Kerama Islands, Island group in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan.
The Kerama Islands are an archipelago located southwest of Okinawa Island, comprising several inhabited and uninhabited islands with beaches, coral reefs, and small villages. The group forms a scattered landscape of rocky shores, sandy bays, and shallow waters that draw visitors seeking to explore marine life.
The islands served as a military position during World War II and remained under American control after the war ended. Japanese authority returned to the islands in 1972 when Okinawa was restored to Japanese administration.
The islands maintain ties to the former Ryukyu Kingdom through local crafts and festivals that visitors can still see in village markets today. These traditions shape how people here live and celebrate throughout the year.
Ferry boats regularly connect the islands to Naha port, with journey times varying based on the vessel used and destination. The best months to visit are May through October when weather is warm and water conditions are suitable for swimming and diving.
The waters around these islands contain a remarkable variety of coral species that display vivid colors underwater. Humpback whales migrate here during winter months to breed and care for their calves in the warm seas.
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