Japan’s Top 10 Trending Island Destinations — “The Hawaii of Japan” Is the Hottest

Okinawa is full of natural beauty everywhere. Temples in a traditional style sit by the beach, creating breathtaking views. (Image provided by Dazhi Images / Shutterstock)

When the summer heat hits, everyone wants to head to the beach or pool for a cool escape. But which island is the hottest summer destination this year? A recent list released by a major Japanese online hotel booking site reveals the “Top 10 Trending Japanese Islands,” with Okinawa Prefecture, known as the “Hawaii of Japan,” topping the list. It offers the chance to enjoy two unique island experiences in one, plus the opportunity to dive into crystal-clear waters and explore beautiful marine life, attracting travelers from all over.

Based on statistics from hotel bookings and nights stayed during July and August this summer, Rakuten Travel found that compared to the same period last year, 10 islands saw a significant surge in booking growth rates. Among them, Okinawa Prefecture — a popular travel spot among Japanese tourists in recent years — emerged as the biggest winner in the list of Japan’s Top 10 Trending Islands.

The islands in Okinawa that made the list include Ishigaki, Tokashiki, Yonaguni, and Aguni, all of which are paradises for divers, each offering a distinct underwater landscape. For example, Tokashiki is known for its crystal-clear waters, often referred to as “Kerama Blue.” Yonaguni, on the other hand, features mysterious ancient underwater ruins, making it ideal for adventurous travelers seeking a unique maritime experience.

Taking the top spot on the trending list is Iriomote Island in the Yaeyama Islands. The clear waters of Nakamoto Beach on the island’s western side offer great opportunities for snorkeling. Iriomote is also famous as Japan’s “Island of Cows,” home to thousands of cattle — more than ten times the local human population — creating a fun and unusual sight where cows outnumber people. Additionally, travelers can reach Ishigaki Island by high-speed ferry in about 30 minutes. These advantages contributed to a stunning 150% year-on-year increase in bookings for Iriomote.

Ranking third is Tokashiki Island, located at the eastern edge of the Kerama Islands. Its Tokasiku Beach and Awa Beach boast world-renowned crystal-clear waters, also known as “Kerama Blue.” The combination of fine white sand and sapphire-blue sea creates an unforgettable scene that draws many visitors.

Meanwhile, Kagoshima Prefecture has also seen a surge in popularity this year, and its surrounding islands have benefited accordingly. Ranking second on the list is Yoron Island, which saw a booking growth rate exceeding 114% compared to the same period last year. Located at the southernmost tip of Kagoshima, Yoron is home to the unique and beautiful white sandbar “Yurigahama,” which only appears during low tide in spring and summer, drawing curious travelers eager to witness it.

Ranking fourth is Kikai Island, a coral island in the northeastern part of the Amami Islands. It is still rising by approximately 2 millimeters each year, making it one of the few islands in the world that is still growing. Visitors can walk through the island’s vast sugarcane fields and admire a variety of butterflies, including the great white butterfly, making for a rich natural ecological experience.

● 2017 Japan’s Top 10 Trending Island Destinations

No. 1 – Okinawa Prefecture, Iriomote Island: Known as the “Island of Cows,” it has over 10 times more cattle than people. The western side of the island boasts crystal-clear blue waters perfect for snorkeling.

No. 2 – Kagoshima Prefecture, Yoron Island: Famous for the mysterious white sandbar “Yurigahama,” which only appears during low tide in spring and summer.

No. 3 – Okinawa Prefecture, Tokashiki Island: Its beaches are renowned for “Kerama Blue” and attract diving enthusiasts with their crystal-clear waters.

No. 4 – Kagoshima Prefecture, Kikai Island: Covered in sugarcane fields and home to various species of beautiful butterflies, offering a rich natural ecosystem.

No. 5 – Nagasaki Prefecture, Goto Islands: The “Churches and Christian Heritage Sites in Nagasaki” are currently being considered for UNESCO World Heritage status.

No. 6 – Kagoshima Prefecture, _ (Unknown Island): Features a bullfighting competition with over 400 years of history, thrilling and exciting.

No. 7 – Okinawa Prefecture, Yonaguni Island: Home to suspected ancient underwater ruins, which can be explored by diving.

No. 8 – Shimane Prefecture, Oki Islands: The island’s unique rock formations combined with the sunset create a stunning view resembling a flame on a candle.

No. 9 – Okinawa Prefecture, Aguni Island: A hidden gem loved by Okinawa travel experts, where you can see tropical fish without even diving.

No. 10 – Kagawa Prefecture, Naoshima: Floating in the Seto Inland Sea, it is celebrated as an island of art.