Iriomote Island

About this Attraction

Iriomote Island (西表島, Iriomotejima) is the second-largest island in Okinawa Prefecture and one of Japan’s last true wilderness frontiers. Unlike its more developed neighbors, Iriomote remains largely untouched, with around 90% of the island cloaked in dense jungles, mangrove forests, and mountainous terrain. This raw natural beauty makes it a haven for eco-tourism and outdoor adventures. Much of Iriomote is protected under the Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park, Japan’s southernmost national park, celebrated for its biodiversity and rare species like the elusive Iriomote wildcat (Iriomote-yamaneko) — a small, endangered feline found nowhere else in the world. Visitors are drawn to the island’s dramatic rivers, hidden waterfalls, and vibrant ecosystems that support countless forms of wildlife, including tropical birds, jungle insects, and freshwater crabs.

One of the most popular activities on Iriomote is kayaking through the mangrove-lined rivers, such as the Urauchi and Nakama Rivers, which wind deep into the jungle. These routes often lead to waterfalls like Pinaisara Falls, Okinawa’s tallest, which can be reached via a scenic hike after paddling upstream. For nature lovers and adventurers, Iriomote also offers snorkeling and diving around coral reefs off its coast, as well as beach exploration, including remote sandy shores like Hoshizuna no Hama, famous for its star-shaped sand grains.

Despite its remote nature, Iriomote is accessible by ferry from Ishigaki Island, and offers modest accommodations that blend with the island’s natural charm. However, tourism is carefully managed to preserve the fragile ecosystem, ensuring that Iriomote remains a sanctuary for both wildlife and those seeking to experience the wilder side of Japan. Whether you're trekking through tropical rainforest or quietly observing rare species in their natural habitat, Iriomote Island promises an unforgettable and immersive eco-adventure.

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