Iriomote Island
Introduction to Iriomote Island
Iriomote Island, known in Japanese as Iriomote-jima (西表島), stands as the second-largest island in Okinawa Prefecture and a true jewel of the Yaeyama Islands. This captivating destination is celebrated for its vast, untouched subtropical jungle, which remarkably covers over 90% of its landmass. Its unique ecosystem and pristine natural environment earned it a prestigious designation as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in July 2021, alongside other significant natural areas in Japan.
Administered by Taketomi Town, Iriomote Island offers an unparalleled escape into nature, inviting adventurers to explore its dense forests, winding rivers, and secluded beaches. Visitors come to immerse themselves in a world where rare wildlife thrives and the rhythm of the jungle dictates the pace of life. This guide provides essential information for planning your journey to this extraordinary island, covering everything from transportation to must-see attractions and practical advice.
Quick Facts
Location & Map
Iriomote Island is strategically located within the Yaeyama Islands group, positioned to the west of Ishigaki Island in Okinawa Prefecture. This makes it a key destination within Japan’s southernmost national park, offering a remote yet accessible wilderness experience. Its geographic isolation has contributed to the preservation of its unique flora and fauna, making it a hotspot for biodiversity and a prime location for eco-tourism.
Getting There from Ishigaki
Access to Iriomote Island is exclusively by high-speed ferry, as there is no airport on the island itself. All ferries depart from Ishigaki Island’s Euglena Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal, serving as the main gateway to this jungle paradise.
Ferry Operators & Ports
Two primary ferry companies, Anei Kanko and Yaeyama Kanko Ferry, operate routes to Iriomote’s two main ports. These companies often engage in code-sharing, meaning a ticket purchased from one may be valid on the other’s vessel, so it’s always wise to confirm when buying your ticket. The choice of port depends largely on your planned activities and accommodation location on Iriomote Island.
Ohara Port (大原港) – South Side
Ohara Port is located on the southern side of Iriomote Island and serves as the primary access point for the island’s southern region. It is the starting point for popular Nakama River mangrove cruises and provides access to the charming Yubu Island. Ferry services to Ohara are generally more reliable and less prone to cancellations due to adverse weather conditions compared to the Uehara route, making it a safer bet during rough seas. The journey from Ishigaki typically takes approximately 40-45 minutes.
Uehara Port (上原港) – North Side
Uehara Port, situated on the northern side of Iriomote Island, is the gateway to the northern and western parts of the island. This area is home to many popular attractions, including the Urauchi River, starting points for Pinaisara Falls tours, and Hoshizuna Beach. Most of the island’s tourist facilities and accommodations are concentrated around Uehara. However, this route is known for its susceptibility to cancellations from high winds and waves, particularly during winter (December-February) and typhoon season. In the event of a Uehara route cancellation, ferry companies provide a complimentary shuttle bus service connecting Ohara Port to the Uehara area, though this adds a significant travel time of about 50-60 minutes by bus. The ferry ride itself from Ishigaki takes approximately 45-55 minutes.
Ferry Fares & Timetables
One-way ferry fares generally range from approximately ¥2,100 to ¥2,600, with round-trip tickets offering a slight discount. Prices can be volatile, so checking the latest fares is recommended. Ferries operate frequently throughout the day, roughly once per hour, but schedules are seasonal and highly dependent on weather conditions. Always consult the official ferry company websites on your day of travel for the most up-to-date timetables and operational status.
Getting Around Iriomote
Transportation options on Iriomote Island are limited, reflecting its wild and undeveloped nature. A single main road, Route 215, runs along the coast, connecting the northern and southern settlements, but it does not encircle the entire island. Planning your transport in advance is crucial for a smooth visit.
Rental Car
Renting a car is the most highly recommended option for visitors seeking flexibility and independence to explore Iriomote Island. Several rental agencies are conveniently located near both Ohara and Uehara ports. Due to the limited number of vehicles available on the island, especially during peak season, booking your rental car well in advance is absolutely essential to secure your preferred vehicle.
Local Bus
The Iriomotejima Kotsu bus service operates along the main road between Ohara and Shirahama (west of Uehara). However, services are infrequent, with only about 4-5 round trips per day. While it can be used for point-to-point travel if timed correctly, it is not convenient for extensive sightseeing due to its limited schedule. A one-day bus pass is available for those planning to use it multiple times.
Rental Scooter/Bicycle
Rental scooters and bicycles are available near the ports, offering a good option for exploring areas close to your accommodation. However, they are generally not suitable for traversing the entire island due to the long distances between attractions and the hilly terrain in some areas. These are best for short, localized excursions.
Tour Operator Shuttles & Taxis
Many guided tours, such as kayaking or trekking excursions, include convenient pick-up and drop-off services from your accommodation or the nearest port. This is a very common and practical way for visitors to experience the island’s natural wonders without needing their own transport. Taxis are also available on Iriomote Island but are very limited in number and can be quite expensive, making them less ideal for general sightseeing.
What to See & Do
Iriomote Island is a haven for nature lovers and adventurers, offering a diverse range of activities that highlight its unique jungle and marine environments. From navigating serene mangrove forests to trekking to majestic waterfalls, the island promises unforgettable experiences.
Jungle & River Activities
The island is renowned for its extensive mangrove forests, which are among the largest in Japan, providing exceptional opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. These activities allow for an intimate encounter with the island’s lush riverine ecosystems.
Mangrove Kayaking/Canoeing
The Nakama River, located in the south and accessible from Ohara Port, is particularly famous for its vast and pristine mangrove forest, which has been designated as a Natural Monument. Visitors can enjoy serene sightseeing cruises that glide through the tranquil waters, offering views of ancient Sakishima Suonoki trees. In the north, Okinawa’s longest river, the Urauchi River, is another popular spot for kayaking and offers sightseeing boats that transport visitors to the trailhead for the Mariyudu and Kanpire waterfalls, combining river exploration with jungle trekking.
Jungle Trekking
Exploring the dense interior of Iriomote Island is a primary activity for many visitors. However, due to the unmarked and challenging terrain, coupled with potential hazards such as venomous creatures and sudden weather changes, hiring a licensed local guide is strongly recommended for all but the most basic and clearly marked trails. Guides ensure safety, provide invaluable ecological insights, and navigate routes that minimize environmental impact, upholding the island’s eco-tourism principles.
⚠️ Safety in the Jungle
Never venture off marked trails without a licensed local guide. The Iriomote jungle is dense, can be disorienting, and harbors potential hazards. Proper footwear and rain gear are essential for any trekking activity.
Waterfalls
Iriomote Island is home to several impressive waterfalls, each offering a unique experience for visitors willing to venture into the jungle.
Pinaisara Falls (ピナイサーラの滝)
Pinaisara Falls stands as Okinawa’s tallest waterfall, boasting a dramatic drop of approximately 55 meters. Accessing this magnificent natural wonder typically requires a guided tour, which often involves kayaking or canoeing across a calm bay, followed by a 30-45 minute trek through the dense jungle to reach the waterfall’s basin. For those seeking a more challenging adventure, some tours continue to the top of the falls, rewarding trekkers with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and coastline.
Mariyudu Waterfall (マリユドゥの滝) & Kanpire Waterfall (カンピレーの滝)
Located upstream on the Urauchi River, the Mariyudu and Kanpire waterfalls offer a rewarding trekking experience. To reach them, visitors first take a scenic 30-minute sightseeing boat ride from the Urauchi River pier. From the boat’s drop-off point, a well-maintained trail leads through the jungle, requiring about 40-50 minutes of hiking to reach both falls. This particular trek can be undertaken independently without the need for a guide, making it accessible for those who prefer self-guided exploration.
Iconic Wildlife & Nature
Iriomote Island is a sanctuary for unique and often endangered species, making wildlife observation a compelling aspect of any visit. The island’s dense forests and pristine waters support a rich biodiversity.
Iriomote Cat (イリオモテヤマネコ – Iriomote Yamaneko)
The Iriomote Cat is a critically endangered wildcat subspecies found exclusively on Iriomote Island. With an estimated population of only around 100 individuals, seeing one in the wild is incredibly rare. These elusive creatures are nocturnal, shy, and mostly solitary, making direct encounters highly unlikely. The greatest threat to their survival is traffic accidents, which is why numerous signs and