Ishigaki-jima Island and Iriomote-jima Island
Beautiful beaches spread along the coastlines of Ishigaki-jima Island and Iriomote-jima Island in Okinawa Prefecture, which is located in a subtropical zone. Visitors can enjoy different Kinds of tours, such as boat and kayak trips through a mangrove forest on Iriomote-jima Island.
Ishigaki-jima and Iriomote-jima are two beautiful islands located in the Yaeyama archipelago of Okinawa, Japan. Each island offers unique experiences and attractions, making them popular destinations for both domestic and international travelers.
- Ishigaki-jima Island: Ishigaki-jima is the main island of the Yaeyama archipelago and serves as a gateway for tourists visiting the region. It is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine life, making it a paradise for snorkelers and scuba divers. The island also boasts lush greenery and a pleasant tropical climate, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.
Some popular attractions on Ishigaki-jima include:
Kabira Bay: A picturesque bay known for its turquoise waters and coral reefs. Glass-bottom boat tours are available for those who wish to admire the underwater world without getting wet.
Yonehara Beach: A beautiful sandy beach with fantastic snorkeling opportunities and vibrant marine life.
Ishigaki Yaima Village: A cultural village where you can learn about the local traditions, architecture, and lifestyle of the Yaeyama people.
Mount Omoto: The highest peak on Ishigaki Island, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
How to reach Ishigaki-jima: Ishigaki Island is accessible by air and sea. Visitors can take a flight to New Ishigaki Airport (ISG) from major airports in Japan, such as Tokyo, Osaka, or Naha (Okinawa’s main island). There are also some international flights connecting to Ishigaki. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Naha Port to Ishigaki Port, but the journey takes significantly longer than a flight.
- Iriomote-jima Island: Iriomote-jima is the second-largest island in the Yaeyama archipelago and is famous for its dense mangrove forests, pristine rivers, and exotic wildlife. The island’s untouched nature makes it an ideal destination for ecotourism and outdoor activities.
Key attractions on Iriomote-jima include:
Iriomote National Park: This national park covers most of the island and offers opportunities for jungle trekking, river cruising, and wildlife spotting.
Urauchi River: The longest river in Okinawa Prefecture, offering scenic boat tours through the mangrove forests.
Mariyudu Waterfall: A picturesque waterfall that can be reached by a short hike through the jungle.
Snorkeling and Diving: Iriomote-jima’s waters are teeming with marine life, making it a great spot for snorkeling and diving.
How to reach Iriomote-jima: Iriomote Island is reachable by ferry from Ishigaki Port. The ferry ride takes around 40 minutes to Ohara Port on Iriomote Island. Once on Iriomote-jima, you can explore the island by using local buses or renting a car or scooter.
Both Ishigaki-jima and Iriomote-jima offer unique experiences, and their proximity allows travelers to easily combine the two islands for an unforgettable adventure in the remote and stunning Yaeyama archipelago.