All Reviews for Japan Hidden Gems: Secret Islands

I was worried about the round trip of 22 km, but they taught me how to climb, and I managed without getting too tired. I felt really relieved when I reached Wilson's Tree and Jomon Sugi.

往復22kmで心配してましたが登り方まで教えてくれてさほど疲れずに何とかなりました。ウィルソン株＆縄文杉に到達したときはすごく安心しました。

In the morning, I had a wonderful time snorkeling at Balas Island, where the guide explained the names of the fish while we enjoyed the beautiful underwater scenery! Even though it was late February, the water felt warm, and since I was wearing a wetsuit, it was a comfortable snorkeling tour.

In the afternoon, we explored the mangroves while kayaking, and I was very moved when we got out of the kayak and walked a little to see a large waterfall.

It was my first time kayaking, but we moved slowly and listened to the guide's various explanations, making it a very relaxing kayaking tour! It was a day that made me want to participate again when I visit next time.

午前中にバラス島へのシュノーケリングで、とても綺麗な海の中をガイドの人の説明で魚の名前を教えていただきながら楽しい時間を過ごせました！２月下旬でしたが、海の中は冷たさを感じなくウェットスーツも着ていたので、快適なシュノーケリングツアーでした。
午後のカヤックは、マングローブの中を探検気分で進んで行き、最後はカヤックを降りて、少し歩いた先に大きな滝を見たときはとても感動しました。
カヤックは初めてでしたが、ゆっくりと進んで行きガイドの方の色々な説明も聞きながら、とても癒されたカヤックツアーでした！
また、次回訪れた際にも参加したいと思える1日でした。

I paddled through the mangroves, and the scenery was incredibly beautiful, truly reminiscent of a Studio Ghibli world. The water was clear, and I was able to see many creatures and plants I had never encountered before, which left me very satisfied. The guide was also very kind, and time flew by as they explained each location.

Later, at the limestone cave, it felt like I was in a hidden paradise, completely immersed in nature. The scenery was breathtaking, unlike any paved cave I've seen. It's definitely an experience everyone should have at least once in their lifetime!

マングローブをカヌーを漕いで進んで行きましたが、景色がすごく綺麗で、まさしくジブリの世界観でした、水も綺麗で多くの生き物や、見たことない植物もたくさん見れて大満足でした。
ガイドの方もとても親切で、各地点の説明も交えながら時間もあっという間に過ぎてしまいました。
その後にいった鍾乳洞では、まさに自然そのもので秘境に来たような感覚でした、舗装された鍾乳洞とは別格で風景は圧巻でした、是非一生に一度は経験した方がいいですね！！

This is a day trip tour departing from Ishigaki Island, visiting Iriomote, Yufu, and Taketomi Islands in that order. The day before, the Yaeyama Islands were cold, but the day of the tour was sunny and a bit warm. Upon arriving at Iriomote Island, we cruised along the Nakama River at low tide, and the mangroves looked beautiful. Since it had warmed up, we spotted a large number of southern fiddler crabs on the tidal flats. According to our cruise guide, they couldn't be seen the day before due to the cold, so we were lucky. We then took a water buffalo cart from Iriomote Island to Yufu Island. While riding the cart, we learned that the buffalo are raised gently without training. The entire island is a subtropical plant paradise, and after lunch, we enjoyed a pleasant stroll through the island's nature and sandy beaches. Upon arriving at Taketomi Island, we visited Hoshizuna Beach, known for its star sand. After that, we rode the famous water buffalo cart in the center of the island, touring the main points and enjoying Okinawan songs played on the sanshin. A friendly assistant accompanied us from Ishigaki Island, but different guides were responsible for each sightseeing spot. The time management was well organized, and it felt like a very well-coordinated tour.

朝、石垣島を出発して１日で西表・由布・竹富島の順番で回る日帰りツアーです。前日まで八重山列島地方は寒かったですが、ツアーに参加した日は晴れて少し暖かかったです。最初に西表島に到着すると、干潮になったときのタイミングで仲間川をクルージングしますが、マングローブはきれいに見えました。暖かくなったので干潟で大量のミナミコメツキガニを見かけました。クルーズのガイドさんによると、前日は寒くて見れなかったそうですがラッキーでした。西表島から水牛車に乗り、由布島に到着します。水牛車に乗っているときに牛は調教せずに優しく育てていることを教えてくれました。島全体が亜熱帯植物楽園で昼食後、小さい島の自然や砂浜を楽しく散策しました。竹富島に到着すると星の砂が取れる星砂の浜を訪れます。その後、島の中心部で名物である水牛車に乗車して主要なポイントを巡り、三線を使った沖縄の歌を聞いて楽しむことができました。石垣島からフレンドリーアシスタントが同行しますが、各観光地で担当するガイドさんが異なります。時間管理がされていて、非常に良く連携されているいいツアーに感じました。

Originally scheduled for December 30, it was changed to December 31 due to bad sea conditions. The terminal check-in is smooth but a bit crowded. Stickers are applied, and passengers are sorted. The ferry was stable and didn't sway much. The weather was cloudy with occasional rain, but even on New Year's Eve, it was over 15°C, so a coat is essential, but it was manageable. However, the water buffalo cart to Yubujima crossed in strong winds, which was a bit chilly.

This is actually my second time, but unlike before, the boat ride on the river in Iriomote Island is now just a round trip without landing, which is a bit boring. Other than that, the water buffalo carts on Yubujima and Taketomi Island have a different atmosphere and are quite nice.

If I had to say something, I think it would be nice to have Okinawa soba for lunch, and the free time on Taketomi Island feels a bit short. Overall, I think the meeting place, the way we moved around, and the time allocation were fairly good.

もともとは12月30日の予定でしたが、海況が悪く、12月31日に変更となりました。
ターミナルの受付はスムーズですが、やや混みます。
シールを貼って、振り分けされます。
フェリーは安定していてあまり揺れませんでした。
天気は曇り時々雨でしたが、大晦日でも15℃以上はあるので、コートは必須ですが、大丈夫でした。
ただ、由布島へ行く水牛車は暴風の中渡りました。ちょっと寒かったです。

実は2回目ですが、以前と違って西表島の川を船で行くのは、上陸なしで、行って帰ってくるだけとなっておりちょっと退屈です。
その他は由布島と竹富島も水牛車に乗りますが、雰囲気は変わって、いい感じです。

敢えて言うなら、昼食は沖縄そばがあってもいいと思うのと、竹富島での自由時間がちょっと短いなと言うのが感想です。
全体的には集合場所、周り方、時間配分とまあまあ良かったと思います。

Although the weather was bad during the rainy season, it was a very satisfying tour! The guides were all very kind and attentive. Thank you for the wonderful memories!

雨季でお天気は悪かったですが、大変満足なツアーでした！ガイドさんは皆さんとっても親切で丁寧でした。最高の思い出をありがとうございました！

The schedule was well-organized, allowing us to make effective use of our time. The weather wasn't great, but we enjoyed each island. Cycling on Taketomi Island was also nice. Each of the guides was very kind.

スケジュールがしっかりしており、時間を有効に使えました。天気はイマイチでしたが、それぞれの島ごとに、満喫できました。竹富島のサイクリングも良かったです。それぞれのガイドの方もとても親切でした。

Due to a record cold wave, unfortunately, we were unable to land on Baras Island, but a portion of the tour fee was refunded, and we received a thorough explanation during our reservation the day before.

The limestone cave was more authentic than I expected, with some areas so narrow that you almost have to crouch to get through, so those who want to avoid getting wet should be cautious.

It was my first time in a limestone cave, and I was glad to see sleeping bats and icicles up close. Experiencing true darkness was also a very valuable experience.

SUP while looking at the mangroves was fun as well.

What I appreciated the most was that, due to the timing of our return boat, I communicated my desired return time to the tour conductor at the meeting point, and they were very considerate, ensuring we were able to board the boat on time.

Thank you for providing so many enjoyable experiences.

記録的な寒波のため、残念ながらバラス島への上陸はできませんでしたが、そのぶんツアー代の一部が返金されましたし、前日の予約時にも丁寧にご説明いただきました。
鍾乳洞は思ったより本格的で、かなり狭くなってほぼしゃがみ込まないと通り抜けられないところがありますので、水に濡れたくない人は注意です。
はじめての鍾乳洞でしたが、寝ているコウモリがいたり、つららが落ちている様子を間近で見られてよかったです。また、真の暗闇を体感できて、大変貴重な経験になりました。
マングローブを横目に見ながらのSUPも楽しかったです。
何よりありがたかったのが、こちらの帰りの船の時間の都合で、絶対に帰りたい時間を当日の集合時にツアーコンダクターの方にお伝えしたところ、大変気にしていただき、無事に時間通りに船に乗ることができました。
いろいろと楽しい思いをさせて頂きましてありがとうございます。

I fulfilled my dream of seeing Jomon Sugi with my own eyes.

The guide was incredibly experienced, and we were able to trek while chatting in a fun and informative way about tips for walking. Initially, we had planned to go on January 2, but it was canceled due to road closures leading to the trailhead. However, I felt reassured by their thorough communication. On the 3rd, although there was snow on the ground, we had clear blue skies and were able to see the most amazing scenery. I don't think it would have been as enjoyable without the guide, and I was satisfied to have climbed alongside everyone else. I think I will ask for their services again when I go back.

縄文杉を自分の目で見るという夢が叶いました。

ガイドの方もものすごく経験豊富、歩き方のコツなど
丁寧に楽しくおしゃべりしながらトレッキング出来ました。
また、1月2日の予定でしたが登山口までの道路の通行止めにより
中止になりましたが丁寧な連絡で安心できましたし、
3日は雪は積もってましたが、晴天の青空
最高の景色を見ることが出来ました。
ガイド無しでは楽しく無かったと思いますし
一緒に登った皆様とも楽しく登れて満足してます。
また行くときはお願いすると思います。

I was able to see rare mangroves up close, cross the sea while being gently rocked by cute water buffalo, and learn about the unseen history and circumstances of the island through the guide's interesting and captivating stories. I was satisfied with everything.

珍しいマングローブを間近に見て、かわいい水牛に揺られて海を渡り、ガイドさんの面白く興味惹かれる話で目には映らない島の歴史や事情、今や思いをしりました。全てにおいて満足でした。

I received great support from the guide during this Jomon Sugi trekking tour. I’m not good with heights, but I was able to cross bridges without handrails safely. There were some people who went alone, but I felt much more secure being with a guide. The actual Jomon Sugi was very mystical. If I have the chance, I would like to challenge myself again.

今回の縄文杉トレッキングツアーではガイドさんにとてもお世話になりました。高い所が苦手なわたしでしたが、手すりの無い橋も無事クリアすることができました。単独で行かれる方もいらっしいましたが、できればガイドの方と一緒の方が安心感が違います。実際の縄文杉はとても幻想的でした。機会があればまたチャレンジしてみたいと思いました。

It was a storm strong enough to cancel boats, but around 7:30 AM, I received a call from the staff confirming that the tour would proceed, and I was able to participate safely. The itinerary changed from the original plan to canoeing to the waterfall and trekking in the limestone caves. There was also a refund due to the course change. The staff were very kind and explained the names and characteristics of the plants in an easy-to-understand manner. By participating in the tour, I gained a better understanding of Iriomote Island. Although it was stormy outside, once we entered the mangroves, I didn't feel the wind at all; it was calm and enjoyable. The rain wasn't too bothersome either, but next time I want to visit during the dry season and try other courses.

船が欠航するほどの暴風でしたが、7時30分ごろにスタッフから催行の電話があり、無事ツアーに参加することができました。当初の予定から変わり、滝までのカヌーと鍾乳洞のトレッキングとなりました。コース変更に伴い返金もありました。スタッフの方もとても親切で、一つ一つ植物の名前や特徴をわかりやすく教えてくれました。ツアーに参加することで、西表島のことがよくわかるようになりました。また、外は暴風でしたが、マングローブの中に入ると全く風を感じず、穏やかで楽しむことができました。雨もそこまで気にならなかったですが、次は乾季にを訪れて、他のコースにも挑戦したいです。

I was moved to see Jomon Sugi, and the trekking was also fun. On the way down, perhaps because we had time, we enjoyed various detours and played around, which made it enjoyable. Thank you, guide!!

縄文杉を見れた感動もありましたが、トレッキングも楽しかったです。下りは時間があったからか、いろいろ寄り道?しながら、遊びながら下ったので楽しかったです。ガイドさんありがとう!!

It turned out to be a very enjoyable day. I was anxious about how things would go with the bad weather, but I was welcomed by the cute water buffaloes, creating wonderful memories. Since I could choose my own return boat time, after touring the village with the water buffaloes, I was able to rent a bicycle from the neighboring building and go to the beach and some nearby places. I recommend bringing a raincoat as it seems to rain a lot during this season. Even when it rained along the way, I had no problem riding the bicycle thanks to the raincoat. I would like to visit again on a sunny day.

とても楽しい一日になりました。
天候が悪い中どうなるかと不安でしたが、、
可愛い水牛さん達にに迎えられステキな思い出となりました。帰りの船の時間が自分で選べるため、水牛さんとの村観光の後、隣の建物て自転車を借りてビーチや少しはなれた場所まで行くことも出来ました。
いまの時期は雨が多いそうですので雨ガッパをお持ちになることをお勧めします。途中雨が降っても雨カッパのおかげで問題なく自転車に乗れました。
今度は晴れた日に又訪れたいです。

I was able to see sea turtles! They were very cute.
However, for some reason, there was no drone filming, and it just ended like that. We realized it after we took off our wetsuits, so we decided to let it go and head home, but if there was no drone, we should have chosen another tour.
Moreover, I was told that they would edit some of the photos taken with the sea turtles, and I thought a professional would edit them with Photoshop, but it turned out to be basic editing done on a smartphone that anyone could do. (Probably just increased the saturation...)
The guide was a nice person, but it was a disappointing experience.

海亀とは会えました！とても可愛かったです。
ただ、ドローンでの撮影はなぜかなしで、そのまま終わってしまいました。自分たちもウェットスーツを脱いだ後に気づいたので、もうそれについては突っ込まず諦めて帰りましたが、ドローンないならほかのツアーにすれば良かったです。
しかも、海亀と撮った写真は何枚か加工します、と言われ、Photoshopでプロの方が加工してくれるのかと思いきや、誰でも出来るレベルのスマホでの加工でした。(多分、彩度を上げただけ…）
ガイドさん自体はいい人でしたが、残念な内容でした。

We took a lot of photos even though there were three of us for six shots. Despite the last-minute reservation the day before, they were very accommodating. It became the best memory photo. I definitely think this is a tour you should participate in.

3人で6ショットなのに沢山撮っていただきました。
前日の予約にもかかわらず、気軽に受けていただきました。
最高の思い出の写真になりました。
絶対に参加すべきツアーだと思います。

I visited Kohama Island separately, so I went on a tour of three islands. The hotel provided transportation, and the tour was well-organized and fulfilling. I enjoyed my free time on both Yubu Island and Taketomi Island.

小浜島は別でいったので、3島巡りにしました。
ホテルからの送迎付きで、内容も充実していて良かったです。
由布島も、竹富島も、自由時間があり満喫できました。

I was looking for a tour that would allow us to take our one-year-old and enjoy sightseeing at a leisurely pace. Perhaps due to the impact of COVID-19, the bus and water buffalo cart were private, allowing just our family to enjoy the experience. This was my second visit to Kaiji Beach, but I remember it being more beautiful with more star sand when I visited over a decade ago. We were able to leisurely admire the houses and scenery of Taketomi Island, spend our time slowly, and create wonderful memories as a family.

1歳児連れての観光なので、なるべくゆっくり観光できるツアーを探していました。コロナの影響もあってかバス、水牛車は貸切で、私たち家族だけで楽しむことができました。カイジ浜は2度目でしたが、十数年前に訪れた時の方がもっと星の砂があって綺麗な印象でした。竹富島の家や風景をのんびり見られて、ゆっくり過ごせて、家族のいい思い出ができました。

I'm nearly 70 years old, and I was worried, but the guide encouraged me, and it was enjoyable. For lunch, they made miso soup with natural water, and it was very delicious.

70 才にちかいのですが、心配でしたがガイドさんに励まされそして楽しくそして昼食では天然水で味噌汁を作っていただき大変美味しかっです。

We toured the island in a counterclockwise direction with a dedicated guide driving us. The guide's explanations were accurate and fascinating, and we could change our destinations based on our preferences. We visited the tea fields in Yakushima, which is geographically the first place to ship "new tea," and also stopped by the Morikyu Shrine, where the fallen Heike warriors are enshrined. We saw the couple Aokou trees, whose roots are intertwined, and visited the Yakushima Lighthouse, which is inaccessible by bus. We also enjoyed the Hirauchi Seacoast Onsen, where bathing is allowed without underwear, as it springs from the sea. I was very satisfied with the experience.

専属のガイドさんの運転で、反時計回りで、島内観光をしました。ガイドさんの説明が的確で興味深く、行く場所も希望で変更出来ました。地理的に一番早く「新茶」が出荷できる屋久島の茶畑に立ち寄ったり、平家の落人が祀られている盛久神社、境内に２本のアコウの根と根が絡み合い合体している夫婦アコウを観光したり、バスでは行けない屋久島灯台、下着厳禁で入浴可能な、海の中から湧き出ている平内海中温泉も観光しました、大満足でした。

The weather on the day was relatively good compared to the past few days, and even in winter, it was comfortable for a solo traveler to visit each island. Since it was my first time, I think it would have been better to have a bit more guidance and support on each island. It was also nice to receive the Go To regional coupons during the COVID-19 pandemic.

当日はここ数日のなかで比較的に天気が良くて、冬場でも北の一人旅人には快適に各島回れました。
初めてなので、もう少し各島での案内サポートがあれば良かったと思います。コロナ禍でGo To地域クーポンが貰えたのも良かった。

This was my second visit to Jomon Sugi, and I was excited after a long time. I had imagined it would be similar to my last visit, which had only two participants, but this time there were five. I was a bit worried since I'm not great with large groups, but I can say that those concerns were completely unnecessary; I had an amazing and satisfying experience. The guide was very knowledgeable, and their consideration and warmth made the experience pleasant. Everyone I was with was also very nice, which made the time enjoyable. I now have more things I want to challenge and places I want to visit on Yakushima for next time, which has made my experience even more fulfilling. Thank you for a wonderful time!

今回2度目の縄文杉で、久しぶりでドキドキしており、前回が参加者2名だったため、同じ感じを想像していたところ実際は5名。大人数が苦手なためやや心配していたのですが、そんな不安は無駄だったと言えるくらい大満喫、大満足でした。ガイドさんは知識が豊富で、また配慮や温度感が心地よく、ご一緒してくださった方々も感じが良い方ばかりで、とても楽しく過ごすことができました。また、次回屋久島でチャレンジしてみたいことや行ってみたいところもでき、ますます充実度が増しました。素敵な時間をありがとうございました！

It was my first time seeing such a beautiful starry sky; it felt like I was in a planetarium, and I even saw shooting stars, which was truly moving. During the photo shoot, the photographer kindly gave posing instructions, and after the tour, he recommended spots and helped plan the next day's itinerary, making the whole day enjoyable. The photos were of high quality, and I'm really glad I participated! It became my best memory in Miyako Island.

あんなに綺麗な星空を見るのは初めてでプラネタリウムを見ているようでたまに流れ星も見えて本当に感動しました。
撮影の時はカメラマンさんは優しくポージングの指示をしてくれてツアー終了後にはおすすめスポットを教えてくれたり次の日の予定を立ててくれて1日楽しめました(^^)
写真も高クオリティで本当に参加して良かったです！
宮古島で1番の思い出になりました(^^)

I had always wanted to visit Jomon Sugi. It was my first time trekking, but I was taught how to walk with minimal strain, and along the way, I was guided through various plants, which made it very enjoyable. One guide led a group of seven of us. Since it’s early in the morning and dark, a flashlight is essential.

一度は行きたいと思っていた縄文杉。
トレッキングは初めてだったのですが、負担の少ない歩き方から教えていただいたり、道中はいろいろな植物をガイドしていただいたので、とても楽しかったです。
1人のガイドさんで7人を案内いただきました。
朝早く暗いので、懐中電灯必須です。

It was disappointing that we couldn't go to Palau Island and the caves because of the high waves. In the morning, we all had our first SUP experience as a family. Just when we got the hang of it, we fell into the river... that also became a fun memory. In the afternoon, we went canyoning, and our guide Diego was very knowledgeable, providing an interesting and enjoyable experience. We had a meaningful day and captured many great shots! I would love to visit again if I have the chance.

波が高くてパラス島&鍾乳洞には行けなかったのは残念でした。午前は家族みんなの希望で、初SUP体験。慣れた頃に川へドボン・・これも楽しい思い出になりました。午後はキャニオニング、ガイドのジエゴさんは知識が豊富で、おもしろ&楽しく案内して頂き、有意義な１日を過ごすことが出来ました。沢山のベストショットも最高‼️
機会があればまた訪れたいです。

I was wondering if it was a tour with a dedicated guide, but it turned out to be a tour where staff members were at each point, managing the itinerary while checking tickets. Yufu Island was great. On Taketomi Island, there was hardly any free time after riding the glass-bottom boat and the water buffalo cart, so I plan to visit again on my own later!

添乗員が付き切りのツアーかな？と思っていたら、各ポイントにスタッフがいてチケットを切りながら行程を進めていくツアーでした。由布島が良かったです。竹富島はグラスボートと水牛車に乗ると自由時間はほとんどなく、また後日個人で行こうと思ってます！

First of all, I was prepared for the rain, but I was fortunate with the weather. I thought it would be dull to walk alone in a solo trip, so I signed up for a local tour to hear various stories from the area. To my surprise, I had a great guide (a resident from Tochigi) which made the round trip of 10 hours enjoyable (though a bit tough), and I was able to fully appreciate the deep nature leading to Jomon Sugi.

まずは、雨は覚悟の上だったが天候に恵まれた。ひとり旅で黙々と歩くのも味気ないと思い、色々な現地話も聞きたいと現地ツアーに申込んだが、思いのほかいいガイドさん（栃木出身移住者）で往復の10時間が楽しく（少々辛く）、縄文杉までの奥自然が堪能できました。

I thought 10 hours would be long, but it went by in a flash. In the morning, I walked quietly in the dark and didn't know where I was going, but on the way back, I got to see some wonderful scenery. I was overwhelmed by the Great Cedar and Jomon Cedar, and it was very healing!

10時間は長いなと思いましたが、あっという間でした。
朝は真っ暗な中を黙々と、どこを歩いていたのかわからなかったですが、復路では素敵な景色を見れました。
大王杉・縄文杉に圧倒されましたし、とても癒されました！

Overall, it was good, but the departure of the boat from Iriomote Island to Taketomi Island was delayed by about 15 minutes because one of the participants missed the bus, which was disappointing as there was hardly any time for sightseeing on Iriomote Island. Such things can happen, so I recommend choosing a plan that allows for a departure on the 5:00 PM boat from Iriomote Island. Personally, I think it would be nice to go to Hoshi no Suna Beach by bus tour or by bicycle, so a combination of an ox cart and bike rental seems like a good option.

総じて良かったですが、西表島から竹富島への船の出発が、参加者の中でバスに乗り遅れた方がいらっしゃったため15分ほど遅れ、西表島のバス観光がほとんど時間が取れなかったのが残念でした。こういう事は起こり得るので、西表島の出発は17:00の船を選択できるプランをお勧めします。個人的にはバスツアーで行く星の砂のビーチも自転車で行くこともできるので、牛車＋レンタサイクルが良さそうです。

I participated in the Iriomote Island and Yufu Island tour organized by Ishigaki Island Dream Tourism through Veltra. Using the Go To Travel campaign, the cost for two people was 22,800 yen with a 35% discount, plus a 3,000 yen regional coupon, making it truly affordable. The tour included a mangrove cruise on the Nakama River, a water buffalo cart ride, and lunch (bento), and I was very satisfied with the experience.

ベルトラを通して石垣島ドリーム観光主催の西表島由布島2島観光N0コースに参加、goto使い2人で22800円が35パーセント引き、さらに地域クーポンが3000円付き本当に格安で参加できた。内容も仲間川マングローブクルーズ、水牛での水牛車観光、昼食(弁当)もついて大満足でした。