Hiyajo Banta
比屋定バンタ26°22′ N 126°47′ EViewpointGood with kids
Hiyajo Banta is the clifftop lookout that stands about 200 m above the sea on Kume-jima's north-east coast and looks over Hatenohama and the reef to Aguni, Tonaki and the Kerama Islands; for a cyclist it is the island's biggest climb.
Banta means a cliff with a fine view, the tourism association says, and from about 200 m the lookout takes in Hatenohama and the roughly 12 km reef the town calls 御願干瀬, with Aguni and Tonaki beyond and the Keramas on clear days. The former Nakazato village made it a scenic spot on 2 September 1972, and Kumejima Town keeps the designation.
Riders reach it from the Maja coast, climbing from near sea level to about 200 m, or from Hiyajo village above. The town road toward Uegusuku starts near the lookout; one section was closed for works until 30 September 2026, so check before you plan to carry on uphill.
Worth knowing
- The town bus stops at the lookout, so anyone in the group who would rather not climb can meet the riders at the top.
- Carry a windproof layer in winter; the lookout faces the north-east.
FAQ
Quick answers about Hiyajo Bantaよくある質問
How high is Hiyajo Banta?
About 200 m. The Kumejima tourism association describes Hiyajo Banta as a cliff 200 m high, and the elevation data put the deck at about 199 m.
Can you cycle up to Hiyajo Banta?
Yes. The road climbs from about 7 m on the Maja coast to about 200 m at Hiyajo Banta, which makes it the biggest climb on a Kume-jima loop.
What are the opening hours of Hiyajo Banta?
Hiyajo Banta is open Open access.
Can you get to Hiyajo Banta by bike?
The climb from the Maja coast starts at about 7 m and tops out near 200 m, so this is the big hill of any Kume loop; the Hiyajo village bus stop sits at about 114 m. The town bus on the Kanegusuku Port (Hiyajo) Eef line stops at Hiyajo Banta.
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