What are the mangroves in Ishigaki Island? Introducing mangrove spots and recommended tours!
Table of Contents
- 1 What are the mangroves on Ishigaki Island like?
- 2 What are mangroves anyway?
- 3 Characteristics of mangroves
- 4 Mangroves that can be seen on Ishigaki Island
- 5 Creatures found in the mangroves of Ishigaki Island
- 6 Mangrove Spots in Ishigaki Island
- 7 Extra Edition] Mangrove Spots in Iriomote Island
- 8 Recommended for travelers with children!
7 Mangrove Tours in Ishigaki Island
- 8.1 Same-day reservations OK☆! Miyara River Mangrove SUP/Canoe
- 8.2 Also enjoy Nosoko Merpee Trekking☆. Fukidori River Mangrove SUP/Canoe
- 8.3 Aiming for the waterfall of marriage! SUP/Canoe & Shower Trekking
- 8.4 Enjoy both ocean and river! SUP/Canoe & Snorkeling
- 8.5 Includes landing at the popular "Phantom Island Snorkeling & SUP/Canoe
- 8.6 Conquer popular spots by SUP and canoe! Kabira Bay & Miyara River Cruise
- 8.7 Recommended on the last morning! Sunrise Mangrove SUP
- 9 What to wear when visiting the mangroves of Ishigaki Island
- 10 summary
⬇︎ Click here for the most popular mangrove tour specials☆.
What are the mangroves on Ishigaki Island like?
Ishigaki Island may have a strong image of a beach resort,Actually, you can enjoy mangroves on Ishigaki Island, too!If you are looking for a place to go, you can find it in Ishigaki Island. If you want, SUP and canoe tours of Ishigaki Island's mangrove rivers are very popular!
In this issue, we will introduce the mangroves of Ishigaki Island.
○If you are looking for a mangrove tour in Ishigaki Island, please contact us.
○If you want to know about the creatures you can see in the mangroves of Ishigaki Island
○Those who want to know about the Miyara River and the Fukidori River.
What are mangroves anyway?
Mangroves are a general term for trees that grow at the intersection of seawater and freshwater at the mouths of rivers in tropical and subtropical regions.
Strictly speaking, the mangrove tree itself does not exist. In Japan, mangroves grow wild in areas south of Yakushima Island in Kagoshima.
More than 100 plant species worldwide have been implicated in the formation of mangroves,About 30 of these species can be found in Japan.It is said.
Characteristics of mangroves
The most significant feature of mangroves is that the trees areCan live in saltwaterThis is because mangrove trees can absorb seawater and exclude salt from their roots and leaves. Ordinary plants cannot survive in salty environments, but mangrove trees can survive in coastal areas because they can absorb seawater and remove salt from their roots and leaves.
Some mangroves in the world grow to more than 60 meters, but in Japan, trees as large as 20 meters are generally seen. Even so, they are big enough to be powerful!
Mangroves that can be seen on Ishigaki Island
In the Yaeyama Islands including Ishigaki Island,Approx. 8 typesof mangrove trees can be observed. Those mangrove trees are inhabited by different species depending on their salinity (distance from the sea), and this variation is one of their interesting features.
Mangroves are also known for their distinctive roots and their strange shapes.
The Yaeyama Islands are located at the southernmost tip of Japan, and you will be able to observe abundant mangroves blessed with pristine nature.
Rhizophora mucronata (species of mangrove)
Yaeyamahirugi has an interesting salt drainage function: it stores salt in its leaves near the branch tips and naturally drops those leaves when the leaves fill with salt.
Leaf color changes depending on the salt contentThe leaves that contain salt are yellow, while those that do not are green and can be easily distinguished!
Yaeyama hirugi also lives in mangrove rivers with large tidal ebb and flow, and has stilt-like prop roots. This characteristic root shape is believed to be due to the fact that mangroves live in salty seawater.
black mangrove (Bruguiera gymnorrhiza)
The Ohirugi is called "knee-root" because of its characteristic root shape. The curved, knee-like shape of the root is very striking.
The mangrove cruise, especially at low tide, exposes the roots of the halibut and its unique shape can be clearly seen.
These roots rarely extend directly to the ground, but rather grow along the ground, supporting the tree.
Kandelia obovata (species of mangrove)
Mehirugi is a good example of this, compared to Ohirugi.slenderThe flowers are beautiful.
Mehirugi is considered to be one of the most cold tolerant mangroves, not only on Ishigaki and Iriomote Islands,Can be seen in a variety of locationsThe following is a list of the most common problems with the
The scenery with the magnificent mangrove trees contrasting with the beautiful flowers is worth photographing, so be sure to take pictures... ♪
white mangrove
Hirugidamashi is a plant that can be seen emerging from the sea at low tide on Ishigaki Island.
Grows in isolation in waters such as Nagura BayThe landscape has a wistful beauty.
Hirgidamashi is an ornamental plant and should not be brought home from an environmental protection perspective.
Held in Nagura Bay! Click here for a list of popular tours
Litsea coreana (species of tree in the laurel family)
Although not technically a mangrove, this plant grows in the wetlands around mangrove rivers.
The characteristic plank-like root shape is extremely solid, and it is said that this tree was used to build sabani boats in the past.
In particular, the saxifrage tree found around the Nakama River in Iriomote Island is said to be over 400 years old, and you can admire its magnificent plate-like roots!
Iriomote Island if you want to see it together with the tour.I recommend the saxifrage tree on the way to Pinaisara Falls.Â
Let's go see the saxifrage tree!
Learn more about Pinaisara Falls tours
Japanese mountain ash (Sorbus japonica)
The modama tree, famous for "Jack and the Beanstalk," is a tree that can be found on Ishigaki Island and Iriomote Island.
The tree is known for producing very large beans, a special quality that is hard to find elsewhere.
Creatures found in the mangroves of Ishigaki Island
In the mangrove forests of Ishigaki Island, you can observe crabs and other crustaceans, shellfish, fish, and bird life.
Here are some typical creatures that can be observed in the mangroves.
Beyrich's slit shell (species of sea snail, Pleurotomaria beyrichii)
Pseudobagrus ichikawai (species of catfish)Small crabs living in the mudflatsIt is.
Small crabs with distinct characteristics can be observed, such as the "Okinawa spiny dogfish," which has large claws, and the "orange-colored dogfish," which has the lower half of its scissors.
southern red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii)
Crabs lurk in the roots of mangroves and in the shadows of leaves.
The southern red-clawed crab is blue in color and black in spring and summer, as shown in the photo.Moving forward as a herd in a group in a positive mannerTherefore, they are also called "soldier crabs.
Eviota japonica (species of pygmy goby found in Japanese waters)
aliasthump-thump-meThe southern flying goby, also known as the southern flying goby, is an amphibious fish that lives both on land and in the water.
Although they are fish, they are not good at swimming in water and move about the mud flats jumping around.
black-crowned night heron (Nycticorax nycticorax)
Egrets can also be seen in the mangroves, and the butterfly egret is about 70 cm long and has a beautiful white color all over its body.
We are active from spring to summer.
↓Click here to read the article.
Mangrove Spots in Ishigaki Island
Ishigaki Island has many spots where you can play while viewing mangroves!
On Ishigaki IslandHere are some recommended mangrove spots.
Click here for mangrove tour ranking
Miyara River
Miyara River is the largest mangrove river in Ishigaki Island. 1.5 km of hirugi forest, a treasure trove of nature, stretches along the river.Designated as a natural monumentThe following is a list of the most common problems with the
Various species of mangrove trees, such as the Ohirugi and Mehirugi, are found here, making it an attractive spot for nature lovers.
The Miyara River is also close to the city center,Canoe and SUP Cruiseare gaining popularity. You will have the luxury of paddling on a calm river while enjoying the beauty of nature.
↓Click here for recommended tours on the Miyara River.
Held at Miyara River! Click here for a list of popular tours
river running between Tokyo-to and Kanagawa Prefecture
If you want to enjoy mangroves in Ishigaki Island, Fuki-togawa River is also recommended!
Like Miyara River, you can enjoy the mangrove river, but in this area, the river is narrower and there are places like rock walls, which spread not only mangrove forests but also various attractions of Ishigaki Island.
Also, during the tour, "theWaterfall for marriageIt is a great place to visit and enjoy the beauty of nature and tourist attractions all at once, including a waterfall known as the
↓Click here for recommended tours on the Fukidori River.
Held on the Fukiutsu River! Click here for a list of popular tours
Nagura Bay
Nagura Bay is a marshy area of Nagura Ampal, where mangrove cruises andA spot to enjoy a great sunset.It is.
On Ishigaki Island, you can watch the sunset on the horizon and the "magic hour" when the colors of the sky and sea change fantastically.
Once there, you will be mesmerized by the sunset at Nagura Bay!
Since the very pretty hirugidamashi grow wild in Nagura Bay, it is good to take pictures of hirugidamashi and admire them until sunset time.
Both the mangrove river and Nagura Bay are popular photo spots.
↓Click here for recommended tours in Nagura Bay.
Held in Nagura Bay! Click here for a list of popular tours
Extra Edition] Mangrove Spots in Iriomote Island
Located about 40 minutes by ferry from Ishigaki Island, Iriomote Island is mostly subtropical jungle and is registered as a World Natural Heritage site.
From Ishigaki IslandMany people go on day trips to enjoy the mangroves.It is.
This section introduces spots on Iriomote Island where mangroves can be seen.
↓From Ishigaki Island! Iriomote Island Day Trip Tour is here↓.
Pinaisara Falls
Pinaisara Falls is a powerful waterfall with the largest drop (55 meters) in Okinawa Prefecture.
To Pinaisara Falls,Access by canoe and trekkingWe will do the following. Canoes cruise the mangrove river, and during the trek, visitors can see the saxifrage tree, a tree with large plank roots.
Please experience not only the beauty of the waterfalls, but also enjoy the mangrove forests and subtropical creatures that are unique to the subtropical zone♪.
Click here for Pinaisara Falls Tour Special
Nadala River
The Nadala River isCrowds of Ojirugi and YaeyamahirugiIt is.
Walking along the mangrove forest of the Nadala River, you will see a single waterfall that is smaller in scale than Pinaisara Falls, but still atmospheric.
You can enjoy trekking on Iriomote Island, a World Natural Heritage site, while experiencing the beauty of nature.
Click here for Iriomote Island Trekking Tour Special
pale chub (Zacco platypus)
The Nakama River is a vast mangrove that boasts the largest area in Japan. Hirugimodoki and other plants of the Hirugiaceae family can be seen.
The river is wide and scenic boat tours are available,Recommended for those who want to appreciate mangroves effortlessly.It is.
Click here for a sightseeing boat tour of the Nakama River
Must take a boat from Ishigaki Island to Iriomote Island
Buy your ferry tickets in advance!
To access Iriomote Island from Ishigaki Island,Ferry boarding is required.It is.
At Ishigaki Island Tours, you can also purchase ferry tickets in advance and check the latest ferry timetable and operation status.
Advance purchase of ferry tickets is convenient for getting to each remote island from Ishigaki Island, so check it out before your trip!
Click here to book ferry tickets.
↓ Click here to read the article in conjunction with ↓ ↓
Recommended for travel with children!
7 Mangrove Tours in Ishigaki Island
Here are some recommended mangrove tours in Ishigaki Island.
Activities in the mangroves can be enjoyed on calm water, as they are surrounded by trees and are less affected by rain and wind.
Even small children can experience it.Please check it out!
↓ Learn more about mangrove tours ↓
Same-day reservations OK☆.
Miyara River Mangrove SUP/Canoe
This is a half-day mangrove tour to enjoy the Miyara River, where mangrove forests designated as a national natural treasure grow in clusters.
If you've never canoed or SUP'd before, you're also a certified water rescuer.Guides will be there to support you!
At first it may be difficult to balance on the SUP, but after a few minutes of lecture you will be up and riding in no time.
While cruising leisurely, it is fun to observe the subtropical flora and fauna, which are different from those of the sea.
There are mud flats near the mangrove forest of Miyara River, where you can observe plants and animals unique to Ishigaki Island such as kakatsugayu, himegame, and Okinawa sharinbai. Why don't you have a relaxing SUP/canoe experience surrounded by greenery?
Short tour of about 2.5 hoursTherefore, it is easy to incorporate into your itinerary, and anyone can join in!
Also enjoy Nosoko Marpe trekking☆.
Fukiutsu River Mangrove SUP/Canoe
This half-day tour includes a mangrove cruise on the Fukidori River and trekking in Nosoko Marpei.
Nosoko Marpei is the second highest mountain in Ishigaki Island and the contrast of the blue sea and greenery from the top is spectacular!Easy mountain that can be climbed in about 30 minutes.It is.
The Fukidori River, where you can enjoy SUP or canoeing, is a compact river with easy access to the upper reaches.
Unlike the ocean, mangroves growing wild on both banks of the river serve as windbreaks, breakwaters, and tidal protection, allowing children and the elderly to enjoy activities in peace.
Even on days when marine activities are cancelled due to strong north winds in winter.Mangrove tours are often offered.So, you can rest assured that your itinerary will not be disrupted!
Please enjoy the unique charm of the mangrove that the ocean does not offer.
Aim for the waterfall of marriage!
SUP/Canoe & Shower Trekking
Also called the waterfall of marriageSUP or canoe along the Fukidori River to Yabiku FallsProceed with the
Explore the river overgrown with mangrove trees while feeling adventurous!
You can choose between SUP and canoeing, or your favorite activity.
The stylish SUPs, which originated in Hawaii, can be posed in a variety of poses, and their small turns allow them to approach the intricacies of the riverbanks and enjoy a wide variety of activities.
Canoes are highly stable and buoyant, and are recommended for children because they can be operated by two people without difficulty.
Enjoy both the ocean and the river!
SUP/Canoeing & Snorkeling
Next up is a one-day plan that includes SUP/canoe cruising in the mangroves and snorkeling in the Blue Cave.
Half a day is spent beside various hirgitaceae plants.Enjoy the mangroves in a relaxed atmosphereI will do so.
While cruising, you can pass through cave-like areas and observe subtropical flora and fauna, and because the river is somewhat wide, you can enjoy activities with a high degree of freedom.
The order of activities may change back and forth, but a half day after lunch is snorkeling in the Blue Cave.
You enter from land and head inside the cave, but since the Blue Cave has only one entrance from the ocean side, it gets darker and darker as you go in.
Looking back at the entrance, the inside of the cave will be glowing blue from the reflection of the sun.
When snorkeling into the Blue Cave, you will be enveloped in a mysterious world of pure blue that is sure to impress! Depending on the tide level, you may be able to go deeper into the cave and see skylights and stalactites of various shapes.
You can also enter from the shallow beach and observe colorful tropical fish in the knee-deep shallows.
Around the limestone caves.Colorful coral reefs and tropical fish aboundSnorkeling inside and outside the caves is also available.
↓Learn more about the Blue Cave
Includes landing on the popular "Phantom Island"☆.
Snorkeling & SUP/Canoeing
This one-day tour includes snorkeling and mangrove cruising on the uninhabited "Phantom Island", which you should visit at least once when you visit Ishigaki Island.
Phantom Island (official name: Hamashima) appears and disappears from the sea depending on the tide level.
There is no vegetation, and the white sand is very beautiful, glistening in the sunlight,360° ocean viewThis is a spectacular spot where you can enjoy the
Near Phantom Island is a vast coral reef called "Shihsi lagoon," which is a popular snorkeling spot.
Both mangrove SUP/canoeing and phantom island snorkeling are top-class popular spots & activities in Ishigaki Island, so please join us!
↓Learn more about the island
Conquer popular spots by SUP and canoe!
Kabira Bay & Miyara River Cruise
You can enjoy SUP and canoeing in "Kabira Bay", the most scenic spot in Ishigaki Island, and "Miyara River", a typical mangrove spot.
This tour is recommended for active people who want to experience the nature of Ishigaki Island while exercising!
A free tour photo gift is also included.Enjoying the spectacular view to the fullestYou'll have great memories that you'll want to look back on later.
↓Learn more about Kabira Bay
Recommended on the morning of the last day!
Sunrise Mangrove SUP
The last tour we will introduce is Sunrise Mangrove SUP.
Sunrise Mangrove SUP cruises along the mangrove river while listening to the sounds of subtropical flora and fauna.
The event is held in the early morning when there are few people around, so you can start your day in a relaxed and pleasant manner,Tours recommended for the last day when time is limited.It is.
Once you reach the ocean where you can see the horizon, wait for sunrise. Early in the morning, the ocean, rivers, and air are especially clear in the day, and as you move your body while breathing in the clear air, you feel as if your whole body is being cleaned.
Also, the sight of the sea of Ishigaki Island gradually turning into the morning glow is very beautiful and will make you feel cheerful.
Breakfast is delicious when you get moving in the morning, so please wake up a little earlier and enjoy the cruise to enjoy breakfast♪
What to wear when visiting the mangroves of Ishigaki Island
When going to the mangroves, consider getting at least the lower half of your body wet,Clothing that can get wet or dirtyChoose the
Canoes rarely capsize, but there is a possibility of getting wet when sitting in them or getting the oars wet from the water they are exposed to.
summary
How about the mangrove spots in Ishigaki Island and the creatures that can be seen in the mangroves?
On Ishigaki Island, you can see the most magnificent mangroves imaginable.
Of course, the ocean is wonderful, but we also recommend playing in the mangroves, where you can experience forest bathing at least once during your trip!
↓Click here to read the article.
