Japan’s most beautiful island escapes

Beyond Tokyo and Kyoto lies another Japan – one defined by coral reefs, volcanic landscapes and culture-rich islands that still fly under the radar. From Okinawa’s subtropical shores to Setouchi’s art-filled archipelago, here are the country’s most inspiring island destinations

Okinawa Prefecture: Caves, coastlines and Ryukyu culture

Okinawa Main Island blends subtropical scenery with centuries of Ryukyu heritage. Visitors can explore Gyokusendo Cave, kayak through mangrove forests, and visit Shuri Castle, now undergoing restoration following the 2019 fire. Naha’s Kokusai Street remains the island’s cultural hub, lined with craft stores and izakaya, while the new Junglia theme park opened in August 2025 with attractions from treetop walks to the world’s largest infinity public bath. The nearby Kerama Islands, 40 kilometres west, are famous for “Kerama blue” waters, sea turtles and seasonal whale sightings.

Yaeyama Islands: Coral reefs and rainforest trails

Japan’s southernmost island chain, the Yaeyama Islands, combines nature and adventure. Ishigaki offers coral reefs and clear beaches ideal for diving, while neighbouring Iriomote draws hikers with its mangroves, waterfalls and dense subtropical forest. The region’s Iriomote–Ishigaki National Park is a certified Dark Sky Sanctuary, making night tours a highlight.

Nearby Yonaguni, Japan’s westernmost island, is known for clear diving spots, unique underwater rock formations and a laid-back local culture shaped by its proximity to Taiwan.

Setouchi Islands: Art, cycling and coastal culture

Located in the Seto Inland Sea, the Setouchi Islands are known for their art installations, olive groves and sea views. The Setouchi Triennale art festival takes place across several islands every three years, with Naoshima and Teshima home to permanent contemporary works. On Shodoshima, walk the Angel Road sandbar at low tide or cycle the Shimanami Kaido route linking six scenic islands.

Getting there

Okinawa and Yaeyama: Direct flights operate from Tokyo, Osaka and Fukuoka, with onward connections from Naha to Ishigaki and Yonaguni.

Setouchi: Access via ferries or bridges from Okayama, Hiroshima and Ehime Prefectures.

Amami: Flights from Tokyo, Osaka and Kagoshima to Amami Oshima.

Izu: High-speed ferry or short flight from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport.

Sado: Ferry from Niigata Port to Ryotsu Port (about 2.5 hours).

Amami Islands: Coral, caves and craft traditions

Part of Kagoshima Prefecture, the Amami Islands combine subtropical climate and cultural heritage. Okinoerabu Island’s limestone caves attract explorers, while Amami Oshima is known for coral diving and traditional Oshima tsumugi silk weaving. Local specialties include keihan (chicken rice) and kokuto shochu, a sugarcane-based spirit.

Izu Islands – Volcanic landscapes and onsen escapes

Easily reached from Tokyo by ferry or flight, the Izu Islands offer hiking trails, surf beaches and geothermal hot springs. Oshima Island’s black-sand deserts and Mt Mihara crater walks are highlights, while Hachijō-jima stands out for its volcanic scenery, warm climate and ocean-view onsen culture.

Sado Island – Gold, drums and rural heritage

Off Niigata’s coast, Sado Island pairs rugged coastline with cultural depth. The UNESCO-listed Sado Gold Mines trace Japan’s mining history, and taiko drumming workshops offer insight into one of the country’s most powerful musical traditions. Cycling routes around the island’s fishing villages and farmlands provide a slower way to explore.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Japan’s southern islands is April to June and October to early December, when humidity and typhoon risk are low but seas remain warm. Northern and inland islands such as Setouchi and Sado are most pleasant in late spring and autumn, offering mild temperatures and clear skies.