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.comExceptional Facilities
The Ubufuru Ishigaki in Ishigaki Island offers an infinity swimming pool, fitness centre, garden, terrace, restaurant, tennis court, and free WiFi. Private check-in and check-out, a 24-hour front desk, and daily housekeeping ensure a comfortable stay.Comfortable Accommodations
Rooms feature sea views, air-conditioning, balcony, washing machine, private bathroom, kitchen, and free toiletries. Additional amenities include a fitness room, lift, laundry service, family rooms, and free on-site private parking.Dining Experience
Guests can enjoy American and Asian breakfast with local specialities, juice, and fruits. The restaurant serves Japanese, local, Asian, and European cuisines for lunch.Prime Location
Located 8 km from New Ishigaki Airport, the resort is near attractions such as Yaeyama Museum (7 km) and Ishigaki Dam (7 km). Highly rated by guests for its excellent facilities and services. -
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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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Seven Colors IshigakijimaView on Booking.comBeachfront Location
Seven Colors Ishigakijima in Ishigaki Island offers a private beach area, beachfront, sun terrace, and lush garden. Guests enjoy sea views and direct access to the beach.Comfortable Accommodations
Rooms feature air-conditioning, balconies, and private bathrooms with free WiFi. Additional amenities include a hot tub, sauna, and yoga classes.Dining Experience
The traditional restaurant serves Japanese cuisine for dinner. Outdoor seating areas provide relaxing spaces.Nearby Attractions
Located 27 km from New Ishigaki Airport, the hotel is close to attractions such as Tamatorizaki Observation Point (14 km) and Kabira Bay (37 km). -
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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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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.Dining Experience
The family-friendly restaurant serves Mexican and European cuisines with vegetarian and vegan options. Guests can enjoy lunch and dinner in a modern and romantic ambience.Local Attractions
Located 15 km from New Ishigaki Airport, the property is near attractions such as the Rhizophoraceae Plant Community of Fukidogawa River (2 km) and Idona Beach (2.6 km). -
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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 Hotelfs restaurant serves breakfast daily.View on Booking.com -
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Little Mermaid Hotel IshigakijimaView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
Little Mermaid Hotel Ishigakijima in Ishigaki offers comfortable rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and sea or mountain views. Each room includes a balcony, terrace, and free WiFi.Leisure Facilities
Guests can relax in the garden or on the terrace, enjoy free WiFi, and take advantage of bicycle parking and luggage storage. Free on-site private parking is available.Local Attractions
Fusaki Beach is a 5-minute walk away, while Nei Museum of Art lies 1.1 km nearby. Other attractions include Kannonzaki Lighthouse (1.4 km) and Fusaki Kannondo (1.8 km). New Ishigaki Airport is 18 km from the hotel.Guest Services
The hotel staff provide excellent service support, ensuring a pleasant stay for all guests. Child-friendly amenities and comfortable rooms enhance the overall experience. -
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Guest House SuntoruView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodation
Guest House Suntoru in Ishigaki Island offers a 1-star guest house experience with a garden, terrace, and free WiFi. Each ground-floor unit features a work desk, shared bathroom, slippers, and free on-site private parking.Convenient Facilities
The property includes a lounge, shared kitchen, and luggage storage. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a work desk, shared bathroom, slippers, and free on-site private parking.Local Attractions
Located 7 km from New Ishigaki Airport, the guest house is near Yaeyama Museum (8 km), Tamatorizaki Observation Point (20 km), and Ishigaki Dam (7 km). Other attractions include Ishigaki Island Limestone Cave and Euglena Mall, each 8 km away.Guest Satisfaction
Highly rated by guests for its convenience for nature trips, friendly host, and availability of bicycles. -
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Guest House Chura Cucule IshigakijimaView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
Guest House Chura Cucule Ishigakijima in Ishigaki Island offers adults-only hostel accommodations with free WiFi, air-conditioning, and shared bathrooms. Each room includes a bidet, shower, and slippers.Convenient Facilities
The property features a lounge, shared kitchen, daily housekeeping service, bicycle parking, bike hire, and luggage storage. Additional amenities include a hairdryer and ground-floor units.Prime Location
Located 15 km from New Ishigaki Airport, the hostel is near attractions such as Yaeyama Museum (less than 1 km), Euglena Mall (700 metres), and Painuhama Artificial Beach (2.4 km). Guests appreciate the friendly staff and excellent service. -
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HOSTEL SunTerrace IshigakiView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
HOSTEL SunTerrace Ishigaki in Ishigaki offers adults-only rooms with air-conditioning, soundproofing, and tiled floors. Each room includes a work desk, TV, and free WiFi.Essential Facilities
Guests can enjoy a garden, terrace, and outdoor seating area. The property features a lounge, shared kitchen, games room, and full-day security. Additional amenities include a washing machine, dining area, and paid on-site private parking.Prime Location
Located 13 km from New Ishigaki Airport, the hostel is near attractions such as Painuhama Artificial Beach (15-minute walk), Yaeyama Museum (300 metres), and Euglena Mall (500 metres). Guests appreciate the room cleanliness, staff support, and comfort.
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