Local Guide
Know the temperature and clothes of Kohamajima, Okinawa, an island of healing.

Kohamajima, a small remote island with a circumference of about 16 km, is located about 25 minutes by high-speed boat from Ishigaki Island, about 350 km southwest of the main island of Okinawa, and is nationally known as the setting for the NHK television series "Churasan," with its "chura" (beautiful) scenery spread throughout the island. The cobalt blue sea, sugar cane fields, and an observatory in the center of the island provide a panoramic view of the surrounding islands and the original landscape of Okinawa.
Kohamajima has the same subtropical climate as Ishigaki Island. Even in winter, the temperature rarely drops below 10 degrees Celsius, and it is warm throughout the year. After late spring, you will feel the heat and humidity characteristic of the subtropical zone, but the pleasant sea breeze will reduce the heat. Even so, the sun's rays are strong and the amount of ultraviolet rays is sometimes twice that of Tokyo. Be sure to take measures against sunburn.
Also, be careful of typhoons. Kohama is known as "Typhoon Ginza" because of the number of typhoons approaching the island, so it is recommended to check typhoon information when planning your trip.

Kohamajima temperature graph

The average temperature in March is about 21°C, which is about as warm as late May in Tokyo. In early March, you may need to wear a parka jacket, but by mid-march, when the ocean opens, short sleeves are sufficient. However, the water is still cold, so SUP and canoeing are recommended for those who want to enjoy activities.
In April, the average temperature rises to 23°C (75°F), and in May it is nearly 26°C (81°F). This is the perfect time to enjoy exploring the lush greenery of the island. Bicycles are the best way to get around the small island. The exhilaration of riding a bicycle on the "sugar road," a single track road that winds through sugar cane fields and pasture landscapes, is unbearable. However, the sun is strong even in spring, so be sure to bring a hat, sunscreen, and a long-sleeved shirt.

The rainy season in Okinawa is characterized by short, waterfall-like showers (squalls) characteristic of the subtropical zone, and Kohamajima is no exception. The normal rainy season is from mid-May to mid-June. The lowest average temperature is 27°C, so you can dress lightly without feeling the coldness of the rainy season like in Honshu.
The highest average temperature in July and August, when ultraviolet rays are the highest of the year, is over 32℃. When going out, it is essential to take measures against sunburn and heat stroke, and it is convenient to carry a spare T-shirt or other clothing as the heat and humidity can make you sweat a lot.
Surrounded by one of the largest coral reefs in Japan, summer in Kohamajima is the best season for marine activities. Snorkeling and scuba diving are great ways to see the colorful tropical fish that live in the coral reef forests, and if you are lucky, you may even spot manta rays.
August is also the time when many typhoons approach the island, so it is a good idea to check typhoon information frequently.

The average maximum temperature in September is 31.5℃. The heat is still hot enough to make you sweat even in short sleeves.
In October, the average temperature drops to about 26°C, and the heat and humidity subside. This is a good time of year to plan a trip, as there are many sunny days. This is the best time to visit Hamashima, a fantastic island where white sand beaches appear in the ocean only when the tide is out. Weather permitting, temperatures can reach 30 degrees Celsius or higher on some days, allowing visitors to enjoy marine activities amidst a 360-degree panoramic view of emerald green.
The island's largest festival, "Kichigan," in which folk dances such as "Datuda" are dedicated, is held from late October to early November. The mornings and evenings become cooler at this time of year, and a light jacket is necessary. Carry a parka or jacket if you plan to go stargazing under the beautiful Southern Cross.

The average temperature from December to February is about 19°C. The highest average temperature is about 22 degrees Celsius, and the amount of ultraviolet rays is relatively low compared to other seasons, so you can spend your time comfortably. During the daytime, you can wear short sleeves, but as January approaches, northerly winds increase, and on days when the wind blows cold, the temperature can feel less than 10°C (50°F).
From late December to the end of January, when the air is clearer, Kohamajima's famous sunset views are even more beautiful. When going to the beach or sightseeing on the island, be sure to bring a windbreaker or thick cardigan to protect against the wind chill.
In late January, the Kanhizakura (scarlet cherry blossoms), with their vivid deep pink color, begin to bloom, creating a gorgeous scene. In early February, when the cherry trees are in full bloom, the weather is pleasant and you can enjoy viewing the cherry blossoms in comfort. During this season, there are few tourists, so you can spend a peaceful time relaxing on the beach, strolling through the village, and enjoying Kohamajima's unique atmosphere.

After a day of sightseeing, spend a moment enjoying the charms of the beach and ocean at a private, remote island beach resort.

A remote island beach resort with a private atmosphere

Guest rooms are all suites of villa type
Guest rooms are all suites of villa type

The resort hotel is located on Kohamajima, the Yaeyama Islands, the most southwestern tip of Japan, about 25 minutes from Ishigaki Island by regular high-speed boat. There are only 60 Guest rooms on a site of approximately 360,000 tsubo. The small size of the hotel gives it a private feel, and you can spend a relaxing time without crowding anywhere. You will feel as if you have the white sand beach and the emerald green ocean view on the property all to yourself. Please enjoy an elegant holiday that only a remote island can offer.

Declaration of the highest level of corona protection
Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Kohamajima has declared the highest level of Corona countermeasures to ensure the safety of its guests, and has set up "hygiene management" and "avoidance of the three clandestine areas" as the two main countermeasure axes. Corona countermeasures We are implementing the "Corona Countermeasures" at all our facilities.

Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Kohamajima
  • address (e.g. of house) 2954 Kohama, Taketomi-cho, Yaeyama-gun, Okinawa MAP
  • Bus Direction 10 min. by free shuttle bus from Kohama Port
  • TEL 0570-073-055（Reservations)
  • Parking Available
The information in this article is current as of the date of the update. Please check before visiting as they are subject to change.