6 Recommended Guesthouses in Kuroshima to Enjoy on Heart Island

Kuroshima is an island that belongs to Taketomi Town in Yaeyama District, Okinawa Prefecture. Because its shape resembles a heart, it is sometimes called the “Heart Island.” If you’re planning a trip, it’s highly recommended to visit this warm and cozy island! Moreover, you can see constellations here such as the Southern Cross and Canopus, which are difficult to observe from most parts of Japan. Here, we’ll introduce six recommended guesthouses on Kuroshima.

1. Nakata-sou

When people hear “minshuku” (a type of Japanese guesthouse), they might imagine a place that isn’t very clean or lacks proper facilities. However, the charm of “Nakata-sou” is its cleanliness that completely overturns such expectations! This guesthouse is thoroughly cleaned and well-organized, making it a comfortable stay even for female guests traveling alone or in groups.

While there are no private baths in the regular rooms, there are two communal bath areas, which is reassuring. Body soap and combined shampoo-conditioner are provided, which is quite convenient. There are also Western-style rooms with private bath and toilet facilities, but please note that these come at an additional charge. In front of the building, there is a lawn and terrace area, providing a relaxing open-air space.

The building is single-story, and guests can also access the roof—perfect for those wanting to soak up the southern island sun. A road extends directly from Nakata-sou to Nakama Beach, so getting to the beach is simple and straightforward. One of the great services provided is pick-up from the port by the staff upon your arrival. They can also drop you off when you leave. However, the pick-up service is only available if your ferry arrives after 11 a.m., so be sure to contact the guesthouse in advance. If you're looking for a clean minshuku on Kuroshima Island, Nakata-sou is highly recommended!

2. Minshuku A~chan

The highlight of Minshuku "A~chan" is undoubtedly the delicious meals made with fresh ingredients. You’ll be treated to dishes rich with fresh vegetables harvested from Kuroshima. On top of that, the seafood is sourced from the tropical seas, ensuring high quality. Depending on what is freshly caught or picked at the time—be it fish or vegetables—they prepare meals on a case-by-case basis to deliver the best flavors.

Kuroshima is also famous for "Aasa-jiru" and "Abasa-jiru". Of course, you can enjoy these too. Aasa-jiru is a soup made with seaweed and is especially known for its delicious taste during the winter to spring season. Abasa refers to porcupinefish, and in Abasa-jiru, even the liver of the fish is included.

One of the standout experiences exclusive to Minshuku "A~chan" is the chance to go coconut crab hunting with the owner! Catching coconut crabs is a rare experience, so if you’re planning a visit to Kuroshima, you might want to consider adding it to your itinerary. However, note that coconut crabs hibernate in winter, so be sure to check with the inn before booking during that season.

You can also rent bicycles at no cost if you’re staying overnight. With 12 bikes available, there’s no need to worry about shortages. Minshuku "A~chan" takes pride in its exceptional meals made from fresh ingredients and offers the unique chance to hunt coconut crabs with the owner—making it a truly special Kuroshima experience.

3. Guesthouse Miyayoshi-sou

Miyayoshi-sou is one of the oldest and most traditional guesthouses on Kuroshima Island. While its building and facilities may not be as modern or complete as newer inns, it still attracts many repeat guests — and for good reason. One of the main appeals is that guests can enjoy "Yuntaku" (a term from Okinawa meaning casual chatting) in air-conditioned rooms.

The toilets, sinks, refrigerator, and washing machine are shared. However, the washing machine is free to use, which is a nice bonus! Note that air conditioning is only available in some areas, not in individual rooms. But there’s a reason for this: the biggest charm of this guesthouse is the opportunity to enjoy slow, relaxed Yuntaku. Everyone — from the guests to the staff and even the owner — gathers to enjoy drinks and chat together.

Talking with people you meet for the first time during your trip is one of the joys of travel and can become a memorable experience. Why not create a new page in your life’s story at “Miyayoshi-sou,” a recommended guesthouse on Kuroshima Island, where you can unwind, enjoy drinks, and share conversations in the evening breeze?

4. Minshuku Nodoka

Minshuku “Nodoka” is a newly opened inn that started operating in July 2005. The greatest attraction of this inn is undoubtedly the hospitality of its owner. Many visitors find themselves captivated by the numerous thoughtful gestures and warm welcome upon arrival. In fact, some guests become repeat customers solely because of the owner’s kindness.

One of the main services offered is the welcome drink. At most accommodations, a welcome drink is typically one glass upon check-in, or perhaps another one the following day. But at Minshuku Nodoka, the welcome drinks are all-you-can-drink! And it's not just the usual coffee — even awamori (Okinawan distilled liquor) is available freely. Wouldn't you want to visit just to find out what their welcome awamori tastes like?

As with many other recommended inns on Kuroshima Island, this place also offers free bicycle rentals. If you're staying near the sea like in Kuroshima, you'd naturally want to enjoy beach hopping at your own pace. Minshuku Nodoka offers this freedom, and the owner welcomes guests with an open heart — along with unlimited coffee and awamori. If you’re fond of drinks, this is the place to book without hesitation.

5. Minshuku Kuroshima

One of the recommended guesthouses on Kuroshima is “Kuroshima.” The biggest feature of this inn is its wide range of marine services for enjoying the sea. Minshuku Kuroshima is just a stone’s throw from Nakamoto Beach. It also offers tours to Aragusuku Island, also known as Panari Island.

There are five well-known diving areas around Kuroshima: the areas around Kuroshima and Aragusuku Island, the Yonara Channel, the Shikanokawa Bay area of Iriomote Island, the area around Hateruma Island, and finally the area around Nakanouganjima. The seas around these areas are known for their beautiful sandy bottoms and abundant tropical fish, making them very popular! In the reefs made of coral, manta rays can be seen year-round.

For those who find diving a bit intimidating, snorkeling is highly recommended! Of course, full gear rental is available. At nearby Nakamoto Beach, you can also enjoy beach diving known as "riku-en." If you want to enjoy all of this, staying at “Kuroshima” is a must. The inn has 12 rooms and can accommodate up to 30 guests. Additionally, bicycle rentals are free, and shuttle service to Kuroshima Port is provided, which is very convenient. Be sure to fully enjoy the sea of Kuroshima.

6. Minshuku Miyaki-so

When it comes to “minshuku” (Japanese-style guesthouses), it's typical for solo travelers to get to know each other, build new friendships, and have a fun time drinking together at night. If you're looking for that kind of accommodation, Miyaki-so is highly recommended! The building has a charming, aged feel that reflects its history.

More than anything, the time spent at the table in front of the entrance feels great. In the evening, not only the guests but also the owner join the gatherings in the dining room, making you feel as if you've always lived on Kuroshima Island. Since Miyaki-so is located along the main road, they also offer bicycle rentals, so you can enjoy your free time exploring.

There’s one shared washing machine, and the rooms do not have air conditioning. This naturally encourages guests to gather in the communal areas, which is part of the fun of traveling. Miyaki-so isn’t a place for those seeking quiet solitude. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy cheerful moments and have a good time with people they've just met. If you want to drink and party in a lively atmosphere, head to Minshuku Kuroshima. Surrounded by friendly regulars and a welcoming owner who treats first-timers like old friends, you're sure to have a memorable time.

◎ Summary

To fully enjoy Kuroshima, Okinawa’s “Heart Island,” the first step is to find accommodations that suit your preferences. While most of the lodgings are small, family-run inns, they allow you to feel the island’s warmth and hospitality. Consider your ideal lodging style and find the one that best fits you!

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6 Recommended Guesthouses in Kuroshima to Enjoy on Heart Island