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Iriomote Island's installation spots
Recent years have seen an unprecedented social networking boom.
LINE, which many people use as a means of communication, is one such example, as are Facebook and Twitter.
Of these, Instagram is particularly associated with travel.
In the age when each person has a smartphone, everyone can easily take pictures at any time, and many people are using social networking services based on posting photos.
The word "Insta-ei" has become so popular that it has become a buzzword of the day, and taking pictures of beautiful and picturesque things and posting them on social networking sites has become a valuable activity.
Since we live in such a world, many people would probably be happier if there were Instagram spots at tourist attractions as well.
So this time, we would like to introduce you to the many Instagram-worthy spots that exist on Iriomote Island!
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Photojournalistic! Why is everything in Iriomote Island so picturesque?
Now, Iriomote Island is located more than 400 km further southwest of the main island of Okinawa.
Since it is a far southern land compared to the mainland, it has a different subtropical climate.
Iriomote Island is so warm that it can be said to be everlasting summer, and there are plenty of water areas where you can play with the sea, rivers, and waterfalls!
In addition, more than 90% of the island's area is covered by a large, untamed jungle, and a number of exciting installation sites are scattered throughout the island.
We have picked up several such photogenic Iriomote Island Instagram-worthy spots, so let's take a look at them in turn.
Iriomote Island's installation spots
(1) Urauchi River
The first one I would like to introduce is the Urauchi River.
It is known as the longest river in Okinawa Prefecture, and because the salt content in the water differs between fresh water, brackish water, and seawater in the upper reaches and the lower reaches that extend to the mouth of the river, different mangrove forests grow in different clusters, depending on the salt content.
Mangroves are the representative trees of Okinawa.
The intricate roots extending strongly out of the water are very powerful, and are very popular for taking photos that convey at a glance that you have come to a tropical country.
Local tours basically begin at the mouth of the river facing the ocean and cruise upstream, allowing visitors to observe the shifting species of mangroves depending on the body of water.
The charm of the Urauchi River does not stop there.
The river is connected to a number of atmospheric waterfalls, including Mariyudu Falls, selected as one of the 100 best waterfalls in Japan, and Campire Falls, also known as the Seat of God, with a total length of 200 meters.
Canoe cruising and Urauchi River mangrove sightseeing boat cruises are popular means of getting around the Urauchi River.
Canoe cruising is a popular activity, and unlike sightseeing boats, you can steer your own boat and enjoy the river surface as you wish because it is small and easy to maneuver.
Canoeing may sound difficult, but the canoes used in the activity are very stable, unlike those used for competition.
Elderly people and women can paddle without problems, and since life jackets are worn, even those who are not confident swimmers can participate safely.
Another great advantage of the canoe is that it can accommodate two people.
Even those with small children can ride together, and it is also a good thing for friends or couples to enjoy together.
On the other hand, since the sightseeing boats are not paddled like canoes, those who are not confident in their physical strength, the elderly, or those who prefer to concentrate on taking pictures may enjoy the river more calmly here.
It is well known that taking pictures of the great nature of Iriomote Island from a boat that is slowly moving up the river is a great way to take Instagram-worthy photos.
Also, since it is faster than paddling a canoe by yourself, we recommend this activity if you are planning to visit various sightseeing spots in a short time and want to focus on efficiency.
(2) Star Sand Beach
Next, I would like to introduce Hoshinosuna Beach, the most popular spot in Iriomote Island.
This beach is only a 5-minute drive from Uehara Port, the gateway to the northern part of the island, making it a very accessible location that attracts many tourists throughout the year.
The name "Star Sand Beach" comes from the fact that the sand on the beach is shaped like a star.
The same star sand often sold in bottles as Okinawan souvenirs is mixed in with the sand on the beach.
You can easily find star sand by scooping sand with the palm of your hand, and you may want to take a picture of this first.
Of course, star sand is not the only attraction of this beach.
One of the major attractions is that this beach is one of the best spots for marine activities in Iriomote Island.
The ocean here is characterized by the presence of huge rocks offshore, and because these rocks act as wave blockers, the sea facing Star Sand Beach is very calm even on windy days.
In addition, there are many colorful coral reefs on the ocean floor, which attract many fish that call them home.
It is said that there are more than 100 species, and this variety is overwhelming compared to the sea at other points on the island.
The calm waters and abundant coral reefs combine to create a habitable environment for fish, and the underwater spectacle can truly be described as miraculous.
The topography of the beach itself is shallow and does not rapidly become deeper, making it a safe place for families with children and for those who are not good swimmers.
Because of these features, it is also suitable for observing living creatures, and local tours for snorkeling and diving are frequently offered here.
Equipment rentals and instructor-led instruction are also available, so even beginners can take on the challenge without worry.
Of course, experiencing activities under the blue sea and white sand beaches is a great Instagram-worthy experience!
We are also happy to note that there is a rest house "Hoshinosuna" nearby where you can have lunch and tea, perfect for a quick break.
Enjoy marine activities such as snorkeling, or go swimming in the shallow water of this versatile beach and fully enjoy your Iriomote Island trip.
(3) Miracle Island "Barasu Island
Barasu Island cannot be missed as one of the most Instagram-worthy spots on a trip to Iriomote Island.
Barasu Island is an uninhabited island located about 10 minutes by boat from Uehara Port, and is not marked on any maps.
This is because, due to the small size of the island, the entire island is submerged and hidden by the sea at high tide.
Therefore, it can only be visited at limited times, and the only way to visit is basically to take a tour and be brought there by locals who know the time of day and the tides.
The island is so small that it takes only two minutes to walk around it.
The reason why people go out of their way to visit such a place is because the island itself is a beautifully dyed white spot with spectacular views.
The word "barras" refers to coral fragments, and this island was formed by fragments of broken coral reefs on the nearby seafloor that piled up over a long period of time.
When coral, a living organism, is crushed, only the calcareous remains of its bones are left, and the entire island is stark white because of this geological feature.
The fact that not a single blade of grass grows on the island is a great advantage, and you can enjoy a 360° panoramic view of the sea of Iriomote Island from an unobstructed location.
The beautiful scenery is so popular that it is often used as a photo shoot location for weddings and for music videos of musicians and idols.
It is also the location featured in a commercial for Orion Beer, Okinawa's most famous beer company, and is a spectacular spot representing not only Iriomote Island but the entire prefecture.
Of course, it is also perfectly Instagrammable, and many people are visiting these days for the purpose of Instagramming.
Many tours to the island are also combined with snorkeling or diving, and the underwater scenery is truly spectacular due to the abundance of coral reefs.
The waters of Barras Island are so clear that you can see far underwater, and if you are lucky, you may even spot sea turtles in your clear vision.
How about trying to get the best picture at the most insta-worthy spot in Iriomote Island?
4) Splash Canyoning
The next activity we will introduce is canyoning, a game using nature.
Canyoning is said to have originated in France.
It is not well known to the general public, but in the United States, it is called canyoneering and is a popular sport.
The appeal of canyoning lies in the ability to feel at one with nature while enjoying beautiful scenery.
The first step is trekking and climbing to the starting point.
Another attraction is the high activity factor, such as enjoying the waterfall as a waterslide when going down the canyon, or jumping into the waterfall basin.
Even though you will be descending a canyon, you will rarely use canoes or other equipment, allowing you to fully enjoy nature with only your body.
The installations will be sure to be Instagram-worthy!
5) Pinaisara Falls
Now, the last installation spot I would like to introduce is Pinaisara Falls.
Pinaisara Falls is the largest waterfall in Okinawa Prefecture, boasting a drop of approximately 55 meters!
The 55-meter height is equivalent to the height of an 18th floor of an apartment building, so if you imagine that, it may be easier to imagine a famous waterfall from a dizzying height.
In the local language, "pinaisara" means "beard" and "saala" means "something like.
The water falling from a high place looks as if it were streaked with white, which is why the locals named it after the long beard of an old man.
If you gaze intently, the waterfall may look like the face of an old man with a drooping beard.
Now, since it is not possible to reach the basin of this huge waterfall by land, you basically have to take a canoe or SUP to get there as an activity.
As mentioned in the Urauchi River section, life jackets are basically required when enjoying canoeing and SUP, so anyone can safely participate.
The sight of paddling through the jungle toward the giant waterfall basin is like something out of an adventure movie.
You will be able to experience the great outdoors and have plenty of extraordinary experiences with exciting activity experiences.
Once you reach the waterfall, you can feel the force of the falling water right up close.
The powerful scenery and the air full of negative ions will relieve you of the fatigue of your activities.
Also, if you are heading to the top of the falls, you will be trekking to the top of the falls.
It takes about 40 minutes, but the view from the top of the waterfall, reached after a pleasant sweat from the trekking, is spectacular.
Of course, both above and below the falls are great locations for photography!
You are sure to get a different kind of Instagram photo.
Why not visit Pinaisara Falls, which is full of attractions that will definitely make you want to come back again?
Reflective Tours
Based on the above mentioned spots, we would like to introduce you to a "tour that looks great" from here on.
Since Iriomote Island has an intricate topography and limited means of transportation, you should check out various tours in order to enjoy sightseeing efficiently.
(1) Barasu Island Tour
It can be said that Barasu Island is the biggest installation spot in Iriomote Island.
The contrast between the pure white coral beach under a clear blue sky and the emerald green ocean surrounding it is so outstanding that one can't help but let out a sigh of relief.
As mentioned above, tours that also include activities are popular, but of course there are also plans that only include landing.
The landing-only plan is gaining popularity, especially among female customers, as their makeup inevitably gets smudged when they take a dip in the ocean during the activities.
Of course, tours combined with activities are also very popular, and snorkeling, which does not require certification and can be easily enjoyed by beginners, is especially popular.
The underwater scene of colorful coral reefs and colorful fish is like something out of a fairy tale.
Free underwater camera shooting is also available, so if you dive into the waters of Barasu Island, please enjoy underwater photography as well.
(2) Jungle cruising
Next, we will introduce Iriomotejima Jungle Cruising.
Iriomote Island is also known for its jungle!
The great nature that has been recommended to UNESCO as a candidate for World Natural Heritage is a symbol of Iriomote Island itself, and you will surely be shocked by the untouched wilderness that you cannot believe to be in Japan.
Feel the strange trees, unfamiliar birdsong, and unfamiliar animals as you sway on the surface of the river and feel the tropical sun beating down on you.
Some people may be concerned that it may be cold at certain times of the year because it is a waterfront activity, but there is no need to worry.
Iriomote Island has a subtropical climate and is very warm throughout the year.
Not only is it hot in the summer, but even in the winter, there are numerous days when the maximum temperature exceeds 20°C (68°F).
The stable, warm air covers the island, so basically you don't have to be wary of the cold like you would in a mainland winter.
Aim to be as Instagram-worthy as you want in a movie-like wilderness setting!
Pinaisara Canoeing & Trekking Tour
Last but not least is the Pinaisara Canoe & Trekking Tour.
The Pinaisara Falls, the largest waterfall in Okinawa Prefecture, is a must-see if you are aiming for an Instagram-worthy experience!
There are several waterfalls on Iriomote Island that have anecdotes associated with deities, and this waterfall is one of them.
Nicknamed "the bearded waterfall" in the local language, this waterfall is also a sacred place with a legend that a water god with a white beard is seated here.
The atmosphere of the place, which is almost completely untouched by human hands, is one of a spiritual experience, while at the same time offering the exhilaration of a southern island.
With such duality, Pinaisara Falls is a must-visit spot in Iriomote Island tourism.
The main attraction of the tour is that you can enjoy both the location of the waterfall basin and the location above the waterfall.
From the top of the waterfall, you can see Hatoma Island and the East China Sea, and it is no exaggeration to say that the spectacular view is the best in Iriomote Island.
The only caveat is that trekking in the summer, combined with the heat, is reasonably strenuous.
Please consult with your own physical fitness and do not overdo it.
in the end
SNS is now a trendy place to be.
We have introduced Iriomote Island as the best sightseeing spot for such a current trend.
Since this is one of the best resort areas in Japan, it is no exaggeration to say that everything you see is an Instagram-worthy spot.
If you join a tour, basically free photography service is included, so you can concentrate on playing without worrying about being photographed.
There are countless other locations that I could not introduce, so please visit Iriomote Island and see for yourself!
This article was written by.
