Iriomotejima Caving

Have you ever heard of caving? Caving is a form of cave exploration! It is still not well known in Japan, but it is one of the most popular activities overseas. Japan has caves all over the country, and Iriomote Island is also a popular caving spot with unique geographical features and caves known only to those in the know. The rich biota and natural atmosphere of the island, which is called "Galapagos of the East," make it a perfect place for caving. Characteristics of caving in Iriomote Island and reasons why it is recommended. Iriomote Island has three limestone caves in the lush green jungle, and you can visit all three caves when caving. On the way to the caves, jungle trekking to observe the unique subtropical flora and fauna is one of the highlights.

The caves are full of stone pillars, icicles, stalactites, and other unusual features that give visitors the feeling of being in a different world. During the caving, you will have to proceed in the dark and be careful of narrow paths and terrain where you may have to bend down. To avoid hitting your head or getting knocked off your feet, you should be fully equipped with a helmet, knee pads, elbow pads, etc., and use a flashlight to illuminate where you are going while caving! We recommend that you join a caving tour with a professional to prepare these equipment and to ensure your safety.

What to bring for caving in Iriomote Island

Before caving, you will need to do some jungle trekking towards the caves. In summer and in other seasons, there is very strong sunlight when the weather is clear. Therefore, it is advisable to use sunscreen and wear a hat. It is also better to bring food, water, and a towel to prevent heat stroke. If you are not taking a tour, you should also bring a flashlight and a helmet, as you will be moving through unique terrain in the dark during the caving.

How to go caving in Iriomote Island

We introduced that there are three caves in Iriomote Island, and basically all of them are fields that beginners can challenge. Nevertheless, each of them has its own unique terrain, and some caves are narrow from the entrance and others are long. We understand that experienced caving enthusiasts may be tempted to try caving in more complex terrain, but we recommend caving according to your own fitness and physique as well. As mentioned above, caves in Iriomotejima Island require jungle trekking while dividing vegetation, although it is light even to go there. Therefore, in order to reduce the risk as much as possible and enjoy caving, beginners are advised to join a tour with a professional.

Four popular tours of caving in Iriomote Island

New experience in Iriomote Island! Powerful Caving Tour

Nearly 901 tp3t of Iriomote Island is covered with untouched jungle. Trekking through the jungle, where subtropical flora and fauna live and grow, to the limestone caves. On the way to the caves, you will encounter creatures that you cannot see on the mainland, and you will be able to fully enjoy yourself even before caving. At the end of the jungle, you will find a series of three limestone caves that are still intact. As you continue caving, it gets darker and darker, and it becomes pitch-dark in the middle of the caves. Therefore, a headlamp or flashlight is essential. You will also have to bend over to walk through the caves and twist your body around to enjoy exploring the caves with your whole body.

Value for money! Enjoy the unexplored Iriomote Island in half a day! Great Adventure Course (Choice of SUP or Canoe & Caving)

If you have only half a day free due to your schedule, we recommend the half-day SUP/Canoe Cruising & Limestone Cave Caving. You can choose between SUP or canoe cruising on the river surrounded by the jungle, where you can cruise in a variety of positions, admire the mangroves up close and follow the creatures as they move in a small radius. Canoes, on the other hand, are highly stable and can accommodate two people, so they are recommended for people with small children or couples! The propulsive force is also high, so even those with little strength can enjoy cruising with ease. After enjoying SUP/canoe cruising, we will trek to the limestone caves for caving. In the limestone caves, you will use your whole body to go along the roadless path! The sensation of moving forward in total darkness is indescribably exciting and thrilling.

Let's have an adventure! Trekking & half-day tour to explore limestone caves

If you want to feel the nature of Iriomote Island with your whole body, a set plan of trekking and limestone cave exploration is recommended! As mentioned at the beginning of this article, Iriomote Island is covered with jungle on 90% of the island, and the unusual flora and fauna of the unique subtropical environment will tickle your curiosity very much. Since there are detailed explanations by the guides, it is a good idea to ask them about the flora and fauna you find. When you reach the destination of the trek, the Kula Waterfall, also known as the Waterfall of Fortune, you will have a chance to play in the waterfall basin. Koola Falls is a well-known power spot and is considered an object of worship by local people, so you can recharge your energy! After the trekking, we will go caving in the limestone caves where untouched nature remains.

Sangala Falls Selectable SUP or Canoe & Caving (limestone cave exploration)

The last tour we introduce is a set plan of SUP/Canoe cruising & limestone cave exploration for Sangala Falls! You will enjoy forest bathing in the great nature of Iriomote Island, which is listed as a candidate for the World Natural Heritage site. Sangala Falls is not as steep as Pinaisara Falls introduced earlier, but the 30-meter wide waterfall is very atmospheric. After enjoying Sangala Falls, we will go caving in a limestone cave. You will feel the greatness of nature and be shocked by the artistic and powerful appearance of the unique terrain! This tour includes SUP/Canoe cruising, water sports at Sangala Falls, trekking, and caving, and is sure to satisfy you.