Kuroshima Ferry

Kuroshima Ferry Port

Of the 200 islands belonging to Kujukushima, Kuroshima is the largest and most developed, giving home to just over 200 people. The island is known for its heart shape, giving it the tag of ‘Heart Island’ though it is also known as ‘Island of Cows’ due to the fact there are more cows than inhabitants. To celebrate the number of cows, there is a cow festival held once a year, attracting some tourists – the sunbathing and diving keeps the tourists there for a few days longer.

Around the island there are a few notable landmarks dotted about, including a lighthouse standing at the southern tip. Around the centre of the town, the traditional architecture remains in good condition; many houses with a hip roof are surrounded by walls made of dark coral stones. From the church in the centre, the walk to the ferry terminal is only around 20-30 minutes and most of the island can be covered by foot.

Depending on the time of year, there are crossings from Kuroshima Port a few times per day, heading to the commercial hub of Ishigaki. The vessels provided for the crossing are relatively simple and modest due to the short length of the route, only lasting around 30 minutes.