Taketomi, Administrative town in Yaeyama District, Japan.
Taketomi is a town comprising multiple islands within the Yaeyama archipelago, including Iriomote, Yubu, Kohama, Kuroshima, Hateruma, and Hatoma. Ferry routes connect these islands, while administrative facilities are based on the neighboring island of Ishigaki.
The town was established in 1948 following Japan's post-World War II municipal reorganization. This restructuring shaped the current administrative framework of the Yaeyama islands.
The islands display traditional architecture blending stone and tile construction with Chinese and Japanese influences that shaped local life. This building style remains visible in everyday structures and shapes how residents and visitors experience the space.
Visitors reach the islands via regular ferry services departing from Ishigaki, which serves as a transit hub. Plan travel time accordingly, as crossings between islands can take several hours depending on weather conditions.
In 2018 the town gained status as Japan's first dark-sky preserve, allowing visitors to see constellations throughout clear nights. This rare designation means the skies remain protected from light pollution, making stargazing exceptionally rewarding.
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