Tokunoshima is one of the outlying islands of the Amami archipelago in southwestern Japan, comprising the cities of Tokunoshima, Isen, and Kamijin. It spans an area of about 247.77 square kilometers with a circumference of about 80 kilometers. It ranks as the 14th largest island in Japan, with a populace of around 24,000 people. Its primary industries consist of agriculture, which includes sugarcane, potatoes, ginger, and fruit bushes, as well as coastal fishing for yellowfin tuna, swordfish, bonito, and lobster. The island is likewise recognized for its production of brown sugar confectionery and soon-to-be registered brown sugar shochu.
Tokunoshima stands as one of the few islands in which you'll revel in the considerable splendor and unspoiled way of life of the southern islands without the need for direct flights from significant mainland airports. Similar to the Okinawa Islands, it boasts a subtropical climate, supplying heat climate throughout the year.
Furthermore, Tokunoshima is famed as the Island of Fertility, consistently rating the highest overall fertility price in Japan. This is because of a deep-rooted culture that values and nurtures existence. The secrets to the islanders' longevity lie within the heat weather, nutritionally balanced nearby ingredients including seaweed, fruits, and brown sugar, in addition to a wealth of bodily activities. The Ironman triathlon has become a primary occasion, attracting numerous athletes from both Japan and abroad.
Map of Tokunoshima
| Name | Tokunoshima (Japanese: 徳之島) |
| Country | Japan |
| Prefecture | Kagoshima |
| Coordinates | 27°49′12″N 128°55′56″E |
| Area | 247.77 km2 (95.66 sq mi) |
| Time zone | UTC +9 |
| Population | 27,000 |
| Airport | Tokunoshima Airport (TKN) |
Things to Do on Tokunoshima
ムシロ瀬 (Mushiroze)
The Mushiroze shoreline on Tokunoshima Island boasts an extraordinary granite formation. It presents a fantastic sight with a sequence of huge rocks akin to lush, overgrown grass. During winter, while the north wind blows, the water mist creates a specifically awe-inspiring spectacle, presenting a view utterly unique from the usual.
Furthermore, dealing with the open sea, this region has emerged as a desired spot for fishing enthusiasts looking for migratory fish. The high transparency of the seawater and the abundance of fish make it a super vicinity for fishing, where you'll trap black porgy, grouper, parrotfish, and snails. In the gap, possibly trap a glimpse of the majestic Dunganyan Rock.
金見崎ソテツトンネル (Cape Kanamisaki Cycad Palm Tunnel)
This is a tunnel-like arch composed of Cycad Palm trees that stretch approximately 200 meters in a period.
From the statement deck at the end of the tunnel, you can behold the sacred Tonbura Rocks, which are famous for fishing and diving. The breathtaking seascape wherein the East China Sea meets the Pacific Ocean unfolds before one's eyes, with the distant Amami-Oshima, the main island of the Amami archipelago serving as a picturesque backdrop.
During the approaching wet season, hermit crabs gather on the nearby beaches to lay their eggs at the night time of the brand new moon.
朝潮太郎記念像 (The Statue of Asashio Tarō III)
Standing tall is the monument of Asashio Tarō, the 46th Yokozuna, overlooking the village of Inokawa with the majestic backdrop of Inokawa Mountain. Within the facility, there may be additionally a memorial stone for Andai Jirō, the founding father of the Shiroyama Sightseeing Hotel.
During his lively career, Asashio Tarō won an excellent reputation for his formidable and powerful "oshi-zumo" strategies. After retiring, he have become a sumo trainer, nurturing numerous sumo wrestlers who've emerged as famous in the course of Japan.
To this day, Tokunoshima holds a deep reverence for the game of sumo, which is one of the thriving centers of sumo in Japan.
犬の門蓋 (Innojofuta)
The Innojofuta, or Dog's Gate, is a coastal place going through the East China Sea, characterized by atypical and shape-shifting rock formations and cliffs. These rocks and cliffs had been eroded through the years through coral reefs, resulting in a reality super panorama. The first-rate rocks are commonly called "Megane Iwa" and are followed by cliffs, caves, and rocky shorelines.
The spell-binding sight of the solar reflecting on the ocean captivates traffic. Additionally, all through wintry weather, the tumultuous waves crash towards the rocky coastline, creating a scene reminiscent of the frigid weather seas of Japan, with white foamy waves hovering high.
畦プリンスビーチ (Aze Prince Beach)
Aze Prince Beach is nestled inside the northeastern part of Tokunoshima and is a stretch of pristine white sand seashore extending for 1.5 kilometers, surrounded by flourishing coral reefs. In 1971, the then Crown Prince and Princess Michiko visited this enthralling vicinity, bestowing upon it the call it bears nowadays.
This secluded beach serves as a surprisingly endorsed snorkeling spot on Tokunoshima, imparting an indeed personal revel amidst the azure sky, widespread ocean, and powdery white sand, all contributing to a unique tropical ambiance.
The park is divided into three sections: a multifunctional square, a tenting vicinity, and the beach itself. The camping location affords kitchen centers and showers, which can be had without cost. The multifunctional rectangular capabilities include an observation deck, which grants a wide-ranging view of the remote Kakeromajima. Additionally, there is an outside stage and a grassy slide, adding similar leisure to the surroundings.
300-year-old Banyan Tree
The banyan tree is an evergreen plant belonging to the Moraceae family. It prospers in subtropical climates, such as those observed in Amami-Oshima, Okinawa, and Southeast Asia. Due to its tremendous fertility, it's far frequently known as the "tree of good fortune." When its roots contact the floor, they develop strong enough to break through concrete, earning it the symbolic language of "power."
Tokunoshima is decorated with banyan timber at some stage on the island, and within the gardens of personal houses, there stands a magnificent banyan tree that is over 300 years old. It is the sole tree of its grandeur on the island, said to be the dwelling area of a Kenmun, a mystical creature.
ヨナマビーチ (Yonama Beach)
Yonama Beach is in the northwestern part of Tokunoshima and is a picturesque seaside vacation spot. The pristine white sand and relatively calm waves create a serene environment, while the staggering sundown over the East China Sea is awe-inspiring. Overlooking the seaside are a few cottages, which shape part of a sundown lodge resort.
Yonama Beach is also renowned for being the place to begin the swimming phase of the Tokunoshima Ironman Triathlon, one of the grandest occasions on the island. At the quit of June every year, athletes from around the world acquire right here to take on the rigorous assignment of swimming 2 kilometers, cycling seventy-five kilometers, and going for walks 21 kilometers consecutively.
徳之島なくさみ館 (Tokunoshima Nakusamikan Bullfighting Arena)
The Tokunoshima Nakusamikan Bullfighting Arena is the most critical bullfighting venue on Tokunoshima Island. In addition to bullfighting, it is also applied to diverse activities. Within the ability, there's a nook dedicated to showcasing pics that depict the island's conventional way of life, including bullfighting and folk leisure. An excellent massive screen shows fascinating snapshots of traveler attractions and interesting bullfighting fits.
It is said that bullfighting has a record of approximately 500 years on the island. Over 20 occasions are held every 12 months, with the most exhilarating being the "Island-wide Championship" to decide the most muscular bull on Tokunoshima. This championship takes region three instances a year: the preliminary spherical (New Year), the spring tournament (May), and the autumn match (October). Enormous bulls, weighing over a ton, fiercely clash with every different usage of their effective horns.
トライアスロン IN 徳之島大会 (Tokunoshima Triathlon)
The Tokunoshima Triathlon held annually in June, is an enormously predicted occasion on the island. Tokushima is popular with athletes for its undulating terrain and is home to the training ground of Olympic gold medalist Naoko Takahashi, "Naoko Road."
In this stunning coastal place, members are examined both bodily and mentally as they swim 2 kilometers, cycle 75 kilometers, and run 21 kilometers around the island.
The residents from the three towns come collectively to clean the race path, and on the day of the occasion, the roadside is packed with the triumphant sounds of drums and cheers, heightening the atmosphere of the opposition.
How to Get to Tokunoshima
By Air:
- Departing from Kagoshima Airport, Japan Airlines (JAL) offers 4 round-trip flights daily.
- Departing from Amami Airport, Japan Airlines (JAL) offers 2 round-trip flights daily.
By Ferry:
Departing from Kagoshima Port: One daily ferry service is available from Kagoshima Port to Tokunoshima, departing around 18:00 and arriving the following day at approximately 9:00.
Returning from Tokunoshima to Kagoshima Port: One daily ferry service is available from Tokunoshima to Kagoshima Port, departing around 17:00 and arriving the following day at approximately 8:30.
Departing from Naha Port: One regularly scheduled ferry service is available daily from Naha Port to Tokunoshima, departing around 6:30 and arriving around 17:00.
Returning from Tokunoshima to Naha Port: There is one daily flight available from Tokunoshima to Naha Port, departing around 9:00 and arriving around 19:30.
Where to Stay on Tokunoshima
- 金見荘 (Kanamiso) On the picturesque coastline, you can quickly go on a journey to discover star-shaped sand, gather seaweed, and witness the mesmerizing spectacle of countless hermit crabs laying their eggs. Additionally, near the vicinity of the hotel, you will find the "Cycad Palm Tunnel," which was formed by the ancient Cycad Palm trees that were planted approximately 350 years ago to restrict the fields. You can take a stroll to the observation deck, immersing yourself in the captivating beauty of the surroundings.
- Hotel Grand Ocean Resort located in the exquisite position of Tokunoshima Island in Amami Oshima, it provides a truly extraordinary experience for discerning travelers. You will find yourself immersed in spacious and refined accommodations, each meticulously designed with your utmost comfort in mind. The view of the sea beyond the windows is also quite splendid, a fitting complement to the allure of this remote island.
- Hotel Lexton Tokunoshima has been awarded a distinguished three-star rating that offers its esteemed guests the indulgence of massage services and an exquisite dining experience. The accommodations boast immaculate and generously proportioned rooms, while the generous staff at the front desk provides unparalleled hospitality. Adjacent to the hotel lies a pristine beach, affording guests the opportunity to witness the captivating spectacle of sunrise and sunset. Furthermore, the vicinity is replete with a multitude of shops and restaurants, ensuring a delightful array of options for the discerning traveler.
Climate of Tokunoshima
Tokunoshima Island studies a subtropical maritime climate characterized by moderate temperatures all through the 12 months.
Amami-Oshima Island receives heavy rainfall, with an annual precipitation of 2,938 millimeters and comparatively low sunshine hours. On the other hand, Tokunoshima Island gets about 1,987 millimeters of rainfall, which is barely higher than the country-wide expected rainfall of 1,726 hours of sunshine, which is akin to the expected rainfall in Japan.
The standard temperature on Tokunoshima Island is around 22°C. However, during the wintry weather, there are few sunny days, and the island reviews northward winds from the continent, resulting in temperatures dropping to around 12°C.
