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, sauna, fitness centre, garden, terrace, restaurant, tennis court, and free WiFi.Comfortable Accommodations
Rooms include air-conditioning, balcony, washing machine, kitchen, bath, bidet, hairdryer, dining table, refrigerator, work desk, seating area, free toiletries, microwave, dishwasher, shower, slippers, TV, private entrance, sofa, soundproofing, parquet floors, dining area, electric kettle, kitchenware, wardrobe, oven, stovetop.Dining Experience
Guests can enjoy American and Asian breakfasts with local specialities, juice, and fruits. The restaurant serves Japanese, local, Asian, and European cuisines for lunch.Convenient Location
Located 8 km from New Ishigaki Airport, the resort provides free on-site private parking. Highly rated by guests. -
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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 modern amenities for a comfortable stay.Dining Experience
The family-friendly restaurant serves Mexican and European cuisines with vegetarian and vegan options. Dining areas include indoor and outdoor seating, providing a variety of settings.Leisure Facilities
Guests can enjoy a swimming pool bar, hot tub, and outdoor seating area. Free WiFi is available throughout the property, ensuring connectivity.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.comBeachfront Location
Seven Colors Ishigakijima in Ishigaki Island offers a private beach area, beachfront, sun terrace, and a lush garden. Guests enjoy sea views and direct access to the beach.Comfortable Accommodations
Rooms feature air-conditioning, balconies, terraces, and private bathrooms with free WiFi. Additional amenities include a hot tub, yoga classes, and family rooms.Dining Experience
The traditional restaurant serves Japanese cuisine for dinner. Outdoor seating areas provide relaxing spaces.Guest Services
The hotel provides private check-in and check-out, a hot tub, laundry service, tour desk, and free on-site parking. New Ishigaki Airport is 27 km away. -
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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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Little Mermaid Hotel IshigakijimaView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
Rooms feature air-conditioning, private bathrooms with walk-in showers, and sea or mountain views. Each room includes a balcony, tatami floors, and modern amenities such as a refrigerator, microwave, and TV.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 for added convenience.Prime Location
Located in Ishigaki, the hotel is a 5-minute walk from Fusaki Beach and 18 km from New Ishigaki Airport. Nearby attractions include the Ishigaki Marine Park and the Ishigaki Shrine.Guest Services
Highly rated for its attentive staff, child-friendly environment, and comfortable rooms, the hotel ensures a pleasant stay for all visitors. -
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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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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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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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Guest House SuntoruView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodation
Guest House Suntoru in Ishigaki offers a 1-star experience with a garden and terrace. Free WiFi is available throughout the property.Convenient Facilities
The guest house features a lounge, shared kitchen, luggage storage, and free on-site private parking. Ground-floor units include work desks and slippers.Guest Satisfaction
Highly rated for its convenience for nature trips, friendly host, and bike/bicycle availability. New Ishigaki Airport is 7 km away. -
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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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