After arriving on Kohama Island by ferry,
we rented a car from
Kohama Island Rental Shop Gami SUN♪
We then drove around the island and visited several sightseeing spots.
We rented the car for
three hours for ¥3,000, including a ¥500 discount.
The shop also rents bicycles, electric bicycles and scooters.
If you are visiting during summer,
for travelers in their 60s, I strongly recommend renting a car!
If you are already comfortable riding a scooter,
that could also be a good option.
However,
I do not recommend a regular bicycle in the summer heat.
That day,
we saw a young couple riding rental bicycles from another shop,
and even they looked exhausted.
It was so hot that I found myself hoping
they would not end up arguing about the bicycle choice later (T_T)
Summer temperatures can also increase the risk of heat exhaustion or heatstroke,
so even if it costs a little more, I recommend choosing the transportation option that puts the least strain on your body.
Exploring Kohama Island by Rental Car: Beautiful Views from Nishi-dake Observatory
Our first stop was Nishi-dake Observatory,
where you can enjoy panoramic views of Kohama Island.
After climbing a short set of stairs,
we reached the observation deck.
From here,
you can enjoy beautiful views of Kohama Island’s lush natural landscape.
Kohama Island is known for its beautiful blue ocean,
but the green scenery and vegetation are just as lovely.
Because the observation deck is elevated,
the sunlight can feel very strong on clear days.
Wearing a hat and taking other precautions against the heat is important.
Be sure to protect yourself from the sun and heat!
Finding a Pineapple Smoothie While Driving Around Kohama Island
While driving around the island,
we came across a food truck called
We were told that the
pineapple smoothie, priced at ¥1,500,
was one of their recommended items,
so we decided to try one.
It was incredibly fresh and delicious (*´ω｀*)
At first,
I thought ¥1,500 sounded a little expensive,
but it was packed with fresh pineapple flavor.
It was absolutely delicious!
The weather was extremely hot that day,
so the cold smoothie was wonderfully refreshing♡
Visiting Kubazaki Beach and Manta Park on Kohama Island
Located close to the pineapple smoothie shop
is one of Kohama Island’s popular sightseeing spots:
Kubazaki Beach.
This is one of the island’s well-known coastal areas,
with views toward Iriomote Island
and the Yonara Channel,
which is famous for manta rays.
There may not be many attractions here,
but that is exactly what makes the scenery so beautiful.
The area feels peaceful and open,
with very little to distract from the natural surroundings.
It is also quite a distance to reach by bicycle,
so once again,
I was very glad we had rented a car (*´ω｀*)
Driving Along Kohama Island’s Famous Sugar Road
Next,
we drove along Kohama Island’s famous Sugar Road.
It is a long, straight road
surrounded by sugarcane fields on both sides.
The road was also used as a filming location
for the Japanese television drama Churasan.
You do not often see roads this straight and open.
You definitely would not find scenery like this in central Tokyo!
We even saw cows along the road,
which made the peaceful countryside atmosphere even more relaxing♪
You Can See Kohama Island’s Highlights in About Two Hours by Rental Car
Kohama Island is quite small,
so you can visit many of the main sightseeing spots in around two hours by rental car.
It is an efficient way to explore the island
and is especially useful if you have a few hours
between your ferry arrival and hotel check-in.
The car we rented from Kohama Island Rental Shop Gami SUN
was a small kei car.
The interior was a little compact,
but since Kohama Island has many narrow roads,
I actually think a smaller car is very practical.
During busy travel seasons,
rental cars can become fully booked.
Because Kohama Island is small
and the number of rental shops is limited,
I recommend booking your rental car as early as possible.
I hope this helps anyone planning a trip to Kohama Island.
During our stay on Kohama Island,
we stayed at Canaan & Coffee Hotel.
The breakfast was especially delicious,
so if you are looking for a hotel on the island,
you can also check out our hotel review.
