Economically, the islanders engage in commercial fishing and seasonal tourism.

Ukejima is an island southeast of Kakeromajima, from which it is separated by a narrow strait.

The highest point, Mount Ōyama is 400 metres (1,300 ft) above sea level.

As with nearby Yoroshima to the northwest, the island is noted for its high density of habu poisonous vipers.

After the Meiji Restoration it was incorporated into Ōsumi Province and later became part of Kagoshima Prefecture.