Kerama-Shoto National Park

Kerama-Shoto Overview

Kerama-Shoto National Park, or 慶良間諸島国立公園 (Kerama Shoto Kokuritsu Kōen) in Japanese, is a breathtaking natural sanctuary located in the Ryukyu Islands of Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. Established in 2014, it encompasses an area of approximately 36.3 square miles (94 square kilometers). This cluster of islands, surrounded by the vibrant waters of the East China Sea, is about 20 miles (32 kilometers) west of the main island of Okinawa. The park is known for its pristine beaches, dramatic coastal cliffs, and some of the most stunning coral reefs in the world, making it a paradise for nature lovers and marine enthusiasts alike.

The terrain of Kerama-Shoto National Park is a blend of lush, subtropical vegetation, rugged cliffs, and sandy shores. Its 36 islands, including the major ones like Tokashiki, Zamami, and Aka, are scattered across turquoise waters that shimmer under the tropical sun. The land is covered in dense greenery, dominated by subtropical forests and coastal plants such as pandanus and hibiscus. The underwater world is equally mesmerizing, with coral reefs teeming with marine life that stretch for miles. Prominent geographical features include the high cliffs on Tokashiki Island, offering panoramic views, and the sandy beaches of Furuzamami and Aharen, which are internationally recognized for their beauty.

Kerama-Shoto National Park is a haven for wildlife, both on land and beneath the waves. Among terrestrial creatures, visitors may encounter the Kerama deer, a subspecies unique to the islands. The skies are graced by vibrant birdlife, including the Japanese white-eye and Okinawa woodpecker. However, it is the marine biodiversity that truly steals the show. The park’s coral reefs are home to over 250 species of fish, colorful sea turtles, and, most notably, humpback whales, which migrate to the area from December to April. Whale watching is a popular activity during this season, offering a chance to witness these majestic creatures breaching the waters.

The highlights of Kerama-Shoto National Park are its crystal-clear waters and the activities they facilitate. Snorkeling and diving are top attractions, allowing visitors to explore the vibrant coral reefs and interact with marine life. Sea kayaking and paddleboarding are other ways to engage with the serene beauty of the islands. On land, hiking trails lead through lush forests and to elevated viewpoints such as Mt. Akama, providing sweeping vistas of the surrounding seas. Visitors also frequent cultural sites such as ancient stone paths and shrines, which offer a glimpse into the island’s history.

The park’s conservation challenges include protecting its delicate coral reefs from the effects of climate change, such as bleaching, as well as mitigating the impact of tourism on its fragile ecosystems. Despite these challenges, Kerama-Shoto National Park has seen significant conservation successes. Efforts to regulate tourism, establish marine protected zones, and conduct ecological monitoring have helped maintain the health of its natural habitats. Community-driven initiatives also play a vital role in preserving the park’s unique biodiversity, ensuring it remains a sanctuary for generations to come.

Park Map

Kerama-Shoto National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Kerama-Shoto National Park, located in Japan’s Okinawa Prefecture, is renowned for its stunning marine biodiversity, vibrant coral reefs, and subtropical ecosystems. The park comprises a cluster of islands surrounded by pristine waters that support a rich variety of terrestrial and aquatic species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas)
Green turtles are frequent visitors to the waters surrounding the Kerama Islands. These majestic reptiles are known for their smooth, greenish shells and play a vital role in maintaining the health of seagrass beds.

Humphead Wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus)
This colorful reef fish, often called Napoleon fish, is a keystone species in coral reef ecosystems. Its large size and unique head shape make it easily recognizable.

Kerama Deer (Cervus nippon keramae)
Endemic to the Kerama Islands, this subspecies of sika deer is smaller than its mainland counterparts and plays an essential role in the local forest ecosystems.

Reef Manta Ray (Mobula alfredi)
These graceful giants are often seen gliding through the waters of the Kerama Islands. Manta rays are known for their intelligence and complex social behaviors.

Sea Snake (Laticauda spp.)
Sea snakes are a common sight in the coral reefs of Kerama-Shoto National Park. Their distinctive bands and highly adapted aquatic physiology make them fascinating inhabitants of the region.

Clownfish (Amphiprioninae)
Popularized by their symbiotic relationship with sea anemones, clownfish add splashes of color to the park’s vibrant coral reefs.

Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)
This critically endangered species frequents the Kerama Islands, playing an essential role in the health of coral reef ecosystems.

Kerama Wild Boar (Sus scrofa keramae)
Another endemic species, this subspecies of wild boar is smaller than its relatives and contributes to the local biodiversity of the forested areas.

Blue Dragon Nudibranch (Pteraeolidia ianthina)
This stunning sea slug is known for its vivid coloration and intricate body design, often seen in shallow waters around the coral reefs.

Crown-of-Thorns Starfish (Acanthaster planci)
While beautiful, this starfish species is known for its potential to damage coral reefs when populations grow unchecked. It highlights the delicate balance of the park’s ecosystems.

Birds

The Kerama-Shoto National Park is also home to an incredible diversity of bird species. These birds thrive in the islands’ lush forests and coastal environments, adding to the park’s ecological richness and appeal.

Ryukyu Woodpecker (Dendrocopos noguchii)
Endemic to Okinawa, this rare woodpecker is a striking bird with a red crown and unique call, often found in dense forests.

Japanese White-eye (Zosterops japonicus)
A small, vibrant bird known for its green plumage and distinctive white eye-ring, the Japanese white-eye is a common sight across the islands.

Ryukyu Robin (Larvivora komadori)
This charming robin is known for its bright orange breast and melodious song, frequently heard in the forests of the Kerama Islands.

Black-faced Spoonbill (Platalea minor)
A critically endangered species, the black-faced spoonbill occasionally visits the wetlands and coastal areas of the park.

Ryukyu Scops Owl (Otus elegans)
A small, nocturnal owl with striking yellow eyes and a distinctive hoot, this species is a key predator in the island’s ecosystems.

Okinawa Rail (Gallirallus okinawae)
Endemic to Okinawa, this flightless bird is known for its shy behavior and distinctive vocalizations.

Pacific Reef Heron (Egretta sacra)
These elegant herons are often seen along the park’s coastal areas, hunting for fish in tidal pools.

Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica)
A migratory species, barn swallows are a common sight during certain seasons, often darting over fields and coastlines.

Great Egret (Ardea alba)
This large, white wader is commonly found in the wetlands of Kerama-Shoto National Park, gracefully stalking its prey.

Ryukyu Green Pigeon (Treron permagnus)
This vibrant pigeon species is endemic to the Ryukyu Islands and is often spotted feeding on fruits in the park’s forests.