Let’s go to the “Phantom Island” Hamajima for a mysterious and spectacular view!
In the Yaeyama Islands, there is an island where you can encounter a spectacular view that symbolizes a tropical resort.
It is called “Hamajima,” and this uninhabited island is between Kohama Island and Taketomi Island.
Hamajima, made up of only sandy beaches, is also called “Phantom Island” because of its ever-changing appearance: sometimes it is a crescent-shaped island, sometimes it is under the sea, and sometimes it is divided into two islands.
The scenery created by the crystal clear sea and clear blue sky are so beautiful that it is hard to believe you are in Japan.
For a heavenly view, head out to the mysterious beauty of Hamajima.
How to get to “Phantom Island.”
Access from Ishigaki Island
It takes about 30 minutes to get to Hamajima from Ishigaki Island by tour boat.
There is no regular boat service to Hamajima, so you must take a tour to get to the island.
Many Hamajima tours are available from Ishigaki Island, including snorkeling, diving, and landing-only tours.
Access from Kohama Island
The other route is from Kohama Island.
It takes about 10 minutes from Kohama Island to Hamajima by tour boat.
This route takes less time.
It is also a good idea to stay overnight on Kohama Island and visit Hamajima simultaneously.
There is no boat service from Kohama Island, so you should join a tour to visit the island.
Clothing, Personal Belongings, and Rental Equipment for the Phantom Island Tour from Kohama Island
Clothing for the Phantom Island Tour from Kohama Island
| Summer (April-October) | Swimsuit, sandals, rash guard, leggings, etc. |
| Winter (November-March) | Swimsuit, leggings, sandals, rash guard, thick clothes that can get wet (clothes that can be worn during the boat ride) |
What to bring on the Phantom Island Tour from Kohama Island
| Personal belongings | Sunscreen, sunglasses (polarized sunglasses recommended), hat, drink, towel, change of clothes, camera, seasickness medication (if necessary) |
Rental equipment for the Phantom Island Tour from Kohama Island
| Rental equipment | snorkel mask, fins, life jacket, wetsuit (winter only) |
The sea around Hamajima with numerous corals and fish
The area around Hamajima, located in “Iriomote Ishigaki National Park,” is home to one of Japan’s best coral reef groups, “Sekisei Shoko.”
Coral reefs are home to many fish and a spawning and feeding ground.
The sea around Hamajima, where numerous coral reefs grow, is an oasis and a tropical paradise where you can see hundreds of tropical fish species up close.
It is not uncommon to see clownfish and sea turtles that appeared in “Finding Nemo.”
