Okinawa, with its spectacular natural scenery, rich culture and an abundance of gourmet offerings, has long been a favored travel destination. Highly accessible, there are direct flights from Hong Kong to Okinawa’s main island, Miyako Island and Ishigaki Island.
Scenic destination
Among the many outstanding places to visit is Kume Island, which can be reached by air in 30 minutes, or 3.5 hours by ferry from the main island. Boasting an alluring ambience, almost the entire island has been designated as a prefectural natural park. Along the breezy waterfront, one can also enjoy horseback riding.
Some must-visit picturesque attractions on Kume Island include Hatenohama, a narrow 7-kilometer long beach off the east side of the island that is surrounded by pure-white sand and an emerald green ocean. Another natural wonder is Tatami Rock Field. An Okinawa Prefecture designated natural monument, the impressive geological feature is columnar joints that were formed when lava erupted some 12 million years ago.
For a 360-degree panoramic view of the entire Kume Island, head to Uegusuku-joshi (Uegusuku Castle Ruins) standing at an altitude of around 310 meters. At the highest castle ruins in Okinawa, you can even take in the sweeping scenery of Hate no Hama Beach and the surrounding islands.
Traditional craft
Kume Island is where you can experience the extraordinary craft of Okinawa. Kumejima Tsumugi, the traditional Okinawan craft of silk cloth, is designated as an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Japan and practiced since the Ryukyu Kingdom era.
From designing, dyeing the threads, to weaving, all the processes are completed by hand by one weaver. What results is valuable silk woven fabric distinctive of smooth, flexible texture. At the Kumejima Tsumugi Yuimaru-kan, not only can you observe the professional at work weaving it, you can also try it yourself!
Quality natural resource
Kume Island’s deep sea water is pure and rich in minerals. Aside from being used to produce cosmetics, it harbors a rich fishing ground known for farming premium agricultural produce, such as sea grapes. In particular, the island boasts the largest production of Japanese tiger prawn in Japan. The famed ingredient is often employed in high-end sushi restaurants in Japan and highly recommended for travelers.
Visit www.visitokinawa.jp for more information about Okinawa.
