The preserved village on Taketomi Island doesn’t allow cars, so visitors have a choice of getting about by foot, by bicycle, or by suigyūsha (water buffalo). This last choice is very popular among travelers who want to get a unique tour of the island. During the ride, which lasts about a half hour, the guide will both inform you about the island and the village and will entertain you by singing and playing local music on a sanshin (traditional stringed instrument). The guide will be free to do this for you, as the water buffalo are highly skilled in finding their way around.
A picturesque name for an equally charming panorama, Hoshizuna no Hama, which translates to Star Sand Beach, is one of two beaches in Japan that has grains of sand that are in the shape of stars. What is even more fascinating, is that the asterisk-shaped grains are actually skeletons of mono-celled organisms (Baclogypsina sphaerulata to be exact).The water can get a bit too shallow (depending on the tides) for swimming, but a scenic leisurely outing is always a sure thing at this destination.
Take a break from your regular city life and feel the tranquil of nature at Kabira Bay. The clear blue waters of the bay strikingly contrast the white-sand beach and make this a popular spot among tourists and locals alike for its stunning views. Though you cannot swim at this beautiful location, this place is used for boating and is touted to be one of the most photographed places. After a relaxing day by the serene waters, you can treat yourself to a delicious meal at the nearby restaurants or bars which dot the neighborhood.
Take a break from your regular city life and feel the tranquil of nature at Kabira Bay. The clear blue waters of the bay strikingly contrast the white-sand beach and make this a popular spot among tourists and locals alike for its stunning views. Though you cannot swim at this beautiful location, this place is used for boating and is touted to be one of the most photographed places. After a relaxing day by the serene waters, you can treat yourself to a delicious meal at the nearby restaurants or bars which dot the neighborhood.
The preserved village on Taketomi Island doesn’t allow cars, so visitors have a choice of getting about by foot, by bicycle, or by suigyūsha (water buffalo). This last choice is very popular among travelers who want to get a unique tour of the island. During the ride, which lasts about a half hour, the guide will both inform you about the island and the village and will entertain you by singing and playing local music on a sanshin (traditional stringed instrument). The guide will be free to do this for you, as the water buffalo are highly skilled in finding their way around.
A picturesque name for an equally charming panorama, Hoshizuna no Hama, which translates to Star Sand Beach, is one of two beaches in Japan that has grains of sand that are in the shape of stars. What is even more fascinating, is that the asterisk-shaped grains are actually skeletons of mono-celled organisms (Baclogypsina sphaerulata to be exact).The water can get a bit too shallow (depending on the tides) for swimming, but a scenic leisurely outing is always a sure thing at this destination.