The Kumejima Ocean Jet launches on May 1, 2026 — right at the start of Golden Week. Expect extremely high demand for inaugural sailings. Book as early as possible at ko-jet.com. Golden Week runs April 29–May 6, and the 230-seat jetfoil will likely sell out on peak dates.
Launch Week Demand
As Okinawa’s first jetfoil service, the inaugural sailings will attract significant attention. Combined with Golden Week holiday demand, seats are expected to sell out quickly. Book the moment reservations open — follow ko-jet.com for updates.
GW Kumejima Itinerary Tips
Book accommodation early — Kumejima hotels fill up during GW. Popular activities like Hatenohama tours also sell out. See our Hatenohama Guide for planning details. The KOJ makes a day trip feasible if overnight stays are unavailable.
Golden Week (April 29 – May 6) is one of Japan’s busiest travel periods, with millions of people taking advantage of the consecutive holidays. For the 2026 Golden Week, Kumejima Ocean Jet offers a unique opportunity to visit Kumejima Island via the newly launched jetfoil service. The 82-minute journey from Naha makes it possible to enjoy a day trip or short getaway to this beautiful island.
Booking early is strongly recommended, as seats fill up quickly during Golden Week. The Google Forms reservation system opens several weeks before the holiday period. If your preferred dates are fully booked, consider traveling on the first or last day of Golden Week when demand is slightly lower. Accommodation on Kumejima also books up fast during this period, so securing your hotel reservation before booking ferry tickets is advisable.
Kumejima Island during Golden Week offers a perfect blend of beach activities, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. The island’s famous Hatenohama sandbar tours operate daily during this period, weather permitting.
