Kaiji Beach is one of the most charming beaches on Taketomi Island, a small coral island surrounded by the beautiful seas of Okinawa. Located just a short ferry ride from Ishigaki Island, Taketomi Island can be reached in approximately 10 minutes by ferry, making it a popular destination for travelers exploring the Yaeyama Islands.
Taketomi Island is famous for preserving the traditional landscape of Okinawa. Its historic village is designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, and traditional red-tiled houses, white-sand streets, and stone walls still create a distinctive island atmosphere.
Although the island has a circumference of only about 9 kilometers, it offers plenty to discover. From Taketomi Port, visitors can cycle through green, shaded roads for approximately 15 minutes before arriving at Kaiji Beach.
Kaiji Beach is known for its striking contrast between bright white sand and clear blue water. The tropical scenery creates a peaceful setting for relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of Taketomi Island.
The beach is also a wonderful place to watch the sun sink toward the horizon. As the sky changes color and the sunlight reflects across the sea, the landscape takes on a particularly beautiful atmosphere that can become one of the most memorable moments of a trip to Taketomi Island.
The biggest attraction of Kaiji Beach is its famous “star sand.” These tiny grains have remarkable shapes that resemble stars or small suns, making the beach feel like a natural treasure hunt.
Star sand is actually the shell-like remains of tiny marine organisms known as foraminifera. Some of these organisms have existed since the Paleozoic Era, more than 300 million years ago. Their distinctive shells are gradually shaped and polished by the movement of the sea, eventually becoming the fascinating star-shaped grains found along the beach.
Look carefully at the surface of rocks and areas of sand, and you may discover tiny star-shaped grains scattered among the beach sediment. Searching for them while enjoying the surrounding scenery is one of the unique pleasures of visiting Kaiji Beach.
The area around Kaiji Beach retains a rich subtropical environment. Tropical and subtropical plants grow around the coastline, while coral reefs and clear coastal waters support a variety of marine life.
The transparent sea can provide opportunities to observe the underwater environment, including tropical marine life around the coral reefs. However, sea conditions and currents can vary, so visitors should always take care when entering the water and follow local guidance.
A visit to Kaiji Beach can easily be combined with exploring the traditional village of Taketomi Island. The island is famous for its red-tiled Okinawan houses, white-sand roads, stone walls, and subtropical vegetation, offering a glimpse of a traditional Ryukyuan island landscape.
Traveling around the island by bicycle is particularly enjoyable. The short distances make it possible to move between the village, beaches, and other scenic locations at a relaxed pace while experiencing the quiet rhythm of island life.
Taketomi Island is easily accessible from Ishigaki Island, with ferries taking approximately 10 minutes. Once on Taketomi Island, Kaiji Beach can be reached from the central area on foot or by bicycle.
From Taketomi Port, the beach is approximately a 30-minute walk. Visitors can also take the Taketomi Island sightseeing bus, which takes about 10 minutes to reach the Kaiji Beach bus stop, followed by a walk of approximately one minute.
Kaiji Beach is a natural environment, and visitors are encouraged to help preserve its beauty. The beach is protected as a natural conservation area, and taking star sand home is prohibited. Even though the tiny grains may look like souvenirs, leaving them on the beach helps preserve this special natural environment for future visitors.
There are relatively few restaurants and shops around the beach, so it is a good idea to bring drinking water and light snacks when visiting. Please also take all rubbish with you and avoid disturbing the surrounding plants and wildlife.
Sea currents can be strong in some areas, so swimming requires caution. Follow local signs and advice, and enjoy the coastline safely.
Kaiji Beach combines the beauty of Okinawa’s tropical sea with the fascination of its mysterious star sand. The white beach, clear blue water, subtropical vegetation, and spectacular sunsets make it a wonderful place to slow down and enjoy Taketomi Island.
After exploring the island’s traditional village and cycling along its peaceful roads, take time to walk along the beach and search carefully for tiny star-shaped grains among the sand. This simple treasure hunt offers a memorable way to experience the natural beauty and unique character of Taketomi Island.
30 minutes on foot from Taketomi Port
10 minutes from Taketomi Port by Taketomi Island Kotsu Bus, 1 minute walk from Kaiji-hama Bus Stop.