Discover the Tranquil Beauty of Tarama Island! Six Must-Visit Attractions in Tarama Village, Okinawa

Tarama Island is located right between Miyako Island and Ishigaki Island in Okinawa. This flat island, formed by raised coral reefs, has a circumference of only about 15 kilometers. While small, it is thriving with sugarcane cultivation, producing the highest volume of brown sugar in Okinawa! You can reach Tarama Island by ferry from Miyako Island in about two hours or by plane in about 25 minutes. Tourism development is minimal, so there are very few outside visitors, making it very peaceful. Its stunning natural beauty and the slow pace of life are sure to ease the busyness and fatigue of your daily routine. Here, we will introduce four recommended tourist spots packed with the charm of this remote island.

1. Yaeyama Observation Deck

Tarama Island, formed by uplifted coral reefs, is mostly flat and elliptical in shape. At the highest point, with an elevation of just 33 meters, there is the Yaeyama Observation Deck, nearly the island's only scenic spot. The hexagonal tower, shaped like a bacteriophage, offers a panoramic view of Tarama when climbed. On clear days, you can even see the Hirakubo Peninsula on Ishigaki Island in the distance.
The hill with the tower was once home to a lookout station called Yaeyama Tomi, which monitored passing ships. These historical sites are scattered across the Miyako and Yaeyama Islands, and many were designated as national historic sites in 2007 under the name "Sakishima Island Fire Beacons." While it's a modest stone-built observation platform, climbing it allows you to feel the refreshing breeze of Tarama.

2. Jaws Ⅱ

"JAWSⅡ" is the only diving shop on Tarama Island. Experienced staff will guide you through diving courses around Tarama Island and the neighboring Minna Island with full support. They offer various courses, from introductory scuba diving to snorkeling for experienced divers, ranging from half-day to full-day programs. Whether you're with family, friends, or a partner, you can enjoy swimming among coral reefs and marine life in the vast blue sea.
The shop is located within a 10-minute walk from the port and accommodations. It features relaxing spaces both inside and outside the store. The ocean of Tarama will give you the best moments, as if you've arrived at Ryugu Castle. Please note that all courses require prior reservation.

Name: JawsⅡ
Address: 514-1 Shiokawa, Tarama Village, Miyako District, Okinawa Prefecture
Official/Related Website: http://divehousejaws2.web.fc2.com/

3. Shiokawa Utaki

Shiokawa Utaki (Tarama Island)
"Utaki" refers to sacred places in the ancient faith of the Ryukyu Islands. These places are preserved not only on Okinawa's main island but also across many islands in the prefecture and are still cherished today. Among the several utaki on Tarama Island, Shiokawa Utaki is well-known as a tourist spot.
Shiokawa Utaki is located in a beautiful forest, slightly away from the village, and is surrounded by Okinawa Prefecture's natural monuments, such as the "fukugi" and "imanuki" trees. The roughly 650-meter-long fukugi tree-lined path leading to the utaki appears to guard the path with its breathtaking beauty! Walking along this approach, one cannot help but feel a mystical energy.
Several rituals that have been held for over 300 years are conducted here throughout the year, making it a significant place for the villagers of Tarama Island. Though small, this utaki offers a chance to connect with the island's history. Why not visit and immerse yourself in its story?

4. Furusato Folklore Learning Center

Located at the southern base of Yaeyama Watchtower and amidst sugarcane fields, the Furusato Folklore Learning Center is a tourist spot where you can learn comprehensively about Tarama Island's history, culture, and nature. The famous "August Dance," as well as exhibits of clothing, housing, farming, and fishing tools, provide rich insights into daily life on the island.
Inside the museum, the director kindly and thoroughly guides visitors. If you're curious about the history of Tarama Island, this is a must-visit location.

5. Tarama Mamoru-kun

Have you heard of "Miyakojima Mamoru-kun," the popular figure from neighboring Miyako Island? These traffic dolls, about 20 in total, are scattered across Miyako Island, and they are all set up as brothers. Their pure white faces and nonchalant expressions are their trademark, making them "creepily cute" and a viral sensation in recent years. Character goods like keychains, cookies, and juice have also been created.
One of these figures was "transferred" to Tarama Island in 2010 and now works as Tarama Mamoru-kun. You can find him right in front of Tarama Airport. This has become a popular photo spot for many tourists. He’s even said to be one of the top three most handsome among the 19 figures, so take your time admiring his face!

6. Kegari-kan

If you head east from the northeast corner of Tarama Village Office, you’ll find the island’s only traffic signal at the corner of a shop called Ishimine Store. Turning north towards the port, you’ll immediately see on your left the "Kegari-kan." While it’s not exactly a tourist spot, this is the island’s barber shop, and its name certainly leaves an impression.
The exterior is stylishly painted, making it a great place to snap a memorable photo. And of course, for an even more memorable island experience, you can get a haircut there! If you’re strolling around the town of Tarama, this is a spot worth checking out.

Summary

Even just viewing Tarama Island from an airplane offers breathtaking scenery. Once you step foot on the island, you’ll be greeted by sparkling blue seas, vibrant wildlife, and the warmth of the islanders, lifting your spirits even more. Though there aren’t many tourists, the island is packed with charm! If you’ve come all the way to Tarama Island, forget about your daily life and work, and immerse yourself in the island’s pace of life.