5 Souvenirs from Tarama Island! Recommended Simple Sweets Made with Brown Sugar

Tarama Island, which floats between Miyako Island and Ishigaki Island, is a village proud of its rustic charm, being the only member from Okinawa in the “Most Beautiful Villages in Japan” alliance.

Because the island does not welcome too many tourists, there are few sightseeing spots; however, it is highly recommended as an island where you can catch a glimpse of the traditional lifestyle of the Sakishima Islands.
In this article, we will explain the shopping spots on Tarama Island and the simple souvenirs—such as "Taramanbo"—that you can purchase.

What is Tarama Island?

▼ How to Get to Tarama Island

Tarama Island, located between Miyako Island and Ishigaki Island, can be reached by a twice-daily flight from Miyako Airport to Tarama Airport, or by ferry from Hirara Port on Miyako Island to either Futengma Port or Maedori Port on Tarama Island. Also, as of June 13, 2023, although it is not yet in operation, there is a planned service by Daiichi Airlines between Ishigaki Airport and Tarama Airport.
From Ishigaki Island, there is also a helicopter taxi (Sango Heli) available for those in a hurry.

▼ Are There Any Tourist Spots?

There is Shio River Uta-ki (Shio River Sacred Peak) on Tarama Island, a power spot with a dignified presence—but there are not many tourist attractions on the island. However, as an island where you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere that you cannot experience in the city, it is highly recommended.

For details on the tourist spots, please see the related article.

Where Can You Purchase Souvenirs on Tarama Island?

One recommended place to purchase souvenirs on Tarama Island is the two supermarkets located in the island's central settlement (the Nakasuji settlement), as well as the shop inside the airport, and “Sumamunutarama,” a store attached to a co-working space. In addition, there are a few other small shops on Tarama Island.

▼ Chuo Supermarket

Chuo Supermarket is located in the Nakasuji area. It is built facing A Coop, which is discussed later; if one store does not carry a desired item, it might be available at the other. Here, you’ll find everyday items such as stationery and daily goods, as well as food and beverages—it is a locally oriented supermarket. Even if it isn’t exactly a souvenir shop, you can obtain local items unique to Okinawa.

▼ A-Coop Tarama

Operated by a local agricultural cooperative, this store sells not only the famous Shikwasa juice but also other food items and beverages, such as the slightly less sour and less tangy Carabuchi Juice made from shikwasa. It also sells simple souvenirs like brown sugar and brown sugar cookies, so you can purchase unique Tarama souvenirs at low prices.
Please note that on the island, if boats are cancelled, fresh produce may sell out.

An ATM operated by JA Bank is also attached, so you can withdraw money using cash cards from all JA Banks nationwide, as well as cards from Mitsubishi UFJ Bank (which has free fees during daytime on weekdays in partnership with JA), among other financial institutions.

▼ Tarama Airport Shop

This is a shop within Tarama Airport where you should definitely stop by before or after your flight. It offers a variety of goods and souvenirs. Many items that are also sold on Miyako Island can be found here, but because Tarama Island has a unique culture of goat fighting, you will find T-shirts and other merchandise related to that as well. Make sure you don’t forget anything before leaving Tarama Island.

▼ Sumamunutarama

Sumamunutarama is a shop located within a new building that houses a café and tourism association as part of a co-working space. Here, you can purchase items such as “Hanpan,” “Uuyakigaas,” “Taramanbo,” “Brown Sugar,” and “Tarama Gelato.”
Nearby is also accommodation called “Yume Patio Tarama,” making it ideal for workation. Convenient bus services to Futengma Port, Maedori Port, and Tarama Airport depart nearby.

Souvenir ①: Brown Sugar

On Tarama Island, brown sugar is one of the major products—it accounts for 40% of Okinawa’s brown sugar production. Brown sugar is available in three types: large granules, small granules, and powdered form. Choose the type that suits your purpose.

Souvenir ②: Taramanbo

"Taramanbo" on Tarama Island is an aged snack known for its crunchy texture. As the name plays on the word “tamaran” (meaning “irresistible”), once you try one, you’ll want another and another. With a rustic flavor blended with brown sugar, Taramanbo is popular among children on Tarama Island.

Souvenir ③: Tarama Island Brown Sugar Cookies

Tarama Island Brown Sugar Cookies come individually wrapped and make excellent hand-out souvenirs for your workplace. The cookies’ surface is printed with cute illustrations of goats or motifs of Tarama Island, making them popular among women.

Souvenir ④: Uyaki Gaas

Uyaki Gaas is a simple, rustic treat made with brown sugar. “Uyaki” means “wealthy” or “rich” and was once considered an auspicious gift for betrothal or weddings. This product is made in the same factory as Taramanbo, but is noted for its firmer texture.

Souvenir ⑤: Hanpanbin

Hanpanbin is an item inspired by the flowers that bloom on Tarama Island. It is a simple, crispy fried snack with a salty flavor, made from very simple ingredients. It is cherished by islanders as “the taste of grandma.” Enjoy the local flavors of Tarama Island.

Enjoy the Taste of Handmade Delicacies on Tarama Island

Simple snacks with a nostalgic flavor, without any unnecessary additives—Tarama Island may not be as resort-developed as Miyako or Ishigaki, but the sight of sprawling sugarcane fields epitomizes the lost charm of traditional island life. It symbolizes what has been lost in modern society.
May this treasure of traditional tastes be passed on to the next generation. When visiting Tarama Island, we hope this guide helps you discover something new!

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5 Souvenirs from Tarama Island! Recommended Simple Sweets Made with Brown Sugar