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Are There Two Ports on Iriomote Island? The Differences Between “Uehara Port” and “Ohara Port” and How to Choose the Right One
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Iriomote Island ADVENTURE PiPi!
Do you know Iriomote Island?
Iriomote Island is an island in Okinawa Prefecture, located more than 400 km southwest of the main island of Okinawa.
It is located so close that it is closer to Taiwan than to the main island of Okinawa, and there is no airport because most of the island's area is covered by subtropical jungle.
Therefore, in order to travel to Iriomote Island,The only means of transportation is by boat (ferry)The first two are the following.
Iriomote Island has two main ports serving as gateways to the island, and in this article, I’d like to introduce Uehara Port and Ohara Port.
Table of Contents
Which Port Should You Choose on Iriomote Island? Differences and Comparison Between Uehara Port and Ohara Port
When planning a trip to Iriomote Island, the first dilemma you’ll face is deciding whether to go to Uehara Port or Ohara Port.
Conclusions,Objectives and Key ConsiderationsThe recommended port varies depending on the factor. Please take a look at the comparison table below first.
| Comparison Criteria | Uehara Port | Ohara Port |
| Who This Is Recommended For | Focus on Activities and Water Fun | Leisurely Sightseeing: Nakama River and Yufu Island |
| Travel Time from Ishigaki Island | About 45 to 55 minutes | About 40 to 45 minutes |
| Adult One-Way Fare | 2,690 yen | 1,580 yen |
| Winter Service Rate | Low (Flights are often canceled due to strong north winds.) |
High (Surrounded by islands and stable) |
| Surrounding Environment and Facilities | Plenty of restaurants, supermarkets, and lodging options | Peaceful, quiet, and idyllic atmosphere |
| Top Attractions | Stardust Beach, Pinaisara Falls, and more | Nakama River Mangroves, Yufu Island, etc. |
It’s helpful to check maps and other resources in advance to familiarize yourself with the ferry routes from Ishigaki Island, the relative locations of the various ports, and the reasons why Uehara Port tends to get rough in winter (such as wind direction)—this will make it easier to plan your trip.
Advantages of Uehara Port
In terms of accessibility, Ohara Port is convenient, but,Ease of Sightseeing After ArrivalIn this regard, Uehara Port is superior.
(1) Close to the beach
For those who want to enjoy marine activities such as snorkeling,Uehara Port, Just a Short Walk from the BeachI recommend this.
Beaches such as Hoshisuna Beach, Tsukigahama Beach, and Nakano Beach—known for its beautiful sunsets—are all located near Uehara Port.
If you drive, it’ll only take a few minutes, and you’ll be able to enjoy a wide variety of activities all within a compact area.
Furthermore, the area around Uehara Port isRiver ActivitiesIt is also very popular.
About a 10-minute drive away is the Urauchi River, the longest river in Okinawa Prefecture, where you can enjoy boat cruises and hiking.
If you want to enjoy both the ocean and the river, using Uehara Port is definitely your best bet.
(2) Excellent facilities around the area
When comparing the number of restaurants, souvenir shops, and lodging facilities,Uehara Port is by far the better optionThe company is doing so.
There are many restaurants serving local cuisine and island-style cafes within walking distance, so the wide variety of dining options is another great perk.
Even for those who drink alcohol, having restaurants and lodging close by isA really great featureIt can be said that
Advantages of Ohara Port
On the other hand, the area around Ohara Port is more than just the beach—Fun in the Mountains and by the River...will be the main focus.
A mangrove cruise on the Nakama River, which is teeming with natural beauty, is a classic and popular activity in the area around Ohara Port.
Another famous tourist attraction isWater Buffalo Cart Boarding Area for Yufu Island...so you can enjoy a leisurely time.
The area around Ohara Port has a somewhat idyllic atmosphere, making it perfect for those who want to spend some quiet time.
In contrast to the bustling Uehara Port,A Relaxing Island PaceIf you want to fully enjoy [...], Ohara Port might be a good choice.
[2026 Update] Ferry Schedules and Fares from Ishigaki Island to Various Ports
The boat heading for Iriomote Island is part of the same Yaeyama Islands groupOperates only from Ishigaki IslandThe company is doing so.
Travel from Ishigaki Airport to Ishigaki Port, and board a ferry bound for Iriomote Island from the “Ishigaki Port Remote Islands Terminal” located there.
Ferry services are primarily operated by two companies: "An'ei Kanko" and "Yaeyama Kanko Ferry." Each company'sMorning Flight ScheduleI've summarized the fees below.
Ferry Fees
The one-way ferry fares (departing from Ishigaki Island) for ferries bound for Uehara Port and Ohara Port are as follows.
To Uehara Port (one way)
・Adults (junior high school students and older): 2,690 yen
・Children (elementary school students): 1,350 yen
To Ohara Port (one way)
Adults (12 years and older): 1,580 yen
Child (6-11 years old): 800 yen
Ishigaki Island → Uehara Port
Travel time: About 45–55 minutes (about 70–80 minutes via Hatoma Island)
| Hours. | Operator / Remarks |
| 07:00 | An-ei Kanko |
| 08:00 | Yaeyama Sightseeing |
| 08:30 | An-ei Kanko (* via Hatoma) |
| 11:00 | Yaeyama Sightseeing |
Ishigaki Island → Ohara Port
Time required: approx. 40-45 min.
| Hours. | Operator / Remarks |
| 07:00 | An-ei Kanko (*Only when Uehara flights are canceled*) |
| 07:30 | Yaeyama Sightseeing |
| 08:30 | An-ei Kanko |
| 09:00 | Yaeyama Sightseeing |
| 10:30 | Yaeyama Sightseeing |
*This is the latest schedule effective April 1, 2026, and onward. The schedule is subject to change due to weather conditions, so please check before boarding.Official Websites of Each Companyfor more information.
Notes for peak season
During busy periods such as Golden Week and summer vacation,Ferry tickets sell out quicklyThis may happen. It’s best to make a reservation in advance on each ferry company’s official website.
Also, since the Remote Islands Terminal gets very crowded,Arrive 30 minutes before departure.We recommend that you do the following
For customers who cannot make online reservations due to "full (x)
Even if the advance reservation quota is full due to consecutive holidays, etc., you can still make a reservation at the ferry port counter on the day of the event.Same-day tickets will be available for purchase.
Please rest assured that you will be able to participate in the tour without any issues.
In case of Uehara route cancellation
Even if the Uehara route is cancelled,Detour route via Ohara PortYou can join the tour at
In that case, the ticket is not for “Ohara Port,” but simplyPurchase a round-trip ticket to Uehara PortPlease.
(This is so you can use the ferry company's free shuttle bus.)
Differences in operating times of routes
The boat ride between Ishigaki Island and Uehara Port takes about 45 to 55 minutes. On the other hand, the boat ride between Ishigaki Island and Ohara Port takes about 40 to 45 minutes, so in terms of travel time,Ohara Port is slightly faster.This is the result.
Another point worth noting is that ferry service to Uehara Port is often suspended during the winter.
The route between Uehara and the port has nothing to block the wind, so it is greatly affected on windy days, and waves tend to get high.
In contrast, the route between Ohara Port and Taketomi Island and Kohama Island is located to the north, andThe surrounding islands block the wind.Therefore, flights are unlikely to be canceled.
On the winter route to Uehara Port, it’s not uncommon for more than half of the monthly sailings to be canceled.
From the perspective of access from Ishigaki Port,Ohara Port is more stable.It can be said that this is obvious at a glance.
Using Rental Cars and Car Ferries
If you visit Iriomote Island and want to tour around the islandThe use of rental cars is standard..
Since there is a lot of undeveloped land, you’ll likely find it inconvenient to rely solely on public transportation.
There are also several car rental companies catering to tourists in the areas around the two ports, andA rental car is a mustOne might even go so far as to say that.
Also, if you’ve already rented a car on Ishigaki Island,Car FerryLet's consider using it.
Since car ferries operate from both Ohara Port and Uehara Port, you can take your car directly to Iriomote Island.
However, keep in mind that it will take longer than if you were to take a high-speed ferry.
If you plan to take part in local tours or similar activities, be sure to allow plenty of time when making your plans.
By the way, if you're traveling between the two ports by rental car,Estimated time: about 1 hourThe first two are the following.
How do I travel between both ports?
Even if you go to the wrong port, the ferries connect the various parts of the islandIriomote Island Bus RoutePlease rest assured that the service is operating as usual.
The bus stops cover major attractions and both ports, and affordable “one-day passes” are available for purchase on the bus.
You can get on and off the bus freely even at locations other than bus stopsFree Boarding and Alighting SystemThis unique system is also a major draw.
in the end
What did you think of the two entrances to Iriomote Island?
Proper preparation is what determines whether a trip is a success or a failure.
Stay on top of routes and sailing schedulesThen, let's make the best trip to Iriomote Island.
Thank you for reading to the end.
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