[2026 Latest] Kohama Island Complete Guide — Ocean & Mountain Activities, Drama Filming Locations, Golf, Island Culture & Luxury Resorts. Compact Yet Packed with Wonders

Just a 25–30 minute ferry ride from Ishigaki Island, Okinawa, Japan — the hub of the Yaeyama Islands. Kohama Island, famous as the setting for the beloved NHK TV drama "Churasan," sits at the very center of the Yaeyama archipelago, earning it the nickname "Tenbusu (Navel) of the Yaeyama."

Unlike the flat islands of Taketomi and Kuroshima, Kohama boasts rich, rolling terrain — mountains, mangroves, and the stunningly vivid ocean known as "Kohama Blue" — an astonishing diversity packed into a compact island. A true hidden gem of authentic tropical Japan, far off the beaten path from Tokyo and Kyoto.

As a father of two who travels between these islands for work, I'm sharing the true charm of Kohama Island — because "it's a waste to just stay cooped up in a resort hotel." Everything here is based on firsthand, on-the-ground information.

1. 🚲 Getting Around: Regular Bicycles Are Pure Torture

This is the single most important piece of advice for visiting Kohama Island. The hills here are seriously steep.
If you think "It's an island, I'll just casually cycle around" and rent a standard single-speed bicycle, you'll regret it within the first 15 minutes.

• Recommended: Scooter (moped) or electric-assist bicycle
• Why: Every time you move between the village, observatories, and beaches, steep hills stand in your way. Especially with kids on the back, you simply cannot make it up without electric assist. The exhilaration of powering up hills with the wind in your face is actually one of the best parts of exploring Kohama.
• ⚠️ Warning: With many hills come fast downhill sections. Watch out for inability to brake in time, head-on collisions at blind corners — fatal accidents have occurred in the past.

2. 🎬 "Churasan" Filming Locations Today: The 2026 Atmosphere

Many years have passed since the drama aired, but the landscapes that served as the story's backdrop are still carefully preserved. The excessive tourist rush has calmed, and a wonderfully quiet, comfortable atmosphere now pervades these spots.

• Sugar Road: An endless straight road flanked by sugarcane fields on both sides. The quintessential "This is Kohama Island" scenery remains unchanged.
• Kohagura-sō: The red-tiled house used as the family home in the drama. A private individual still lives here — please do not enter the property. Quietly viewing the exterior is proper etiquette.
• Kazuya's Tree: Unfortunately, it no longer exists. Don't waste time searching for it based on outdated guidebooks.

3. ⛰️ Observatory Pro Pick: Nishi-Ufudaki is the Real Star

Kohama Island has two observatories: "Ufudaki" and "Nishi-Ufudaki." Guidebooks tend to feature the taller Ufudaki more prominently, but my recommendation is hands-down Nishi-Ufudaki. If you have the energy, definitely climb both!

Ufudaki Observatory

The island's highest point (99m elevation) and Kohama's symbol. About 300 steep steps lead to the summit, making it a somewhat challenging climb for families with small children. However, the reward is an overwhelming 360-degree full panorama of the Yaeyama Islands — a breathtaking viewpoint that makes you truly feel you're standing at the "Navel of the Yaeyama."

Nishi-Ufudaki Observatory ← Recommended!

Compared to Ufudaki, the stairs are gentler and easier to climb — this is the one I recommend for families. There's a bench at the summit where you can leisurely gaze at Kayama Island floating right before your eyes and the majestic Iriomote Island beyond.

4. 🏖️ The Stunning "Kohama Blue" & Ocean Activities

Kohama Island's ocean is characterized by a unique shade of blue known as "Kohama Blue."

• Kubazaki Beach: Located at the island's western tip, this is said to be Kohama's most beautiful beach, with Iriomote Island looming right across the water. The "Yonara Channel" between the islands is famous as a manta ray migration route, but the current is extremely strong — swim with extreme caution. Simply enjoying the scenery and atmosphere is deeply satisfying.
• Toumaru Beach: Close to the port, great for swimming and world-class snorkeling. This is actually one of the rare spots in the Yaeyama Islands where you can rent proper windsurfing equipment.
• Ishinagata Coast: Beyond the ocean, you can observe vast mangrove forests here. The view from the observation deck showcases the quintessential Kohama landscape where mountains and sea coexist.

5. ⛳ Japan's Southernmost Golf Course: Kohama Island Country Club

Kohama Island is home to the Yaeyama's only — and Japan's southernmost and westernmost — golf course: Kohama Island Country Club.

An 18-hole, par-72 course adjacent to Hoshinoya Risonare Kohama Island. It features views overlooking coral reef seas, a strategic layout utilizing natural terrain, and a distinctly tropical atmosphere where peacocks stroll the fairways. Open year-round with beginner-friendly plans available.

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6. 🏛️ Unique Island Culture & Sights

Kohama Island preserves the wisdom of ancestors who survived in a harsh natural environment.

• Nagaki (Fish Weirs): Stones stacked along the shore to trap fish left behind by the receding tide — a traditional fishing technique. You can observe up close this primitive yet ingenious method that harnesses the laws of nature.
• Kōki-bara Banyan Tree Grove: Near the village, a forest of banyan trees radiating overwhelming life force. Sunlight filtering through the canopy creates a serene atmosphere that evokes the island's sacred spirit.
• Kitsugansai Festival: The island's largest festival, held each autumn. The highlight is a recently revived (though not performed every year) act featuring "Dātūdā" — a mysterious masked deity. A legendary piece of traditional performing arts worth witnessing. If you get to see it, consider yourself extremely lucky.

7. 🍽️ Local Food: "Shimamuchu" — Where Islanders Actually Eat

Resort dining is lovely, but venture into the village at least once.

• Shimamuchu: Not just tourists — this is an inviting, homey restaurant where islanders themselves are regulars. The cuisine, crafted from local ingredients, is superb, and they warmly welcome families with children. It's a popular spot, so expect crowds of both locals and visitors.

8. 🏨 Don't Day-Trip — Why You Should Stay at These Luxury Resorts

Kohama Island has so much to see — mountains, ocean, mangroves, village life — that rushing through on a day trip would be a waste.

Spend the day adventuring across the island's hills on an electric bicycle, then from evening, switch gears to rejuvenate mind and body at one of Japan's finest island resorts. This contrast between "wild adventure" and "ultimate refinement" is the ultimate Kohama Island experience — a tropical escape unlike anything else.

Haimurubushi

Freshly renovated in 2025 with cutting-edge facilities. Japan's southernmost beach resort, where animals roam freely across the vast grounds. Riding golf carts around the property sends kids' excitement through the roof. At night, with zero light pollution, your family can monopolize a sky overflowing with stars — a true Starry Sky Reserve experience.

Hoshinoya Risonare Kohama Island

Every room is a villa-type suite. The refined design and impeccable service make it ideal for couple's anniversaries or family trips where you want complete privacy. Time spent at the private beach and pool will completely reset the fatigue of everyday life. Many honeymooners choose this resort. Guests also enjoy discounted rates at the golf course.

After a full day of adventure under the sun and up the hills, return to an air-conditioned, luxurious room and savor a delicious dinner. This blissful experience is a privilege reserved exclusively for those who stay overnight on Kohama Island.

9. 📋 Summary: Kohama Island Key Spot Reference

Take a screenshot of this table for trip planning or on-the-go reference.

Kohama Island is packed with attractions from end to end — far too much to waste by just staying at a resort. Make the hills your ally and experience the "mountains, ocean, and drama memories" that exist only on this island.

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