Kumeissa

Kumeissa is the Finnish-language term for the Kume Islands, a subtropical archipelago in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. The group is centered on Kume Island (Kume-jima), with several smaller uninhabited islets surrounding it. The archipelago lies in the East China Sea, to the west of Okinawa Island, and is administratively part of Okinawa Prefecture’s Yaeyama District.

Geography and nature: The islands are of coral-reef origin, featuring clear waters, diverse marine life, and beaches. The climate is subtropical, with hot summers, mild winters, and a typhoon season typically in late summer. Coastal landscapes include notable white-sand beaches such as Hatenohama on Kume-jima.

History and culture: The area has been inhabited since the Ryukyu Kingdom era and was later incorporated into modern Okinawa Prefecture. The local population speaks a variant of the Ryukyuan language alongside standard Japanese. Traditional livelihoods have included fishing and agriculture; salt production historically occurred on some islands, with tourism expanding in recent decades.

Economy and tourism: Today, fishing and agriculture remain important, while tourism hasgrown as a major activity. Visitors are drawn to snorkeling, diving, and nature-based experiences, as well as the islands’ natural scenery and biodiversity.

Access and notable sites: Kumejima Airport (UEO) provides air connections to Naha on Okinawa Island, and ferries operate from the main island. Notable sites include Hatenohama Beach and other coastal landscapes that attract visitors seeking outdoor recreation and beach experiences.