Let's enjoy sightseeing in Iriomote Island, a registered World Heritage site!

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Iriomote Island is a registered World Heritage site with rich nature.

 

You can enjoy unspoiled and spectacular views of mangroves, waterfalls, and crystal clear waters.

 

Come out to enjoy the great outdoors and take in the activities and sights!

 

In this article,Iriomote Island Transportation and Sightseeing SpotsThe following is an introduction to the

 

What kind of island is Iriomote Island?

Iriomote Island is a remote island belonging to Taketomi Town, Yaeyama County, Okinawa Prefecture, and is one of the Yaeyama Islands.

 

Iriomote Island is famous for the Iriomote wildcat.

 

It also has 26 rivers and 901 TP3T of the island area is covered by subtropical natural forests.

 

It is also characterized by a large number of tropical organisms.

 

What are the Yaeyama Islands?

In addition to Iriomote Island, this island group consists of a total of 23 islands, including Ishigaki, Taketomi, Yubu, Kohama, Kuroshima, Aragusuku, Hatoma, and Yonaguni Islands.

 

Of these, 12 are inhabited, and the Senkaku Islands are one of these Yaeyama Islands.

 

Iriomote Island is a World Heritage Site

Iriomote Island is a registered World Natural Heritage site.

 

Three conditions must be met to be registered as a World Natural Heritage site.

1. Meets one or more of the following four "World Heritage Evaluation Criteria
   (1) Natural beauty (2) Topography and geology (3) Ecosystems (4) Biodiversity
2. Completeness requirements are met.
3. Adequate protection and management systems are in place.
   Protecting Iriomote Island's creatures will lead to its registration as a World Heritage site.

 

How to get to Iriomote Island

Unfortunately, there is no airport on Iriomote Island.

 

Iriomote Island is accessible by ferry.

 

Below are details on how to get to Iriomote Island.

 

First, you can fly to Ishigaki Island from any city.

Fly to Ishigaki Island from a nearby city.

 

New Ishigaki Airport is served by direct flights from Naha, Miyakojima, Yonaguni, Fukuoka, Haneda, Chubu, Kansai, and Narita.

 

From Ishigaki Island to Iriomote Island by high-speed ferry

After arriving at Ishigaki Island and getting off the plane, go to Ishigaki Port Terminal.

 

Buses and cabs run to the remote island terminal, so if you do not rent a car, you can use those.

 

The bus companies Higashi Unyu and Currie Kanko Bus both operate from Shin-Ishigaki Airport to the remote island terminal, and both will probably take about 30 minutes to get there.

 

Upon arrival at the Ishigaki Port Terminal, board the ferry. The ferry ticket counter is crowded, so we recommend you to book your ticket in advance.

 

Two ports in Iriomote Island

There are two entrances to Iriomote Island: Ohara Port in the southeast and Uehara Port in the north.

 

The ferry to Ohara Port is more frequent and shorter than the one from Ishigaki Island to Uehara Port, so Ohara Port is more convenient in terms of access.

 

Uehara Port has many commercial facilities, so it will be convenient for souvenir shopping.

 

However, although Uehara Port is conveniently located with many commercial facilities, it is sometimes cancelled in winter due to weather conditions.

 

In that case, you can take a ferry to Ohara Port and take a temporary bus to Uehara Port.

 

Uehara Port for activities

Uehara Port is recommended for those who want to enjoy activities to the fullest on Iriomote Island.

 

Hoshisuna beach and Tsukigahama beach are located just a short drive from Uehara Port. If you want to enjoy marine sports and nature, it is best to get off at Uehara Port.

 

All PiPi activities also meet at Uehara Port!

 

Ohara Port for leisurely sightseeing

If you want to take a mangrove cruise on the Nakama River, we recommend getting off at Ohara Port.

 

You can join a mangrove cruise tour departing from Ohara Port.

 

It would also be a good choice for those planning to visit the outlying islands.

 

There are few commercial facilities, but that allows you to spend your time leisurely.

 

Climate of Iriomote Island

The average annual temperature of Iriomote Island is about 24℃. Because of the hot and humid environment, winters are warm, but summers are hot and humid.

 

In addition, precipitation is heavy throughout the year. Rain gear will be essential during the rainy season and typhoon season such as September.

 

Also, although there is a lot of precipitation, the sun is strong, so sunscreen is a must.

 

Getting Around Iriomote Island

Iriomote Island offers several means of transportation such as rental cars, local buses, and rental bicycles.

 

All modes of transportation have their own advantages, so it is recommended to choose the one that best suits your own travel style.

 

Rent a car for personal enjoyment.

Iriomote Island is dotted with attractive scenery, so a rental car is recommended. The distance between the west and east ports is about one hour by car, so you can fully enjoy both the west and the east by car.

 

Although it may seem difficult to commute back and forth between the west and east ports, some car rental companies allow you to rent a car at one port and return it at the other port.

 

Advance reservations are also recommended, as the staff will pick you up according to the arrival time of the boat.

 

For advanced users? Rent a bike

Bicycle rentals also exist, which are also recommended for those who are familiar with the area.

 

Bicycle rentals are generally available at the inn, so you will need to inquire at your lodging.

 

For a leisurely, personalized tour, take a local bus.

There is also a local bus service to Iriomote Island, but only 4 round trips per day, so you will need to check the time schedule from the official website.

 

Recommended for those who wish to sightsee while relaxing and enjoying the scenery.

 

Participate in activities with transportation

If the activity of your choice has a plan that includes transportation, we recommend that you take advantage of it.

 

With a pick-up service, you can enjoy Iriomote Island smoothly.

 

All PiPi plans include free transportation from Uehara Port. No need to worry about one-day trip!

 

5 Popular Iriomote Island Sightseeing Activities

With so many activities to choose from, many people are not sure what to expect.

 

Here are five popular activities in Iriomote Island.

 

Snorkeling at Barasu Island, the "Miracle Island

If you are looking for a great snorkeling activity, Barasu Island is the place to go.

 

Barras Island, made of coral, is commonly called the "miracle island" because it disappears into the sea depending on the tide level, and the surrounding area is crystal clear and extremely beautiful, making it a great place for snorkeling.

 

Iriomote Island is a place of great nature!
Mangrove SUP

SUP stands for "stand-up paddle board.

 

This is a marine activity that anyone can easily enjoy, standing on a board and paddling.

 

If you continue on through the ocean, you will be able to see fish swimming in the crystal clear water under your feet and enjoy the World Heritage site.

 

Two people can ride together with a couple and children! Mangrove Canoeing

This activity allows you to enjoy the World Heritage Site by canoe.

 

It is recommended that you paddle forward with your own arms and enjoy the fresh air and the river.

 

Canoes are more stable than SUPs and can be used by couples or children!

 

Dive into a waterfall! Canyoning

Canyoning is an activity that involves jumping into jungle rivers and waterfall pools and sliding down natural waterslides.

 

You can enjoy the great outdoors to the fullest.

 

Indispensable for sightseeing in Iriomote Island
10 tourist attractions!

Iriomote Island has many attractions, including beaches, mangroves, buffalo, and star sand.

 

In this issue, we will introduce 10 recommended tourist spots.

 

Barras Island

Barras Island is also known as the "Island of Miracles.

 

There are two reasons why it is called the "Miracle Island."

 

This island disappears and reappears depending on the tide level.

 

And what's more, the island itself is made entirely of coral fragments.

 

There are only two islands in the world made entirely of coral fragments.

 

Mizuochi Falls

Waterfalls can only be reached by boat.Funauki, an isolated island on landThis is a secluded spot located in

 

You can enjoy the thrill of canoeing or SUPing up to a waterfall that cascades directly down to the surface of the water, passing behind the waterfall or plunging into it.

 

Along the way, you can enjoy the view of mangroves and the magnificent scenery of the rias coast,Leisurely cruise on the calm riverCan be done.

 

Yubu Island (Hiroshima-Nagoya Island)

To get to Yubu Island, you can take a buffalo cart from Iriomote Island and cross over the sea.

 

Yubu Island is also popular for its relaxing atmosphere, as the island itself is a subtropical botanical garden.

 

It is a very popular tourist spot for children.

 

Omija Waterfall

Omija Falls is located near the upper reaches of the Omija River.

 

Here, you can go canyoning down the river while swimming.

 

There are not many places where you can experience canyoning, so why not try it?

 

pale chub (Zacco platypus)

The total area of mangrove forests in Japan is said to be about 600 hectares, of which 251 TP3T grows in the Nakama River basin.

 

If you want to enjoy the mangrove forest, the Nakama River is the place to go.

 

beach of star sand

This beach, which has a wonderful name, is so called because of the star sand.

 

It is wonderful to see sand in the shape of a star.

 

The clear water also makes it possible to see fish swimming, and the rocky sea makes snorkeling enjoyable.

 

Pinaisara Falls

Pinaisara Falls is a waterfall of great scale, with a drop of approximately 54 meters.

 

Here you can enjoy canoeing and trekking.

 

It is also possible to stand on top of the waterfall, which offers a spectacular view of the mangroves and the ocean.

 

Tudumari Beach

Tudumari Beach is squeaky sand that makes a "squeak" when you walk on it.

 

Walking barefoot will be even more enjoyable.

 

Another attraction is the beautiful sunset as well as the singing sand.

 

Ida's beach

On Iriomote Island, there is a private beach where few tourists come.

 

It is this "Ida beach". It is the most beautiful sea in Iriomote Island.

 

The transparency allows you to see fish swimming.

 

Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center

Many people may associate Iriomote wildcat with Iriomote Island.

 

At the Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center, you can see a stuffed Iriomote wildcat.

 

In addition, stuffed birds and animals that inhabit Iriomote Island are also on display and are a must-see.

 

Recommended for those who want to learn about the nature of Iriomote Island.

 

Notes on Iriomote Island Sightseeing

To enjoy Iriomote Island, you need to check the precautions for sightseeing in advance.

 

Here are some points to keep in mind for your reference.

 

Beware of sunburn! Sunscreen required!

Iriomote Island has strong sunlight throughout the year.

 

Be sure to bring sunscreen.

 

Those who get easily intoxicated should be careful not to get seasick!

Since the trip is by ferry, if you are prone to seasickness, prepare anti-sickness medicine in advance.

 

Beware of sudden squalls!

Since Iriomote Island has a subtropical climate, sudden squalls can occur, and care must be taken.

 

We recommend that you find out in advance when squalls are likely to occur and either change the time of year or bring rain gear.

 

Day-trippers should be aware of the return ferry time!

Since only a few ferries run each day, it is recommended to check the time schedule to see what time is the last flight.

 

summary

In this issue, we have introduced information that will make Iriomote Island more enjoyable.

 

Why don't you create memories that will last a lifetime on Iriomote Island, where there are many attractive sightseeing spots and activities?

 

If you are considering sightseeing, be prepared and do your homework in advance to fully enjoy the tropical atmosphere.

 

This article was written by.

Hello! I am Niwa-chan, your source for all things Iriomote Island. I have loved to be in touch with nature since I was a child, and I am especially fascinated by the rich natural environment of Okinawa. Currently, based in Iriomote Island, I provide information on how to enjoy activities such as snorkeling, SUP, and kayaking, as well as the hidden charms of the island.

I want to experience the best activities in Iriomote Island! and "I want to get local information about Iriomote Island! As a guide who actually works in the local area, we provide detailed information on recommended spots and activities on the island to those who "want to experience the best activities in Iriomote Island! Our goal is to deliver an unforgettable experience for our customers by interacting with the local nature every day.

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