Tsuken Island is a small island floating off the coast of Uruma City on the east coast of mainland Okinawa. With a population of around 400, it's known as one of Okinawa's carrot-producing areas and is affectionately called "the carrot island."
An unspoiled island untouched by mass tourism. White-sand beaches, island cats living at their own pace, carrots spreading across the fields. Here flows the quiet time of a peaceful island — a world apart from Okinawa's resorts.
How to Get to Tsuken Island
By Ferry
- Departs from Heshikiya Port (Uruma City)
- Travel time: about 30 minutes
- 4 round-trip sailings per day
- One way: Adult ¥640 / Child ¥320
- High-speed boat available (about 12 min · ¥790)
Operated by Kamiya Kanko. Service may be cancelled due to weather. For the latest timetable, please contact Kamiya Kanko.
By Private Boat
- Departs from Hamahiga Island (KingsSeaRoad)
- Direct by private boat
- Stop at uninhabited islands and snorkel spots along the way
- Not bound by the ferry schedule
- Children from 0 years old can board · restroom on board
→ You can reach Tsuken Island with the 4-hour plan (¥88,000 flat up to 9 guests) or the 6-hour plan (¥148,000 flat up to 9 guests)
Tomai Beach (Tsuken Beach)
A natural beach about 1 km long spreading along the west side of the island, with white sand and an emerald-green sea. With few tourists, it's not uncommon to have the beach almost entirely to yourself.
The shallows extend far out and the waves are gentle, so it's safe even for young children. With a snorkeling set, you can spot colorful fish even in the shallows.
Highlights of Tsuken Island
Carrot Fields
The reason Tsuken Island is called "the carrot island." Much of the island's farmland is used for growing carrots. The harvest season runs from winter through spring. "Tsuken carrots" are known as an Okinawan brand vegetable, prized for their strong sweetness.
Island Cats & Sunsets
Tsuken Island is home to many cats living at their own leisurely pace. Come evening, you might find them gathering on the seaside benches to watch the sunset together with you. It's the kind of gentle, unhurried time you only find on an island untouched by mass tourism.
Fishing
Enjoy easygoing fishing right from the crystal-clear shallows. There are spots where even children can cast a line, making it perfect for a parent-and-child fishing experience. KingsSeaRoad's 4-hour and 6-hour plans also include offshore fishing by boat.
Photo Spots
The island has a surfboard-shaped "Tsukenisland" sign, a classic spot for commemorative photos. If you're lucky, you might even catch it framed by a rainbow arching over the sea. Stroll through the village and you'll find the original scenery of Okinawa — stone-walled alleys and old red-tiled houses.
Tsuken Island by Private Boat
With KingsSeaRoad's 4-hour and 6-hour plans, head straight to Tsuken Island by private boat from Hamahiga Island. You can also stop at snorkel spots and uninhabited islands along the way. Free from the ferry schedule, you can enjoy the island at your own pace.
Tsuken Island FAQ
Q. How do I get to Tsuken Island?
It's about a 30-minute ferry ride from Heshikiya Port (Uruma City). There are 4 sailings a day (as of 2026). Alternatively, you can go directly by KingsSeaRoad private boat from Hamahiga Island.
Q. Is there a beach on Tsuken Island?
Yes — Tomai Beach, a beautiful white-sand beach. It's a natural beach about 1 km long with exceptional water clarity and few visitors, so you can relax at your own pace.
Q. Can I go snorkeling on Tsuken Island?
Yes. Beach snorkeling is possible around Tomai Beach. With KingsSeaRoad's 4-hour or 6-hour plans, we'll take you by boat to the best spots around the island.
Q. Is there accommodation on Tsuken Island?
There are a few guesthouses. However, because options are limited, most people visit as a day trip.
Q. Why is Tsuken Island called "the carrot island"?
Tsuken Island is a major carrot-producing area, and much of the island's farmland is used for growing carrots. "Tsuken carrots" are known as a brand-name vegetable and are harvested from winter through spring.
Q. Are there restaurants on Tsuken Island?
There are a few diners and shops in the village. Since options are limited, we recommend bringing your own drinks and light snacks.
Q. Can I visit Tsuken Island with children?
The ferry has little rocking, so it's comfortable even with children. With a KingsSeaRoad private boat, children from 0 years old can board, and there's a restroom on board.
Getting to Tsuken Island — Summary
Naha → Heshikiya Port (about 60 min by car) → ferry (about 30 min) → Tsuken Island
Naha → Hamahiga Island · KingsSeaRoad (about 60 min by car) → private boat → Tsuken Island
We recommend crossing the Kaichu-Doro (sea road) and going via Hamahiga Island. Combine it with sightseeing on Hamahiga Island and lunch at Cafe raise244. to make the most of the east coast in a single day.