Kakeroma Island (Kakeromajima) of the Amami Islands

Kakeroma Island, also known as Kakeromajima, is one of the Amami Islands in Kagoshima Prefecture. Located just off the southern tip of Amami Oshima, Kakeroma is a paradise for off-the-beach snorkeling enthusiasts, with thriving coral reefs found remarkably close to many of its beaches.
The reason Kakeroma’s coral reefs have remained so healthy is said to be the combination of cool and clear spring water from the island’s mountains, and the unique ocean currents around Kakeroma. These conditions help prevent the surrounding seawater from overheating and reduce the risk of coral bleaching.
Although Kakeroma is a relatively small island, it can take nearly four hours to drive around it. The island has an incredibly rugged and mountainous landscape, with a complex coastline full of narrow bays and peninsulas. Around 90% of Kakeroma Island is covered in dense subtropical forest. Banyan trees can be found throughout the island, and some of the larger ones are considered sacred, such as the magnificent banyan tree in Takena Village.
There are countless secluded and deserted beaches around Kakeroma. We especially recommend exploring them by kayak, packraft or SUP from Saneku Beach. Kakeroma also has numerous sea caves, including one that can be reached from Saneku Beach.

Snorkeling with sea turtles, thriving coral reefs, whales and more
Kakeroma’s beaches are important nesting grounds for green sea turtles, hawksbill turtles and loggerhead turtles. There are also many beaches where you can swim with sea turtles, including Suri Beach, Shiba Beach and Saneku Beach.
There is an area of Shiba Beach is also great for seeing many different kinds of beautiful coral growing on the white sandy bottom just offshore, surrounded by lots of colorful fish.

From January to March, humpback whales migrate from the Arctic Ocean to the warm seas around Kakeroma and the other Amami Islands to breed. Whale-watching tours are popular during this period, and some operators also offer snorkeling experiences with humpback whales. During the warmer months, there are also occasional snorkeling tours with sperm whales, although sightings are much less predictable than humpback whale encounters in winter.
If you’re lucky, you may encounter dolphins or even whale sharks!

One of Kakeroma’s more unusual wildlife experiences can be found at the port of Nishi-Amuro Village.
There is a large cutting board at the port. If you bang it against the harbor wall near the fishing boats, sea turtles usually appear seemingly out of nowhere and swim toward the sound.
You can also spot Japanese giant eels over 1.5 meters long in the river that runs through the village.
Just offshore from Nishi-Amuro is a deserted island surrounded by thriving coral reefs. Mocca Marine offers excellent boat snorkeling tours to the area. Their guide, Eiji, is very friendly and speaks English.

For families with young children or beginners looking for a private snorkeling experience, Kakeromarine is a good option. They can also take underwater and drone photos and videos during the tour.

Charter a boat to explore Kakeroma
Because Kakeroma’s coastline is so intricate, many of its remote peninsulas cannot be reached by car. Even by kayak, packraft or SUP, reaching some of these areas can take considerable time. For this reason, we highly recommend chartering a boat for a full day if you want to explore the more remote parts of Kakeroma. We particularly recommend Kousei Marine. The captain, Kazuhito is a local fisherman who is passionate about coral reefs and marine life, and he knows many of the best places for snorkeling and fishing. You can even combine snorkeling with fishing during the same trip.

Exploring the Oshima Strait by SUP
The Oshima Strait, which separates Amami Oshima from Kakeroma, is often remarkably calm. This makes it an ideal area for exploring Kakeroma’s secluded beaches by SUP, kayak or packraft, especially on calm days.

Where to stay
For those who would like to experience a traditional Japanese wooden house (kominka) with modern renovations, we recommend Denpaku.
They have four renovated traditional houses available for rent on different parts of Kakeroma, offering a great way to experience the island’s traditional architecture.
It is important to note that there are very few cafes and restaurants on Kakeroma. We recommend buying everything you need on the Amami Oshima side before taking the ferry, as there are very limited shops and dining options on the island unless your accommodation includes meals.