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40 sightseeing spots in Iriomote Island! Iriomote Island resident staff will give you a thorough explanation!
Hello everyone!
Iriomote Island is called the Galapagos of the East, where ancient nature still remains. Therefore, it is a recommended island with many activities and sightseeing spots.
In a warm and comfortable environment, you can visit famous classic spots as well as deep holes in the ground that only locals know about.
This article introduces what is Iriomote Island.
4 minutes walk from Uehara PortatFrom February 2023 Iriomote IslandWithin PiPi's tour pick-up and drop-off limits! 🌴 Excellent facilities 🍜 in the surrounding area! 🍜 ↓ For more information, click the button below! ↓ Click on the button below for more information!
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目次
What is Iriomote Island? Characteristics and Reasons for Recommendation
Iriomote Island is the second largest island in Okinawa Prefecture and the largest in the Yaeyama Islands. It is located 17 km west of "Ishigaki Island", the gateway to the Yaeyama Islands. It takes about 40 minutes from Ishigaki Island by high-speed ferry.
The ports of Iriomote Island are Uehara Port in the north and Ohara Port in the southwest, which are the gateways to the island. Near Uehara Port, there are many beaches suitable for marine activities, and Pinaisara Falls, which boasts the highest drop in Okinawa Prefecture, and the picturesque Maludu Falls are also located. Near Ohara Port is the Nakama River, which boasts the largest mangrove forest in Japan and is ideal for jungle cruising and trekking.
Access to Iriomote Island and movement within the island
Ferries from Ishigaki Island to Iriomote Island go to Uehara Port and Ohara Port.
Please check the schedule of your local port depending on your accommodations and the tour you are participating in.
The weather in the Yaeyama Islands can be unpredictable, so be sure to check the ferry operation information.
When choosing a hotel, it is recommended to choose one with good transportation access.
Mainly hotels near Ohara or Uehara will make it very easy to get around. Basically, the tour will meet at Uehara or Uehara, so it is convenient to stay near these locations. Rental cars and other vehicles also congregate near Ohara or Uehara.
Ishigaki Port Terminal is crowded!
Ishigaki Port Terminal is the only window to the remote islands of the Yaeyama Archipelago, including Iriomote Island.
However, since there are only a few ticket counters in the Ishigaki Port Terminal, it is very crowded and "difficult to buy tickets" occurs.
In the past, it took a long time to purchase tickets,There were many instances where the participants were unable to catch the scheduled ferry and missed the tour time in Iriomotejima.
For this reason, we recommend purchasing tickets online rather than locally.
Enjoy your trip in comfort by purchasing in advance!
40 Sightseeing Spots in Iriomote Island
(1) Urauchi River
Urauchi River, the largest river in Iriomote Island, is a secluded spot surrounded by jungle.
The area offers a combination of canoeing and trekking activities that allow visitors to enjoy the great outdoors!
You can observe the magnificent mangrove forests up close while canoeing the gentle current of the Urauchi River.
(2) Waterfalls
The "Mizu Ochino Waterfall" can only be reached by boat or canoe from Shirahama Port.Unexplored Funauki AreaThe waterfall is located at
It is located at the end of the river, where you can cross Funauki Bay by canoe from Shirahama and enjoy the view of the mangroves!
(3) Barras Island
Snorkeling tours around Barasu Island, where coral reefs are abundant, are very popular.
The waters of Barras Island are not only crystal clear, but in addition to a wide variety of fish, you can observe colorful coral reefs.
Many people are so enchanted with Barras Island that they come back again and again to snorkel.
(4) Omija River
The Omija River has an observation deck overlooking the ocean and a walking trail through the mangrove forest.
It is a spot with a spectacular view, so it is recommended to stroll around during a drive. Try using it for picnics, etc.
It is also famous as a spot where canyoning (rafting) can be done.
Canyoning is a popular activity that allows you to dive into a waterfall basin, ride a river current, and merge with nature, all with just your body.
(5) Star Sand Beach
It is a highly transparent and shallow beach that is popular among tourists.
The famous "star sand" from Kaiji Beach on Taketomi Island washes ashore, and you can enjoy collecting star sand here as well.
Under undulating rocks and in crevices, you may encounter schools of fish.
The current tends to be faster offshore, so try to play in front of the rocky area.
6) Pinaisara Falls
Pinaisara Falls is a huge waterfall with the largest drop of about 55 meters in Okinawa Prefecture! Pinaisara" means "beard" and "sahra" means "lowered thing" in the Okinawan language, so the name is exactly modeled after Pinaisara Falls. As you can see in the picture, it looks like an old man's face with a drooping beard.
It is not possible to walk to this huge waterfall. Therefore, many visitors take canoes or SUPs to the falls. The sight of paddling through the jungle toward the basin of the falls is breathtaking.
(7) Iriomotejima limestone cave
It refers to a spot where three limestone caves in Iriomote Island are in a row.
The first is a stalactite cave with a large entrance, the second is a smaller stalactite cave, and the third is a stalactite cave with a very narrow entrance.
There is a beautiful sight of a river beyond the limestone caves. Why don't you explore caving in Iriomote Island?
(8) Nakama River
The Nakama River near Ohara Port has a vast expanse of thick mangroves.
For this reason, mangrove cruising and trekking tours have become popular spots.
(ix) Ida beach
It is a secluded beach that can only be reached from Iriomote Island and cannot be reached by land.
It is about a 10-minute boat ride from Shirahama Port and a 10-minute walk from Funauki Port.
It is said to be the cleanest in Iriomote Island, and the spotless sea is like a swimming pool.
When the wind suddenly stops, you will be impressed by the beautiful scenery.
(2) Coola Falls
Kula Falls is one of the most popular tourist attractions and power spots in Iriomote Island, and is often visited by tours.
To get to the Coola Falls, one must continue on the Coola River.
After making your way through the jungle with ivy that looks like something out of Jack and the Beanstalk, you will emerge at the Coola Falls!
Koola" means "to bring good luck," and this is where the locals come to pay their respects. Koola Falls, loved by the locals and famous as a tourist spot, is nothing but a photogenic point of interest.
(10) Uehara Port
Uehara Port is one of the entrances to Iriomote Island, where ferry services are regularly operated.
From Uehara village, Hoshisuna beach and Tsukihama beach are nearby, making it a popular port for those who want to enjoy marine activities.
All PiPi activities will meet at Uehara Port.
(11) Ohara Port
Ohara Port is one of the entrances to Iriomote Island, where ferry services operate regularly.
Ohara village is close to a mangrove forest, and many people who want to enjoy activities in the river visit here.
It is also a transit point to other islands, so people who go sightseeing to other islands also use this area.
⑫Mariudo Falls
This waterfall is selected as one of the 100 best waterfalls in Japan, located in the upper reaches of the Urauchi River. The waterfall is characterized by its two-tiered structure and rounded basin.
This round waterfall basin is the origin of the name.
⑬Campilee Falls
Kampilay Falls, also known as the Seat of God, boasts a total length of 200 meters.
It looks more like a rushing stream than a waterfall and is often visited by trekkers.
⑭ Yutun Waterfall
Yutun Waterfall is located in the eastern part of the island, upstream from the Yutun River. The forest leading up to the falls is just as fantastic as it looks in the movies.
After passing through the forest, you will see the dynamic Yutun Waterfall. Why don't you visit Yutun Falls in Iriomote Island, where both the waterfall and its path are enjoyable?
(15) Urauchi River
The Urauchi River is known as the longest river in Okinawa Prefecture.
Because the salinity of the water differs between fresh water, brackish water, and sea water upstream and downstream of the estuary, different mangrove forests grow according to the salinity of the water.
Tours and other activities cruise upriver from the ocean side.
This makes it possible to observe the spectacle of shifting mangrove species.
⑯Hinai River
The Hinai River branches off from the Mare River on its way, and if you paddle the main stream by kayak, you will find a dense mangrove forest near the Pinaisara waterfall basin.
When you go to see Pinaisara Falls, you will go up the river here.
Rivers of the ⑰Gorara River
The Gora River offers a panoramic view of the vast virgin mangrove forest.
Mangrove forests grow thickly along a gentle S curve. Most of them are untouched, and the scenery interwoven with the mountains in the back is truly spectacular.
The river retains a rich natural environment, and in early July, you can even see the sagaribana in its mangrove forests.
Rivers before
Maera River runs along the mangrove forest, which is one of the most beautiful rivers in Iriomote Island with a gentle current.
Its gentle current and relaxing atmosphere is the best in Iriomote Island, and it is perfect for observing the vegetation at a leisurely pace.
(19) Nishida River
The Nishida River has a waterfall in the upper reaches of the river. The waterfall is 30 meters wide and is a hidden scenic spot.
It is also famous for its large number of tenaga shrimps, and near the waterfall you can enter a pothole in the ground or under the waterfall.
river in the western part of the country
The Quila River is the river that connects to the Shikagawa Bay.
Nearby is a powerful waterfall that cascades down a precipitous cliff called Mizuochi Falls.
Polish coastline
The beach is located at the entrance of Nakano village in the Uehara district. It is reached by a side road from the road about 5 minutes by car from Uehara Port.
This beach is visited by many locals, and with its balance between lack of popularity and the beauty of the beach, this Nakano beach is recommended for those who want to relax on the beach.
The offshore area is also a major dive site, with spectacular coral colonies.
㉒Kurile Islands
It is a large island located in front of Shirahama Port. In the Taisho era (1912-1926), it had a lively history as an island of coal mines.
The island also has a history of malaria, which has closed the mines many times.
There are local guided tours that allow visitors to see the ruins of the coal mines that still remain, so if you are interested, please join the tour.
㉓outlying islands
The outer islands on the ocean side of the inner islands also once prospered as coal mining islands.
A coal mine was opened for a time after the war. The coal mine later went out of business, but around 1998, a black pearl processing plant was built.
㉔Maruma Beach
It is a relatively small beach located just outside of Uehara Port. Although the water is clear and the quality of the water is clean, it is not well known and is a popular hidden spot with few tourists.
The waves are not so big and the beach is shallow, so even children can swim safely.
㉕Nambu Mita Beach
Minamikazumida beach is the longest beach in Iriomote Island, stretching to the southern tip of the island.
The sandy beach is white and shallow, so you can enjoy playing on the beach and picking up seashells, etc. On the west side of the beach, a jungle unique to Iriomote Island spreads out, and you can enjoy a completely different view from the ocean at the same time.
㉖stone of forget-me-not (esp. the water forget-me-not, Myosotis scorpioides)
At the end of the Pacific War, the residents of Hateruma Island were forced to evacuate to the beach, and many lost their lives to malaria.
The forget-me-not stone was carved into a stone to remember the experience of that time.
A monument was erected in the southern sea where Hateruma Island is clearly visible, and a memorial service is held there every year to pray for lasting peace.
㉗Nainu beach
This beach is a 30-minute walk further down the coast from Minamikazumida Beach, and is the end of the beach that you can walk to, as the cliffs continue onward from here.
Here, just offshore from the middle of the beach, there is a deeper beach, which is suitable for snorkeling and canoeing, where there is also coral.
㉘net fishing
The Amitori village site is a village that has already been abandoned in a remote area among the remote areas in Iriomote Island.
Many people visit by chartered (private) boat. It can also be visited on foot, but the walk at low tide takes several hours.
The site is home to Tokai University's Marine Research Institute facility.
㉙Tudumari Beach
Tudumari beach is located at the base of Unarizaki.
The beach is also called Tsukigahama because of its curved, crescent-shaped arc.
Most of Okinawa's beaches are made of coral fragments, but the beach at Tudumari was created by the accumulation of sand brought in from the Urauchi River.
The sand is pure white and makes a light squeaking sound when walked on.
㉚Utara Coal Mine Site
It is the site of a coal mine that operated until about 1943 near the Utara River.
A 1-kilometer promenade has been established from near the Urauchi Bridge on the prefectural road to the coal mine.
Utara Coal Mine Site is one of the Iriomote coal mines and is also a historic site recognized as one of the Heritage of Industrial Modernization.
There are also signs about life in the mines, allowing visitors to imagine what life was like in those days.
Unarizaki Park
Unarizaki Park, located at Unarizaki in the western part of Iriomote Island, has a boardwalk and a two-story observation deck at the end of the walkway, which offers a panoramic view of the East China Sea and the magnificent island scenery.
A promenade has been set up along the seashore, where visitors can take a leisurely stroll while gazing at the clear emerald blue sea and the horizon that points to Akane.
The park also has an outdoor stage, lawn, and playground equipment, making it popular with families.
FUFUUUKI Settlement
Funauki village is a village that can only be visited by boat with no land route from other villages in the same Iriomote Island.
It is also a popular spot for tourists, with a superb beach, a guest house with an ocean view, and a famous bakery called "Funauki Bread.
The area is full of attractions, including the place where the Iriomote wildcat, a natural treasure, was discovered and the ruins of a war.
Ana village
The village of Sonai, located in the western part of Iriomote Island, is about a 15-minute drive west from Uehara Port.
Sonai is one of the larger settlements in Iriomote Island, and is also one of the earliest villages on the island to be inhabited.
㉞ Meridian Monument
A meridian line of 123 degrees 45 minutes 6.789 seconds was found to run through Sonai on Iriomote Island, and a "Meridian Line Monument" was erected.
A green laser beam is emitted every night at 19, 20, 21, and 22:00 for 30 minutes.
Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center
The Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center, a facility of the Ministry of the Environment, exhibits stuffed specimens of Iriomote wild cat and other rare animals inhabiting Iriomote Island.
It is a perfect place for families with children to visit on their trips, as they can learn about the nature of Iriomote Island and deepen their understanding of and interest in the island's wildlife and conservation of the natural environment.
Nohnoharazaki Observation Deck
This observation deck overlooks the Yonara Channel, famous for its manta rays.
From the observatory, you can see Kohama Island and Ishigaki Island, and it is also a popular sunrise spot.
The surrounding road, called the Coral Line, offers a clear view of the beautiful ocean from the windows of a sightseeing bus.
Saxifraga japonica (㊲)
It is a colony of saxifrage trees with flat, protruding roots, and is designated as a natural monument, a scenery that can only be seen in Okinawa.
Currently, entry is prohibited for the preservation of the colony, but it can be viewed from the boardwalk.
㊳Gorabashi Road Park
This observation spot is located beyond the Gora Bridge near the mouth of the Gora River.
It is an ideal spot for strolling as the mountains can be seen beyond the mangroves that stretch all around.
㊴Sonna Hometown Forest
This rest stop is located on Mt. There is a small observatory nearby that overlooks Shirahama Bay.
At sunset, the contrast between the color of the sea, which gradually turns azure, and the glimmering sea is extremely beautiful.
It is also known as a viewing spot for Iriomote fireflies, which can be seen from spring evenings to night. From spring to summer, visitors can enjoy both sunsets and Iriomote fireflies.
㊵ Ear-cut beach
This beach is located about 10 minutes by car from Uehara Port in Iriomote Island. This beach is a secret beach which is a 3-minute walk through the jungle. It is so clean that even sea turtles come to lay eggs, and few tourists come, so it is recommended when you want to relax quietly.
Recommended model course for two days and one night in Iriomote Island
Day 1
12:00 p.m. Ishigaki PortFrom the Terminal to Iriomote Island
↓Transfer time: 50 minutes by boat
1:00 p.m. Arrival at Iriomote Island
1:30 p.m. The most popular tour in Iriomote Island! Mangrove Canoe Tour to "Lucky Falls
This is a canoe cruising tour along the Kula River, the most popular waterfall in Iriomote Island. In the mangrove forest, a jungle as if you came to another world is waiting for you.
You can easily experience an authentic tropical jungle that will make you wonder, "Is this really Japan? You can easily experience an authentic tropical jungle that will make you wonder, "Is this really Japan?
We will then paddle a canoe, which is not to be missed in Okinawa, and trek to the Fortune Falls.
You will feel as if you were Tarzan in a Disney movie. Canoeing is a classic activity because of its stability and safety.
Canoeing has become very popular among people of all ages, even beginners can enjoy it easily and safely.
Many of our guests are beginners. Our guides will support you well, so please enjoy canoeing and trekking without worrying.
Why don't you enjoy the authentic wilderness of a World Heritage Site in an affordable way?
Fee: ¥ 7,900/person
Average stay: approx. 120 min.
4:00 p.m. Tour ends.
↓Travel time: 15 minutes by car
4:30 p.m. Hotel check-in
5:00 p.m. Free time for dinner, etc.
8pm Natural Planetarium! Subtropical & Starry Sky Jungle Night Tour
This tour takes you around Iriomote Island at night and takes you to secret places that only local people know.
Many creatures belonging to the unique ecosystem of Iriomote Island, which belongs to the subtropical climate zone, can be seen only here after sunset.
This is a chance to observe these rarely seen nocturnal creatures.
If you go to Iriomote Island, you should definitely go looking for the unique subtropical flora and fauna! And at night in Iriomote Island, and if you look up, you will see a breathtaking starry sky.
Also, Iriomote Island, where there is almost no artificial light, is Japan's first "starry sky protected area," and the starry sky is breathtaking. Let's take a look at the Nanto Cross, which is rarely seen in Japan.
Fee: ¥4,900/person
Average length of stay: approx. 120 min.
9:30 p.m. Return to hotel.
2nd day
5:30 a.m. Refreshing in the morning at sunrise! Sunrise SUP
You can experience SUP at the sunrise spot in Iriomote Island.
You can cruise on a SUP, a hot new activity that has been gaining attention around the world in recent years, at a sunrise spot recommended by local guides.
It is a tour that I am glad I went on, even if I had to whip my tired body into shape after playing around on the first day and doing morning activities.
Fee: ¥7,900/person
Average length of stay: approx. 120 min.
8:30 a.m. Return to hotel for breakfast.
9:30 a.m. Swim with sea turtles at "Miracle Island"! Barras Island Snorkeling
Visit Barras Island, known as the Island of Miracles, and enjoy snorkeling.
Barras Island is a small island formed by the rising white sand of coral. It is also called "Miracle Island" because it appears only at low tide.
It is also used as a location for filming music videos and is known as an Instagram-worthy photo spot.
The diameter of Barras Island is large, but only a few dozen meters, and over time the shape of Barras Island gradually changes with the ebb and flow of the tide.
The waters near Barasu Island are called Ishinishi Jogoho, one of the largest and most beautiful coral reefs in Japan, and is designated as a national park.
The sea around Barras Island is sighingly blue and clear.
Observe such crystal clear waters while snorkeling and swimming with colorful corals and fish.
If you are lucky, you may even see sea turtles.
The experience of swimming with colorful fish in the clear, coral-covered waters is sure to be a memorable one.
Since most of our guests are beginners, they are well supported by safety gear and guides.
Beginners can participate in this activity without fear.
Let's enjoy the sea of Iriomote to the fullest!
Fee: ¥7,900/person
Average length of stay: approx. 120 min.
12:00 Lunch
1:30 p.m. Yubu Island sightseeing
Yubu Island is one of the famous remote islands that can be reached from Iriomote.
To get to Yubu Island, visitors take a buffalo cart and ride slowly across the sea. You can also enjoy listening to sanshin (Okinawan traditional three-stringed instrument) on the buffalo cart.
And once you arrive at Yubu Island, you are free to go sightseeing. The population of Yubu Island is about 50 people, and the island is very rich in nature.
Take pictures with the buffalo, visit the botanical garden, or just enjoy yourselves!
Fee: ¥5,900/person
Average length of stay: approx. 120 min.
4:00 p.m. Hotel check-out Free time
4:45 p.m. Ferry to Ishigaki Island
6:00 p.m. Arrival at Ishigaki Island
Points to keep in mind when going to Iriomote Island
Iriomote Island is an island with 8-90% of the island covered by jungle and is home to many precious creatures. Please refrain from going too far out of your way to harm animals and plants. The jungle is also a place where many insects live, so insect repellent is a must. The ultraviolet rays of the southern islands can be harsh, and those with sensitive skin may get roughened up. Take precautions against ultraviolet rays.
At the end.
We introduced Iriomote Island. How was it?
Iriomote Island is a land of rich nature such as mangrove forests and coral reefs. It also served as a stopover point from Ishigaki Island because of its location where you can visit nearby islands.
The jungle of Iriomote has an interesting and unique ecosystem, and the landscape that created that ecosystem must have been interesting.
If you are interested, we would be happy to hear from you.
Thank you for reading to the end.
This article was written by.
