【Non Non Biyori】 Taketomi Town, Yaeyama District, Okinawa Prefecture

【Non Non Biyori】Taketomi Town, Yaeyama District, Okinawa Prefecture

“Non Non Biyori: Vacation” is a theatrical version of the hugely popular anime series that was released on August 25, 2018. The story follows Renge and four other students from a rural branch school on a trip to Okinawa, with the beautiful nature and culture of Okinawa depicted carefully. This article comprehensively introduces filming locations on Taketomi Island and Ishigaki Island for those planning an actual pilgrimage to holy sites.

What is the Theatrical Version of Non Non Biyori: Vacation?

“Non Non Biyori” is an anime series based on a manga by Atto, a slice-of-life work set at a rural branch school facing depopulation. In the theatrical version, Renge, Hotaru, Natsumi, Komari, and the candy store owner enjoy a 3-night, 4-day trip to Okinawa with Okinawa travel vouchers won in a lottery draw.

The greatest feature of this work is its faithful recreation of actual Okinawa tourist destinations. In particular, Taketomi Island becomes an important setting in the film, with many scenes featuring the island’s traditional townscape and beautiful beaches. Since the production staff conducted actual field research on location, the details are carefully depicted, making this a work worthy of a pilgrimage to holy sites.

Basic Information for Okinawa Holy Site Pilgrimage

Main Holy Site Locations

The holy sites of the theatrical version of Non Non Biyori: Vacation are concentrated mainly in two areas below.

Taketomi Island (Taketomi Town, Yaeyama District, Okinawa Prefecture)

• The location where most scenes in the film were shot
• Features a traditional red-tiled roof settlement and beautiful beaches
• Approximately 10 minutes by high-speed ferry from Ishigaki Island

Ishigaki Island (Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture)

• New Ishigaki Airport (Nannushima Ishigaki Airport) serves as the gateway
• A transfer point to Taketomi Island
• Appears in some scenes

Recommended Duration for Holy Site Pilgrimage

A minimum of 2 nights and 3 days is recommended to efficiently visit major spots. If you want to take your time, 3 nights and 4 days is ideal. Planning 3 nights and 4 days like in the film allows you to immerse yourself even more in the world of the work.

Best Season

Considering Okinawa’s climate, April to June or September to November are suitable for holy site pilgrimages. Summer (July-August) coincides with typhoon season, so there is a risk of ferry cancellations. However, if you want to experience the summer vacation atmosphere depicted in the film, choosing summer is also an option.

Detailed Major Holy Sites on Taketomi Island

Kondoi Beach (Kondoi Hama)

This location served as the setting for the scene where Renge and the others first play in the water wearing swimsuits. Located on the western part of Taketomi Island, this shallow beach features highly transparent water and white sand.

Highlights

• You can recreate the scene where Renge enters the sea
• The gentle waves make it safe for swimming
• Known as a scenic spot with beautiful sunsets

Access

• Approximately 15 minutes by bicycle from Taketomi Port
• Typically visited after renting a bicycle or taking a water buffalo tour

Photography Tips

• Light from morning to early afternoon most closely resembles the film
• The view from near the beach entrance looking out to sea is impressive

West Wharf (Nishi Sanshi)

This is the most crucial spot, depicted in the key visual and symbolic of the theatrical version. This wharf once served as a departure point for ferries connecting Taketomi Island and Iriomote Island, and is now developed as a tourist attraction.

Highlights

• You can recreate the scene where the five characters sit side by side
• Known as a sunset spot, particularly beautiful at sunset time
• Designated as a national registered tangible cultural property

Photography Tips

• The same angle as the key visual can be captured from the shore side of the wharf
• Best for sunset photography after 4 PM
• The view of the sea from the tip of the wharf is also a must-see

Cautions

• Diving from the wharf is prohibited
• Arrive early as it gets crowded at sunset

Taketomi Island Settlement (Historic Building Preservation District)

The traditional settlement with red-tiled roofs appears in scenes where Renge and the others stay at a guesthouse and explore the island. The landscape of lanes surrounded by stone walls and blooming bougainvillea is striking.

Main Spots

Around Nagomi Tower

• A viewpoint overlooking the settlement (currently may not be accessible due to deterioration)
• Surrounding alleys appear frequently in the film

Alleys in the Settlement

• Lanes continuing with red-tiled roofs and stone walls
• Water buffalo carts can also be seen passing through
• Allows you to re-experience the exploration scenes from the film

Photography Points

• Morning light softly illuminates the stone walls and red tiles
• Compositions making use of alley depth are recommended
• Be mindful of photographing in a residential living space

Kaiji Beach (Star Sand Beach)

This beach is famous for its star-shaped sand (shells of foraminifera). It serves as the setting for the scene where Renge and the others enjoy searching for star sand.

Experience

• Searching for star sand (only small amounts to be taken)
• Strolling along the beautiful coastline
• Recreating scenes from the film through photography

Access

• Approximately 5 minutes by bicycle from Kondoi Beach
• Approximately 20 minutes by bicycle from Taketomi Port

Points

• Searching for star sand on the beach can be enjoyed by both children and adults
• Swimming is not recommended due to strong tidal currents
• Only search for naturally occurring star sand on the beach in small quantities

Guest House (Accommodation Facilities Based on the Film)

The guesthouse where Renge and the others stay is modeled after actual accommodation facilities on Taketomi Island. While specific facility names are not officially stated out of consideration for business operations, the exterior of a traditional red-tiled roof guesthouse is carefully depicted in the film.

Enjoying the Holy Site Pilgrimage

• Actually staying at a guesthouse on Taketomi Island allows you to experience the film’s atmosphere
• Observe the architectural style of traditional red-tiled roofs
• Enjoy the quiet night and starry sky of the island

Akayama Observation Deck

A small hill in the center of Taketomi Island that offers a sweeping view of the entire island. It appears in scenes capturing the island’s full landscape.

Features

• 360-degree panoramic view
• Red-tiled roofs of the settlement visible at a glance
• A relatively lesser-known spot with fewer tourists

Holy Sites on Ishigaki Island

New Ishigaki Airport (Nannushima Ishigaki Airport)

This location appears in the opening scene as the place where Renge and the others first arrive. This relatively new airport, which opened in 2013, features an open design characteristic of the South.

Highlights

• The arrival lobby atmosphere is recreated in the film
• The airport exterior also appears in some scenes
• Filled with southern atmosphere decorations and souvenir shops

Holy Site Pilgrimage Points

• Photograph scenes from the film at arrival
• Obtain access information to Taketomi Island

Ishigaki Port Island Terminal

The port where ferries to Taketomi Island depart. It appears in the film’s travel scenes and is an important location where you will definitely need to stop during an actual pilgrimage.

Facility Information

• Multiple shipping companies operate ferries to Taketomi Island
• Well-equipped with waiting areas, shops, coin lockers, and more
• Tourist information for various islands available

Usage Points

• Over 20 departures daily to Taketomi Island (peak season)
• Round-trip tickets are discounted
• Travel time is approximately 10 minutes

Model Courses for Practical Holy Site Pilgrimage

Day 1: Arrival at Ishigaki Island and Transfer to Taketomi Island

Morning

• Arrive at New Ishigaki Airport (photograph scenes from the film)
• Take a bus to Ishigaki Port Island Terminal (approximately 30 minutes)
• Board the ferry to Taketomi Island (approximately 10 minutes)

Afternoon

• After arriving at Taketomi Port, rent a bicycle
• Check in at the guesthouse
• Swimming and photography at Kondoi Beach
• Search for star sand at Kaiji Beach

Evening

• Sunset photography at West Wharf (most important spot)
• Dinner at the guesthouse

Day 2: Exploring Taketomi Island Settlement

Morning

• Explore the settlement by bicycle or on foot
• Recreate film scenes through photography in the red-tiled roof alleys
• Explore the area around Nagomi Tower
• Enjoy the view from Akayama Observation Deck

Afternoon

• Water buffalo tour (optional)
• Take a break at a café in the settlement
• Visit remaining holy sites

Evening

• Return to West Wharf for sunset (from different angles)
• Explore the settlement at night (stargazing)

Day 3: Optional Day or Ishigaki Island Sightseeing

Morning

• Visit any remaining spots on Taketomi Island
• Or return to Ishigaki Island for city sightseeing

Afternoon

• Purchase souvenirs around Ishigaki Port
• Head to the airport and depart

Access Methods and Transportation for Holy Site Pilgrimage

Access from Okinawa Main Island

Airplane

• Approximately 1 hour from Naha Airport to New Ishigaki Airport
• Operated by JAL, ANA, Solaseed Air, Peach, and others
• Early booking available from around 10,000 yen per leg

Direct Flights

• From Tokyo (Haneda/Narita) to New Ishigaki Airport approximately 3 hours
• From Osaka (Kansai/Itami) approximately 2 hours 40 minutes
• Direct flights are more efficient, but more expensive

Access from Ishigaki Island to Taketomi Island

Shipping Companies

• Yaeyama Kanko Ferry
• Anei Kanko
• Ishigaki Island Dream Kanko

Fares

• Round-trip: 1,340 yen for adults, 690 yen for children (as of 2024)
• Day-trip plans (round-trip ferry + bicycle rental) also available

Operation Times

• First departure: Around 7:30 AM
• Last departure: Around 5:30 PM (varies by season)
• Travel time: Approximately 10 minutes

Transportation Within Taketomi Island

Bicycle Rental

• The most common and flexible transportation method
• Charge: 1,000 yen for 2 hours, approximately 1,500 yen for full day
• Rental staff will guide you upon arrival at the port
• Electric bicycles also available (at higher cost)

Walking

• The island’s circumference is approximately 9 km, walkable in its entirety
• Walking exploration of the settlement is recommended
• Perfect for those who want to take their time photographing

Water Buffalo Cart

• Circumnavigates the settlement in approximately 30 minutes
• Charge: Approximately 1,500 yen for adults
• Recommended for first-time visitors with tour guidance
• A traditional tourism style also depicted in the film

Car Rental/Motorcycles

• Car rentals for general tourists are not recommended on Taketomi Island
• Island roads are narrow; bicycles and walking are the standard

Ways to Enjoy Holy Site Pilgrimage More Affordably

Airfare Savings Tips

Early Booking Discounts

• Use early bird discounts 75, 55, or 28 days in advance
• LCC use can offer under 10,000 yen per leg

Package Tours

• Flight + hotel bundles often cheaper than separate bookings
• Compare on Rakuten Travel, Jalan, JTB, and others

Mile/Point Utilization

• Obtain complimentary flights using JAL or ANA miles
• Payment also possible with Rakuten Points, T Points, and others

Accommodation Cost Savings

Guesthouse Stays

• Taketomi Island guesthouses typically range 8,000-12,000 yen per night including two meals
• Experience the film’s atmosphere while economical
• Early booking secures preferred accommodations

Ishigaki Island Accommodation

• More accommodation options than Taketomi Island
• Business hotels available from around 5,000 yen per night
• Option to visit Taketomi Island as a day trip

Money-Saving Tips on Location

Bicycle Rental

• Multi-day rentals offer discounts at some shops
• Electric bicycles convenient but regular bicycles sufficient

Meals

• Limited dining on Taketomi Island, slightly expensive
• Consider purchasing food on Ishigaki Island (check with guesthouse)
• Option to eat lunch on Ishigaki Island

Ferry Tickets

• Round-trip ticket purchase cheaper than individual legs
• Some shipping companies offer internet booking discounts

Etiquette and Precautions for Holy Site Pilgrimage

Photography Etiquette

Consideration for Residents

• Taketomi Island is home to approximately 350 people living their daily lives
• Never trespass into residential properties without permission
• Be mindful of residents in photographs; respect their privacy

Historic Building Preservation District Rules

• Do not climb on stone walls or damage plants
• Always take garbage with you
• Avoid loud conversations and noise

Photography Equipment

• Use tripods in locations that don’t obstruct pedestrian traffic
• Drone use requires prior permission

Environmental Consideration

Beach Etiquette

• Do not mass-collect coral or shells
• Limited star sand collection only (commercial collection is illegal)
• Choose reef-safe sunscreen

Ecosystem Protection

• Do not feed wild animals
• Plant collection strictly prohibited
• Avoid walking off designated paths

Safety Precautions

Weather and Clothing

• Okinawa’s sunshine is extremely strong (sun protection essential)
• Be cautious of heatstroke in summer (frequent hydration)
• Carry rain gear for sudden downpours

Beach Safety

• Kaiji Beach has strong tidal currents; swimming not recommended
• Exercise caution against being swept offshore at Kondoi Beach
• Watch out for dangerous marine life like box jellyfish (especially summer)

Health Management

• Bicycle travel is more physically demanding than expected
• Take regular breaks and stay hydrated
• Hats or umbrellas useful where shade is limited

Checklist of Items Useful for Holy Site Pilgrimage

Essential Items

• Airline tickets and ferry tickets (electronic tickets acceptable)
• ID
• Cash (many island shops don’t accept cashless payment)
• Smartphone (map apps, photography)
• Mobile battery
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+ recommended)
• Hat/sunglasses
• Drinking water

Convenient to Have

• Blu-ray/illustration collections (for comparing scenes)
• Camera (for serious photography beyond smartphone)
• Spare batteries/SD cards
• Umbrella/rain gear
• Insect repellent spray
• Beach sandals (for beach exploration)
• Swimsuit/towel (if swimming)
• Plastic bags (for wet items or star sand)
• Medications (motion sickness, stomach medicine, etc.)

Photography Equipment

• DSLR/mirrorless camera
• Wide-angle lens (ideal for landscape photography)
• Tripod (for sunset and starry sky photography)
• ND filter (for daytime ocean photography)
• Waterproof case (for beach photography)

Information to Further Enjoy Holy Site Pilgrimage

Preparation and Review of the Work

Viewing Methods

• Blu-ray/DVD (special features may include holy site information)
• Video streaming services (may be distributed periodically)
• Theater screenings (sometimes held for anniversaries)

Related Publications

• Original manga (travel edition episodes)
• Drama CD (prequel to the theatrical version)
• Official guidebooks and setting materials

Information Gathering via SNS

Hashtags

• #NonNonBiyoriHolySitePilgrimage
• #NonNonBiyoriVacation
• #TaketomiIsland
• #AnimeToursim

Cautions

• Gather latest information from other pilgrims’ posts
• Use caution with location tags (avoid identifying guesthouses)
• Be mindful of copyright in posts

Connection with Local Community

Taketomi Island Efforts

• Some shops may display work-related goods or exhibits
• Tourism respectful of local culture and history
• Support the island economy through local product purchases

Anime Tourism Association

• “Non Non Biyori: Vacation” is officially certified as a holy site
• Check official website for latest holy site information

Understanding Taketomi Island’s Culture and History

Traditional Architectural Style

The red-tiled roof houses of Taketomi Island are valuable cultural heritage preserving traditional Okinawan architecture. To withstand typhoon winds, stones are placed on roofs and homes are surrounded by stone walls. This unique landscape is carefully depicted in the film, and the pilgrimage allows you to learn about Okinawan architectural culture.

History of Water Buffalo Carts

The water buffalo cart tourism on Taketomi Island repurposes buffalo once used for farm work and transport as a tourism resource. To the leisurely pace of the buffalo and the sound of the shamisen, you can hear island commentary, providing a good opportunity to understand the island’s history and culture, as depicted in the film.

Legend of Star Sand

The star sand at Kaiji Beach is accompanied by an Okinawan legend. While star sand is actually the shell of foraminifera, there is a beautiful folk tale that “they are fragments of stars fallen from the Milky Way,” and the scene where Renge and the others search for star sand is grounded in this cultural background.

Touring Other Okinawa Anime Holy Sites

Okinawa Prefecture is the setting for many other anime works beyond “Non Non Biyori.” If you have time, touring multiple holy sites is also recommended.

Ishigaki Island Area

• Other anime work settings exist in Ishigaki city center
• Neighboring islands like Iriomote Island and Kohama Island are also popular tourist spots

Naha/Okinawa Main Island

• Setting for many anime works
• Abundant tourist attractions including Shuri Castle and Kokusai Street

Highlights by Season

Spring (March to May)

• Temperature: Around 20-28 degrees, comfortable
• Beach season: Available from mid-March
• Flowers: Bougainvillea beautifully in bloom
• Advantage: Relatively fewer tourists, allowing leisurely pilgrimage

Summer (June to August)

• Temperature: 28-33 degrees, high temperature and humidity
• Experience the summer vacation atmosphere depicted in the film
• Sea transparency at its highest
• Caution: Typhoon season, risk of ferry cancellations

Autumn (September to November)

• Temperature: 24-30 degrees, gradually becoming comfortable
• September still carries typhoon risk, but conditions stable from October
• Prime time for beautiful sunsets (ideal for West Wharf photography)

Winter (December to February)

• Temperature: Around 15-20 degrees, warmer than mainland Japan
• Swimming is cold (possible with wetsuit)
• Fewest tourists, allowing quiet pilgrimage
• Relatively affordable airfare and accommodation

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Q: What is the optimal duration for a holy site pilgrimage?

A: 2 nights and 3 days is recommended to efficiently visit major spots. 3 nights and 4 days is ideal for taking your time. Planning 3 nights and 4 days like in the film allows you to even more fully immerse yourself in the work’s world.

Q: Should I stay on Taketomi Island or do a day trip from Ishigaki Island?

A: Staying on Taketomi Island is strongly recommended to fully experience the work’s atmosphere. The quiet settlement and starry sky from evening to night cannot be experienced on a day trip. However, if budgeting is important, major spots can be visited on a day trip from Ishigaki Island.

Q: Is an electric or regular bicycle better for rental?

A: Taketomi Island is relatively flat, but electric bicycles are recommended for those sensitive to summer heat or lacking in stamina. Regular bicycles work fine, but electric ones make it easier to visit multiple beaches.

Q: Can a solo pilgrimage be enjoyable?

A: Absolutely enjoyable solo. You actually have the advantage of going at your own pace for detailed photography. Taketomi Island is safe for solo travelers.

Q: Can you do a holy site pilgrimage on a rainy day?

A: Light rain is possible, but heavy rain makes bicycle travel difficult. In heavier rain, switch to walking exploration within the settlement or visit indoor facilities like Taketomi Yugafu Hall.

Q: Can you stay at the guesthouse depicted in the film?

A: The specific guesthouse model is not officially stated, but Taketomi Island has several traditional guesthouses, all allowing you to experience the film’s atmosphere. When making reservations, mentioning “visiting for Non Non Biyori holy site pilgrimage” may prompt understanding responses from the innkeeper.

Conclusion: Special Experiences Gained Through Holy Site Pilgrimage

The “Non Non Biyori: Vacation” holy site pilgrimage offers value beyond merely visiting anime filming locations. The beautiful nature of Taketomi Island, its traditional culture, and its leisurely pace of life embody the work’s theme of “relaxation.”

Visiting the island in person allows you to re-experience the emotions the characters felt, deepening your understanding and affection for the work. West Wharf’s sunset, Kondoi Beach’s transparent sea, alleys lined with red-tiled roofs—all become unforgettable memories.

Through holy site pilgrimage, discover the excellence of Okinawan culture and nature, and rediscover the region’s charm. Using the information provided in this article, please plan your own “vacation.” It will surely become a special journey that remains in your heart, just like the film.

Enjoy your wonderful holy site pilgrimage journey with the greeting “Nyanpasu!”