All Reviews for Japan Hidden Gems: Secret Islands

I came to Ishigaki Island and, since I was here, I wanted to explore other islands in the Yaeyama region, so I signed up for this three-island tour. We took a boat to explore the mangrove forests of Iriomote Island, rode a water buffalo cart for 400 meters to Yubu Island, where we were soothed by subtropical plants, enjoyed a buffet lunch featuring Okinawan cuisine, and then moved on to Taketomi Island. Here, we also rode a water buffalo cart and spent a leisurely time admiring the red-tiled roofs. During the ride, our guide played the sanshin and sang Okinawan songs, making me feel like I was truly in Okinawa. The entire course included explanations, allowing us to learn many things that we wouldn't have known just by exploring on our own, making it a satisfying tour.

石垣島旅行に来、せっかくなので八重山の他の島も巡ってみたいと思い、この3島ツアーに申し込みました。ボートでの西表島のマングローブ林巡り、400m水牛車に乗って由布島(ゆぶじま)に渡り、亜熱帯植物に癒され、沖縄ごはんのブュッフェランチをとり、竹富島に移動。ここでも水牛車に乗って赤瓦の屋根屋根を眺めつつゆっくりとした時間を過ごせました。水牛車ではガイドの方が三線を弾きながら沖縄の歌を歌ってくださり、沖縄に来た～と思えます。コース全てに渡って解説がつくので、個人で巡るだけでは知ることの出来ないことをたくさん学べたりもでき、満足なツアーでした

The highlight of this tour was definitely the mangrove cruise in Iriomote Island, which was fantastic. I was impressed by the guide's explanations and assistance. I recorded the shamisen performance on the water buffalo cart, so I'll be listening to it again and again. For Taketomi Island, I chose the bus tour, which made it easy to explore various places, and it was perfect for older travelers.

このツアー最大の期待だった西表島マングローブクルーズがとっても良かった。ガイドさんの説明や対応も感動しました。水牛車の三味線演奏も動画撮影したのでちょくちょく聴き直します。竹富島はバスツアーを選んだで楽に色々廻れて年配者にには最高でした。

I was very satisfied with the guide's interesting and engaging stories, as well as the nature of Yakushima. There were various other tours available, but I'm glad I chose this one.

ガイドさんの面白く興味深い話と屋久島の自然に大満足。
色々他のツアーありましたが、このツアーを選んで良かったです。

Yubu Island and Taketomi Island both had plenty of free time for independent activities, which allowed for a personal experience that was fantastic. The photos taken with the cows turned out to be unexpectedly wonderful, and I couldn't help but purchase them.

由布島も竹富島も自由行動時間がたっぷりで、自分なりの体験が出来、最高でした。
牛と一緒に撮った写真が思いのほか素敵で…思わず購入しました。

Unfortunately, the snorkeling was moved to a different spot due to high waves, but I was able to encounter sea turtles✨. Since it was my first time snorkeling, I had some anxiety, but I was glad to go to places I definitely couldn't have reached on my own! It was reassuring that I could grab onto the float that the guide was holding when I got tired!

In the second half, I enjoyed a mangrove canoe tour✨. I got to see the mangroves up close, and at times, we even went through the gaps, which provided a different kind of fun compared to the ocean!

Throughout the day, the guide took a lot of photos and videos, so I was happy to be able to create many memories without having to bring my smartphone✨. Also, I appreciated the included transportation service✨.

シュノーケリングは残念ながら高波の影響で別のスポットになりましたが、ウミガメに出会うことができました✨
初めてのシュノーケリングだったので不安もありましたが、1人では絶対に行けないような場所まで行けてよかったです！疲れたらガイドさんが持ってくれている浮き輪に捕まることもできたので安心でした！

後半はマングローブカヌーを楽しみました✨
マングローブを間近で見て、時には間をくぐったりして、海とは違う楽しみ方ができました！

1日を通して、ガイドの方が写真や動画をたくさん撮ってくれるので、スマホを持ち込まなくても思い出をたくさん残せてよかったです✨
また、送迎付きなのもありがたかったです✨

I participated with concerns about my lower back and hips, but the guide was considerate and supportive, allowing me to reach the finish line without feeling discouraged or getting injured. I believe I would have given up if it weren't for the guide's presence.

足腰に不安を抱えた状態での参加でしたが、ガイドさんが適度に気遣いくださり、気持ちが折れることなく怪我なくゴールすることが出来ました。
ガイドさんがいてくださらなかったら、諦めていたと思いました。

I was able to efficiently visit the islands. I rented a bicycle, but it seemed like the frame was bent, making it very difficult to ride and unstable. Since it had been decades since I last rode a bike, I initially thought it was just because I wasn't used to it. However, upon reflection, I realized that the handlebar setup and seat angle were in very poor condition. I regret not asking for a change right from the start.

非常に効率よく島々を廻れました。
レンタサイクルを借りましたが、フレームが曲がっているようで非常に乗りにくく安定した走りが出来ず苦労しました。
何十年ぶりに自転車に乗ったので、初めは慣れていないからかな？と思っていましたが冷静に考えてみるとハンドルのセッティング・座席の角度等非常に整備業況が悪いです。
最初に変更を望めば良かったと反省しきりです。

I couldn't go to the Blue Cave, but I was able to see beautiful coral! Also, I miraculously got to see a sea turtle.

The guide also takes videos and photos for you, so you can be satisfied even if you don't bring your own camera!

青の洞窟へは行けませんでしたが、
綺麗なサンゴを見ることはできました！
また、ウミガメも奇跡的に見ることはできました。

カメラもガイドさんがちゃんと動画や写真を撮ってくれるので持ってこなくても満足できます！

The day before, it was raining on and off, but on this day, there was wind, and it was sunny with beautiful colors in the sea. During the mangrove tour, I enjoyed the guide's fun stories and explanations about the types of mangroves. It was something I don't get to see often, so I'm glad I came. It turned out to be an amazing day.

前日は雨が降ったりやんだり、この日は風はあるけど晴れて海の色も綺麗でした
マングローブのでは、ガイドさんの楽しい話しとマングローブの種類の説明を聞いて楽しかったしなかなか見られるものでは無いので来て良かった
最高な日になりました。

After making a web reservation, the ticket reception and boarding for the ferry and bus were smooth. The water buffalo was a good and cute one. If the weather had been nice, it would have been the best experience. Thank you very much.

WEB予約後、チケット受付もフェリーやバス乗車もスムーズ。水牛は良い子で可愛かったです。
天気が良ければ最高の体験でしたね。
ありがとうございまさした。

The weather was nice during the mangrove tour, and since we were on the first boat, there were no waves, and the water surface looked like a mirror, reflecting the trees beautifully. I was very moved and was able to take some stunning photos.

On the water buffalo cart, I enjoyed hearing stories about the water buffalo and the island from our guide, making the journey fun.

For lunch, I had local food, but it didn't quite suit my taste.

In Taketomi Island, we toured by bus, but the time was short and it felt rushed; I wished we had more time.

マングローブ遊覧で天気が良く先頭の船だったので、波も無く水面が鏡の様で木々が水面に映り、美しい写真が撮れてとても感動しました
水牛車は、ガイドさんから水牛や島の話しを聞き楽しく移動が出来ました
昼食は地元の物を食べれたがあまり口に合わなかった
竹富島ではバス観光で廻ったが、時間が短く忙しなくもっと時間が欲しかった

We were pulled by a cute water buffalo, and the guide shared interesting and amusing stories about Taketomi Island. It was a wonderful experience where we could feel the flow of time on the island.

可愛い水牛に引っ張ってもらって、ガイドさんが竹富島の説明を面白おかしくお話してくれます。島の時の流れが感じられ、素敵な体験でした。

I was guided by Yume, and I was able to spend a special time unique to Iriomote Island.

It was my first canoe experience, but thanks to her bright and kind support, I felt at ease. The explanations about the mangroves were enjoyable, and I was moved to be taken to some wonderful hidden spots.

Unfortunately, the weather was cloudy, but since there was no direct sunlight, it was actually comfortable and nice. It became a wonderful memory; thank you very much!

ガイドのユメさんに案内していただき、西表島ならではの特別な時間を過ごせました。

初めてのカヌー体験でしたが、明るく優しいサポートのおかけで安心感がありました。
マングローブの解説も楽しく、とっておきの素敵なスポットまで連れていってもらえて感動しました。

天気はあいにくの曇りでしたが、直射日光はなかったので逆に過ごしやすくて良かったです。
素敵な思い出になりました、ありがとうございました！

We took a walk around the village while receiving explanations! It was great to explore Taketomi Island and learn about its charm rather than just visiting as a tourist! Although it was unfortunately rainy, we still enjoyed the water buffalo!

説明をしてもらいながら集落を散歩しました！観光でくるより竹富島なら良さを知りながら回れたのでよかったです！あいにくの雨でしたが水牛は楽しめました！！

I was looking forward to the tour, but unfortunately, it rained...
Riding a bike in a poncho on Taketomi Island was tough.
Surprisingly, the bike tires got stuck in the sand.
However, the ride on the ox cart from Iriomote Island to Yufu was fun.
The water buffaloes were working hard.
Also, the bus driver's stories during the ride were entertaining.
Even with the bad weather, it was a tour that I enjoyed in its own way.
Thank you very much.

楽しみにしてたツアーですが、生憎の雨・・・。
竹富島では、ポンチョ着てのチャリは、しんどい。
意外に砂地にチャリのタイヤが取られる。
でも、西表島⇒由布の牛車は楽しかった。
水牛さんたちが頑張ってました。
また、移動のバスの運転手さんのお話が面白かったです。
天候が悪くてもそれはそれで楽しめたツアーでした。
ありがとうございました。

In the morning, I participated in a mangrove kayaking activity, and in the afternoon, I went snorkeling in the Blue Cave.

We gathered around 9 AM, and I felt reassured as they picked us up from the hotel to start the day. The weather was clear and warm, and both activities offered stunning views! During snorkeling, I was lucky enough to encounter a sea turtle, just as the tour promised.

The guides took a lot of photos with a GoPro throughout the tour, and I was grateful that they shared them with us on the same day, despite their busy schedule. It had been a while since I participated in such activities, but everyone was cheerful and lively, which made it enjoyable.

Personally, I was happy that lunch was flexible and we had plenty of time, allowing us to enjoy some gourmet food on the same day. It turned out to be a very satisfying day!

午前にマングローブ(カヤック)、午後に青の洞窟シュノーケリングに参加しました

朝9時台の集合でしたが、ホテルまでピックアップに来ていただいて安心のスタート
当日は快晴で気温も高く、どちらのアクティビティも最高の景色を見れました！
シュノーケリングではツアー名のとおりウミガメにも遭遇できて、とてもラッキーでした

ガイドの方々は、ツアー中GoProでたくさん写真を取ってくださり、お忙しいのに当日にすぐシェアしていただけてありがたかったです
こういったアクティビティ参加は久々でしたが、みなさんハキハキとした明るい方で、楽しむことができました

個人的には、ランチが自由で時間に余裕もあったので、同日にグルメも楽しめて嬉しかったです。大満足の1日になりました！

I was attended by the guide, Tsubone-san. I am very grateful for their help; without the guide's advice and support, I don't think I would have been able to climb at all, given my lack of experience in the mountains. The walking pace was about twice my usual speed, which was quite challenging, but they made sure to take regular breaks, maintaining a perfect pace until we arrived.

Additionally, at key points, they also took photos for everyone, which created wonderful memories.

Overall, it rained on the way there, but there were no accidents, and I was able to see the majestic sight of Jomon Sugi, making it a great trip. Thank you very much.

ガイドのツボネさんにアテンドしてもらいました。
大変お世話になり、ガイドさんのアドバイスやサポートなしには、山の経験のない自分には全く登れなかったと思います。
歩く速度が自分の通常の倍くらいでしたのでなかなか厳しくはありましたが、こまめに休憩も取っていただき、到着まで完璧なペース配分でした。
また要所要所では全員分の写真係もしていただき、良い思い出になりました。

全体を通して雨の行き道でしたが事故もなく、縄文杉の雄大な姿を見られてよい旅になりました。ありがとうございました。

It was an enjoyable tour from start to finish. The mangrove canoeing was stable, and even someone like me, who lacks physical strength, was able to ride it easily and observe the mangroves up close. Although it was a cloudy day with strong winds, the river was majestic, with gentle flows that allowed me to fully experience the great nature of Iriomote Island. I highly recommend canoeing!

Since you will get wet, I think it's best to participate in shorts or swimwear. You can change in the shower rooms. I was also happy that they took photos of us while canoeing and sent them to me later. If you bring your own smartphone, a waterproof case with a strap is essential!

On Yubu Island, I enjoyed the water buffalo, small beaches, delicious gelato, and butterflies... It was a peaceful time, and I was able to experience a different atmosphere from the wildness of Iriomote Island.

Although we couldn't go to Barasu Island due to bad weather this time, I thought it was great that Pipi offered various activities, allowing us to choose different options.

終始楽しいツアーでした。
マングローブカヌーは安定していて体力のない私でも簡単に乗れるようになりましたし、間近でマングローブを観察できました。曇りで強風の日でしたが、川の方は雄大で流れはあまり無くゆったりと西表島の大自然を感じることができたので、カヌー！オススメです。
濡れますので、服装は短パンや水着で参加されると良いと思います。着替えはシャワー個室でできます^ ^
カヌーに乗っている写真も撮っていただけて、後から送ってもらえたので嬉しかったです。もし自分のスマホを持つ場合防水ケースにストラップが必須です！
由布島も水牛や小さな浜辺に美味しいジェラートと蝶たち…穏やかな時間が流れていて西表島のワイルドさとはまた違った雰囲気を味わうことができ満喫しました♪
今回悪天候でバラス島に行けなかったのですが、pipiさんでは色々なアクティビティを実施されていて違うアクティビティを選ぶことができたことも大変良かったと思いました。

I had the pleasure of being guided by the Komachan team during the mangrove canoe tour, and it was a very fulfilling experience thanks to their bright and cheerful guidance! There was a change in the itinerary due to weather conditions the day before, but they provided detailed explanations and tips about the ferry, which made me feel that this tour company is very sincere overall.

The guides were very friendly and worked well together, and I found it fascinating to hear stories about life on the islands while we were on the bus. Additionally, I was able to spot a natural monument, the crested serpent eagle, thanks to their guidance. Thank you very much for this invaluable experience!

マングローブカヌーではコマちゃんチームでお世話になりましたが、明るく楽しく案内していただきとても充実したツアー体験でした!!前日に天候による内容変更がありましたが、そういった際も詳しい説明やフェリーの注意点なども教えていただき全体を通して大変誠実なツアー会社だと感じました。
ガイドの皆さんはとても仲が良くて、連携が取れていましたし、移動中のバスの中で島での生活の話などを聞きとても面白かったです。また、天然記念物のカンムリワシを発見して教えていただき目にすることができました。貴重な体験も含め本当にありがとうございました。

The weather forecast the day before predicted light rain, so I thought, "Well, it should be fine!" and was feeling relaxed. However, just before the experience started, it began to pour! I was feeling a bit down thinking, "SUP in this weather...," but thanks to our guide Genki's positive encouragement, saying, "Actually, it's a lucky experience that you can't have often," I thought, "That's true!" and ended up enjoying SUP. The mangroves and the heavy rain created an even more extraordinary atmosphere, making it a wonderful memory! ✨

前日の天気予報では小雨ぐらいだったので、「まぁ、大丈夫だろ〜」と呑気に考えていたら体験開始直前に大雨に！！
「こんな中でSUP…」とテンションが若干下がっていたのですが、ガイドのゲンキさんの「逆になかなか出来ない体験だからラッキー」という前向きな励ましのおかげで「たしかに…！」にと楽しんでSUPを楽しむことができました✨マングローブ&大雨で、より非日常の世界感でとても良い思い出になりました！

On the day of my visit, it was unfortunately cloudy, but I wasn't caught in heavy rain, so I was able to enjoy myself to some extent. I explored Taketomi Island by bicycle, but I felt that I could have enjoyed it even more if I had a bit more time. The ocean was very beautiful. I definitely recommend you go and see it!

当日はあいにくの曇りでしたが、大雨には降られず、それなりに楽しめました。
竹富島は自転車で回りましたが、時間が少なくもう少しあればなお良かったかなと思います。
海はとても綺麗でした。是非行ってみてください。

It was impressive.
Next time, I definitely want to participate with a SUP.
Thank you again.
Macchan, thank you for your warm hospitality.

迫力ありました。
今度はぜひSUPで参加したいです。
またよろしくお願いいたします。
まっちゃんさん、あたたかく対応していただきありがとうございました。

I was disappointed that it wasn't SUP, but I was allowed to freely operate the canoe at my own pace. I apologize for any inconvenience, but I really enjoyed it. Thank you, Macchan!

SUPじゃなかったのは残念でしたが、客のペースに合わせて自由にカヌーを操作させてくれました。ご迷惑をおかけしましたが、本当に楽しめました。まっちゃんさんありがとうございました！

I participated in a mangrove canoe tour on Iriomote Island. The river was very calm, and the time spent slowly moving through the mangrove forest was truly an extraordinary experience.

It started to rain along the way, but the mangrove forest sheltered us from the rain more than I expected, so it wasn't too bothersome. In fact, the scenery of the greenery and the water surface wet from the rain was very enchanting, creating a special atmosphere that was different from sunny days. The sound of rain echoing in the quiet forest was truly a luxurious experience.

The guide was also attentive and reassuring, and the explanations about nature and wildlife were enjoyable, allowing us to connect more deeply with Iriomote Island. This is a highly recommended experience that can be enjoyed regardless of the weather. If you visit Iriomote Island, I definitely encourage you to join this tour!

西表島でマングローブカヌーツアーに参加しました。
川はとても穏やかで、マングローブの森の中をゆっくり進む時間はまさに非日常体験でした。

途中で雨が降ってきたのですが、マングローブ林が想像以上に雨をしのいでくれて、あまり気になりませんでした。むしろ雨に濡れた緑や水面の景色がとても幻想的で、晴れの日とはまた違った特別な雰囲気を味わえたのが印象的です。静かな森に雨音が響く時間は本当に贅沢でした。

ガイドさんも丁寧で安心感があり、自然や生き物についての説明も楽しく、より深く西表島を感じることができました。
天候に関係なく楽しめる、本当におすすめの体験です。西表島に来たらぜひ参加してほしいツアーです！

This was my third visit to Yufujima, and since I visited in different seasons each time, I was able to enjoy exploring the island. There are also beachside cafes on the island, so you can spend a relaxing time there.

今回で3回目の由布島観光でしたが、それぞれ訪れた季節が違うため楽しく島内を見ることが出来ました。島内のには浜辺のカフェもあるのでゆったりした時間を過ごすことが出来ます。

My first time on Iriomote Island.

The experience of seeing the mangroves by canoe is something that's difficult to do on your own, so I definitely recommend this tour. The guide was entertaining and shared a lot of interesting information about the history, nature, and knowledge of the mangroves of Iriomote. Additionally, they provided clear instructions for canoeing, making it safe for beginners. At the end, they showed us small crabs that filled the beach, which was very satisfying. You will get wet, but on the way back, you can stop by the office to take a shower.

If you're going to Iriomote Island, I highly recommend the canoe mangrove tour!

はじめての西表島。
マングローブをカヌーで観に行く経験は、個人では難しい体験なので、是非、こちらのツアーおすすめします。ガイドのお兄さんの話も面白い。西表の歴史、自然、マングローブの知識満載です。さらに、初めてのカヌーもわかりやすく教えてくださるので、安全です。最後は、浜を埋め尽くすような小さな蟹たちもみせてくれて、大満足でした。濡れますが、帰りは、事務所によって、シャワーを浴びられます。
西表島に行く際には、是非、カヌーマングローブツアーおすすめします❗️

I participated in February, and the weather was cloudy and very cold. The other participants were dressed lightly and looked very cold. It rained during the mangrove tour, but it was still quite nice. For lunch, I thought it would have been better if there were more varieties of dessert.

2月に参加し、天気が曇り空、とても寒い日で、他の参加者さんは薄着でとても寒そうでした。ただマングローブ見学の時雨が降ってたけどそれなりに良かったです。ランチはデザートがもっと種類があればいいかなと思いました。

The pre-tour guidance was well understood, and we were able to tour efficiently without any unnecessary waiting time. Each guide provided appropriate and interesting introductions to the landmarks. One disappointing aspect was that we couldn't fully enjoy the tidal flats due to the high tide. Next time, I would like to visit during low tide. Thank you very much.

事前のガイダンスもよく理解でき、無駄な待ち時間もなく効率的に周遊できました。各ガイド案内も適切かつ面白く名所等を紹介していただきました。一つ残念なことは満潮と重なったため干潟を十分に楽しめませんでした。今度は干潮時に訪れたいと思います。ありがとうございました。

It was a bit cloudy, but the blue of the water was even more beautiful than I imagined! The guide provided calm instructions, which made me feel safe while swimming. The photos turned out great, and I was really excited!

少し曇っていたけど、水中の青さが想像以上にきれいだった！　ガイドさんが落ち着いた声で案内してくれて、安心して泳げた。写真もバッチリでテンション上がった！

I was moved by the mystical scenery of the Blue Cave! The guide provided detailed support, so I was able to enjoy it with peace of mind. The snorkeling experience was also very satisfying!

青の洞窟の神秘的な光景に感動しました！ガイドさんが細かくサポートしてくれたので、安心して楽しめました。シュノーケリングも大満足の体験でした！