This tiny subtropical island has an example of a perfectly preserved traditional Ryukyu village which would have been found all over Okinawa in days gone by. The traditional Ryukyu one-story houses are characterised by their red tiled roofs, stone walls and the lion-like Shisa at the gates whose duty is to ward off evil spirits. The village adds to the quaint small island atmosphere which is also helped by the water buffalo drawn carts that trundle around the island with their masters singing traditional Taketomi folk songs as they go.

The size of the island makes it easy to navigate by foot. As part of the Yaeyama islands there are a number of golden beaches each with coral rich sea and the opportunity for some excellent snorkelling. Taketomi is a very worthwhile day trip from its larger neighbour, Ishigaki.