Explore Iriomote's mangroves and mysterious limestone caves
Includes homemade Yaeyama soba lunch and handmade cake snacks
Unique full-day adventure experience for ages 6 and up
Join a wildlife expert guide for animal spotting in the jungle
Receive free digital photo data of your tour as a special souvenir
What to expect
Explore Iriomote’s mangrove forests by canoe and venture into a natural limestone cave with helmet and headlamp. Includes wildlife observation, local soki soba lunch, and homemade snacks.
What's included
Japanese-speaking guide
Lunch
Snacks
Insurance
Full set of equipment
Tour photo data
Equipment rental
Headlamp
Helmet
Shoes
About this experience
Starting at
09:00
Group size
Selectable travelers: 2–8
Schedule
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Pick-up at Ōhara Port or your hotel in the eastern area of Iriomote Island
09:30
Mangrove Canoeing
Paddle through the lush mangrove forests and subtropical jungle along the Maera River. Enjoy the tranquil scenery unique to Iriomote Island.
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Short Jungle Trek (10 min)
Take a short trek through the jungle as you head toward the waterfall basin.
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Wildlife Observation
Observe seasonal wildlife, such as the ruddy kingfisher (summer), black-faced spoonbill (winter), and the crested serpent eagle—guided by a bird expert from the Iriomote Wild Bird Research Society.
—
Waterfall Pool Play
Cool off in a hidden natural waterfall pool deep in the jungle. In warm seasons, enjoy swimming or jumping into the deep basin.
—
Lunch
Enjoy freshly made Yaeyama soba with tender simmered pork (rafute), served in a serene natural setting. *In case of bad weather, lunch may be served at a viewpoint.
Savor homemade cake made with Iriomote-grown fruit, served with coffee or tea.
—
Return by Canoe
Trek back through the jungle and paddle your canoe to return to the starting point.
14:00
Limestone Cave Exploration (50–70 min)
Explore a raw, untouched limestone cave with no artificial lighting. Equipped with a helmet and headlamp, discover the natural beauty hidden underground.
—
Return to Ōhara Port or your hotel in the eastern area of Iriomote Island
Location and Directions
Pick-up times vary depending on your location, and the staff will contact you the day before the tour to confirm the exact time.
■ For staying in the Ōhara area ・Summer (Jul 1 – Sep 30): Around 7:30 AM – 8:30 AM ・Winter (Oct 1 – Jun 30): Around 8:00 AM – 8:30 AM
■ For staying in the Takana area (Eco Village Iriomote, Painumaya Resort) ・Summer (Jul 1 – Sep 30): Around 7:50 AM – 8:45 AM ・Winter (Oct 1 – Jun 30): Around 8:30 AM – 9:00 AM
■ For saying in the Uehara area ・Summer (Jul 1 – Sep 30): Around 8:15 AM – 9:00 AM ・Winter (Oct 1 – Jun 30): Around 9:00 AM – 9:30 AM
[For Staying on Other Islands] From Ishigaki Island: You will be picked up at Ōhara Port (Please note that Iriomote has two ports: Ōhara Port and Uehara Port). The company will inform you of the ferry boarding time during a phone call on the day before.
■ Recommended Ferry Departure Times (Apr 1 – Sep 30) ・Yaeyama Kankō Ferry: 7:00 AM – 8:30 AM ・Anei Kankō: 6:50 AM – 8:30 AM
Haemi, Taketomi, Yaeyama District, Okinawa 907-1434, Japan
Restrictions
Pregnant guests may join only private tours, and please note that the itinerary may differ from standard private tours. Participation is limited to those in a stable period of pregnancy.
For safety reasons, guests with serious medical conditions such as heart disease or any illness that may suddenly worsen are not permitted to join the tour.
If you are elderly, have health concerns, or a chronic medical condition, please consult with us at the time of booking.
Please avoid overeating, excessive drinking, or staying up late the day before the tour, and ensure you are in good health on the day of participation.
If you can walk without assistance, you should be able to join the tour without issue. However, if you have concerns, we recommend a private tour for your comfort.
What to bring
Recommended Clothing Wear comfortable clothing that can get wet, as the lower body will definitely get wet during the tour (e.g., walking through rivers, rain, etc.). Long sleeves and long pants are recommended. *Wearing a swimsuit underneath is highly recommended. *Please avoid thick or heavy clothing such as jeans, chinos, or sweatpants, as they are not suitable for the tour.
What to Bring ・Sunscreen ・Hat and sunglasses ・Drinking water ・Change of clothes ・Insect repellent spray ・Tissues and a plastic bag for trash
Other requirements
The tour will be canceled only in the case of heavy rain that the guide deems dangerous. In general, the tour will still operate even in moderate rain. If the tour needs to be canceled, the tour operator will contact you by phone on the day before or between 7:00 and 7:30 AM on the day of the tour.
The tour may be canceled under the following conditions: ・A weather warning has been issued or is expected to be issued ・A typhoon is approaching or has just passed ・Thunderstorms are occurring ・Rivers or waterfalls are dangerously flooded due to heavy rain the day before ・A participant repeatedly ignores the guide’s instructions and engages in dangerous behavior ・The guide becomes unwell and cannot safely lead the tour
If weather conditions change suddenly during the tour, it may be canceled mid-way for safety reasons. Please note that in such cases, no refunds will be provided.
Additional notes
There are no restrooms available in the field. Please bring tissues and a plastic bag, and take used tissues back with you to help preserve the natural environment.
Valuables must be managed at your own risk during the tour. Please note that we are not responsible for any loss or damage of personal belongings.
Please note that drinks such as coffee or tea may not be provided depending on the weather or tour schedule on the day.
<For Guests Joining from Ishigaki Island> The departure port (Ōhara Port or Uehara Port) and your ferry boarding time will be informed by phone on the evening before the tour. A guide will meet you upon arrival at the port.
Operated by
iriomotejima komorebi trip
Cancellation policy
2-7 business days before (local time): 50%
Less than 2 business days before / No-show: 100%
Reviews
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Guest photos25
Nature immersion tour
Posted Date: 2024/06/20
くまの
The guide was very kind and made the experience enjoyable throughout. Since it was a weekday in June, it turned out to be just the two of us on the tour.
We heard the rare calls of red and green birds, saw a tortoise and lizards up close, and encountered many creatures like freshwater shrimp, fiddler crabs, and a blue variant of the swallowtail butterfly. The guide was very knowledgeable about the animals and plants, explaining in a fun way why the plants grow the way they do. As long as you pay … The guide was very kind and made the experience enjoyable throughout. Since it was a weekday in June, it turned out to be just the two of us on the tour.
We heard the rare calls of red and green birds, saw a tortoise and lizards up close, and encountered many creatures like freshwater shrimp, fiddler crabs, and a blue variant of the swallowtail butterfly. The guide was very knowledgeable about the animals and plants, explaining in a fun way why the plants grow the way they do. As long as you pay attention to the instructions, I think the level of danger is not high, and you can feel safe.
The guide's wife prepared warm Yaeyama soba with homemade meat for us in front of the waterfall, which made for a delicious lunch. We explored the limestone cave while wearing helmets!
The guide took many photos and shared about 130 of them with us via Google Drive! I wish I had brought a waterproof camera to capture my own perspective.
Overall, it was a wonderful day for our honeymoon. Thank you very much! ガイドさんはとても親切で終始楽しく、6月の平日だったこともあり私たち夫婦2人だけでツアーとなりました。
Thank you very much for participating in our tour and for sharing your wonderful feedback. We are truly honored that you chose us for your special honeymoon trip!
We appreciate your kind words about enjoying your time in the nature of Iriomote Island and the explanations about the creatures and plants. It is very encouraging for us! I'm also glad to hear that you enjoyed the Yaeyama soba and your moments at the waterfall. Thank you!
Tour Guide Masashi Ishitaka当店のツアーにご参加いただき、また素晴らしいご感想をお寄せいただき、誠にありがとうございます。 また、新婚旅行という特別なご旅行の思い出にお選びいただけたて、大変光栄です!
It was so much fun. The person who guided us was very kind and welcoming, and we made the best memories. The homemade warm Yaeyama soba and cake we had by the waterfall were also amazing. I highly recommend it.めちゃ 楽しかったです。案内をしてくれた方が、とっても親切で、アットホームで、最高の思い出ができました。滝壺で食べる手作りのあったか八重山そばとケーキも 最高でした。おすすめです。
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Reply from iriomotejima komorebi trip
Thank you very much for participating in our tour and for sharing your valuable family experience with us. I'm glad to hear that you enjoyed our homemade Yaeyama soba and cake!
We would be delighted if you could contact us again when you visit Yaeyama someday. Thank you!
Tour Guide Masashi Isohata当店のツアーにご参加いただき、また、貴重なご家族でのご体験を共有していただき、誠にありがとうございます。 自家製の八重山そばとケーキも気に入っていただけて、嬉しいです(^^)/
またいつか八重山にいらっしゃる際はご連絡いただけますと幸いです。 ありがとうございました!
ツアーガイド 五十畑 雅史
Machine translated from Japanese
I am grateful to the tour guide who provided the best experience on Iriomote Island.
Posted Date: 2023/10/15
ぱか
If you want to experience something truly representative of Iriomote Island, this tour is definitely the way to go! Starting with a canoe experience that allows you to closely observe the mangroves, followed by trekking to fully enjoy the great nature of Iriomote Island, and even exploring limestone caves, you can relish both the sea and jungle of Iriomote Island at the same time. Even for someone like me with little exercise experience, I was able to enjoy it without any issues. The tour guide,… If you want to experience something truly representative of Iriomote Island, this tour is definitely the way to go! Starting with a canoe experience that allows you to closely observe the mangroves, followed by trekking to fully enjoy the great nature of Iriomote Island, and even exploring limestone caves, you can relish both the sea and jungle of Iriomote Island at the same time. Even for someone like me with little exercise experience, I was able to enjoy it without any issues. The tour guide, Mr. Ishitaka, had amazing biological knowledge, and I felt like I was transported back to my childhood as an insect-loving boy. On the day of the tour, they picked me up from the hotel where I was staying and also provided transportation back to the port. Additionally, the special Yaeyama soba for lunch (enjoyed in the best setting while soaking in the energy of the Pinaisara Falls) and the coffee time towards the end of the tour left a wonderful impression not just with the tour content, but also with the hospitality before and after. 西表島らしい体験をしたいのなら、間違いないツアーでした! マングローブをじっくり観察できるカヌー体験にはじまり、西表島の大自然を存分に味わえるトレッキング、そして鍾乳洞探検まで、西表島の海とジャングルを同時に堪能することができます。 運動経験の少ない私でも問題なく楽しむことができました。 ツアーガイドの五十畑さんの生物知識も素晴らしく、昆虫少年だった子ども時代に戻ったような気持ちになりました。 当日は滞在していたホテルまでお迎えに来ていただき、また帰りは港まで送迎いただきました。また、お昼の特製八重山そ… 西表島らしい体験をしたいのなら、間違いないツアーでした! マングローブをじっくり観察できるカヌー体験にはじまり、西表島の大自然を存分に味わえるトレッキング、そして鍾乳洞探検まで、西表島の海とジャングルを同時に堪能することができます。 運動経験の少ない私でも問題なく楽しむことができました。 ツアーガイドの五十畑さんの生物知識も素晴らしく、昆虫少年だった子ども時代に戻ったような気持ちになりました。 当日は滞在していたホテルまでお迎えに来ていただき、また帰りは港まで送迎いただきました。また、お昼の特製八重山そば(ピナイサーラの滝のエネルギーを浴びつつ最高のシチュエーションでいただくことができます)、終了間際のコーヒータイムなど、ツアー内容だけでなく、その前後でのホスピタリティも素晴らしい印象です。
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Reply from iriomotejima komorebi trip
Hello, Paka.
This is Iohata from Iriomote Island Komorebi Trip. Thank you very much for joining our tour the other day☆
Also, thank you for sharing your experience with us.
I’m very happy to hear that you enjoyed a full day of fun. When adults truly enjoy the jungle, they return to being boys and girls!! (laughs) I myself enjoy the mountains and rivers every day with a childlike heart!!
Experiences that you can't usually have bring indescribable emotions, don't they? If you come back to Iriomote Isl… Hello, Paka.
This is Iohata from Iriomote Island Komorebi Trip. Thank you very much for joining our tour the other day☆
Also, thank you for sharing your experience with us.
I’m very happy to hear that you enjoyed a full day of fun. When adults truly enjoy the jungle, they return to being boys and girls!! (laughs) I myself enjoy the mountains and rivers every day with a childlike heart!!
Experiences that you can't usually have bring indescribable emotions, don't they? If you come back to Iriomote Island, I would love to guide you to a different field.
I look forward to the day we can meet again! Thank you very much☆ ぱか様
I longed for the subtropical jungle, so I participated with my daughter in her late 20s, who usually doesn't exercise, and my mother in her 50s. Thanks to the pace being adjusted to our fitness levels, we were able to enjoy ourselves energetically until the end. ☺️
Listening to the sounds of nature and leisurely canoeing towards the waterfall while enjoying the scenery felt wonderful. After sweating from trekking, we swam in the waterfall pool and had a delicious lunch!
I was able to learn a lot a… I longed for the subtropical jungle, so I participated with my daughter in her late 20s, who usually doesn't exercise, and my mother in her 50s. Thanks to the pace being adjusted to our fitness levels, we were able to enjoy ourselves energetically until the end. ☺️
Listening to the sounds of nature and leisurely canoeing towards the waterfall while enjoying the scenery felt wonderful. After sweating from trekking, we swam in the waterfall pool and had a delicious lunch!
I was able to learn a lot about the creatures and plants, and I'm really glad I asked Komorebito Trip for help. I would like to request guidance on a different route the next time I visit Iriomote Island!!
Thank you for all the wonderful photos! I'm still enjoying them after returning home!! 亜熱帯のジャングルに憧れて、日頃の運動しない派の20代後半の娘と、50代の母の2人で参加しました。体力に合わせてペースを調整してもらったおかげで、最後まで元気に楽しめました☺️
Hello. This is Iohata from Iriomote Island Komorebi Trip. Thank you very much for participating in our tour the other day. Also, thank you for sharing your experience.
I’m glad to hear that you enjoyed the summer vibes of Iriomote Island with the beautiful weather. I would be delighted to guide you to different spots next time.
I look forward to seeing both of you again!Saki&Chikaさま
The guide provided detailed explanations for our first kayaking experience, making us feel safe and comfortable. They also cooked delicious meals that were even better than what we would have at a restaurant! Thank you very much!初のカヤック細かい説明をしてくれるガイドさん詳しく安心して体験ができました。美味しいご飯も作ってくれる 素晴らしいガイドさん お店で食べるより美味しかった!ありがとうございました♪
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I was able to fully enjoy Iriomote Island!
Posted Date: 2023/05/06
cheeky
We participated as a couple. The tour was packed with activities, starting with canoeing, followed by trekking, waterfall diving, and exploring a limestone cave. I thought it might be physically demanding, but the guide led us at a comfortable pace, allowing us to enjoy everything safely without overexerting ourselves. I have a hobby of birdwatching, and the explanations were not only clear regarding the birds but also about the plants and various aspects of the island. I was truly impressed … We participated as a couple. The tour was packed with activities, starting with canoeing, followed by trekking, waterfall diving, and exploring a limestone cave. I thought it might be physically demanding, but the guide led us at a comfortable pace, allowing us to enjoy everything safely without overexerting ourselves. I have a hobby of birdwatching, and the explanations were not only clear regarding the birds but also about the plants and various aspects of the island. I was truly impressed by the professionalism of the guide. Additionally, the Yaeyama soba for lunch and the homemade bread by the guide's wife were both very delicious. Next time I come to Iriomote Island, I would like to request an original private tour. 夫婦で参加しました。 カヌーに始まり、トレッキング、滝壺ダイブ、鍾乳洞探索とメニュー満載のツアーでした。 体力的に厳しいかなと予想していましたが、ガイドの方がゆっくりと先導していただき無理せず安全に楽しめました。 野鳥観察が趣味なのですが、野鳥だけでなく植物や島のあれこれなど、説明がすごくわかりやすく、さすがにプロのガイドだなあと感心しました。 また、ランチの八重山そば、奥様お手製のパンもとても美味しかったです。 次に西表島に来るときはオリジナルのプライベートツアーをお願いしてみたいです。
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Reply from iriomotejima komorebi trip
Dear Cheeky,
Hello. This is Iohata from Iriomote Island Komorebi Trip. Thank you very much for participating in our tour the other day! Also, thank you for sharing your experience. I apologize for the delay in my response.
The jungle of Iriomote Island has many areas with poor footing, and activities there require a certain level of physical fitness. However, we make sure to accommodate the pace of our participants so that everyone can enjoy themselves without overexertion. I'm glad to hear you ha… Dear Cheeky,
Hello. This is Iohata from Iriomote Island Komorebi Trip. Thank you very much for participating in our tour the other day! Also, thank you for sharing your experience. I apologize for the delay in my response.
The jungle of Iriomote Island has many areas with poor footing, and activities there require a certain level of physical fitness. However, we make sure to accommodate the pace of our participants so that everyone can enjoy themselves without overexertion. I'm glad to hear you had a good time.
To ensure you have an even more enjoyable experience next time, I will continue to improve my knowledge of Iriomote Island and my cooking skills! The scenery and recommended activities change with the seasons. I sincerely look forward to the day we can meet again! cheekyさま
A must-see for animal lovers!
A nature observation tour that captures the wonders of Iriomote Island.
Posted Date: 2022/10/17
くすお
●Location →★★★★★
●Activities →★★★★☆
●Ease of Access →★★★☆☆ (I personally rate it five stars. I will explain later.)
●Deliciousness of Lunch →★★★★★
●Guide's Explanation →∞
We participated in this tour when my wife and I visited Iriomote Island for our honeymoon. First, let me say this: this tour is amazing. It's a highly satisfying package that allows you to fully enjoy nature beyond the sea for a whole day, with activities like canoeing and caving.
You can observe living creatures … ●Location →★★★★★
●Activities →★★★★☆
●Ease of Access →★★★☆☆ (I personally rate it five stars. I will explain later.)
●Deliciousness of Lunch →★★★★★
●Guide's Explanation →∞
We participated in this tour when my wife and I visited Iriomote Island for our honeymoon. First, let me say this: this tour is amazing. It's a highly satisfying package that allows you to fully enjoy nature beyond the sea for a whole day, with activities like canoeing and caving.
You can observe living creatures closely while listening to explanations from a qualified nature observation instructor who conducts bird research. If you love animals, this tour will definitely exceed your expectations.
Even if you're not that into animals, the guide is friendly, so those who focus on canoeing and activities will have plenty of fun.
Even beginners in canoeing will be able to enjoy it without any issues thanks to the lectures, and during trekking, they will show you safe and easy walking points. They provide all the necessary equipment, which is a great point for participating in the tour with peace of mind.
Regarding ease of access: Since it takes a full day, it can be physically demanding. Canoeing can be tough, especially when it's windy. Also, there aren't many opportunities to use the restroom, so be sure to consult with the guide as needed.
Regarding activities: Since you enjoy three activities in one day, it may not be suitable for those who want to focus deeply on just one. But if you want to enjoy a lot at a great value, you’ll be just fine!
Anyway, the guide is wonderful. They are friendly, knowledgeable, and cheerful, making the tour enjoyable, so give it a try! ●ロケーション →★★★★★
This is Isobata from Iriomote Island Komorebi Trip. Thank you very much for participating in our tour the other day! Also, thank you for sharing your experience. I apologize for the delay in my response.
I’m glad to hear that you enjoyed not only the activities but also the wildlife observation! It’s a wonderful time for us to talk about the creatures in the jungles of Iriomote Island with fellow nature lovers (laughs).
I look forward to the day when I can see both of you again!くすおさま
I participated with my 9-year-old and 6-year-old children. The guide was very experienced in outdoor activities, and we felt safe throughout the tour! He was knowledgeable about wildlife and birds, and the kids were very curious and learned a lot. They had a wonderful experience seeing things they wouldn't normally see in everyday life, and they were so lively! I would like to request this again when we go to Iriomote Island. 😊9才、6才の子どもと参加しました。 ガイドさんはアウトドア経験が豊富で、終始安心してツアーに参加することができました! 生きものや鳥類にも詳しく、子どもたちは興味津々でいろいろなことを教えていただきました。 普段の生活では見ることのできないものや、貴重な経験が出来て、子どもたちが生き生きしていました! また西表島へ行く際には、お願いしたいと思います(^^)
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Reply from iriomotejima komorebi trip
Dear Aya,
Hello. This is Iohata from Iriomote Island Komorebi Trip. Thank you for participating with your child the other day! Also, thank you for sharing your experience.
There were so many things that you don’t usually get to see, and your eyes were sparkling all day long. As your child grows a bit more, their range of activities will expand, so we look forward to your next challenge with us!
I am looking forward to seeing everyone again. Thank you!aya様
I went on a one-day tour of Iriomote Island! I finally got to experience the canoe tour surrounded by mangroves on the river that I've always wanted to visit! And we explored the limestone caves in the mountains of Iriomote Island! The guidance from the handsome nature-loving brother was amazing! His excitement for nature was so heartwarming!
In the peaceful surroundings, you can hear the sounds of birds, the wind, and the flowing river. He answered all my questions about nature and informed us … I went on a one-day tour of Iriomote Island! I finally got to experience the canoe tour surrounded by mangroves on the river that I've always wanted to visit! And we explored the limestone caves in the mountains of Iriomote Island! The guidance from the handsome nature-loving brother was amazing! His excitement for nature was so heartwarming!
In the peaceful surroundings, you can hear the sounds of birds, the wind, and the flowing river. He answered all my questions about nature and informed us about dangerous plants in advance, allowing us to enjoy the experience safely! Truly a great nature observation instructor!! I highly recommend it!
It was my first time canoeing, but I improved quite a bit on the way back! Also, we were served Soki soba and bread! It was delicious! Next time, I definitely want to visit your wife's bakery too! 西表島コモレビトリップ1日ツアー行って来ました! ずっと行きたかった川でのマングローブに囲まれたカヌーツアー! そして西表島の山の中の鍾乳洞! イケメン自然大好きお兄さんの案内が最高でした!自然が好きすぎて興奮してる姿が癒されました!笑
Hello. This is Igo from the Iriomote Island Komorebi Trip. Thank you for your review.
And thank you for participating in the tour the other day. Nature is indeed full of healing spaces, isn't it? I personally love nature as well, so it brings me great joy to share that relaxing experience with you.
However, nature is not just about healing; it also comes with its dangers. That's why we have guides to ensure you can enjoy the beautiful yet potentially hazardous flora, fauna, and natur… Dear HitoNori,
Hello. This is Igo from the Iriomote Island Komorebi Trip. Thank you for your review.
And thank you for participating in the tour the other day. Nature is indeed full of healing spaces, isn't it? I personally love nature as well, so it brings me great joy to share that relaxing experience with you.
However, nature is not just about healing; it also comes with its dangers. That's why we have guides to ensure you can enjoy the beautiful yet potentially hazardous flora, fauna, and natural phenomena safely. I may still have a lot to learn as a guide, but I strive to provide the best experience every day.
With your kind words in mind, I will continue to work hard to grow.
Thank you for enjoying the food in the mountains as well! My wife, although not a guide, is a baker who is always pursuing better flavors, so I hope you will enjoy it again in the future.
I look forward to the day we can meet again! Thank you very much! HitoNori様
I had an amazing time on Iriomote Island for the first time!
Posted Date: 2022/05/09
カズシゲ
I participated on April 25th. The meeting point was Ohara Port on Iriomote Island. After getting off the ferry, our guide Masashi was waiting with a "Komorebi Trip" sign, and we smoothly joined him.
After a short drive, we began our mangrove canoe experience on the beautiful Myra River (Maeragawa), which is among the top in beauty on Iriomote Island!
Even those who have never canoed before are carefully taught how to use the paddle and how to row, so there’s no anxiety at all as we set off in… I participated on April 25th. The meeting point was Ohara Port on Iriomote Island. After getting off the ferry, our guide Masashi was waiting with a "Komorebi Trip" sign, and we smoothly joined him.
After a short drive, we began our mangrove canoe experience on the beautiful Myra River (Maeragawa), which is among the top in beauty on Iriomote Island!
Even those who have never canoed before are carefully taught how to use the paddle and how to row, so there’s no anxiety at all as we set off into the jungle. While paddling up the river, Masashi shared various insights about the nature, birds, and plants of Iriomote Island, making the stunning scenery around us even more enjoyable. Before we knew it, we had paddled for about an hour and arrived at the jungle. From there, we took a light stroll through the jungle.
In the jungle, we were able to see creatures not found on the main islands, such as the Ryukyu kingfisher and small lizards, making it a truly recommended experience for nature lovers. A little further along, we found a small waterfall, where we jumped in to cool off, and for lunch, we enjoyed homemade Okinawa soba by the river! The broth and pork were homemade, and it was a delicious meal that was just perfect for our slightly tired bodies after canoeing and walking. *By the way, life jackets and shoes are provided for the tour, so even those who can’t swim are totally fine!
After finishing lunch, we headed back to the starting point by canoe for the next adventure: exploring a limestone cave. The scenery changed completely due to the tide, so it didn’t feel like we were retracing the same route, and the return trip was just as enjoyable as we shared fun stories. Depending on the wind direction, we had to put in a bit more effort paddling back against the wind (laughs).
Once we returned to the canoe starting point, we took a short break to catch a glimpse of the water buffalo heading to Yubu Island, and then it was finally time to start the cave exploration! I thought we wouldn’t have time to visit Yubu Island due to our travel schedule, so this detour was a pleasant surprise for us first-timers in Iriomote Island.
The entrance to the limestone cave was unexpectedly a hole right by the road, and we were immediately surprised by the descent using ropes—it felt like a real adventure! *Like the canoeing, the tour provided headlamps, supports, and shoes, so participants just need to wear clothes that can get wet and dirty. *There are two limestone caves we can explore: one where you can walk through on a maintained path and another where you can climb up and down and get wet and dirty, so those who don’t want to get too wet or dirty can feel at ease. We chose the one where we could get thoroughly wet and dirty.
Having been to limestone caves a few times before, I initially thought we would be walking around on a maintained path, but it pleasantly exceeded my expectations! We ended up climbing and descending using our hands and feet in a big exploration! Inside the cave, we saw bats, freshwater shrimp, and cave crickets, and I even got to see a scorpion for the first time! It releases a very sour vinegar smell when disturbed, and when I poked it, the smell was intense, so if you’re interested, definitely check it out.
As we ventured deeper into the cave, we encountered mystical stalactites from ancient times and beautiful spots where light streamed in, so this is a must-see!
At the end of the cave exploration, we had to crawl to escape. I thought I might be able to do it without getting my face wet, but that was a naive thought, and I ended up getting thoroughly wet and having a great time. Also, if your collar is loose, the freshwater shrimp might crawl into your shirt, giving you a moment of unexpected connection, which I recommend for those who enjoy that kind of experience.
Once we exited the cave, we found ourselves on a beach where we could wash off our dirty bodies in the beauti 4月25日に参加させていただきました。 待ち合わせは西表島の大原港。フェリーを降りて「コモレビトリップ」のプラカードを持ったガイドのまさしさんが待っていてくれて、すんなり合流
Hello. This is Iohata from Iriomote Island Komorebi Trip. Thank you very much for participating in the tour the other day! I also appreciate your detailed review ☆ I’m very happy to hear that! (^^♪
The weather was certainly a blessing, but what made it even better was that we could tailor the tour to match your stamina for the entire day, allowing you to fully enjoy the jungle of Iriomote Island! Observing wildlife is often a matter of chance, but we were lucky to see all the creat… Dear Kazushige,
Hello. This is Iohata from Iriomote Island Komorebi Trip. Thank you very much for participating in the tour the other day! I also appreciate your detailed review ☆ I’m very happy to hear that! (^^♪
The weather was certainly a blessing, but what made it even better was that we could tailor the tour to match your stamina for the entire day, allowing you to fully enjoy the jungle of Iriomote Island! Observing wildlife is often a matter of chance, but we were lucky to see all the creatures we wanted to, except for the coconut crab and the wildcat. And the komorebi in the limestone cave, which can only be seen on sunny days! There are many days when it’s not possible to see it, but we were fortunate to experience a beautiful sight with a perfect alignment of coincidences!
As a nature guide on Iriomote Island, I know I can’t show you everything in just one day, but I’m glad we could provide a tour that was close to perfect for your experience! I hope to guide you through different rivers, waterfalls, and nature on your next visit to the island. I sincerely look forward to the day I can meet you both again!
Thank you once again for participating!
Iriomote Island Komorebi Trip Nature Guide Masashi Iohata カズシゲ様