? Take a leisurely stroll through the unspoiled scenery.
~If you're on Okinawa Main Island, this is the place!~
3. Daisekirinzan Mountain in northern Okinawa Island | Get energy from Okinawa's power spot
4. August Event Information
5. July weather and things to be aware of
Final thoughts

Lowest price information for Okinawa tours departing in August

Kuroshima Island in the Yaeyama Islands boasts scenery reminiscent of Hokkaido.
It's an island whose topography, when viewed from the air, surprisingly resembles the shape of a heart.

Access is convenient, as it's only about a 25-minute high-speed ferry ride from Ishigaki Island, making a day trip possible.
With pastures in the area, you can not only enjoy a slow-paced time while blending into the scenery, but there are also plenty of beaches perfect for playing in the sea.

However, most people tend to go to larger islands, so this place is actually a hidden gem.
Now, let me introduce you to what kind of place Kuroshima is.

1-1. Nishinohama Beach | Sea turtles come here to lay their eggs

Nishinohama is about a 5-minute bike ride from Kuroshima Port.
With its pristine white sand beaches and vast blue ocean, this place is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and other outdoor activities.

You can see Iriomote Island and Aragusuku Island across the sea, giving you a real sense of being on a remote island.
You'll be amazed by the magnificent scenery and think, "I didn't know Japan had such a wonderful place!"

And the scenery isn't just amazing from land; it's incredible even when you dive into the sea. Yaeyama truly lives up to its reputation!
The moment you put your face in the water while snorkeling, you can see corals and schools of fish, making it so wonderful that you might mistake it for the Dragon Palace.

As evening approaches, perhaps longing for water, you can sometimes see the hermit crabs all heading back to the sea at once...

Furthermore, Nishinohama is very famous as a nesting ground for sea turtles, with the nesting season running from April to around August or September.
However, their numbers are declining, so be aware that they are now a protected species.

Apparently, they come to the beach at night to lay their eggs.
"You can't see it even if you want to on a day trip!"
If that sounds interesting to you, why not stop by the Kuroshima Research Institute, where sea turtle ecological research is being conducted?

This is a recommended spot that's like a small museum and aquarium where you can even feed real baby sea turtles! They're so cute.

<Spot details: Kuroshima Research Institute, affiliated with the Japan Sea Turtle Association (NPO)>
Address: 136 Kuroshima, Taketomi-cho, Yaeyama-gun, Okinawa Prefecture
Phone: 0980-85-4341
The official website ishereFrom

1-2. Nakamoto Beach | When the tide goes out, it becomes a natural pool surrounded by coral.

The water here is so clear you can see the coral reefs without even having to dive, and at low tide, a natural pool surrounded by coral is created.
However, even if the weather is good, swimming may be prohibited if the waves are high, so please check beforehand.

1-3. Kuroshima Observatory | A place where the wind blows through and you can enjoy a panoramic view of the island.

Located almost in the center of the island, Kuroshima Observatory is about 10 meters high and should be easy to find as it's right along the road connecting Kuroshima Port and Higashisuji settlement.
Climbing up here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the island's landscape, which lacks mountains, and the only sound you can hear is the wind.

The vast pastures and the sea stretching out beyond... just looking at them is so calming!

Route 1-4.213 - One of the Top 100 Roads | Cycling along a straight road

Okinawa Prefectural Road 213, the Kuroshima Port Line, extends from the Kuroshima Observatory, which I mentioned earlier, to the Higashisuji settlement.
This road, which has been selected as one of "Japan's 100 Best Roads," is highly recommended for cycling!

As you slowly make your way along, the scenery changes to pastures on both sides, where you can see branded beef cattle and goats grazing comfortably.
It really is a place that perfectly fits the description of "peaceful."

And it's not just cows and goats that you'll find here. In fact, wild peacocks sometimes make an unexpected appearance...
They will run away if they hear sounds like cameras, so it's best to just quietly observe them.

As I walked along the straight road for about a kilometer, the scenery soothed me and filled me with a sense of peace.
You'll surely feel a surge of renewed energy and motivation.

1-5. Puzumari | A glimpse into the Ryukyu Kingdom era

This is "Puzumari," a lookout point said to be the highest point on Kuroshima Island.
During the Ryukyu Kingdom era, it is said that they used these fires to monitor ships and to create smoke, sending signals to the islands.

And what's even more surprising is that the information about that signal reached the local government office on Ishigaki Island.
The wisdom of the past is truly amazing, isn't it?

The construction is extremely simple, consisting only of stacked Ryukyu limestone blocks.
But these lookout points aren't just on Kuroshima Island; they're scattered all over the Yaeyama Islands, so if you happen to come across one, be sure to stop and take a look!

1-6. Iko Pier | It feels like you're walking on the sea.

Iko Pier is a pier that stretches out into the blue sea. It's the most popular tourist spot on Kuroshima Island!
The breathtaking view from here is truly indescribable. It might be a good idea to relax and refresh your mind on this spacious pier.
*Please note that you may not be able to reach the very back at high tide, so it's a good idea to check the tide levels beforehand.

As you can see, Kuroshima has plenty of spots where you can have a full day of fun.
Instead of forcing yourself to go to crowded places, why not spend some meaningful time relaxing on an island?
However, the number of high-speed ferry services is somewhat limited, so be sure to plan your trip accordingly.

【Related article】
・A major event on a small island! We infiltrated the Kuroshima Beef Festival, where you could win a dream cow!
A complete guide to Ishigaki Island Ferry Terminal, the gateway to the Yaeyama Islands!

Many of you may have thought for a moment, "Huh? I've seen this scenery somewhere before..."
That's right, hay bales are a sight you see on the opposite side of Japan, in Hokkaido.

Tarama Island, with its simple and unspoiled scenery, is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll around the island.
Let me introduce you to some recommended spots!

2-1. Tarama Island | A deep island with many historical sites and natural beauty.

Tarama Island is located almost exactly halfway between Miyako Island and Ishigaki Island.
While it's common to travel to Miyako Island by plane, there are now direct flights from the mainland to Miyako Island, making access much easier.

Because it's a flat island with no mountains, many windbreaks such as Fukugi trees are planted there, giving it plenty of the charm of "Okinawa."
This is highly recommended for those who want to enjoy a slightly more off-the-beaten-path travel experience!

2-2. Branded beef cattle love to take baths.

The cows look very comfortable. Tarama Island is also the place where the branded beef known as "Tarama Beef" is raised.
The cows, which have been carefully raised for over six months, are apparently being auctioned off to buyers from all over Japan.

They can sometimes be seen swimming in the beautiful ocean, not just at the ranch, so if you happen to come across one...

"Become delicious!"

Let's say that to them.

2-3. Busy with the "August Dance," designated as an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Japan!?

Tarama Island is quite famous for its traditional performing art called "August Dance," which is designated as an important intangible cultural property of Japan.
However, the August Dance is an event held in September of the Gregorian calendar, not August (according to the old calendar).
It is believed to have originated as a ritual performed at the Ntabaru Utaki shrine in Nakasuji on the 8th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar to pray for a bountiful harvest.

"What?! So even if I go in August, I won't be able to see it!"

I might get scolded for saying this, but it seems that it's sometimes possible to observe the practice of the August Dance.
Practice sessions are usually held in the afternoon.

August is a major event on the island, and the islanders are busy making meticulous preparations. However, there are also many friendly old men, so if you ask them, they might offer you some awamori (Okinawan liquor) while you watch! Why not be brave and ask them?

2-4. Try buying some sweet souvenirs locally!

When talking about Tarama, one thing you absolutely can't forget is "brown sugar."
As you may know, Okinawa is famous for its brown sugar, but "Tarama brown sugar" is particularly well-known.

The secret to the popularity of Okinawan brown sugar lies in its manufacturing process.

First, the juice extracted from the sugarcane, which is the raw material, is boiled down as is.
And because it's unrefined, a major characteristic is that it's rich in minerals. Both the solid and powder types have a wonderful aroma, so you should definitely try them at least once!

If you absolutely want to enjoy August on Okinawa Island, Yanbaru is highly recommended during this time.
The northern part of the region is known for its abundant nature, but the secret to why it doesn't feel particularly hot even in summer is, of course, the abundance of greenery.

Stepping into the forest, you're enveloped in a tunnel of greenery like a parasol, and the sunlight filtering through the trees creates a truly unique Okinawan scene. The refreshing feeling of strolling along is simply wonderful!

Daisekirinzan is surrounded by lush subtropical nature.
The powerful presence of these plants makes it seem as if you can hear the breath of life itself if you listen carefully.

You might also encounter other unique creatures here, so in addition to the scenery, I hope you'll also look for lizards crawling on the trees and birds.

This "sacred land," which has been passed down since ancient times, is said to still have around 40 sacred groves (utaki) and is one of the largest power spots in Okinawa.
Just looking at the rugged, jutting rock formations is overwhelming, isn't it?

There are a total of four walking courses, each with plenty of interesting sights to see.

1. Giant Rock and Stone Forest Inspirational Course: You can see Goku Rock, raw gemstones, and other power stones.
2. Churaumi Observatory Course: You can see the Stone Forest Wall and the Rebirth Rock.
3. Barrier-free course: Includes Meotoiwa (Husband and Wife Rocks) and Eboshiiwa (Eboshi Rock). It's the shortest course and recommended for families.
4. Subtropical Natural Forest Course: You can see trees such as the Ogan Banyan tree.

All of them are appealing, but I think it's best to start with the one that interests you the most.

This August, why not avoid the crowds and experience the invigorating power of a sacred place?
Please note that Oishirinzan is a trekking course, so be sure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes.

<Spot Information: Oishirinzan>
Address: 1241 Ginama, Kunigami Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture
Phone: 0980-41-8117
The official website ishereFrom

【Related article】
・You'll definitely regret it if you don't go! The charm of Cape Hedo, the northernmost point of Okinawa Island.

 

4. August Event Information

Of course, Okinawa also hosts a wide variety of events in August.
One of the most notable events is the "Eisa Festival." Be sure to check out the Eisa dance, which truly embodies the love for Okinawa!

★10,000 Eisa dancers
Date: Sunday, May 2018, 8
Location: Kokusai Street
For inquiries: 098-863-2755
Official site:https://naha-kokusaidori.okinawa/eventinfo/eisa.html

★ Okinawa All-Island Eisa Festival
Dates: August 11th (Sat) and August 12th (Sun), 2018
Location: Koza Athletic Park Track and Field Stadium and the area around Goya Crossroads
Official site:http://www.zentoeisa.com/

~Other events like these~

★Nighttime Zoo: SataZOO Night [For Children]
Dates: Every Saturday from July 21st (Sat) to September 1st (Sat), 2018
Location: Okinawa Children's Land
For inquiries: 098-933-4190
Official site:https://www.okzm.jp/event/kodomo/entry-581.html

5. July weather and things to be aware of

Summer in tropical countries is, as expected, very hot.
According to data released by the Japan Meteorological Agency, the average high temperature is 34 degrees Celsius, and the average low temperature is 28-29 degrees Celsius.

However, it doesn't have the stifling, muggy air you find in urban areas like Tokyo or Osaka; the weather is rather dry. There's also a breeze along the coast, so it's not the kind of unbearable heat you might expect.

However, the main thing to be careful of is UV radiation. It's about 1.5 times stronger than in your usual living area, so be sure to take precautions such as applying sunscreen thoroughly and wearing a hat. Don't forget to stay hydrated!

As for tourist destinations, some places can get extremely crowded during peak season, so some research beforehand is necessary.
Popular spots are usually crowded, so it's best to plan your time accordingly if there's a place you really want to visit.

Final thoughts

How did you like Okinawa Lab's recommendations for how to spend August in Okinawa?

To be honest, the prices are a bit on the higher side because it's peak season.
However, for those who work on a regular basis, this could also be a good opportunity to take an extended break and enjoy a vacation.

Especially when we're already leading such busy lives, travel allows us to reset our minds and fatigue, and gain the strength to face the next challenge...that's what I think travel is all about.

Island travel, in particular, is the ultimate luxury for enjoying a slow-paced lifestyle. Of course, if you have plenty of energy, there are tons of ways to have fun, such as attending festivals or playing in the sea, so try to find your own way to spend your time!

[Check these out too]
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Lowest price information for Okinawa tours departing in August

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