Kyushu and Okinawa
Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park
PIXTA
Activity
Best Seller ! Iriomote, Yubu, Taketomi Islands Day Tour From Ishigaki Island (Includes Lunch)
Highlights
Explore the natural beauty and cultural charm of Iriomote, Yubu, and Taketomi Islands all in one efficient day trip from Ishigaki. Take advantage of special early booking discounts when reserving up to 30 days in advance. With free luggage storage available at Ishigaki Port, this tour is perfect for travelers arriving or departing on the same day. Lunch is included, making your island-hopping experience smooth and stress-free.
Detail
Discover Iriomote, Yubu, and Taketomi islands in one tour. Enjoy close-up wildlife views on a mangrove cruise, a buffalo cart ride to Yubu, and a leisurely walk in Taketomi's scenic village.
Summary
Location Iriomote_Island / Taketomi_Island / Yubu_Island / Ishigaki_Island
Required time more than 8 hours
Transportation Pick-up and drop-off available (conditions apply)
Meal Yes
Taketomi Island Day Tour from Ishigaki: Enjoy Water Buffalo Cart Experience!
Highlights
Discover the charm of Taketomi Island on this relaxing day tour from Ishigaki. Ride a traditional water buffalo cart through the island's picturesque village streets and enjoy free time to explore at your own pace. Book up to 30 days in advance to receive special early bird discounts!
Detail
Discover Taketomi Island's charm with a deal that offers round-trip ferry tickets and a water buffalo cart tour. Experience the island's rustic beauty freely, thanks to selectable ferry schedules.
Summary
Location Iriomote_Island / Taketomi_Island / Yubu_Island / Ishigaki_Island
Required time more than 2.5hours
Transportation Pick-up and drop-off available (conditions apply)
Meal None
Ishigaki Half Day Tour:Hamajima (Phantom Island) Landing and Boat Snorkeling
Highlights
Embark on a magical half-day adventure in Ishigaki with a landing at the breathtaking Phantom Island (Hamajima) and a guided boat snorkeling experience. Surrounded by 360° panoramic ocean views, capture stunning, SNS-worthy photos and receive complimentary photo data to remember your journey forever.
Detail
Experience Ishigaki's beauty with boat snorkeling adventure. Land on the elusive Phantom Island, take stunning 360° ocean photos, and snorkel among colorful coral and fish. Free photo data included. Perfect for beginners. Optional city pick-up.
Summary
Location Ishigaki_Island
Required time about 2hours
Transportation Pick-up and drop-off available (conditions apply)
Meal None
Ishigaki Island 1-Day Bus Free Pass - Unlimited rides for 24 hours
Highlights
Explore Ishigaki Island at your own pace with a convenient 1-day bus free pass. Enjoy unlimited rides on all fixed-route buses for 24 hours—perfect for sightseeing, dining, or relaxing at local beaches. A hassle-free and budget-friendly way to make the most of your time on the island!
Detail
Explore Ishigaki Island affordably with the Azuma Bus 1-Day Free Pass! Enjoy unlimited rides for 24 hours to popular spots like Kabira Bay, Tamatorizaki Observatory, the Remote Island Terminal, and Ishigaki Airport. Book now!
Summary
Location Ishigaki_Island
Required time
Transportation None
Meal None
Private Sightseeing Taxi Tour from Ishigaki Port – Flexible, Comfortable, and Customized Island Exploration (2–6 Hours)
Highlights
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Ishigaki Island on your own terms with a private sightseeing taxi departing from and returning to Ishigaki Port. This convenient and flexible service is perfect for cruise or ferry travelers, offering customizable tour durations from 2 to 6 hours. Whether you wish to visit iconic spots like Kabira Bay or uncover hidden local treasures off the beaten path, your knowledgeable local driver will guide you comfortably and safely. With optional English-speaking drivers and routes tailored to your interests, this is an ideal way for couples, families, or small groups to experience the very best of Ishigaki at their own pace.
Detail
Discover the beauty of Ishigaki Island in the comfort of a private taxi, starting and ending at Ishigaki Port – ideal for cruise and ferry passengers with limited time. This flexible sightseeing tour allows you to choose a duration between 2 to 6 hours, giving you full control over your itinerary. Visit famous sights such as Kabira Bay, Tamatorizaki Observatory, or let your driver introduce you to lesser-known scenic spots only locals know. The tour is operated by experienced drivers who ensure a safe, comfortable ride and can provide recommendations tailored to your preferences. English-speaking drivers are available as an option, making it a great choice for international travelers. Whether you're traveling as a couple, with family, or in a small group, this private taxi tour offers a hassle-free, customized way to explore Ishigaki Island.
Summary
Location Ishigaki_Island
Required time more than 2 hours
Transportation Pick-up and drop-off available (conditions apply)
Meal None
Ishigaki Island Bus Tour: Explore Kabira Bay, Tamatorizaki Observatory, and More
Highlights
Experience the best of Ishigaki Island in one day with a convenient sightseeing bus tour that takes you to must-see spots such as Kabira Bay, Tamatorizaki Observatory, and the historic Toujin Grave. With a knowledgeable Japanese-speaking guide onboard, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and panoramic ocean views that make Ishigaki so special — all without the hassle of navigating on your own.
Detail
This full-day guided bus tour offers a comfortable and efficient way to explore Ishigaki Island’s most iconic attractions. Departing from the island’s main terminal, the tour includes stops at stunning locations like Kabira Bay, known for its emerald waters, and Tamatorizaki Observatory, offering breathtaking coastal vistas. Along the way, you'll learn about the island’s rich culture and history while enjoying the ease of scheduled transportation and a curated itinerary. Perfect for first-time visitors or those looking for a stress-free way to see the island's highlights in a single day.
Summary
Location Ishigaki_Island
Required time abour 5 hours
Transportation None
Meal None
Ishigaki Mangrove SUP & Snorkeling Tour with Hamajima (Phantom Island) Landing
Highlights
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Ishigaki Island with this combined tour. Paddle through the serene mangrove forests of Miyara River on a guided SUP experience, designated as a national natural monument. Discover the unique charm of Hamajima (Phantom Island), a stunning sand island that appears and disappears with the tides, offering breathtaking emerald blue waters perfect for memorable photos. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Ishigaki for an exhilarating snorkeling experience, encountering vibrant coral reefs and colorful tropical fish. Capture all your unforgettable moments with complimentary photos provided as part of the tour. This adventure is perfect for beginners and families with children, as it includes expert guidance from an English-speaking instructor and all necessary equipment like life jackets, snorkeling gear, and SUP boards. Enjoy the convenience of pickup services from the Ishigaki Island city area.
Detail
This comprehensive tour offers a fantastic way to explore Ishigaki's diverse natural landscapes. The adventure begins with a departure to Hamajima, also known as Phantom Island, a unique and picturesque spot famous for its stunning "emerald blue" surroundings. Following your time at Phantom Island, you'll move to a snorkeling point where instructors will provide thorough guidance, making it ideal for beginners to enjoy swimming among vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish in crystal-clear waters. In the afternoon, the tour shifts to a guided Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) experience through the tranquil mangrove forests of Miyara River, a designated national natural monument. This calm environment is perfect for a leisurely paddle, allowing you to connect with nature. The tour is available daily and led by an English-speaking instructor. It includes all essential gear: life jackets, insurance, snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins), SUP board, reef boots, and wetsuits in winter, along with complimentary photo data. After the activities, you can use a free hot shower near Ishigaki Port Terminal. Participants must be between 3 and 59 years old, and a minimum of 4 participants is required for the tour to operate. Please note that certain health conditions and weight over 100 kg may restrict participation for safety reasons. Bring your swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and beverages. The schedule may be adjusted based on weather or sea conditions.
Summary
Location Ishigaki_Island
Required time more than 5 hours
Transportation Pick-up and drop-off available (conditions apply)
Meal None
Stargazing and Mystery Night Tour: Explore the Starry Skies of Iriomote Island
Highlights
On this special night tour, you will explore Japan's first "starry sky protection area" on Iriomote Island. A certified guide will lead you to a 360° viewing point, where you can observe an incredible 84 out of 88 constellations, truly immersing yourself in the celestial wonders. The tour also offers the unique chance to encounter the island's nocturnal creatures and see beautiful seasonal flowers. As a memorable keepsake, the guide will even take stunning photos of you under the starry sky.
Detail
This memorable guided experience on Iriomote Island is available daily and lasts approximately 1 to 2 hours, including transportation. The tour is designed to be a safe and captivating adventure, with a knowledgeable guide leading participants through the starry sky protection area to witness constellations and encounter nocturnal wildlife. For your convenience, hotel pick-up is included for guests staying in the western area of the island.
Summary
Location Iriomote Island
Required time 1.5 hours
Transportation Pick-up and drop-off available (conditions apply)
Meal None
Night Kayak Tour with Stargazing on Iriomote Island
Highlights
Experience the enchantment of Iriomote Island with a night kayak tour that offers breathtaking stargazing and the chance to witness bioluminescent plankton glowing in the water. Paddle through the serene nighttime mangroves and look up to see as many as 84 out of 88 constellations, including the Southern Cross during winter and the Milky Way in the summer. A knowledgeable guide will also capture stunning photos of you during the tour, making for a truly romantic and tranquil memory.
Detail
This daily tour on Iriomote Island, Japan's first International Dark Sky Place, offers a unique evening adventure. The experience lasts 2 to 3 hours, including transportation, and is conducted in both English and Japanese. Participants will paddle a kayak under a star-filled sky, guided by an expert who ensures a safe and peaceful journey. Convenient hotel pick-up is also available, allowing you to fully relax and enjoy this unforgettable escape into nature.
Summary
Location Iriomote
Required time 2.5hours
Transportation Pick-up and drop-off available (conditions apply)
Meal None
Canoe & Cave Exploration Full-Day Tour : Discover Iriomote’s untouched nature!
Highlights
This full-day tour on Iriomote Island offers an unforgettable adventure into untouched nature. The highlight is a single-day experience that combines mangrove canoeing, a thrilling exploration of waterfalls, and an exciting adventure into the island's caves. Equipped with a helmet and a light, you will be guided on a safe and exhilarating journey perfect for discovering the island's hidden wonders.
Detail
Designed for adventurers and families alike, this tour is available daily and includes all necessary equipment, a knowledgeable guide, and convenient transportation around the island. The morning is dedicated to a peaceful paddle through the mangroves and fun around a waterfall, while the afternoon promises a unique cave exploration. All you need to bring is a spirit for adventure; lunch and a waterproof bag are provided to make your experience as seamless as possible.
Summary
Location Iriomote Island
Required time 5.5hours
Transportation Pick-up and drop-off available (conditions apply)
Meal Yes
Nara Falls Full-Day Tour ＜Includes transport & lunch＞
Highlights
This full-day tour to Nara Falls is an exhilarating adventure designed for those who want to immerse themselves in Iriomote Island’s untouched wilderness. The highlights include a unique journey combining sea and river canoeing followed by a jungle trek that leads you to the magnificent, hidden Nara Falls. At the spacious waterfall basin, you can relax, play, and even jump in for a refreshing dip, creating an unforgettable connection with nature.
Detail
This is a full-day, guided adventure that includes transportation, lunch, and all necessary equipment. The tour is perfect for active travelers and takes you on a canoe and trek expedition to Nara Falls. You'll paddle through tranquil waters before hiking through the jungle to reach the secluded waterfall, where a delicious lunch of soki soba awaits. The tour ensures a hassle-free experience with provided gear, insurance, and a knowledgeable guide to lead the way.
Summary
Location Iriomote Island
Required time 7hours
Transportation Pick-up and drop-off available (conditions apply)
Meal Yes
Snorkeling Tour in Iriomote Island Full-Day with Mangrove Canoe Available
Highlights
This tour offers an unforgettable way to experience the pristine nature of Iriomote Island, with a special focus on the vibrant marine world. The main highlights include a snorkeling adventure where you can discover breathtaking coral reefs and swim among schools of colorful fish, with the exciting possibility of encountering a sea turtle. To make your memories last, an experienced photographer will capture the best moments of your tour, and the photo data will be provided to you as a complimentary gift.
Detail
Designed for all skill levels, this tour is a safe and immersive way to explore the island's wonders, guided by experts who ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The tour operates daily and includes convenient pick-up service. In addition to the exhilarating snorkeling, there is also an option for a full-day course that combines this marine adventure with a tranquil mangrove canoeing experience, providing a complete journey through Iriomote's diverse ecosystems.
Summary
Location Iriomote Island
Required time 2.5hours
Transportation Pick-up and drop-off available (conditions apply)
Meal None
SUP & Outrigger Canoe Tour in Iriomote with Local Guide and Island Transfers
Highlights
This full-day tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning scenery of Iriomote Island that is only accessible by water. The highlight is a combined adventure of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and outrigger canoeing. You'll be led by a knowledgeable local guide who will not only teach you the basics but also provide insight into the island's secret spots, making this a perfect experience for beginners, families, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking an authentic island journey.
Detail
Designed for a seamless and enjoyable day, this tour is available daily and lasts approximately 6.5 to 7.5 hours, including convenient island transfers from your hotel or Uehara Port. It's an all-inclusive adventure that provides a refreshing lunch and all the necessary equipment, so you can focus entirely on enjoying the serene waters and lush landscapes of Iriomote.
Summary
Location Iriomote Island
Required time 6.5hours
Transportation Pick-up and drop-off available (conditions apply)
Meal Yes
Pinai-sara Waterfall Tour : Visit Okinawa's proud 55-meter waterfall!
Highlights
This full-day tour to Pinai-sara Waterfall offers an unforgettable adventure into the heart of Iriomote Island's lush nature. A major highlight is exploring the island's famous mangroves and jungles before reaching Okinawa's tallest waterfall, a powerful 55-meter cascade. The tour is perfect for beginners and includes a professional photography service, ensuring you get high-quality digital photos of your journey to remember the experience.
Detail
This is a full-day, all-inclusive tour that combines canoeing and trekking to give you a complete experience of Iriomote's natural beauty. You will peacefully canoe through tranquil mangrove waters and then trek through the jungle to visit both the top of the waterfall for a stunning panoramic view and the basin below, where you can play in the clear water. Lunch and all necessary equipment are provided, along with a luggage storage service, making it a hassle-free and enjoyable adventure for everyone.
Summary
Location Iriomote Island
Required time 6.5hours
Transportation Pick-up and drop-off available (conditions apply)
Meal Yes
Kabira Glass-Bottom Boat – Large, Stable & Easy to Book
Highlights
Experience the underwater beauty of Kabira Bay without getting wet on this customizable glass-bottom boat tour. With a stable, custom-designed boat, you can comfortably view tropical fish and colorful coral through large viewing windows. Your journey takes you to hidden, exclusive spots not accessible by other tours, providing a unique glimpse into this marine wonderland. This tour is perfect for all ages and ensures a stress-free adventure.
Detail
This daily sightseeing tour is a perfect way to experience the beauty of Kabira Bay. Your experienced captain will navigate to the best viewing spots based on the day's conditions, and you might even see giant clams or clownfish attracted by the boat's sound. The tour includes the boat fee, but remember there is no pick-up service, so please make your way to the Marin House Gurukun Headquarters for check-in. The tour may be subject to cancellation due to weather conditions.
Summary
Location Ishigaki Island
Required time 1 hour
Transportation Pick up not Available
Meal None
Swim with Manta Rays in Ishigaki Island! Manta Snorkeling Experience
Highlights
Dive into an unforgettable snorkeling adventure and swim with majestic manta rays on this tour guided by experienced staff. You'll have a high chance of encountering these incredible creatures at prime spots they've identified over years of experience. The tour is perfect for all skill levels, including non-swimmers, with all necessary gear and a wetsuit provided. Enjoy a stress-free experience with convenient pick-up service, and take home complimentary photos captured by the staff. This is your chance to get up close with Ishigaki's amazing marine life.
Detail
This daily snorkeling tour is a fantastic way to get up close with Ishigaki's incredible marine life. While manta ray and sea turtle sightings are never guaranteed as they are wild animals, the experienced crew works hard to provide the best possible chance for an encounter. The tour fee covers all essentials, including equipment rental and insurance, so you can focus on the adventure. Please note that the schedule may change or be canceled due to weather conditions.
Summary
Location Ishigaki Island
Required time 6.5 hours
Transportation Pick-up and drop-off available (conditions apply)
Meal Yes
Access
How to get there
Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park, Japan’s southernmost park, is located in Okinawa Prefecture. The park encompasses several of the Yaeyama Islands and is home to sprawling mangrove forests, sandy beaches, beautiful waterfalls and stunning coral reefs. Although limited bus service is available on some islands, renting a car will make it easier to enjoy everything the park has to offer.
From Tokyo
Flights from major cities, including Tokyo, Osaka and Naha, link the Yaeyama Islands with the rest of Japan in three to four hours. It’s often cheaper to fly into Naha Airport on Okinawa’s main island and then fly to Ishigaki. Once at New Ishigaki Airport (also known as Painushima Ishigaki Airport), you can rent a car or take the bus to explore Ishigaki Island or make your way to Ishigaki Port to catch a ferry to one of the other islands. To reach the port, take a bus from either Azuma Unyu or Karry Kanko. The latter offers a direct bus that takes about 30 minutes, while Azuma Unyu buses make numerous local stops.
From Ishigaki Isaland
Ishigaki Port is the gateway for the park's islands. Several companies offer services between the islands, including ferries that allow cars onboard for an additional fee. Ferry routes, maps and bookings are available in English on the Direct Ferries website. Because service between some islands is infrequent or nonexistent, it’s often best to travel back to Ishigaki Port when island-hopping.
Getting Around
A car is the best option for exploring Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park. Rent a vehicle from one of the companies near New Ishigaki Airport. Several ferry companies offer service for passengers and vehicles between Ishigaki Port and the other islands of the park. (To move between islands, you may have to go back to Ishigaki Port first.) Check route information and make bookings on Direct Ferries English-language website. Azuma Unyu and Karry Kanko bus companies offer services on Ishigaki Island only. Save on fares by buying one-day or multi-day passes. Iriomote Island has two ports linked by a public bus, which runs four times a day along the island's coastal road and stops at major tourist destinations. To explore the island at your own pace, renting a car is recommended. Taketomi Island is small enough to explore on foot or by bicycle.
