Iriomote Island
Iriomote Island (\, Iriomotejima) is Okinawa's second largest island. It is largely undeveloped, with nearly 90 percent of its land covered by dense jungle and mangrove forests. Wide areas of the island are part of the Iriomote Ishigaki National Park, the southernmost of Japan's national parks and one of the country's most unique.
The island's attractions are based around tours to Iriomote's abundant nature including sea and river kayaking, fishing and sailing. Other activities can be enjoyed either on tours or individually such as beaches, snorkeling and various hiking trails, the most challenging of which is a 20 kilometer path through the interior of the island which should only be tackled by experienced and well prepared hikers.
Iriomote is also a popular scuba diving destination especially at Manta Way, the strait between Iriomote and nearby Kohama Island, where schools of manta rays congregate in spring and summer. Diving tours are available for all skill levels.
The island is also home to the Iriomote Yamaneko, a type of wildcat, which was discovered in 1965 and is only found on Iriomote Island. The chances of encountering an Iriomote Yamaneko are low as the nocturnal, house cat sized animal is an endangered species that is thought to number less than 100 individuals.
River activities
Most of the island's interior is covered in dense jungle accessible by a number of rivers that head inland from the sea. Jungle boat cruises are organized on the island's two longest rivers, the Urauchigawa (Urauchi River) and Nakamagawa (Nakama River), and guided kayak tours operate on both of those as well as many of the smaller rivers around the island.
Beaches
Iriomote has its share of beautiful beaches which offer swimming, snorkeling and diving opportunities. Most of the beaches around Iriomote do not have any public facilities, and some of them can only be reached by boat as the island's coast is only partially accessible by car.
When using the beaches always beware of strong currents that can pull you out to sea and poisonous creatures such as Habu Jellyfish, a type of box jellyfish, that are most prevalent from June to October. Signs in English inform about the dangers while some beaches have netted off swimming areas. Although stings are rare, if stung you should pour vinegar over the sting, remove any tentacles, and seek medical help as it may become life threatening.
Other attractions
Getting there and around
Ferry companies operate high speed ferries, as well as an infrequent car ferry, between Iriomote and Ishigaki Island.
High speed ferries depart Ishigaki for Ohara Port (2290 yen, 35-40 minutes, departures every 1-2 hours) on the south end of the island and Uehara Port (2990 yen, 45-50 minutes, departures every 2-3 hours) in the north. Additionally, slower car ferries operate on selected days of the week to Ohara (80 minutes, 1810 yen one way) and Uehara (110-130 minutes, 2350 yen one way). Online reservations can be made through Direct Ferries.
There is only one main road on Iriomote, running along the coast from Shirahama to Ohara. A public bus runs between Shirahama and Ohara four times per day. The complete journey takes about 90 minutes and costs 1410 yen. A one day bus pass is available for 1500 yen.
Besides the public buses, there are shuttle buses, operated by ferry companies and by the various diving and sightseeing companies on the island. Lastly, it is also possible to rent a car from one of several outlets near the ferry terminals.
How to get to and around the Yaeyama Islands
Questions? Ask in our forum.
Links and Resources
Hotels around Yaeyama Islands
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The Ubufuru IshigakiView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
The Ubufuru Ishigaki in Ishigaki Island offers family rooms with sea views, private bathrooms, and balconies. Each room includes air-conditioning, a work desk, and free WiFi.Exceptional Facilities
Guests can enjoy a sauna, seasonal outdoor swimming pool, and tennis court. Additional amenities include a fitness centre, tennis equipment hire, and free on-site private parking.Dining Experience
The resort serves American and Asian breakfast with local specialities, juice, and fruits. Lunch is available at the restaurant, offering Japanese, local, Asian, and European cuisines.Convenient Location
Located 8 km from New Ishigaki Airport, the resort provides easy access to local attractions. Highly rated by guests for its excellent service and facilities. -
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Beach Village NosokoView on Booking.comBeachfront Location
Beach Village Nosoko in Ishigaki Island offers direct access to the beach and stunning sea views. Guests can relax on the terrace or swim in the pool with a view.Comfortable Accommodations
The lodge features adults-only rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and balconies. Each room includes a kitchen, washing machine, and free WiFi, ensuring a comfortable stay.Leisure Facilities
Guests can enjoy a swimming pool with a view, a hot tub, and an outdoor seating area. The property also provides a pool bar, laundry service, and free on-site private parking.Nearby Attractions
Idona Beach is 2.6 km away, and New Ishigaki Airport is 15 km from the lodge. Highly rated for its beach access, terrace, and swimming pool. -
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Seven Colors IshigakijimaView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
Seven Colors Ishigakijima in Ishigaki Island offers family rooms with sea views, balconies, and terraces. Each room includes air-conditioning, a private bathroom, and modern amenities.Dining Experience
The traditional restaurant serves Japanese cuisine for dinner. Guests can enjoy meals in the outdoor seating area or relax in the hot tub.Leisure Facilities
The hotel features a sun terrace, garden, and private beach area. Additional amenities include yoga classes, a hot tub, and free WiFi.Convenient Location
Located 27 km from New Ishigaki Airport, the property provides free on-site private parking and a tour desk. Highly rated for beach access, hot tub, and attentive staff. -
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Nata Beach VillaView on Booking.comBeautiful Facilities
Nata Beach Villa in Ishigaki Island offers a private beach area, lush garden, terrace, and restaurant. Guests enjoy free WiFi, air-conditioning, balconies with garden views, and free on-site parking.Comfortable Accommodations
Rooms include private bathrooms with bidets, refrigerators, work desks, and TVs. Additional amenities feature a beauty salon, family rooms, tour desk, and luggage storage.Delicious Dining
The restaurant serves Japanese, local, Asian, and barbecue grill cuisines. Breakfast options include American and Asian styles. Dinner is available for guests.Prime Location
Located a few steps from Nata Beach, the hotel is 15 km from New Ishigaki Airport. Nearby attractions include Kabira Bay and Taketomi Island. Highly rated for breakfast, staff, and beach access. -
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Ishigaki Sunset CoveSituated on the secluded West Coast of Central Ishigaki Island, 18km from Ishigaki City, 5km from Yonehara Beach, Ishigaki Sunset Cove is set along the beach and rooms with free WiFi access. Among the various facilities of this property are an outdoor swimming pool and a garden. We have rental cars at the hotel. Our airport transfers are free until 6pm. A car is essential to explore the island. Please inquire after booking for rates and availability. Parking charges are expensive for outside rentals; parking for our cars is free. At the resort, the rooms come with a wardrobe, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. Selected rooms here will provide you with a kitchen with a microwave, a toaster and a fridge. The units at Ishigaki Sunset Cove come with a seating area. Tamatorizaki Observation Point is 5 km from the resort, while Kabira Bay is 10 km away. The nearest airport is New Ishigaki Airport, 10 km from Ishigaki Sunset Cove. A Western breakfast is available daily at the property. A rental car is essential for mobility on the island. We have rentals available at the hotel, please inquire.View on Booking.com -
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LulaliyaSet in Ishigaki Island, 300 metres from Kabira Bay, Lulaliya features air-conditioned rooms and free private parking. The bed and breakfast has a barbecue and sun terrace, and guests can enjoy a drink at the bar. Some units feature a seating area for your convenience. Extras include slippers, free toiletries and a hair dryer. Lulaliya features free WiFi throughout the property. There is a shared lounge at the property. Sukuji Beach is 1.9 km from Lulaliya, while Yonehara Beach is 5 km away. The nearest airport is New Ishigaki Airport, 13 km from Lulaliya.View on Booking.com -
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Little Mermaid Hotel IshigakijimaView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
Little Mermaid Hotel Ishigakijima in Ishigaki Island offers comfortable rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and sea or mountain views. Each room includes a balcony or terrace, walk-in shower, and free WiFi.Convenient Facilities
Guests can enjoy a garden, terrace, and free on-site private parking. Additional amenities include bicycle parking, luggage storage, and free WiFi.Local Attractions
Fusaki Beach is a 5-minute walk away, while New Ishigaki Airport lies 18 km from the hotel. Activities such as fishing are available nearby.Guest Satisfaction
Highly rated for its attentive staff, child-friendly environment, and comfortable rooms. -
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HOTEL Ishigakijima 2020View on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
HOTEL Ishigakijima 2020 in Ishigaki Island offers aparthotel-style rooms with air-conditioning, kitchenettes, and private bathrooms. Guests enjoy free WiFi, a lift, laundry service, family rooms, full-day security, bicycle parking, and express check-in and check-out services.Modern Amenities
Each room includes a washing machine, refrigerator, microwave, TV, soundproofing, and free toiletries. Additional features include a sofa, bidet, hairdryer, and electric kettle. Free on-site private parking is available.Prime Location
Maezato Beach is a 12-minute walk away, while New Ishigaki Airport lies 10 km from the property. Guests appreciate the room cleanliness, comfort, and well-equipped kitchens. -
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Hotel Patina IshigakijimaA 7-minute walk from Ishigaki Port Ricoh Ferry Terminal and a 3-minute drive from the beach, Hotel Patina Ishigakijima offers cosy rooms with hardwood floors, free internet and a private balcony. Free parking is available on site. The air-conditioned rooms at Patina Hotel include a private bathroom and refrigerator. Guests can enjoy watching the flat-screen TV with a fresh cup of tea. A free-use washing machine and coin-operated dryer are provided, as are free-use bicycles. Free wireless internet and 2 computers with free internet access are offered in the lobby. Massages can be requested for an extra cost. Ishigakijima Patina Hotel?fs restaurant serves breakfast daily.View on Booking.com -
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Guest House Chura Cucule IshigakijimaView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodation
Guest House Chura Cucule Ishigakijima in Ishigaki Island offers adults-only hostel accommodation with free WiFi. Each ground-floor unit features air-conditioning, a bidet, hairdryer, and slippers.Convenient Facilities
The property includes a lounge, shared kitchen, daily housekeeping service, bicycle parking, bike hire, and luggage storage. Additional amenities include a shower and shared bathroom.Local Attractions
Painuhama Artificial Beach is 2.4 km away, and New Ishigaki Airport is 15 km from the hostel.
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