Minna-jima
水納島26°39′ N 127°49′ ENago & Motobutinyreefday trip
Minna-jima is a 0.47 km² crescent-shaped island off Motobu, 15 minutes by boat from Toguchi port, with a little over 40 residents and a white-sand beach on its west side.
Photo pelican · Flickr · CC BY-SA 2.0
From the air Minna looks like a croissant, and people call it Croissant Island. It was once an uninhabited sacred site until 13 households settled in 1903 to grow sugar cane, and regular ferries began only in 1981. Today a little over 40 people live here, and the school had two pupils in 2016.
Most visitors come for Minna Beach on the west side and the reef that rings the island. The lighthouse at the east end has stood since 1972.
Getting there
Minna Kaiun's high-speed boat leaves Toguchi port in Motobu and reaches Minna in about 15 minutes. An adult return costs ¥1,990; sailings change with the sea.
Getting around
On foot. The island is a crescent of sand about 4.6 km around.
Riding on Minna-jima
There is no riding to speak of on Minna; leave the bike at Toguchi and walk.
December to March
Sea conditions set the timetable, and the winter north wind can change sailings on the day. Call Minna Kaiun before you go.
Worth knowing
- Take everything you need from the mainland; check sailings with Minna Kaiun on 0980-47-5179.
FAQ
Quick answers about Minna-jimaよくある質問
How long is the ferry to Minna-jima?
The high-speed boat from Toguchi port in Motobu to Minna-jima takes about 15 minutes, and an adult return costs ¥1,990.
Why is Minna-jima called Croissant Island?
Minna-jima is crescent-shaped and looks like a croissant from the air, which gave it the nickname Croissant Island.
How big is Minna-jima?
Minna-jima covers 0.47 km².
Can you cycle on Minna-jima?
There is no riding to speak of on Minna; leave the bike at Toguchi and walk.
What is Minna-jima like in winter?
Sea conditions set the timetable, and the winter north wind can change sailings on the day. Call Minna Kaiun before you go.
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