Plenty of places to see! Introducing recommended spots in Iriomote Island

Hello everyone!

 

One of the largest activity stores in Iriomote Island
Iriomotejima ADVENTURE PiPi!

 

When most people think of Okinawa, they think of the beautiful ocean.

 

However, Iriomote Island is90% of the island is jungleIt is made of

 

If you like nature, please visit Iriomote Island.

 

In this article, our local staff will give you a thorough description of Iriomote Island's hidden spots.

 

Iriomote Island's Holey Spots
Let's enjoy the

The blue sea and nature unique to remote islands.

 

If you want to experience the best part of such a trip to Okinawa, how about going to Iriomote Island for sightseeing?

 

The name was given to the area because of its pristine wilderness, which has nurtured a unique ecosystem.Galapagos of the Orient".

 

The natural environment of Iriomote isExtremely rare in the worldThe charm of Iriomote Island lies in the sense of seclusion that pervades the entire island.

 

In fact, such Iriomote Island has a number of attractive hole-in-the-wall spots.

 

The reality of the great nature Iriomote Island

As of 2021, Iriomote Island isWorld Natural Heritage Site by UNESCOThe company has been designated as a

 

Only a few other places in Japan have been recognized as World Natural Heritage sites, including Yakushima Island, Shirakami Mountain Range, Shiretoko, and the Ogasawara Islands. Iriomote Island is truly one of the most natural tourist destinations in Japan.

 

In order to protect the environment, which has high academic value, Iriomote Island is a humanThere is no deforestation or land development to improve the living environment.

 

While the island is inhabited by more than 2,400 people,There is still no road that circles the island.is one of the characteristics of Iriomote Island.

More than 90% of the island's area is unexplored subtropical virgin forest,If tourists who don't know the land carelessly enter the areaYou could get lost in the jungle.

 

Furthermore, because of the island's rich history, some areas are off-limits according to local beliefs.

 

Because of these local conditions, the island is dotted with hidden spots throughout the island that are not easily visited by tourists.

 

How to get to Iriomote Island

Iriomote Island is located at 24 degrees north latitude and 123 degrees east longitude, far southwest of Okinawa Island.

 

It belongs to the Yaeyama Islands, the same archipelago as Ishigaki Island, and has a subtropical maritime climate that is very mild throughout the year.

 

There is no airport in such Iriomote Island, and to go to the island, there is an airportVia Ishigaki IslandThe company must do so.

Take a high-speed ferry from a place called Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal.The only route to Iriomote IslandThe first two are the following.

 

Although the lack of an airport may seem inconvenient, public transportation from the airport to the port provides good accessibility.

 

Quite a number of shipments,One every two hours from 7:00 a.m. until evening.There is a boat service from one to the other, so getting back and forth will not be too much of a hassle.

 

There are two ports in Iriomote Island.

One point to keep in mind is that Iriomote Island hasOne port each to the south and northexists.

 

When you buy a ticket at the remote island terminal, you have to choose which port you want to go to. The sailing time is only about 10 minutes different, but the characteristics of the ports are different, so it is important to know in advance which port you want to go to.

 

north ofUehara PortThe surrounding area is well equipped with commercial facilities and restaurants for tourists,Activity spots on the islandThe position of the building makes it easy to go to the

 

If your main purpose is to travel to a tropical resort, this may be the right choice for you.

In contrast, the south sideOhara PortThe area around the "Iriomote Island" retains the atmosphere of Iriomote Island in the olden days,Experience the unique atmosphere of a remote islandIf you want to do this, choose a flight here.

 

Also, if you plan to go there, you may want to head to Ohara Port, as this is closer to the Nakama River, where you can get a closer look at the mangrove forests by sightseeing boat.

 

Getting Around Iriomote Island

Iriomote Island is the second largest island in Okinawa Prefecture after the main island of Okinawa, boasting an area of 284㎢, which is quite large for a remote island.

 

The perimeter of the area is approximately 130 km, which is quite a distance,If you want to visit the sights, it is not practical to travel on foot.

 

Let's take a look below at what transportation options are available to get around the island.

 

Rent a car if you want to get around freely.

There are many different styles of travel, but many people may want to take their time to get around at their own pace without having to worry about their surroundings.

 

In such cases, it is best to rent a car to get around the island.

 

As the area is visited by many tourists, there are a number ofCar rental agencies have set up store.

 

Different companies offer different services, such as online reservations and the ability to drop off or pick up, so it is advisable to choose a place to rent based on price and intended use.

 

If you want to feel the great outdoors on your skin
rent-a-cycle

In Iriomote Island, where the climate is pleasant throughout the year, rental bicycles are also widely used.

 

Under a blue sky,Tropical sun and sea breezeCycling is the most pleasant experience and is a highly recommended means of transportation for those who love to ride bicycles.

 

As a reminder, the Iriomote IslandRoads are relatively up and down terrainThe first two are the following.

 

If you don't usually have the opportunity to travel long distances by bicycle, or if you are not confident in your physical fitness, you can use a bicycle to get to your destination based on your physical condition on that day.After consulting with the round-trip distanceYou will want to make a careful decision on the use of this service.

 

Recommendations include pick-up and drop-off.
Take a tour

We have introduced two means of transportation for those who prefer to move around freely on their own, but if you do not mind working in a group with other people, we highly recommend taking a tour of the island.

 

As I mentioned above.Iriomote Island is not a pioneer tourist destination.

 

If you move around in the middle of nowhere,Lost time due to getting lostIn many cases, people who visit minor tourist attractions end up not finding the place they are looking for.

 

On that note, if you are on a tourFamiliarity with the local environment and landThe tour is guided by a guide.

 

Depending on the tour, you will receive explanations about the precious nature and culture of Iriomote Island,Enjoy sightseeing while gaining more knowledge and information about the islandYou will be able to enjoy Iriomote Island from multiple perspectives.

 

Iriomote Island Resident Staff
Five recommended hole-in-the-wall beaches

Now that I have introduced the means of transportation, let me introduce the famous spots of Iriomote Island.

 

Not just a list of places of interest, but a list of local staff members who live in the area.Introducing spots from the unique perspective of residentsIt is.

 

If you are planning a trip to Iriomote Island, this is a must-see!

 

Iriomote Island Recommendation
Holey beach
(1) Ida beach

Ida beach can be reached by boat from Shirahama Port in the western part of Iriomote Island.

 

A 10-minute boat ride from Shirahama Port will take you to a small village called Funauki Village, located at the westernmost tip of Iriomote Island.

 

Iriomote wildcat discovery siteFrom Funauki village, famous asGo forward about 600 meters.and you will see the beach of Ida, which is the destination.

 

Ida no hama (beach) is located in the west back of the unexplored Iriomote Island, with beautiful sandy beach, clear and blue sea, and the most beautiful beach in Okinawa Prefecture.One of the most vibrant coral reefs underwaterThe company is characterized by the following features

 

Iriomote Island Recommendation
Holey beach
(2) Shikagawa Bay Beach

More than Ida beachA spot with a sense of seclusionIf you would like to visit the beach of Shikagawa Bay, which is considerably more difficult to reach, we recommend the beach of Shikagawa Bay.

 

How to get to this beach by land?You have to spend half a day walking through the jungle.

 

It is not as noisy with people as it is with the difficulty of visiting,The beach remains beautiful in its natural state.

 

Iriomote Island Recommendation
Holey beach
Udara Beach

From the Ida beach mentioned above, cross the mudflats and wade through the jungle.Udara beach after a couple of hours of progress.We will get to the

 

Udara beach is only sparsely visited.Backcountry coastlineThe company is located in the

 

In addition to the beauty of the surrounding mangrove forests, the Udara beach was once a popular destination forAn elderly man called Tarzan of Iriomote lives a self-sufficient life.It is also famous as the beach where he lived.

 

Traces of his life and stone monuments still dot the area, so it is a good idea to enjoy the scenery while thinking about the romance.
*Currently, camping in the open air is prohibited.

 

Iriomote Island Recommendation
Holey beach
(4) Star Sand Beach

Hoshisuna Beach is a very good beach in terms of ease of visitation, scenic beauty, and additional attractions.

 

It is only a 5-minute drive from Uehara Port, making it very easy to visit, and the shallow waters make it safe for children to enjoy.

 

Also, as the name "Star Sand Beach" suggests, thisLots of star sand on the beachincludes.

 

If you scoop some sand into your hand and look at it, you will feel the tropical travel atmosphere.

 

Iriomote Island Recommendation
Holey beach
(5) Nainu beach

From the beach called Minami-fumida beach, which is a major beach on the east side of Iriomote Island, you can reach the beach called Nainu beach by following the coast for another 30 minutes.

 

Even with the less-than-ideal accessibility, this beach has a very beautiful environment, and the underwater scenery is one of the best or second best on the island.

 

at certain times of the yearSea turtle spawningThe area is one of the most popular spots in the city and has a hidden popularity because you can also see the

 

Iriomote Island Resident Staff
5 recommended hole waterfalls

Iriomote Island is characterized by the existence of beautiful scenery not only in the sea but also on the island.

 

Even in such Iriomote IslandThe numerous waterfalls are a particularly great experience of nature.

 

Here are five waterfalls that you should definitely visit!

 

Iriomote Island Recommendation
Waterfall in a hole spot
(1) Omija Waterfall

Omija Falls is located about 15 minutes by car from Uehara Port.

 

Splash canyoning is available at Omija Falls and is safe for beginners!

 

Dive into natural waterslides and waterfalls,You can do activities using the nature of Iriomote Island!

 

Iriomote Island Recommendation
Waterfall in a hole spot
②水落の滝

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!

 

水がそのまま滝壺に落ちる様子が魅力的で、カヌーで滝の裏側を進んだり、滝に向かって突入することもできます！

 

Iriomote Island Recommendation
Waterfall in a hole spot
(3) Gator Falls

Since I have come all the way to Iriomote Island, I would like to do something that seems to be an exploration,Those who want to avoid spots that are too hard to move around.The "Geeta Falls" in the eastern part of the island is a good place to visit.

 

Entering the jungle from a place called Geeta Bridge along the island road, and following the streamside path and jungle, you will see the unique landscape of Geeta Falls, where water cascades over the vertical rocks.

 

There are times when you will have to climb streams along the way,A distance that can be reached in less than an hour for those who are used to it.is the recommendation for Gaeta Falls.

 

Even those who are unfamiliar with the area can enjoy it as a casual activity by joining a tour.

 

Iriomote Island Recommendation
Waterfall in a hole spot
(4) Campire Falls

Meaning "seat of God," Campire Falls is a gentle, powerful stream that flows in tiers.

 

It is not possible to drive to this waterfall,Pleasure cruise from Urauchi Riverand get off before the jungle, from where you can travel further on foot to reach it.

 

If you join the tourMariyudu Falls, one of the 100 best waterfalls in JapanThe two waterfalls can also be viewed together, making it an interesting spot to enjoy viewing and comparing the two waterfalls in sequence.

 

Iriomote Island Recommendation
Waterfall in a hole spot
(5) Nala Falls

If you want to see an unexplored waterfall, Nala Falls is the place to go.

 

This waterfall isA secluded position in Iriomotejima Island.and is a very popular destination for canoe and kayak trips on the river.

 

The waterfall itself boasts a magnificent view and is a great value spot to enjoy it in combination with activities.

 

Recommended by Iriomote Island Resident Staff
5 Spectacular Scenic Hole Spots

Now, let me conclude by introducing you to the best part of a sightseeing trip: the spectacular view.

 

Iriomote Island is full of nature.Beautiful scenery that can never be experienced in the cityare scattered all over the place.

 

If you plan well and have no problems with your schedule, we recommend that you try to complete all the spots.

 

Iriomote Island Recommended Spots with Spectacular Views
(1) You can only go there on a tour!
limestone cave

There are three interconnected limestone caves in the mangrove forests of Iriomote Island,Large, medium and small, each with its own unique appearanceThey are showing us.

 

The most depth.The limestone cave is a hole that spans about 100 metersThe limestone caves are a popular place for visitors to enjoy the cool air and cool down for a while on a hot trip to the tropics.

 

Iriomote Island Recommended Spots with Spectacular Views
(2) Watch the sunset!
Unarizaki Park

Located 10 minutes from Uehara Port by rental car,The place where the most beautiful sunset can be seen in Iriomote IslandUnarizaki Park, which is considered to be the

 

A well-marked promenade is provided, and from the observation deck, visitors will be able to enjoy the tropical sea and the islands beyond.

 

The bright red sun sets over the sea in the evening,Deeply moving memories of the tripIt is sure to add a

 

Iriomote Island Recommended Spots with Spectacular Views
(iii) View Sunrise!
Star Sand Beach

The Star Sand Beach introduced above is also known locally as a place where one can view the beautiful sunrise.

 

As I strolled slowly along the white sand beach and listened to the sound of the waves, I eventuallyTropical sunlight slowly peeks out from beyond the horizon.

 

It is one of the most popular spots, though,Hardly a soul to be seen in the early morning.The result will be a richer time for you.

 

Iriomote Island Recommended Spots with Spectacular Views
(4) Stargazing on the beach!
Tudumari Beach

Tudumari beach is unusual in Okinawa in that it is formed of ordinary sand, not coral debris, and one can walk barefoot on the sandy beach.

 

The topography of the bay makes for calm waves,Private beach atmosphereYou will be able to enjoy the sea calmly in the

 

We invite you to sit on the beach and enjoy Japan's first "starry sky reservePlease look up at the starry sky of Iriomote Island, which has been certified as a

 

Iriomote Island Recommended Spots with Spectacular Views
(5) Seeing the sagaribana!
(Limited time only)

 

In Iriomote Island,Admire the sagaribana, a flower said to be a phantom flowerThe following is a list of the most common types of products that can be used in the market.

 

Sagaribana is basically a rare flower that can only be seen in tropical countriesand will be known for its ephemeral nature, blooming at night and letting its white flowers fall at dawn.

 

Sagaribana, which can be seen only from the end of the rainy season to the summer months, can be enjoyed with canoeing and other activities.

 

Various tours are available locally, and it is recommended that you join one if it suits your schedule.

 

in the end

We hope you enjoyed our introduction of Iriomote Island's hidden places and attractions from the viewpoint of our local staff.

 

Of course, traveling to famous spots is wonderful, too,The purpose of the trip is to visit places that are a little harder to get to or less well-known.It will be enjoyable enough to try to

 

Please visit the hidden spots and experience the deep charm of Iriomote Island!