Introducing the Islands of Amami
An island that colors the margins of your heart
Kakeromajima Kakeromajima
Kakeroma Island lies just off the coast of Amami Oshima, connected by the calm and beautiful waters of the Oshima Strait. From Koniya Port at the southern tip of Amami Oshima, it takes about 20 minutes by ferry to reach the island. Here, you’ll find a magical emerald-green sea and rich nature that lets you feel the pulse of the earth itself. The living stories of the sea and forest gently speak to you, painting new landscapes within your heart.
ROUTE MAP Route map
suspended
Gateway to Kakeromajima
Cross to Koniya Port
To reach Kakeroma Island, take the Kagoshima–Kikai–China Route operated by Amami Shipping on either Ferry Amami or Ferry Kikai, arriving at Koniya Port on Amami Oshima. From there, cross over to Kakeroma Island by local ferry or sea taxi.At Koniya Port, you’ll find the “Setouchi Umi-no-Eki” (Setouchi Sea Station), where you can enjoy local specialties such as tuna rice bowls and browse regional products. The ticket counter for “Ferry Kakeroma,” which serves Kakeroma Island, is also located here—making this the true gateway to the island.
#2 A 20-Minute Voyage to a Sacred Island Reached Only by BoatAccess to Kakeroma Island from Koniya Port
Ferry tickets to Kakeroma Island can be purchased at the ticket counter inside the Sea Station at Koniya Port. The fare is 360 yen one way for adults (or 690 yen round trip for a small discount), and 180 yen for children and elementary school students. This small ticket becomes your passport to a sacred island.The ferry has two destinations: Sesō and Ikenma. Sesō is located near the island’s central area and is convenient if you plan to visit the Takenā banyan tree or Kanyu no Taki waterfall. Ikenma lies on the eastern side of the island and is ideal for those who wish to stroll through the banyan-lined paths of Shodon or explore its quiet traditional villages.
#3 A sacred blue sanctuary of beautiful stillness where time slips away. The living coral sea of “Saneiku Blue” invites you into moments so clear they reach your very soul.
At the far edge of Kakeroma Island, beyond a quiet village, lies Saneiku Beach.Here, you encounter a blue so pure it leaves you speechless. Lovingly called “Saneiku Blue,” the sea shifts in a magical gradient—from soft emerald in the shallows to a deep, absorbing sapphire as it stretches toward the horizon.Listen to the gentle waves brushing the white sand, and beneath the surface you’ll find a paradise where vivid tropical fish and coral reefs thrive. Surrender to the island’s unhurried rhythm, and you’ll feel your heart becoming as clear and transparent as the sea itself.In this untouched sanctuary, there is a quiet luxury in simply gazing at the ocean. The blue of Saneiku will etch itself into your heart, never to fade.
#4 Rooted in the stillness of Kakeroma Island, breathing together with the island.The giant banyan tree of “Takenā,” marking eternal time and said to be home to spirits.
Walk deeper into the village. Guided by the scent of damp earth and the presence of dense greenery, it suddenly appears before you — the Takenā Banyan Tree.Its countless intertwined aerial roots seem to weave together the memories of the land itself. Long believed to be the dwelling place of the spirit Kenmun, it has been revered as the guardian “gatekeeper” protecting the village boundary. The islanders never harm this tree nor disturb its stillness. They simply stand beside it in quiet respect and offer their prayers. Its overwhelming presence feels like the very breath of the island.When you stand within its embrace and touch the passage of ancient time, you begin to realize something quietly profound —that you, too, are a part of this vast nature, gently protected within a greater world. The Takenā Banyan Tree continues, as it always has, to envelop visitors in silent compassion.
#5 Marine leisure that lets you feel the sea and life of Kakeroma.Play in the ocean and savor its blessings with Gori Marine.
Gori Marine is a specialized marine leisure guide offering unforgettable experiences in the crystal-blue waters of Amami Oshima and Kakeroma Island. From snorkeling to SUP, kayaking, banana boat rides, diving, and whale watching, a wide range of ocean activities awaits. Each tour is carefully guided to the best spot according to the day’s sea conditions. Beneath the remarkably clear surface, you can breathe in rhythm with vibrant tropical fish, and simply floating there brings a soothing sensation—as if the boundaries of your body gently dissolve into the sea.
Between activities, a signature highlight awaits: the owner—also a local fisherman—serves a lunch featuring fish caught that very day, prepared as fresh sashimi and miso soup. You can savor the taste of life shimmering before your eyes.The rare sensation of becoming “part of the sea,” something you cannot experience in daily life, and the time spent feeling the island’s abundance with all your senses, will make your journey truly unforgettable. With a wide range of programs suitable for both beginners and experienced adventurers, your memories of Kakeroma’s sea will stay with you long after you leave.
Savor the blessings of Kakeroma Island. A night where you become part of the island’s “family.”Gori Marine House, with easy access to the beautiful Suri Beach.
As the sun sets and the sea turns a deep indigo, the rhythmic sound of vegetables being chopped begins to echo through the house. In the kitchen stand the Captain and his mother. Freshly caught fish from the day is served as beautifully sliced sashimi on a large platter. Simmered dishes steam gently on the table. Seasonal vegetables grown in the island’s soil complete the meal.With a single bite, the bold flavor of the ingredients and the mother’s gentle seasoning spread through your entire body. It is a true feast — one that lets you feel the warmth and vitality of life itself.
Experience the Sea and Land of Kakeroma Island
Gori Marine
#6 The Sacred Waterfall “Kanyu no Taki,” Seen on a Scenic Drive Through Kakeroma IslandA breathtaking spot where nature and history intertwine in quiet harmony
Quietly nestled in the southern area of Kakeroma Island, Kanyu no Taki is known as the only waterfall on the island that can be viewed directly from the roadside. Originating from Mount Kanyu at an elevation of 310 meters, the waterfall drops about 15 meters into a basin roughly 2 meters deep. Clear water flows gracefully over rock surfaces, creating a refreshing atmosphere rich in negative ions, surrounded by lush subtropical ferns. Historically called “Utirimizu no Taki,” it has long been regarded as a sacred place where noro priestesses purified themselves. Easily accessible by car and located about 15 minutes from Sesō Port, it is a convenient stop for visitors. Legend also tells of giant eels inhabiting the waterfall basin. Blending natural beauty with local history and folklore, this serene scenic spot offers a soothing escape and remains one of the island’s hidden green treasures.
#7 Scenic Photos of Kakeroma Island
#8
Starting from Koniya Port,
to two World Natural Heritage islands
To the north lies Amami Oshima,
and to the south, Tokunoshima
Located in the southern part of Amami Oshima, Koniya Port connects the two World Natural Heritage islands of Amami Oshima and Tokunoshima. Sail north to Amami Oshima, where vast mangrove forests and the lush Kinsakubaru Forest unfold. Head south to Tokunoshima, home to a vibrant bullfighting culture and dramatic coastal landscapes. Island hopping by ferry between these two islands—each with its own unique ecosystem and character—is a truly special experience found only in these waters. Rocked by the ship (ferry) as you cross the Oshima Strait, that time too becomes part of the journey. The changing hues of light, the scent of the sea breeze, the rhythms of island life—why not begin at Koniya Port and set out on a dynamic voyage to discover the diversity of the Amami Islands?
