Star sand, known as “hoshizuna” in Japanese, is a rare and fascinating natural phenomenon found on select beaches in the Okinawa region of Japan. This unique sand is primarily located on three islands: Taketomi, Hatoma, and Iriomote.
The sand grains, measuring only about 1 millimeter in size, are shaped like tiny, five-pointed stars. Despite their small size, these star-shaped particles are visible to the naked eye, creating a mesmerizing sight when viewed up close.
Contrary to what the name might suggest, star sand is not actually sand in the traditional sense. These star-shaped particles are the exoskeletons of small, single-celled marine organisms called Foraminifera, specifically the species Baculogypsina sphaerulata. These organisms live in the surrounding coral reefs and, upon death, their star-shaped shells wash up on the beaches.
The most famous location to observe star sand is Hoshizuna no Hama Beach (literally “Star Sand Beach”) on Taketomi Island. Other notable sites include Kaiji Beach, also on Taketomi Island, and Hoshizuna Beach on Iriomote Island. The entirety of Hatoma Island is also known for its star sand.
The formation of these star-shaped exoskeletons is a natural process. As the waves roll in, they carry the shells of these tiny organisms, gradually accumulating them on the shoreline. Over time, these exoskeletons mix with coral fragments and other marine sediments to form the distinctive star sand beaches.
The presence of star sand is limited to the coral reefs of East Asia, making it one of the rarest sand types in the world. This rarity, combined with its unique appearance, has made star sand a subject of local folklore and a popular attraction for tourists visiting the Okinawa region.
While beautiful and intriguing, it’s important to note that removing star sand from these beaches is discouraged to preserve this natural wonder for future generations. Visitors are encouraged to observe and photograph the sand but leave it in its natural habitat.
