Water buffalo carts aren't just found in Taiwan – the most romantic experience on Taketomi Island is riding its unique water buffalo carts.

▲ The crystal-clear waters and fine sands of Taketomi Island attract many visitors to enjoy water activities. (Photo / Reporter Chen Ruizhong, the same below)

Reporter Chen Ruizhong / Reported from Okinawa

Elegant, slow, comfortable, and tranquil — these words capture the most profound impressions many have of Taketomi Island. As one of the Yaeyama Islands, Taketomi spans only 5.4 square kilometers, yet its residents meticulously maintain their buildings and surroundings, creating a quaint and refined atmosphere. Aside from cycling and taking water buffalo cart rides, the most popular activity here is climbing to the top of the island’s highest “watchtower” to gaze over the village.

▲ A water buffalo cart ride on Taketomi Island.

Taketomi Island is rich in white sand, so the roads between villages are paved with it. Each house is surrounded by low coral stone walls about half a person’s height, planted with hibiscus and bougainvillea, exuding a strong island vibe.

▲ Hibiscus flowers, red roof tiles, and shisa statues create the summer scenery of Taketomi Island.

To preserve Taketomi’s culture, every building on the island must adhere to unique regulations — roofs must be covered with red tiles, and no signs are allowed on the outside of houses. Therefore, strolling through the streets of Taketomi, you’ll see vibrant hibiscus flowers, brick-red roof tiles, delicate white sand paths, and the bright blue sky interwoven together, forming a palette full of Okinawan colors. The shisa statues guarding each home on the rooftops also become a striking feature of the island’s streetscape.

▲ %The Red Hill Watchtower is the tallest building on the island, offering a view of the entire village.