Taketomi in Japan

Taketomi, situated off the coast of Ishigaki and among the few Okinawan Islands that survived the Second World War, epitomizes island living at its best! This islet beckons you with its crystal clear waters fringed by sandy white beaches. With less than 500 inhabitants, the residents of this island are a close-knit community. Taketomi is renowned for its traditional Ryukyu architecture characterized by the distinctive red terracotta tile roofs on single story homes. Walking and cycling are the best ways of getting around, for tourists and residents alike. However, there was a time when carts pulled by large water buffalo were the primary means of transporting food and supplies. When the tide was low enough, these carts were even used to travel to other islands.