West Pier, Historical pier in Taketomi, Japan
West Pier is a wooden and steel structure that extends from Taketomi Island into the ocean. The construction connects the island with neighboring islands through daily ferry services and sits near Kondoi Beach.
The structure was built in 1938 as Japan expanded its maritime presence in the region. It developed into a vital connection between Taketomi and the surrounding Yaeyama Islands.
The pier shapes daily island life as locals and visitors rely on it to travel between islands. It represents how people in the Ryukyu region have maintained their connection to the sea across generations.
The pier serves as the main arrival and departure point for ferries that operate throughout the day, so checking ferry schedules is helpful. Visitors should know that weather can affect boat operations, especially during typhoon season.
From here, visitors can see the coral reefs of Sekisei Lagoon, where marine life surfaces especially in early morning and evening hours. These times of day offer the best chances to observe water activity and animal life.
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