List of recommended places to visit and play in Iriomote Island!

What is Iriomote Island, the Galapagos of the East?

Iriomote Island is the second largest island in Okinawa Prefecture after Okinawa Island.

The subtropical virgin forest covers 90% of the island, and is famous as a habitat for rare wildlife, including the Iriomote wildcat, which is found only on Iriomote Island,It is also known as the "Galapagos of the Orient" because of the large number of rare wildlife found only here in Japan.

Iriomote Island, with its thick subtropical jungle and precious creatures, offers a wide variety of nature tours.

Sightseeing spots such as Yubu Island, which can be crossed by buffalo cart, are also recommended.

In addition, 80% of Iriomote Island is government-owned land.

Iriomote Island is a candidate for registration as a World Natural Heritage site in 2020.

Let's visit such Iriomote Island before it is registered as a World Heritage site.

Click here for popular island tours

 

How to get to Iriomote Island from Ishigaki Island

There are two ports (Uehara Port and Ohara Port) when going from Ishigaki Island to Iriomote Island.

You can enjoy Iriomote Island from either port, but if you participate in tours, etc., you are more likely to go to Uehara Port.

Check in advance which port you will go to before making your Iriomotejima trip itinerary.

In addition, Iriomote Island can be visited as a day trip, so you can go to Iriomote Island from Ishigaki Island on the spur of the moment the day before.

Click here to book a ferry ticket to Iriomote Island.
Iriomote Island Ferry Tickets

Click here for all the fun in Iriomote Island.

 

Uehara Port

Tour activity venues and popular spots are scattered nearby near Uehara Port.

In addition, the bus is often cancelled between December and February. In the event of a cancellation, you can also purchase a ticket to Uehara Port and take the bus from Ohara Port to Uehara Port via Ohara Port.

Number of flights: about 8 to 10 per day
Time required: approx. 40-45 min.
Fee: 2,360 yen

For more information, click here↓.

Uehara Port

 

Ohara Port

If you want to spend a relaxing and quiet time, Ohara Port is the place to go.

Tours and other activities are not held there compared to Uehara Port, but it is a residential area where many locals live.

However, there are several places to see, so if you want to spend a quiet and relaxing time on a remote island, a walk around Ohara Port is recommended.

Number of flights: about 12 per day
Time required: approx. 30-35 min.
Fee: 1,800 yen

For more information, click here↓.

Ohara Port

 

To Iriomote Island, from Ishigaki IslandferryIt can only be reached by

Ishigaki Island-Iriomotejima Ferry" and "Iriomotejima Activities" are included in the package.Cheap Set PlanLet's enjoy Iriomote Island to the fullest!

Rather than booking ferry tickets and activities separatelyeconomicalIt is!

Click here for popular Iriomote Island tours (set plan)

Check out more details about Iriomote Island tours from Ishigaki Island!

 

How to get around the island

The largest of the Yaeyama Islands is best traveled by car.

Rental cars can be rented at either Uehara Port or Ohara Port, and many places offer pick-up and drop-off services if you make a reservation in advance.

However,It is recommended to make reservations at least one week in advance, as last-minute car rentals are rarely available during peak season.

If you join a tour, you will be picked up and dropped off at your hotel or port, so a tour is recommended for day-trippers or those who have a short stay.

 

Main areas and popular spots in Iriomote Island

Iriomote Island does not have a road that circles the island, and the range of travel is approximately 53 km, halfway around the island along the coast.

Driving is relatively easy as there is only one road connecting Ohara Port to Uehara Port.

Introducing popular spots we recommend when touring Iriomote Island by rental car.

 

Uehara Port Area

The gateway to western Iriomote Island.

It is the western gateway to the island, where boats from Ishigaki Island as well as regular boats to Hatoma Island operate.

The Urauchi River with its mangroves and Pinaisara Falls are also located in this area.

The northern part of the island is dotted with some of Japan's best beaches, including Tudumari Beach and Hoshisuna Beach.

After enjoying the jungle in the mangrove forest, a stroll along the star sand beach is also a good idea.

 

Urauchi River

The Urauchi River, which flows through the center of the island, is the longest river in Okinawa Prefecture at 19 km in length.

Mangroves grow thickly near the mouth of the river, while the upper reaches are covered with deep jungle.

From the foot of Urauchi Bridge near the mouth of the river to the Gunkan-iwa landing place, a sightseeing boat takes visitors 8 km upstream and back, and a trekking trail leads to a waterfall further up the mountain.

There are also two famous waterfalls at the back, the Marioudou Falls and the Campilay Falls, which are also popular spots for tours.

For more information, click here↓.
Urauchi River

 

Unarizaki Park

The observatory in the park offers a spectacular view of the emerald green ocean, the distant Tsukihama Beach, the mouth of the Urauchi River, and the dynamic topography of the island.

It is also a popular place to watch the sunset over the ocean.

It is also a beautiful spot for star gazing, and night tours (starry sky tours and jungle night tours) are offered.

It is one of the most famous starry sky spots in Iriomote Island, so it is essential for Iriomote Island guests to see stars by night tours, etc.

For more information, click here↓.
Unarizaki Park

 

Tudumari Beach (Tsukigahama Beach)

Source:4travel

Located near the resort hotel "Nirakanai", it is a famous beach in Iriomote Island with quiet waves spreading out at the mouth of Urauchi River.

It is also a spectacular viewpoint for sunsets. It is also known as "Tsuki ga Hama" (moonlight beach) because of its crescent moon-like shape.

We recommend playing more like swimming than snorkeling.

For more information, click here↓.
Tudumari Beach (Tsukigahama Beach)

 

Hoshisuna Beach (Star Sand Beach)

The beach is located at the northern tip of Iriomote Island. In the sandy beach, star-shaped star sands can be seen in abundance.

The ocean is clear and the waves are gentle, so snorkeling can be enjoyed even on winter days with strong northerly winds.

However, the waves beyond the reef can be strong and dangerous, especially in winter, so it is recommended to join a tour for a safe and enjoyable experience.

There is a restaurant (café) on the hill, which is rare in Iriomote Island, so it is also nice to take a break.

For more information, click here↓.
Star Sand Beach (Star Sand Beach)

 

Hatoma Island

The island is about 5 km away from the Uehara Port area of Iriomote Island and takes about 10 minutes by ferry.

Surrounded by coral reefs, Hatoma Island is so quiet and uncrowded that you can have the beach all to yourself.

The island is also the setting for the drama "Ruri no Shima," and as the story goes, the island is not touristy, and the beaches scattered around it are very private.The following is a list of the most common problems with the

There is only one scheduled flight per day, and there are few activities and things to do in the area, so it is recommended to go on a tour from Iriomote Island.

For more information, click here↓.
Hatoma Island

 

Barras Island

A small island between Iriomote Island and Hatoma Island.

It is characterized by its white color due to the accumulation of coral fragments.

Surrounded by colorful coral reefs, it is a popular snorkeling and diving spot around the coral island.

It is also known as the "Miracle Island" because it returns to its original state according to the tide level.

Barasu Island has been featured in various media such as TV and magazines, and you should definitely see it at least once when you come to Iriomote Island on a trip.

For more information on Barras Island, please visitthis way (direction close to the speaker or towards the speaker)

 

Pinaisara Falls

Pinaisara Falls is the largest waterfall in Okinawa Prefecture with a drop of 55 meters, and is a representative sightseeing spot of Iriomote Island.

In the Okinawan dialect of pinaisara, pinais means beard and sara means something that has gone down, and when you actually see it, it looks like a beard that has grown long.

Cruise upstream on a SUP or river kayak on the mangrove river.

From the halfway point, we will trek toward Pinaisara Falls.

During the trekking, you can observe the unique subtropical flora and fauna.

When you arrive at Pinaisara Falls, you will be amazed at the sheer size of the waterfall, so huge that you have to look up to see the top of the waterfall.

The splash of plenty of negative ions is very pleasant.

Goby, tenagaebi, and funeama mussels and other creatures can be seen in the waterfall basin.

Also, from the top of the waterfall, you can see the whole Iriomote Island and the surrounding outlying islands such as Barasu Island and Hatoma Island.

Why not visit one of the most popular spots representing Iriomote Island?

For more information on Pinaisara Falls, please visitthis way (direction close to the speaker or towards the speaker)

 

Maruma Beach

Maruma Beach is a smaller beach with clear waters located just outside of Uehara Port.

Although it is located near the harbor, it is actually a hole-in-the-wall spot with few tourists.

The beach is popular among families with children, as it is shallow and the waves are not high!

If you head a little further offshore, you will find colorful corals growing wild, making it suitable for snorkeling.

Because it is near the port, there are restaurants and convenience stores in the vicinity, and facilities such as hot showers and restrooms are available for your comfort.

For more information, click here↓.

Maruma Beach

 

Utricularia bifida (species of bladderwort)

The Ear Cutting Beach is located about 10 minutes by car from Uehara Port, and is a secluded beach that requires going through the jungle to access.

It is not that burdensome to walk through the jungle, as it takes about three minutes on foot.

Because it is located at the end of the jungle, you can have the beach all to yourself as it is rarely visited by people, many of whom are strangers to it in the first place.

It is a beautiful natural beach and a spot where sea turtles also visit every year to lay their eggs.

Because it is an unspoiled beach, there are no restaurants or restrooms, so it is recommended for adult travelers rather than families.

For more information, click here↓.

Utricularia bifida (species of bladderwort)

 

Nakano coastline

Nakano Beach is a 5-minute drive from Uehara Port and is located at the entrance to Nakano Village in the Uehara area.

It is a little smaller and more compact than Maruma Beach.

There are also famous diving spots offshore, so you can visit for marine activities.

For more information, click here↓.

Nakano coastline

 

Zenbe Beach

Zembe Beach is located at the end of Unarizaki Park from the harbor, and is a little difficult to find due to the overgrown vegetation at the entrance.

If the timing is right, there will be no people at all and it will be like a private space.

This beach is located on the west coast of the island and offers a view of the sunset as it sinks into the horizon.

For more information, click here↓.

Zenbe Beach

 

Nishida River (Sangala) Falls

Sangara Falls is a representative waterfall of Iriomote Island located in the upper reaches of the Nishida River.

Although the drop is not so great (3 m), the width of the waterfall is nearly 30 m, and the abundant water volume is a characteristic feature.

You can go under the waterfall, above the waterfall, and behind the waterfall, and the waterfall basin is home to many tenaga shrimps.

For more information, click here↓.

Nishida River (Sangala) Falls

 

Kanpire Waterfall

Campire Falls is a waterfall with dynamic scenery located 20 minutes by sightseeing boat from the Urauchi River.

Because of its visual, it is believed to signify the throne of the gods and the companionship of the gods.

Although the waterfall is wide and there is little difference in height, the length of the waterfall, which spans 200 meters, is inevitably impressive.

For more information, click here↓.

Kanpire Waterfall

 

Mariyudu Falls

Mariyudu Falls is a 16-meter-high, 20-meter-wide waterfall located in the upper reaches of the Urauchi River, and has been selected as one of the 100 best waterfalls in Japan.

Mariyudu means "round hollow," and this waterfall has many of the potholes mentioned above.

There is an observation deck on the way to access the falls by boat cruising and trekking, from which you can also view the falls.

For more information, click here↓.

Mariyudu Falls

 

Taketomi Town Meridian Fureai Kan

The Taketomi Town Meridian Fureai Kan is located in Sonai Village, where a monument commemorating the meridian line at 123 degrees 45 minutes 6.789 seconds north latitude has been erected.

The monument emits a green laser beam every 30 minutes at 19, 20, 21, and 22:00 toward the meridian line in the night sky.

For more information, click here↓.

Taketomi Town Meridian Fureai Kan

 

Omija Road Park

Omija Road Park is a promenade located near the mouth of the Omija River.

There is an observatory and it is a perfect spot to relax while overlooking the sea of Iriomote Island.

Mangroves grow in clusters nearby and can be observed up close.

For more information, click here↓.

Omija Road Park

 

Gator Falls

Geeta Falls is a staircase-shaped waterfall located about 15 minutes by car from Uehara Port.

You can see the sea of Iriomote Island from the top of the waterfall, and you can check the corals on the bottom of the sea because the sea is very clear.

From the mouth of the river to the Gator Falls, the jungle is clustered, and the unique flora and fauna of the subtropical zone can be observed.

For more information, click here↓.

Gator Falls

 

Modama Pond

Modama Pond is a low-depth pond located approximately 10 minutes by car from Uehara Port, and is a safe place for small children to visit.

The road from the port to Modama Pond is surrounded by subtropical jungle, and you can experience the great nature of Iriomote Island before accessing the pond.

There are also streams and ponds with beautiful clear water, where visitors can enjoy observing fish and other living creatures.

There is also a modama tree swing nearby.

For more information, click here↓.

Modama Pond

 

Omija Waterfall

Omija Falls is a waterfall located upstream of the Omija River with mangroves growing on both banks, and is a popular canyoning spot on the island.

Why don't you visit Omija Falls to feel the cool, clear water during the hot spring and summer months?

For more information, click here↓.

Omija Waterfall

 

Sonai Hometown Forest

Sonai Hometown Forest is a forest spreading over Mt. Sonai, located about 15 minutes by car from Uehara Port.

Sonai Hometown Forest has a rest area and an observatory where visitors can relax while overlooking Shirahama Bay.

Sonai Hometown Forest, one of the most beautiful sunset spots on the island, is also a spot for viewing fireflies.

It is also suitable for stargazing, so please stop by and enjoy the night of Iriomote Island.

For more information, click here↓.

Sonai Hometown Forest

 

Utara Coal Mine Site

The Utara Coal Mine Site is the site of a coal mine that operated from 1935 to 1943 near the Utara River, a tributary of the Urauchi River. A 1-km promenade stretches from Urauchi Bridge to the mine for sightseers to explore the Urauchi River. Following the path will take you to the upper reaches of the river. Utara Coal Mine Site is one of the Iriomote coal mines and is recognized as a Heritage of Industrial Modernization.

For more information, click here↓.

Utara Coal Mine Site

 

River Yutun

The Yutun River is not as wide or long as other rivers, but it is famous for the Yutun Falls upstream.

The Yutun Waterfall has a drop of about 35 meters, which is not as steep as Pinaisara Falls, but it is unique in that it has three tiers.

There is another waterfall below the third level, so it can be called a four-level waterfall.

When it rains, the three-tiered waterfall is very powerful as it violently flows down.

You must continue along the mangrove-strewn Yutung River until you reach Yutung Falls.

This Yutun River has a cobalt blue sea with colorful corals near the mouth of the river, and you can enjoy the varied nature of Iriomote Island.

For more information, click here↓.

 

Western Area

There is the final point of the road halfway around Iriomote Island, from whichArea that can only be reached by a 10-minute boat ride on a regular boat.The following is a list of the most common problems with the

Funauki village, where the regular ferry arrives and departs, is large enough to walk around in about 30 minutes.

It is recommended to enjoy the majestic natural beauty of Nala Falls and Waterfalls, and to relax and enjoy the Ida beach with its gentle lapping of the waves.

 

Nala Falls

Nala Falls, known locally as the "Phantom Falls.

A popular course is an adventure boat ride up the Nakara River to the upper reaches of the river, followed by a 30-minute subtropical trek to the falls.

For more information, click here↓.

Nala Falls

 

Ida's beach

A secluded beach where quiet time flows.

This natural beach is accessible on foot from Funauki village, and the clear ocean stretches beyond the white sandy beach.

Offshore, you can see one of the best coral reefs in Yaeyama.

It is also the 6th best beach in "Best Beaches in Japan 2018" on TripAdvisor.

For more information, click here↓.
Ida's beach

 

Mizuochi Falls

Mizuochi Falls is an unexplored waterfall that can only be reached by boat from Shirahama Port.

It is located when you cross Funauki Bay from Shirahama Port and proceed through the mangroves.

It is not as large as other waterfalls, but the scene of water pouring into the surface is beautiful and a scene that cannot be seen at other waterfalls.

For more information, click here↓.

Mizuochi Falls

 

Funauki Village

Funauki Village, like Mizraku Falls, is a secluded village accessible only by boat from Shirahara Port.

The village is located right next to the harbor, with a variety of stores nearby.

A short walk from the village brings you to Ida no Hama, also known as Iriomote Island's best beach and the most isolated island on land.

There is also another unexplored waterfall, Mizuochi Falls, which is one of the most relaxing places in Iriomote Island.

For more information, click here↓.

Funauki Village

 

Adanade Waterfall

For more information, click here↓.

Adanade Waterfall

Adanade Falls is located about 15 minutes by car from Uehara Port and is upstream from Adanade River, a tributary of the Nakara River.

It is recommended to visit in the summer because you will be bathed in the water of the river of Adanade on your way there.

 

Eastern Area

This area has several facilities where you can observe the flora and fauna of Iriomote Island, and is located just between Uehara Port and Ohara Port.

At Yubu Island, where you cross the strait by buffalo cart, you can observe subtropical plants, and at the Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center, you can learn about the ecology of Iriomote wildcat and other endemic animals.

 

Subtropical Botanical Paradise Yubu Island

It is a small island with a circumference of 2 km, and the entire island is a botanical garden.

To get to the island, you will cross the strait by a buffalo cart, which is a well-known attraction of Iriomote Island.

Yubu Island was originally uninhabited, but farmers from Taketomi Island and Kuroshima who commuted to Iriomote Island to grow rice began to settle there, and the island gradually prospered.

After that, many islanders moved to Iriomotejima when a big typhoon hit the island, and the only one left on the island was an old man who kept planting palms and opened a botanical garden so that people would gather again on Yubu Island, which is said to be the origin of the botanical garden.

In addition to the botanical gardens, there are other attractions such as mangroves, beaches, and palm-lined avenues.

Click here for popular island tours

For more information about Yubu Island, click here↓.

Yubu Island Sightseeing

 

Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center

It is a great facility to learn about the ecosystem of Iriomote Island.

Centering on the Iriomote wildcat, a special natural treasure, there are abundant exhibits and materials on the island's nature and creatures, and they can be enjoyed free of charge.

A rare stuffed Iriomote wildcat is also on display.

For more information, click here↓.
Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center

 

Gora River (Shira River)

Gora River is located about 15 minutes by car from Ohara Port, and the river offers a panoramic view of mangrove forests growing in clusters in an S-shaped curve.

The river is characterized by its narrowing as it moves upstream from the river mouth, and there is an observatory nearby that offers a spot to take a break from driving.

In summer, you can see the sagaribana, known as the overnight flower, in bloom.

For more information, click here↓.

Gora River (Shira River)

 

Myra River (Maera River)

The Myra River, the most beautiful mangrove river in Iriomote Island, has a gentle current and a relaxing atmosphere.

It is a compact river that can be accessed from downstream to upstream in 30 to 40 minutes each way.

The river cruising is not strenuous and can be enjoyed by all three generations, from young children to the elderly.

For more information, click here↓.

Myra River (Maera River)

 

Ohara Port Area

It is the gateway to the eastern part of Iriomote Island and is the port where boats from Ishigaki Island arrive.

Even when the western port of Uehara is cancelled, the ship to Ohara Port often departs, and when Uehara Port is cancelled, a free shuttle bus from Uehara Port to Ohara Port is also available.

Ohara Port is convenient for the mangrove tour of the Nakama River, which is often taken by package tours.

 

pale chub (Zacco platypus)

The Nakama River runs through the largest virgin mangrove forest in Japan.

You can take a dedicated cruise ship upstream to see the "saxifrage tree," which is estimated to be 400 years old and one of the largest in Japan.

The mysterious atmosphere created by the plate-like roots of the saxifrage tree extending in all directions is a must-see!

The cruise ship also brings you very close to the mangroves, so you can see many unique subtropical plants and animals up close.

For more information, click here↓.
pale chub (Zacco platypus)

 

Minamikaze Mita Beach

Source:4travel

It is the southernmost long beach of Iriomote Island, spreading out on the west side of Minamikazaki, the eastern terminus of the outer circumference road.

On a clear day, the view is so spectacular that you can see Hateruma Island.

Since there are few people there even during the season, it is nice to be able to relax and have a private feeling.

Please note that there are no restrooms or other facilities.

For more information, click here↓.
Minamikaze Mita Beach

 

monument to forget-me-nots

The monument is a stone monument built by Mr. Nobumasa Shikina, the principal of Hateruma National School, so that the islanders of Hateruma Island, who were forced to evacuate to the beach of Minamikazumida and lost many lives due to malaria, would not forget this terrible tragedy.

A memorial service is held here every year. It is located along the beach of Minamikazumida, heading east.

For more information, click here↓.

monument to forget-me-nots

 

Iriomote Island Recommended Activities

Here are some activities that you should participate in when you come to Iriomote Island on your trip!

There are a variety of activities available, ranging from day trips to activities for overnight guests only.

 

Canoeing

This is a popular standard activity on Iriomote Island!

There are plenty of activities that allow visitors to play to their heart's content in attractive fields, such as "Pinaisara Falls," which has the largest drop (55 meters) in Okinawa Prefecture, and the Urauchi River, one of the largest mangrove rivers in Japan.

It is said that Iriomote Island has more than 40 mangrove rivers, both large and small.

This activity is so standard and popular that it comes to mind next to Iriomote Cat when people think of Iriomote Island.

For more information, click here↓.
Iriomotejima Canoe Tour

 

Snorkeling Tour

Iriomote Island snorkeling experience playing with colorful fish in the clear coral reef sea.

You can feel the sea of Iriomote Island in various ways such as beach snorkeling at Hoshisuna Beach with its star-shaped sand, Barasu Island located about 3 km north of Iriomote Island, and boat snorkeling around Hatoma Island about 2 km further away.

The tropical fish and underwater life that can be seen are also different, so you can experience a different underwater world just by snorkeling in different locations.

A snorkeling tour to Hatoma Island is a great way to explore the island as well as snorkeling!

For more information, click here↓.
Iriomote Island Snorkeling

 

SUP Tour

Marine activities are popular throughout Japan!

The official name is stand-up paddleboarding, or SUP for short.

It is larger and more stable than a surfing board, and it is so easy that even beginners can stand on the board within 5 to 10 minutes of starting to do it.

Explore Iriomote Island's unique mangroves and spectacular beaches in an exhilarating way using SUP!

For more information, click here↓.
Iriomote Island SUP Experience

 

Night Tour

A night tour that can be enjoyed only by Iriomote Island guests!

The starry sky of Iriomote Island is so beautiful that it was recognized as Japan's first starry sky protected area and international recognition in April 2018.

You can view such a beautiful starry sky of Iriomote Island.

It is also very popular among women because it is physically easy to participate and allows them to see beautiful scenery, and as many as 70% of the participants are women!

This popular activity allows visitors to enjoy the sight of the Milky Way and Southern Cross shining in one of the most star-filled skies in Japan, as well as encounters with nocturnal creatures in the subtropical jungle.

For more information, click here↓.
Iriomote Island Night Tour

 

Yaeyama Remote Islands Tour

The remote islands of Yaeyama from Ishigaki IslandEfficient SightseeingFor those who want to do so, a tour around the islands is recommended.

This tour allows you to fully enjoy the charms of Yaeyama's remote islands such as Iriomote Island, where 90% of the island is covered by jungle, Taketomi Island, where traditional townscapes remain, and Yubu Island, which is reached by a buffalo crossing the sea from Iriomote Island.

Unlike marine activities,Basically, it never gets wet.Therefore, it is also recommended for those who do not like the sea.

Click here for popular island tours

Check out more Yaeyama Remote Islands Tour Plans from Ishigaki Island!

 

Seasonal activities (Sagaribana Firefly)

Iriomote Island seasonal activity!

In spring, visitors can enjoy Yaeyama fireflies, the smallest fireflies in Japan, and in early summer, they can enjoy "sagaribana," an overnight flower that emits a sweet fragrance.

If the timing is right, it will be a valuable experience.

Be sure to enjoy the seasonal specialties of Iriomote Island that even the locals look forward to!

For more information, click here↓.
Seasonal (Sagaribana tour, Firefly tour)

Barras Island Snorkeling

Barasu Island is an uninhabited island floating offshore from the Uehara area of Iriomote Island, and is called a "miracle island" that appears and disappears depending on the tide.

It is an island made entirely of coral fragments, and is the only one in the northern hemisphere, in fact the only two in the hemisphere combined.

Surrounded by the largest coral area in the northern hemisphere, Shihsi lagoon, with more than 400 species of coral and a wide variety of tropical fish, snorkeling can be enjoyed to the fullest.

The clarity of the sea is excellent, so you can fully enjoy observing living creatures.

For more information, click here↓.

 

Canyoning & Shower Climbing

Canyoning & Shower Climbing is one of the popular river activities in Iriomote Island.

Canyoning & Shower Climbing, a very popular activity in the West, combines mountain and water fun as you ascend and descend streams.

You can enjoy going up and down the canyon of the mountains while bathing in the clear water in the great nature of Iriomote Island.

Canyoning is a downhill activity, while shower climbing is an uphill activity to enjoy the mountain stream.

The upstream shower climb is more challenging because you have to use secret techniques while resisting the current of the river.

Canyoning, on the other hand, allows visitors to enjoy natural pools and waterslides created by nature.

Sliding down a nature-created slide or jumping into a waterfall basin is exciting and exhilarating.

Why don't you experience the great nature of Iriomote Island with your whole body?

For more information, click here↓.

Canyoning & Shower Climbing

 

Trekking to the waterfall & playing in the waterfall basin

Iriomote Island is a remote island with many waterfalls, including Pinaisara Falls, the largest waterfall in Okinawa Prefecture.

The waterfalls include Cambilee Falls, which is 200 meters wide, and Maludu Falls, which was selected as one of the 100 best waterfalls in Japan.

To reach such a waterfall, trekkers must wade through subtropical jungle.

While trekking, you can observe the unique subtropical flora and fauna, and you can also admire the various creatures in the waterfall basin.

Each waterfall has its own unique character, so please try trekking to different waterfalls.

For more information, click here↓.

trekking

 

Iriomote Island Model Course

8:30 Departure from Ishigaki Island

First thing in the morning, we will board a ferry from Ishigaki Island to Iriomote Island.

9:15 Arrive at Uehara Port in Iriomote Island

After arriving at Iriomote Island, head to Iriomote no Shonen, a one-minute walk from Uehara Port, for a morning meal.

9:25 Arrival of a boy in Iriomote

The boy in Iriomote is open from 7:30 a.m., so you can enjoy a morning meal while waiting for the first train to Ishigakijima.

In addition to the hearty menu, you can taste tapioca drinks and tropical fruit juices from Iriomote Island.

After dinner, we will head to the Star Sand Beach.

10:40 Bathing at Hoshisuna Beach

Hoshi-suna Beach is the most major beach in Iriomote Island and is a cute beach where the beach sand is shaped like a star.

The adjacent ocean is home to colorful corals and colorful tropical fish, making this beach unique for its high biodiversity.

After enjoying a swim in the ocean, head to Shin Ah Ji Restaurant for lunch.

12:45 Lunch at Shinpachi Restaurant

Vegetable Soki Soba is a popular menu item at Shinpachi Shokudo.

It is hearty and full of flavor, but has a light aftertaste and is very easy to eat.

The noodles are edible and have a delightful glutinous texture.

13:30 Join Pinaisara Falls Mangrove Canoe & Trekking Tour

At the beginning of the tour, visitors will enjoy canoe cruising while admiring the mangroves that grow along both banks of the river.

After cruising, we will trek to Pinaisara Falls.

We will push through the jungle while observing subtropical flora and fauna.

Visitors will play in the water while feeling the spray of negative ions at the Pinaisara Falls, the largest waterfall in Okinawa.

After enjoying Pinaisara Falls, return by canoe and the tour will end at 17:30.

After the tour, we will head out for dinner.

For more information about Pinaisara Falls Mangrove Canoeing & Trekking Tour, click here↓.

18:00 Dinner at Hatsue

Hatsueda is a popular fish restaurant that serves both standard sushi and sushi made with fresh island fish.

You can taste island fish such as red snapper, akajin meibai, and ilabucha.

There are also some classic places such as bonito and tuna.

We also have Ishigaki beef sushi, a specialty of Ishigaki Island.

Please enjoy the fresh island fish!

19:20 Check-in at hotel

After checking in at the hotel, we will rest until we join the Jungle Night Tour.

20:00 Jungle Night Tour

Explore the subtropical jungle.

Nocturnal creatures unique to the subtropical zone can be observed.

The highlight of the night tour of Iriomote Island is the coconut crab.

The coconut crab is a member of the hermit crab family characterized by its huge body and strong scissors.

These creatures are listed as endangered. They are dangerous and should only be checked up close, not touched.

The star-filled sky is also a highlight of this tour.

Most of Iriomote Island is a precious place designated as a starry sky reserve.

The fantastic stars spreading across the sky are a must-see. After the tour, you will be picked up from your hotel.

For more information on night tours, click here↓.

Book a night tour of Iriomote Island

22:00 Pick-up and drop-off at hotel by tour company

summary

In this issue, we introduced how to get to Iriomote Island from Ishigaki Island, how to play, and recommended points of interest.

During the peak season, reservations for tours and meals need to be made in advance, but out of season, you may be able to join even the day before, so why don't you not just hang out in Ishigaki Island, but go to Iriomote Island as soon as you think of it?

Click here for popular Iriomote Island tours including Ishigaki - Iriomote ferry ticket.

Related columns are here↓.

All the fun of Ishigaki Island is here↓.
Ishigaki Island Tours

⇒Let's go to remote islands around Ishigaki Island! List of remote islands in Yaeyama!

Click here to book a ferry to Iriomote Island.