Local Guide
Check the temperature and clothing on Ishigaki Island (Taketomi Island)

Ishigaki Island is located about 410 km southwest of Naha on the main island of Okinawa, and is the center of the Yaeyama Islands. It is a resort destination that attracts people with its crystal clear emerald blue sea, and it is also the starting point for sightseeing to the unique islands, including Taketomi Island, where the original Okinawan scenery remains strong, and many tourists from both Japan and abroad visit it.
Ishigaki Island has a subtropical climate, with a dry and rainy season, but it is warm throughout the year and temperatures rarely drop below 10°C, even in mid-winter. Although it is humid and muggy, the wind blows through, so the average summer temperature is below 30°C. However, the sun is strong and the amount of UV rays is 1.3 to 2 times that of the Kanto region. Protection against UV rays is necessary not only on sunny days, but also in winter and on cloudy days.
Ishigaki Island is known as "Typhoon Ginza" because of the high number of typhoons that it receives. It is especially important to check typhoon information if you are planning on going out in typhoon season in August and September.

Weather and clothing on Ishigaki Island (Taketomi Island)

A moment on the flower-filled Taketomi Island
A moment on the flower-filled Taketomi Island

The average temperature in Ishigaki Island in March is 20.9°C. It is as warm as the temperature in Tokyo in late May. In early March, the cold weather returns and some days can feel chilly, but a light outer layer will keep you warm. The earliest beach opening in Japan takes place in the latter half of the month, and during the day it is hot enough to wear short sleeves. The sun is also strong, so be sure to bring a hat, sunscreen, and a long-sleeved shirt.
In April, the average minimum temperature exceeds 20°C. In May, the average maximum temperature reaches 28.7°C. Tropical flowers such as hibiscus bloom in full glory, and sugarcane fields that grow taller than a person are dyed green all over.
This is the best time to see the Yaeyama fireflies, the smallest in Japan. If you are going to the forest at night, we recommend wearing comfortable clothing such as a light outer layer, long pants, and sneakers.

Enjoy a picnic on a laid-back island
Enjoy a picnic on a laid-back island

The rainy season in Ishigaki Island usually lasts from mid-May to mid-June. It is characterized by short, torrential rains (squalls) that are unique to the subtropics. The average minimum temperature during this period is 27.1°C, so you won't feel the cold of the rainy season like you do in Honshu.
In July and August, the average maximum temperature exceeds 30°C, and midsummer days continue. However, it is rare for the temperature to reach 35°C or higher. The strength of the sun is at its peak during this time of the year. When spending time outside, don't forget to bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water. It is also useful to bring a light cardigan to protect against UV rays and the air conditioning. August is the month when the most typhoons approach. Be sure to check typhoon information frequently.
You can enjoy various events on Ishigaki Island in the summer, such as the Eisa Festival held during the Obon festival in August.

Starry sky of Taketomi Island
Starry sky of Taketomi Island

September is as hot as summer, with strong sunlight. Typhoons cause humid air currents to stagnate, making the weather humid. Sandals are comfortable and you need protection from the sun.
The temperature starts to drop gradually in the mornings and evenings, so be sure to carry a jacket with you when you go out.
The average temperature in October is 25.8°C, and in November it drops to a comfortable 23.7°C. Short sleeves are fine during the day, but long sleeves are recommended in the morning and evening. Swimming and marine sports can be done until the end of October.
Autumn in Ishigaki Island is the season for beautiful starry skies. You can see 84 of the 88 constellations, including all 21 first magnitude stars. Why not take the time to enjoy stargazing during the long autumn nights?

Aiyaruhama Beach in the early morning
Aiyaruhama Beach in the early morning

The average temperature in December is 19.8°C. The weather remains dry, and you can wear short sleeves during sunny days. The weather is almost the same as in Tokyo in May, but the temperature gradually drops in late December. When sightseeing, it's a good idea to wear a light knit or an outer layer that is easy to put on and take off.
The average temperature in January and February is about 18.5°C, and the lowest average temperature is about 16.5°C, but the cold north wind blows along the coast, making it feel chilly. It's a good idea to bring a coat or scarf when spending time on the beach or walking around sightseeing.
At this time of year, Ishigaki Island offers many Experience and events, such as whale watching, professional baseball training camps, and the Ishigaki Island Marathon, making it a fun time to plan your trip.

After enjoying sightseeing, head to HOSHINOYA Taketomi Island, the fourth settlement on Taketomi Island. Experience living like an islander by staying in houses that still follow traditional architecture, learning Minsa weaving from an old lady on the island, and taking a stroll in a water buffalo cart.

Immerse yourself in island time in a townscape that retains the original Okinawan scenery

There are three types of Guest room houses. They are faithful reproductions of the island's traditional architecture, and the islanders who visit are amazed at how nostalgic they feel.
There are three types of Guest room houses. They are faithful reproductions of the island's traditional architecture, and the islanders who visit are amazed at how nostalgic they feel.

Taketomi Island is a small island with a circumference of 9.2km, formed by the uplift of a coral reef, about 10 minutes by high-speed ferry from Ishigaki Island. The streets are lined with Ryukyu red roofing tiles, hand-built stone walls and paths paved with pure white coral sand, and the clear blue sea and sky. Island time flows slowly with the sound of someone plucking a sanshin.
Guest room at HOSHINOYA Taketomi Island are wooden one-story buildings following the traditional architecture of Taketomi Island, where shisa lions watch over the roofs. All verandas face south, allowing a pleasant southern breeze to blow through. For meals, try the "Ryukyu Nouvelle," a French-style meal made with ingredients unique to Okinawa. Enjoy the surprising flavors.

▼ Declaration of highest level of coronavirus prevention measures
At HOSHINOYA Taketomi Island, we have implemented two key measures, "hygiene management" and "avoiding the 3 Cs," to ensure that everyone can feel safe and secure. We have improved our existing services at all PropertyCOVID-19 CountermeasuresWe are implementing the following.

HOSHINOYA Taketomi Island
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