[2025 Latest] 12 Recommended Remote Islands in Kagoshima Prefecture! Introducing Recommended Tourist Spots and Scenic Views

[2025 Latest] 12 Recommended Remote Islands in Kagoshima Prefecture! Introducing Recommended Tourist Spots and Scenic Views

This article introduces a carefully selected list of recommended remote islands that are easily accessible from Kagoshima! Let's enjoy an outing to the remote islands with family, friends, or as a couple!

Introduction

Kagoshima Prefecture has many easily accessible remote islands, and each island offers a variety of attractions.

It's characterized by its easy accessibility from the mainland by ferry or plane, with some islands having direct flights, making travel planning straightforward. There are also ample resort facilities that families can enjoy staying at, and it can be enjoyed year-round if you avoid the typhoon season.

This article introduces a selection of recommended remote islands in Kagoshima.

Famous for its rocket launch site! "Tanegashima"

Tanegashima is an island known as the forefront of space development. Located approximately 40km southeast of Sata Cape, the southernmost point of mainland Japan, it is characterized by its flat, elongated north-south terrain. Famous for its history of firearms introduction and cutting-edge space technology, it is said to be popular as an island connecting the past and the future.

On the beautiful shallow beach, you can enjoy marine sports like SUP and sea kayaking all year round, and there's also an excellent surf point that attracts surfers from all over the country. Access by ferry from the main island is good, and there are plenty of hotels and resort facilities. With a wide variety of tours and travel plans available, you can fully enjoy activities in the crystal-clear sea. This island is recommended for those who want to enjoy marine activities or are interested in history and science and technology.

Access: Approximately 1 hour 35 minutes to 1 hour 50 minutes by high-speed ferry from Kagoshima city.

"Oryu Meshiu Rock," where the sunset is beautiful

The Male Dragon and Female Dragon Rocks are mysterious, strange rocks with a legend that they are the reincarnations of a husband and wife cast into the sea on a stormy night. The two massive rocks are called the Female Dragon Rock on the left, facing the sea, and the Male Dragon Rock on the right.

The highlight of the Male and Female Dragon Rocks is the sunset that sinks between the two rocks. The sight of the rocks illuminated in orange, beautifully reflecting on the water's surface, is a magnificent spectacle.

"Tanegashima Space Center" Where You Can Experience Space

The Tanegashima Space Center is a facility well-loved as Japan's first full-scale space exploration exhibition hall. It features easy-to-understand exhibits on the relationship between space and humanity, the mechanisms of artificial satellites, and rocket launches. A great point is that you can visit for free.

You can experience the world of space up close, by entering a full-scale model of the Japan Experiment Module "JEM" on the International Space Station and trying out space experiment simulations. In the theater, you can experience the launch of an H-IIA rocket on a big screen with powerful sound, and if you reserve in advance, you can also take a guided tour of the center's facilities.

The Rich Forests of a World Natural Heritage Site! "Yakushima"

Yakushima is an island registered as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. It is densely packed with various natural attractions, including primeval forests where Yakusugi cedar trees thousands of years old grow in abundance, magnificent waterfalls, and forests filled with crisp, clear air. The island is characterized by its abundance of highlights, with many famous spots chosen for "Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls" and "Top 100 Forests of Giants."

Scuba diving is also available on the island, allowing you to fully enjoy the highly transparent sea. You can also taste Yakushima smoothies, a local specialty, so be sure to try them during your nature walks.

This island is recommended for those who want to spend time contemplating magnificent natural scenery or who wish to refresh both their mind and body.

Access: 35-45 minutes by Japan Air Commuter from Kagoshima Prefecture

Famous as a sea turtle nesting site! "Nagata Inakahama"

Nagata Inakajima Beach is a beach with about 800 meters of white sandy shore, known as the number one nesting spot for sea turtles in Japan.

From May to July, loggerhead turtles and green sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs, so access after dark is restricted during this period. If you wish to observe nesting turtles, we recommend participating in a sea turtle observation tour.

Nagata Inakahama is a special sandy beach chosen by sea turtles as they migrate across the Pacific. You can experience the mysteries of nature up close.

Jomon Sugi: An Overwhelming Presence

Jomon Sugi is the largest ancient tree among the Yakusugi cedars on Yakushima Island. There are various theories about its age, ranging from 2,000 to 7,200 years old. It was named because it has existed since the Jomon period and its gnarled trunk resembles Jomon pottery.

The rough, uneven surfaces bear the history of survival within Yakushima's harsh nature, allowing you to feel the power of the natural world. If you wish to experience the vitality nurtured over many long years, please come and visit.

Untouched nature is its charm! "Amami Oshima"

Amami Oshima is the largest island in the Kagoshima prefecture's remote islands, blessed with pristine nature. In 2017, Amami Gunto National Park was established, and in 2021, it was registered as a World Natural Heritage site. Surrounded on all sides by emerald green coral reefs, with forests of subtropical plants spreading across the land, it is gaining global attention as a mysterious paradise.

Amami Oshima is full of attractions, from the "Kinsakubaru Virgin Forest Tour" where you can observe rare flora and fauna, to the workshop "Kanai Kogei" where you can experience indigo dyeing and mud dyeing, and the representative island dish "Keihan" (chicken rice).

This is the perfect island for those who want to visit a remote island with various ways to enjoy it.

Access: Approximately 13 hours by ferry from Kagoshima.

A fantastic photo spot! "Tsuchimori Beach"

Tsuchimori Coast, commonly known as "Blue Angel," is a beautiful beach. Located very close to the airport, it boasts some of the finest sea views in Amami. The contrast created by the white sandy beach and the emerald green sea is truly a photogenic, breathtaking spectacle.

If you venture a little further offshore, a beautiful world of coral reefs unfolds, where you can observe colorful fish swimming by. If you're lucky, you might even encounter a sea turtle. There's also a coral reef tunnel, making it an excellent location for snorkeling.

Canoe Experience Popular at "Kuroshio no Mori Mangrove Park"

Kuroshio no Mori Mangrove Park is a facility located in Okinawa's Iriomote Island, boasting the second-largest primeval mangrove forest in Japan. Here, you can observe plant communities that thrive in the unique environment where saltwater and freshwater mix.

Canoe touring leisurely through the lush mangrove forests is open to beginners after a simple lesson. Depending on the time, you can go to shallow areas and learn about the ecology of the endangered Ryukyu Ayu fish.

The phantom beach is beautiful! "Yoron Island"

Yoron Island is a beautiful resort located at the southernmost tip of Kagoshima Prefecture. It is only about 23km from Okinawa Island, and has a unique charm influenced by both Satsuma and Ryukyu cultures.

The island's crystal blue sea, surrounded by coral reefs, and its 60 white beaches, large and small, possess a beauty that makes you feel as if you've arrived at an overseas resort. It's an island where you can relax and spend your time at leisure.

The island also has resort hotels like PRICIA RESORT YORON, and you can enjoy island gourmet food such as Yoron Island Beef Curry, made with Kuroge Wagyu from Yoron Island.

This island is recommended for those who want to see spectacular scenery that offers a sense of the extraordinary, or for those who want to take a relaxing trip.

Access: Approximately 20 hours from Kagoshima Port to Yoron Port

The miraculous, spectacular view of "Yurigahama"

Yurigahama is a sandbar that appears only during low tide from spring to autumn. It emerges 1.5 km offshore from Okanehisa Beach, and is a mysterious spot whose appearance time, location, and size vary from day to day.

The contrast between the sea surface shimmering in the sunlight and the white sandy beach creates a scene that is like paradise. The sandy beach is dotted with star-shaped sand, and there's a local legend that says picking up a number of star sands equal to your age will bring you happiness. Be sure to experience this spectacular view, unique to Yoron Island.

"Glass-bottomed boats" for enjoyable underwater observation

Glass-bottom boats are tourist boats with glass bottoms used to access Yurigahama. Through the glass bottom, you can view tropical fish and coral reefs.

It's attractive because even small children can easily enjoy the tropical sea as they can observe underwater without getting wet. They say you might even encounter sea turtles sometimes. You can safely and leisurely enjoy the underwater world while feeling the sea breeze on your skin.

Kikaijima, an island uplifted from coral reefs

Kikaijima is an island formed by the uplift of coral reefs, located about 25-30 km from Amami Oshima. It is a globally rare island that continues to uplift by approximately 2 mm each year even today.

In the village of Aden on the eastern side of the island, you can see a scene symbolizing the island's character, with stone walls of houses made from coral. You can also enjoy the unique island scenery with hibiscus and bougainvillea in full bloom.

On Kikaijima, fishing experiences on the "Yugyo-sen Tenjinkiku" are also popular, allowing you to experience the satisfaction of catching your own fish.

Also, Kikaijima, blessed with a warm climate, is famous for its brown sugar as a specialty product of the island. Please do pick some up.

Access: From Kagoshima (direct flight to Kikai) Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes

Sunset makes for a spectacular view at "Sugira Beach"

Sugira Beach is a popular swimming spot that takes advantage of a natural cove. Surrounded by coral, the waves are calm, and its appeal lies in being able to enjoy swimming all day regardless of the tide. It is loved by many tourists as the most popular beach on Kikaijima.

Besides swimming, you can also enjoy activities like grand golf and camping, making it a beach with various ways to have fun. In the evening, it transforms into a superb spot for watching the sunset, allowing you to gaze at the sun sinking into Amami Oshima.

360-degree panoramic view at "Hyakudai National Park"

Hyakumondai National Park is a national park that spreads across the central part of the island. It is counted as one of the "Ten Views of Amami" for its spots that offer panoramic views of both the Pacific Ocean and the East China Sea.

From the observation deck, you can gaze at the horizon and truly feel the curvature of the Earth. The view of the village, with its emerald sea fringed by coral reefs and meticulously cultivated sugarcane fields, is breathtaking. It's a place where you can savor the peaceful and relaxed atmosphere unique to outlying islands.

Explore caves on Okinoerabu Island!

Okinoerabu Island is located in the southwestern part of the Amami Islands. It is blessed with a warm climate year-round, and the cultivation of flowers such as Erabu lilies and spray chrysanthemums is flourishing.

There are 200 to 300 caves, including the "Shoryudo" limestone cave that stretches beneath the earth, and it is said to be affectionately known as the "holy land of caves" among cave enthusiasts. In cave exploration, known as "caving," you can witness a mystical world created by nature over long periods.

On Okinoerabu Island, brown sugar shochu is famous as a local specialty. Why not enjoy some sake while interacting with the warm islanders?

This remote island is recommended for those who want to enjoy both rich nature and culture.

Access: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes from Kagoshima Airport

"Fucha (Blowhole Cave)" where you can feel the power of nature

A "fūcha" is a cave formed by the erosion of coral reefs by rough waves. The cave has a vertical opening, and it is said that during monsoon seasons and typhoons, it spectacularly shoots up seawater to heights of 20 to 70 meters.

From the cave, you can see a powerful scene of the swirling sea. Sometimes, you can even encounter wild sea turtles. This is a spot where you can experience firsthand the scenery created by nature over many years.

The magnificent view from the cliff face: Taminamisaki Cape

Tannami Cape is a 51-meter-high cliff at the northwestern tip of the island. Looking down, you can enjoy a rugged landscape of cobalt blue seas and white spray crashing against the cape.

On days when the waves are calm, if you look out at the sea from the cape, you might be lucky enough to see cute wild sea turtles poking their heads out of the water. Further into the cape, you can also see karst formations where white, pointed rocks, sculpted by erosion over long periods, emerge from the ground.

This is a popular spot that everyone visits when they come to Okinoerabu Island for tourism.

The precious nature of a World Natural Heritage site! "Tokunoshima"

Tokunoshima is an outer island belonging to the Amami Islands. Its biodiversity was recognized, leading to its inscription as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in 2021, along with Amami Oshima, the northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island.

Tokunoshima is characterized by a rich natural environment, with the entire island covered in broad-leaved evergreen forests, and mountains centered around Inokawa-dake in the central part and Amagi-dake in the northern part.

From December to March, you can also enjoy whale watching and have a chance to observe the majestic sight of humpback whales. You can also enjoy diving, where you can encounter a variety of marine life. On the pristine white beaches, you may even witness sea turtles nesting.

This island is perfect for those who want to enjoy both the sea and the mountains.

Access: 15.5 hours by ferry from Kagoshima

"Inu no Monfuta": A Charm of Strange Rocks and Magnificent Scenery

Inu no Monfu is a spot within the Amami Gunto National Park, located on the northwest coast of Tokunoshima. Along the coastline facing the East China Sea, you can see bizarre rock formations and cliffs created by erosion over many years.

From the observation deck, you can also watch fish swimming in the sea. From December to March, it's said that you can see many humpback whales offshore.

You can also get a panoramic view of "Negu-gata Yama," which is also a symbol of the "Island of Childbirth." At night, you can enjoy a sky full of stars, making it a healing spot where you can feel the beauty of nature.

"Kanami Cape Observatory and Kanami Cape Cycad Tunnel," Overlooking Two Seas

The Kanemizaki Observatory and Kanemizaki Cycad Tunnel are scenic spots located in the northeastern part of the island. From the Kanemizaki Observatory, you can overlook two seas, the East China Sea and the Pacific Ocean, and on clear days, you can also see Kakeroma Island and Yoron Island.

On the way to the observation deck, the Kanami Cape Cycad Tunnel is a natural arch formed by about 250 meters of cycads planted to mark field boundaries and protect against the north wind. You can truly feel the atmosphere of a southern country.

Feel the blessings of the volcano! "Iwo Jima"

Iojima is an island brimming with volcanic energy, forming the central cone within the Kikai Caldera. Its coastline is painted in seven colors by continuously bubbling hot springs, and you can even find open-air baths along the shore that harness the power of the volcano.

The island has the Mishima Djembe School where you can learn to play the djembe, a traditional West African percussion instrument, and enjoy its sound amidst the abundant nature.

Also, speaking of Iwo Jima, the local shochu "Mendon" is also popular. It's a rare sweet potato shochu born from the unique nature of Iwo Jima, so please do try it.

Iou Island is recommended for those who want to experience hot springs and the unique culture of an island.

Access: Approximately 3 hours and 55 minutes by ferry from Kagoshima.

"Koibito Misaki Observation Park," which has a legend of love success.

Koibitomisaki Observation Park is a park where a legend says that couples who visit will surely be united. From the park, you can see the view of the steaming Iou-dake mountain to the left, and on a clear day, you can see Yakushima, Kuchinoerabu Island, and Tanegashima island in front of you.

If couples visit, it's sure to become a special memory. It's the perfect spot for couples who want to deepen their bond with their loved ones by borrowing the power of legend.

The ultimate hidden hot spring, "Higashi Onsen"

Higashi Onsen is an open-air bath that springs forth from a rocky shore where white waves crash. As a natural open-air bath created by an undersea volcano, it is highly popular among hot spring enthusiasts nationwide. It has also been selected as one of the "Top 100 Famous Hot Springs in Japan" and is said to be effective for skin conditions.

At Higashi Onsen, you can soak in hot springs with a spectacular view of Yakushima and Kuchierabujima Islands across the Pacific Ocean. Depending on the season, you may also be able to watch the sunset over the East China Sea.

You can relax and enjoy a special time right at the foot of a cliff, feeling the blessings of the volcano firsthand.

"Koshikijima," a chain of three islands

Koshikijima Islands are a group of three islands, Shimokoshikijima, Nakakoshikijima, and Kamikoshikijima, designated as a national park, floating about 30km off the Satsuma Peninsula. The topography of Kamikoshikijima and Nakakoshikijima, connected by bridges, contrasts sharply with that of Shimokoshikijima. While Kamikoshikijima and Nakakoshikijima have low, rolling mountains, Shimokoshikijima is characterized by high mountains and steep cliffs. We encourage you to explore these islands, each possessing its own unique charm.

Scuba diving is also possible around Koshiki Island, where you can enjoy the mystical scenery unique to the East China Sea. Even beginners can fully enjoy snorkeling expeditions and trial dives.

Also, if you visit Koshikijima Island, the island's specialty, kibinago, is also recommended, so please be sure to check it out.

Access: 50 minutes by high-speed ferry from Kawauchi Port Terminal

Kagoshima Prefecture's longest bridge, "Koshiki Grand Bridge"

Koshikijima Bridge, which opened on August 29, 2020, is the longest bridge in Kagoshima Prefecture. It connects Naka-koshikijima Island and Shimo-koshikijima Island, and can be crossed on foot, by bicycle, or by road bike for cycling.

From the "Kinokuchi Observatory" located near Kamikoshiki Island and Nakakoshiki Island, you can enjoy a panoramic view of not only the Koshikijima Bridge but also the Torinosu-yama Observatory and the townscape of Kashima.

It can be accessed by high-speed boat from the Kawauchi Port Terminal in Satsumasendai City, or by ferry from Kushikino New Port in Ichikikushikino City.

The "Mae-no-hirano Observation Deck" offers a view of a rock resembling Napoleon.

Maehira Observatory is a viewpoint where you can see the East China Sea and the symbol of Shimokoshiki, "Napoleon Rock." Napoleon Rock, visible directly in front, is a large, sheer cliffside rock that looks like Napoleon's profile when viewed from the side. When you visit, please enjoy taking photos.

On the opposite side from the sea, you can also overlook the village of Sezenoura. It's perfect for when you want to see natural scenery that will heal your soul.

The remote "Tokara Islands," consisting of 12 islands

The Tokara Islands are an archipelago consisting of 12 islands located between Yakushima and Amami Oshima. Seven inhabited islands and five uninhabited islands are scattered across approximately 160 km north to south, making it the longest village in Japan in terms of its continuously inhabited area.

Each island has its own charm, whether it's a volcanic island, a coral reef island, a hot spring island, or an island steeped in the legend of the Taira clan. Even the largest island, Nakanoshima, has a circumference of about 32km, while the smallest, Kobanarejima, is only about 5km around. The islands are so compact that you can walk around them in about an hour, even at a leisurely pace.

The only means of transport to the island is the village-operated ferry, which runs twice a week. If the weather or sea conditions are bad, the ferry will be cancelled, and once cancelled, you may have to stay on the island for several days until the next ferry. It is the perfect island for those who want to be surrounded by untouched nature.

Access: Approximately 10 hours by village ferry from Kagoshima to Suwanose-jima (subject to weather conditions)

"Hidden Islands" Where One Enjoys Having Nothing

On the "Hidden Islands," where you can enjoy nothingness, you can experience an extraordinary space.

Since there are no taxis, rental cars, restaurants, or supermarkets on each island, the basic style of staying at a guesthouse and primarily getting around on foot is recommended. Don't see this as an inconvenience; instead, enjoy the "emptiness" you can't experience in the city.

"Yakushima Island," where you can feel the blessings of a volcanic island

Kuchinoerabujima is a volcanic island located approximately 12 km northwest of Yakushima. The entire island has been designated a Biosphere Reserve (UNESCO Eco-Park) due to its untouched natural environment, earning it the nickname "Green Volcanic Island."

You can access it via a ferry that runs once a day, and experience the benefits of high-quality hot springs brought about by the active volcano.

Just a short drive in the car can lead to encounters with wild deer, goats, and cows, creating a world that feels like a safari park. You might even spot rare flora and fauna like the natural monument, the Ryukyu flying fox. This is recommended for those who want to experience unspoiled nature and volcanic blessings at the same time.

Access: Approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes by the town-operated ferry "Ferry Taiyo" from Yakushima Miyanoura Port to Kuchierabu Island Honmura Port.

"Active volcano" towering in the center of the island

The active volcano on Kuchinoerabu Island is centered around Shintake, which is currently highly active.

In 2015, a major eruption occurred, forcing all islanders to evacuate to Yakushima. After returning to the island, they continue to live alongside an active volcano. Currently, access to the mountain is restricted due to its high activity, but the presence of the still-active Shindake peak is closely intertwined with island life.

This is a place where you can experience the power of nature firsthand.

Boasting four secret hot springs, "Onsen"

There are four hot springs on the island: Honmura Onsen, Nishinoyu Onsen, Nemachi Onsen, and Yumukai Onsen. Each has a different mineral composition and therapeutic benefits, and the appeal of all of them is that you can enjoy freely flowing spring water directly from the source. Due to their locations, which are not easily accessible, and their rare spring qualities, they are sometimes referred to as "the most secluded of secluded hot springs."

Not only hot spring lovers, but also those who move here for therapeutic bathing are drawn to the highly effective hot springs. You'll be able to refresh your mind and body while feeling the blessings of nature.

It was even featured in a movie! "Kakeroma Island"

Kakeroma Island is an outer island accessible by a 20-minute ferry ride from Koniya Port at the southern tip of Amami Oshima. This small island, with a population of only about 1,400 people, is dotted with settlements called "shima" and boasts spectacular beaches surrounded by blue seas and white sandy shores.

The charming, simple scenery with only small shops and no supermarkets or convenience stores on the island is captivating. Citrus fruits like tanakan are also sold, so be sure to try them as a unique taste of Kakeroma Island.

You can also enjoy the beautiful underwater world of coral reefs with snorkeling. You can experience an extraordinary space with coral reefs where colorful small fish swim, as well as southern cuisine and island culture. This island is recommended for those who want to enjoy beautiful nature at the same time.

Access: 20 minutes by ferry from Koniya Port

"Suri Beach," a sacred place for marine sports

Suri Beach is a beautiful beach known as the "White Village." It is popular as a mecca for marine sports. A beautiful beach with high transparency stretches out, where you can enjoy diving, jet skiing, windsurfing, swimming, and fishing.

Suri Beach is equipped with showers and restrooms, and has restaurants and minshuku (Japanese inns) as well, so you can relax there all day. As a representative beach of Kakeroma Island, it's a perfect spot for those who want to fully enjoy activities in the beautiful sea.

Follow Tora-san's Footsteps! "The Filming Locations of Tora-san"

Kakeroma Island is also known as the filming location for "Tora-san's Tropical Love," the final installment in the "Otoko wa Tsurai yo" film series. In particular, the Denpaku "Lily no Ie" (Lily House), located by the sea along the Deigo tree-lined avenue, and the Gajumaru tree in Osai were used for filming, making it a sacred site for movie fans.

Nearby, at Shodori Nagahama Park, there is also a monument where director Yoji Yamada inscribed his thoughts about Tora-san and Kakeroma Island. It's a special spot where you can feel the world of the movies while enjoying the beautiful island scenery.

Summary

Here are 12 recommended remote islands in Kagoshima Prefecture.

The remote islands of Kagoshima Prefecture each possess a unique and rich charm. The characteristic appeal of Kagoshima's remote islands lies in the diverse ways they can be enjoyed, such as marine sports and hot springs.

For your next holiday, why not venture to the beautiful remote islands of Kagoshima in search of a special experience?

For recommendations on islands nationwide, please see the following article, which we also encourage you to read.