All Reviews for Sightseeing Tours

This was my first time in Ishigaki Island, and I considered going to more remote islands on my own, but I became anxious about the possibility of not being able to secure a ferry reservation, especially given the recent over-tourism I’ve been experiencing in the area. So, I decided to join a tour.

As a result, I was able to efficiently visit three islands and get a glimpse of their charm. The guides were all unique and had their own styles, and they were very good at communicating, which made it a lot of fun.

I think I could have managed to visit each island on my own, but the tour included lunch and transportation with the guide, which felt like a great deal. I realized that starting with a guided tour to explore the highlights and then diving deeper into the places that interest me as a repeat visitor might be the best approach.

Unfortunately, the weather was cloudy with occasional light rain, so I was glad I opted for a bus tour instead of walking or biking around Taketomi Island. However, since we traveled by car to the sightseeing spots, the time spent on the island felt a bit short, and I wished I could have stayed longer. I didn’t have a chance to buy souvenirs except on Yubu Island.

The guide for the jungle cruise was positive, saying that even though it was raining, there were still good things about it, which I appreciated. When the guide expressed disappointment about the weather multiple times, I thought that the most disappointed people were the guests who traveled from afar, and I couldn’t help but think they should offer a discount (though not specifically for this tour).

初石垣島、自力でさらに離島に行くことも考えましたが船の予約が取れないこともあると見て、昨今のオーバーツーリズムを日々実感する地域から行くこともあって不安になりツアーに申し込むことに。
結果三島を効率よく巡って魅力の一端を感じることが出来ました。登場したガイドさんも三者三様で個性的で、皆さんお話がお上手でとても楽しかったです。
それぞれの島に行くだけなら自力でも行けたかなとは思いますが、昼食まで付いてガイドさんも送迎も付いてとてもお得感はあり、やはり最初は解説付きで巡って気になるところをリピーターとして深掘りするのが良いのかなと思いました。
あいにく曇り空に時々小雨といった天気だったので竹富島はフリー歩きや自転車にせずバスツアーにしておいて良かったなと思いますが、見どころ地点に車で行く分？時間が短いのでもう少し島内にいたかったなあとは思いました。由布島以外ではお土産を買うチャンスはありませんでした。
ジャングルクルーズのガイドさんは雨だけど逆に良いこともあると前向きに話して下さってありがたかったです。
ガイドさんに何度もお天気を残念がられると一番残念なのは遠方から来る客の方だしじゃあ値引きしてくれと思っちゃうので(こちらのツアーのことではないです)。

The weather wasn't great, but I was able to experience everything I wanted without getting caught in heavy rain, making it a satisfying trip. Since we were visiting various places in a day, it was more about seeing and experiencing different islands compactly rather than taking our time to explore. It was wonderful for that kind of travel. However, there were some inconsistencies in the instructions regarding the restrooms at the port, as they said not to go because it would be crowded, yet others were using them. Given that it was a busy trip, it would have been better if they had provided explanations in advance about where to find restrooms.

天気は良くありませんでしたが、大雨に降られることなく、コンパクトにみたいものが、体験したいことができ、満足の旅でした。日帰りで色んなところを回るので、じっくり色々見たいというよりは、コンパクトに色んな島を見てみたい、体験したいという旅としては素晴らしいです。トイレを港では、混むので行ってはいけないと言いながら、他の方は行っていたりと指示がチグハグなところがありましたので、忙しい旅であるが故に、トイレはどこで行っておく等、事前に説明をしてくれた方が良かったです。

I had a truly valuable experience kayaking in the real darkness and quiet after sunset. The darkness made the bioluminescent plankton look beautiful, as I could barely see a few meters ahead. In that peaceful space, the only sounds were the water splashing from the kayak and the calls of owls, allowing me to fully enjoy nature in a way that is not possible in the city.

They provided detailed explanations about constellations, mangroves, and paddling techniques, and the pace allowed us to really appreciate nature, which was great. Thank you very much.

It was cloudy, so I couldn't see the stars, giving it a star rating of -1, but I would like to try again next time.

日没後の本当の暗闇と静かさの中をカヤックする、とても貴重な経験ができました。暗闇は、目を凝らして数メートル先が見えるかどうかで、その分夜光虫が綺麗に見えました。静かな空間で、カヤックを漕ぐ水の音と、フクロウの声だけが聞こえ、普段都会では体験することのできない自然を満喫しました。
星座やマングローブ、漕ぎ方を詳しく解説してもらえますし、自然を満喫できるペースなのもとてもよかったです。ありがとうございました。
曇りで星が見えず星-1ですが、次回リベンジしたいと思います。

I was able to efficiently visit three islands. I also enjoyed having a little bit of Okinawan cuisine for lunch, which was great.

効率よく3島行くことが出来ました。
お昼ご飯も沖縄料理を少しずつ食べることができたのでよかったです。

I was taken to Yutsun Falls and more by a cheerful and bright guide.

It was a trekking day with light rain, but thanks to that, the waterfall's water volume increased, allowing us to enjoy a more powerful sight than we had imagined. I was a bit anxious after checking the weather forecast, but ultimately, I was very satisfied to see such a dynamic waterfall because of the rain! Above all, the guide ensured our safety, so I could walk with peace of mind.

Additionally, they provided shoes, raincoats, and waterproof backpacks, which allowed me to participate almost hands-free. I was grateful to enjoy trekking without worrying about equipment.

The journey took about two hours one way, but the guide shared a wealth of knowledge about the mountains and nature, as well as the island's lifestyle and culture, making the trip very enjoyable. It felt like we arrived at our destination in no time.

Since we had a bit of time left after the tour, we were able to stop by other attractions like Maya Rock Falls and Modama Pond on the way back. If it hadn't been a private tour, I think we would have only visited Yutsun Falls, so I’m really glad I made a special request.

The guide's tour concept was "a tour you won't forget in five or ten years," and that was absolutely true. The time we spent enjoying food and coffee at the summit became an unforgettable memory.

If I have the opportunity to visit Iriomote Island again, I would definitely like to request a tour!

笑顔で明るいガイドさんに、ユツンの滝＋αに連れて行ってもらいました。

当日は小雨が降る中のトレッキングでしたが、そのおかげで滝の水量が増し、想像以上の迫力ある姿を楽しむことができました。天気予報を見て少し不安もありましたが、結果的に雨のおかげでダイナミックな滝を見られて大満足！ 何よりガイドさんが安全に案内してくれたので、安心して歩くことができました。

また、靴やカッパ、防水リュックも用意していただいたので、ほぼ手ぶらで参加できたのもありがたかったです。装備の心配をすることなく、気軽にトレッキングを楽しめました。

片道約2時間の道のりでしたが、ガイドさんが山や自然の知識はもちろん、島の暮らしや文化についてもたくさん話してくださり、道中もとても楽しく、あっという間に目的地に到着した感覚でした。

また、ツアー終了まで少し時間があったため、帰り道にマヤロックの滝やモダマ池など、他の観光スポットにも立ち寄ることができました。プライベートツアーでなければユツンの滝だけで終わっていたと思うので、個別にお願いして本当に良かったです。

ガイドさんのツアーコンセプトは「5年後も10年後も忘れられないツアー」とのことでしたが、まさにその通り。特に頂上でゆっくりごはんやコーヒーを楽しんだ時間は、忘れられない思い出になりました。

また西表島を訪れる機会があれば、是非ツアーをお願いしたいと思います！

I was impressed that the water buffalo on Yubu Island are considered family by the locals, and that they live in mutual trust. The village on Taketomi Island gave me a comforting impression of a good old Japan. It was a nice, leisurely day of sightseeing.

由布島の水牛は地元の方々にとって家族であり、お互いが信頼し合って生活していることに感銘を受けました。竹富島の集落は何かほっとできる昔の良き日本といった印象でした。のんびりした1日観光で、良かったです。

I was honestly indifferent about riding a water buffalo by myself, but I ended up having a surprisingly fun and meaningful relaxing time. I was satisfied with the tour content and I'm glad I participated.

1人参加で、正直水牛に乗るのはどっちでもいいかな、、と考えていましたが、想像以上に楽しく有意義なまったり時間を過ごせました。ツアー内容も満足で、参加して良かったです。

The weather was unfortunate, but I was glad to see Nakama River with the boat cover removed. The bus on Iriomote Island is more of a means of transportation than a tourist experience. I think incorporating the Wildlife Conservation Center would increase satisfaction even in the rain. Lunch allowed us to feel the essence of Yaeyama, and the portion was ample. The water buffalo was adorable, and we saw many butterflies.

Since I rode a water buffalo cart in Taketomi in the past, I opted for a rental bicycle, but we were in a rush because the return boat was already scheduled. We quickly visited three places: Nishi Sanbashi, Kondoi Beach, and Kaiji Beach. There was no time to go to a café. I thought it was nice that those walking could choose the last boat. I wish the rental bicycle was available for at least two hours.

あいにくの天気でしたが、仲間川はなんとか船のカバーを外して見れて良かったです。西表島バスは観光というより単なる移動手段。野生生物保護センターも組み込むと雨でも満足度が上がると思います。ランチは八重山を感じられ、量も十分でした。水牛が可愛かったです。蝶々もたくさん見れました。
竹富は昔水牛車に乗ったのでレンタサイクルにしましたが、帰りの船が決まっており、時間がなくてバタバタで、西桟橋、コンドイビーチ、カイジ浜の三ヶ所回っておわりでした。カフェに行く時間は皆無。歩きの人は最終便も選択できたので、いいなあと思いました。レンタサイクルもせめて2時間は欲しいです。

Overall, it was great for me. This course is quite fast-paced, but it's very difficult to book and complete this itinerary on your own within this time and budget. The explanation of the mangroves, along with the shamisen and singing while riding on the cow, was flavorful and enjoyable. If you find a place you like, there are boats available to each of the surrounding islands, so I think it would be nice to revisit the next day for a more leisurely experience. I think it would be easier to rent a bicycle to get to the beach on Taketomi Island.

全部ありで自分には良かったです。このコースはかなりの駆け足ですが、自分で全部これだけの行程を　この時間と予算で予約してこなすのはたいへん難しい　マングローブの解説も牛さんに乗って聞く三味線と歌も味があってよかったです。気に入った場所があったら各離島への船は出ているので　今回は一回ざっとのおさらい経験として翌日再度ふらっと行けばいいかと思います。竹富島で浜の方に行くにはレンタサイクルあると楽かなと思います。

I was looking forward to the night tour. However, it rained, which made me a bit anxious. Fortunately, it wasn't cold, and there were some creatures that came out because of the rain, so I was able to enjoy it. Next time, I would like to experience a sunny tour as well!

楽しみにしていたナイトツアー。しかし、雨。ちょっと不安でした。
が、幸い寒くもなく、雨だからでてきてくれた生き物もいて楽しめました。
次回は晴れのツアーも体験したいです！

I was able to paddle through the mangrove tunnel I had always dreamed of. They accommodated my last-minute reservation, which was a great help. The guide's management of the tour was smooth and enjoyable.

カヌーで、憧れのマングローブのトンネルをくぐることができました。直前の予約にも対応していただき、助かりました。担当の方の進行もスムーズで良かったです。

I think it was the best course. If I had a little more time on Taketomi Island, it would have been even better. I think a bicycle is necessary for efficient movement. There are several places where you can rent bicycles, but I think it would have been better to know this before going. Iriomote Island and the water buffalo were also amazing. Be careful about the time of the last bus on the way back.

一番良いコ−スだったと思います。竹富島は、もう少し時間があるともっと良かったです。効率良く行動するには自転車が必要かと思います。レンタル自転車の借りれる所は数カ所ありますが、行く前に把握しておいた方がよかったと思いました。西表島や水牛も最高でした。
帰りの最終バスの時間は気を付けた方がいいですよ。

I usually live in the city and signed up for this tour in search of nature. Unfortunately, I couldn't go to Barasu Island during the winter, but I had a great time participating in the tour. I was able to experience the beauty and vastness of nature that videos and photos can't convey, which made me fall in love with Iriomote Island.

普段は都会に住んでおり、自然を求めてこのツアーに申し込みました。
あいにく、冬場でバラス島には行けませんでしたが、ツアーに参加して楽しい時間を過ごせました。
動画や写真では伝わらない自然の良さや大きさを体感することができ、西表島を好きになるきっかけとなりました。

I thought I wouldn't be able to see the starry sky due to the cloudy forecast, but miraculously, there was a moment when the clouds cleared. It was a dream of mine to see the starry sky on Iriomote Island, so I was very happy.

The brightness from just the moonlight was mystical.

It was a very precious experience, not only to see the starry sky but also to interact with the creatures and plants of Iriomote Island.

I was able to take photos with everyone who participated!

Thank you to our guide, Shika-chan, and to all the participants!

曇りの予報で星空は見えないと思っていましたが、奇跡的に雲が晴れてくれたタイミングがありました。西表島で星空を見ることが夢だったので、とても嬉しかったです。
月明かりだけでこの明るさ。神秘的でした。
星空だけでなく、西表島の生き物や植物とも触れられた、大変貴重な経験でした。
参加された皆さんと一緒にお写真も撮れました！
ガイドのシカちゃん、参加された皆様、ありがとうございました！

I was worried about the weather on the day, but the local driver and the ox cart guide were very friendly, and it turned out to be a fun day.

当日は天気が悪くどうなるか？と思いましたが　現地のドライバーさん、牛車のガイドさん　大変気さくで楽しい一日になりました。

Extraordinary. Time flows slowly. Everything was fantastic.
The scenery of Taketomi Island is unique to Taketomi Island. I wouldn't have known that such views cannot be seen on Ishigaki Island unless I went there.

非日常。ゆっくりと流れる時間。全てがサイコーでした。
竹富島の風景は竹富島独自のものなんですね。石垣島であの風景は見られないと、行かなければわからないままでした。

My first time on Iriomote Island. Unfortunately, the weather was not great, but since I had signed up for a tour, I was able to enjoy a visit to Yubu Island to see the mangroves without any worries.

初めての西表島。あいにくの天気でしたがツアーに申込んでいたので、由布島にマングローブ見学に、安心して楽しめました。

I was very satisfied with my trip to the three islands: Iriomote Island, Yubu Island, and Taketomi Island, as I was able to do everything I wanted. I read on other sites that the food wasn't good, but I found it quite tasty. The guide on the cruise in Iriomote Island was entertaining, and I was able to take cute photos with the water buffalo on Yubu Island. I also rode a water buffalo cart on Taketomi Island, but the conversations with the guide, the shamisen music, and the scenery were completely different, making each experience enjoyable. Since I had planned my route in advance with a rental bicycle, I was able to efficiently explore the entire island.

西表島、由布島、竹富島と3島めぐりで全てやりたい事ができて大満足です。他サイトで食事が美味しくなかったと書かれていましたが、私には十分美味しかったです。西表島のクルージングでお兄さんのガイドが面白く、由布島でかわいい水牛との写真が撮れました。竹富島でも水牛車に乗りましたが、ガイドさんの会話・三味線や風景が全く違うので、それぞれ楽しかったです。レンタルサイクルで予めルートを決めていたので、効率よく島全体を周る事ができました。

We were with a 3-year-old, but they proceeded at the child's pace, always being considerate while also sharing enjoyable stories, allowing us to have a fun time throughout. Normally, my son immediately asks to be carried, but during this experience tour, he walked on his own without asking to be picked up even once, and I feel he has become more resilient.

Thank you very much!

3歳の子連れでしたが、子供のペースを見ながら進行してくださって、常に気を遣いながらも楽しいお話もしてくださり終始楽しい時間を過ごすことができました。
普段は直ぐ抱っこをせがむ息子でしたが、この体験ツアーの際は一度も抱っこせず自分で歩いていて、たくましくなった気がします。

有難うございました！

First of all, thank you to the three guides for your assistance! I was able to enjoy the excitement of being in nature! You picked me up at the hotel on time, and the return transfer was smooth as well. The content of the tour was honestly a bit underwhelming compared to my expectations! While we were shown some interesting places, it was relatively cold, and I didn't encounter many living creatures. Additionally, it was cloudy, so there were no stars at all. To enhance satisfaction, I think it would be better to limit the tours based on temperature and weather conditions. Thank you!

まずは、ガイド3名の皆さんご案内ありがとうございました！
大自然の中で、ワクワク感を楽しむことができました！
時間通りに宿泊ホテルに迎えに来ていただき、帰りもスムーズな送迎でした。
ツアーの内容は、正直期待していたよりは微妙な内容でした！
それっぽい場所を案内していただきましたが、比較的寒い時期だったこともあり、生き物とあまり会えませんでした。
また曇りでもあったので星は皆無でした。
満足度を高めるためにも、気温や天気を限定して開催したほうがよいと思います。
ありがとうございました！

I was worried about whether I would enjoy the tour since it was a cold January, but the guide safely led us, and we were able to see creatures like coconut crabs, frogs, and crabs. It was cloudy on the day of the tour, but when we got to the beach, the starry sky spread out before us, and it was very moving. I'm glad I decided to participate.

1月の寒い時期にツアーに参加したので、楽しめるのか心配でしたが、ガイドの方が安全に案内してくださり、ヤシガニやカエルやカニなどの生き物を見ることができました。
当日は曇っていましたが、ビーチに出た時には星空が広がっていてとても感動的でした。
思い切って参加して良かったです。

You can efficiently visit three islands in one day. The mangrove tour, water buffalo cart ride, and cycling on Taketomi Island were all enjoyable. There was also hotel pickup, which made transportation easy. Thank you for a wonderful time.

１日で効率よく3島まわれます。マングローブ遊覧、水牛車、竹富島でのサイクリング、どれも楽しかったです。ホテル送迎もあったので楽に移動が出来ました。楽しい時間をありがとうございました。

The guide's explanations were interesting and enjoyable, making for a quick yet content-rich day. I was worried about the restrooms, but there were plenty on the high-speed boat, at the port, and a few others, which was reassuring. We opted for a bus tour on Taketomi Island, and that was the right choice. Since we had to take an unfamiliar boat and there was a lot of moving around from the morning, it allowed us to enjoy without feeling rushed. If I have the chance again, I would like to take my time exploring each island.

ガイドさんの説明が興味深く、楽しいのであっという間の、しかし内容の濃い一日でした。
トイレが心配でしたが高速船内、港や他にもいくつかあり安心でした。
竹富島ではバス観光にしましたが正解でした。朝からなれない船に乗ったり移動が多かったので無理なく楽しめました。
また機会があれば今度は一つ一つの島をゆっくり見てみたい。

It was great that there was no wasted time, and it wasn't a hard schedule either, so I was able to enjoy myself. The river journey in Iriomote Island was a bit disappointing because the water wasn't clear, but it still became a good memory.

無駄な時間がなく、かと言って、ハードなスケジュールでもなく、
楽しめたのは良かったです。
西表島の川旅は、水が綺麗でなく、少しガッカリ
それも含めて良い想い出になりました。

Due to the weather, the tour to Balas Island was canceled, so my daughter and I participated in the mangrove canoe and Yufu Island tour.

In the mangrove canoe, we were overwhelmed by the great nature of Iriomote. There was a lecture at the beginning of the canoeing, and I was able to grasp the technique after paddling a bit. Thank you to Matt-chan for taking so many wonderful photos.

On the bus, we heard a lot about Iriomote Island and learned that its current state is due to the efforts of the local people to protect the great nature.

The water buffalo cart ride to Yufu Island was also a lot of fun! The expression of the young buffalo trying to return to the opposite shore where food was, without letting us off, was so cute.

When we entered the butterfly garden, butterflies came to greet us. The gelato made with butterfly pea and Okinawan salt at the recommended Yufu Island tea house might be the most delicious I've ever had.

Next time, I want to visit with my whole family. I will rely on Pipi-san again then. Thank you very much.

天候の影響でバラス島ツアーは欠航となり、娘と2人でマングローブカヌーと由布島ツアーに参加してきました。
マングローブカヌーでは西表の大自然に圧倒されます。カヌーは最初にレクチャーがあり、少し漕いでいるうちにコツを掴むことができました。担当してくれたまっちゃん、たくさんステキな写真を撮ってくださってありがとうございました。
バスの中でも西表島についてのお話がたくさん聞けて、大自然を守る地元の人々の努力で今の姿があることを知ることができました。
水牛車で渡る由布島もとても楽しかった！
お腹が空いた若い牛さんが乗車している私たちを降ろす間もなくごはんがある対岸に戻ろうとした時のこちらを伺う表情がとても可愛いかった〜
蝶々園に入ると、出迎えてくれるように蝶々がやってきてくれます。
おすすめの由布島茶屋さんで食べたバタフライピーと沖縄の塩を使ったジェラートは今まで食べた中で1番の美味しさかもしれません。
今度は家族みんなで訪れたいです。
その際はまたpipiさんにお世話になります。
ありがとうございました。

It was supposed to rain, but surprisingly, the clouds held off. Although it was slower than walking, I applaud the water buffalo for their effort. I encountered a kingfisher in the mangroves, which made for a very enjoyable time. Finally, we visited Taketomi Island. It was full of old-fashioned charm, and I was able to savor the good old days. I would love to come back again.

雨予報でしたが、なんと雲でもってくれました。時間的には、徒歩より遅いですが、水牛のがんばりに、拍手👏。マングローブでは、カワセミに遭遇。ととても楽しい時間でした。最後は、竹富島。昔の雰囲気がいっぱいで、古き良き時代を満喫できました。再度来たいと思います。

It's quite challenging to arrange everything on your own, but being able to leave it all to someone else is really helpful. I highly recommend this for those who want to visit various places and see different sights, even if it's a bit rushed! The transportation to and from the hotel and experience locations is very thorough! The bus driver on Iriomote Island was also very entertaining. I have difficulty walking and used a cane, but they were very considerate about the seating, and I was extremely satisfied.

個人で手配すると大変ですが全てお任せ出来るのがとても助かります。少し駆け足ですが色々な所を回りたい、見たい人には凄くおすすめです！ホテルまでの送迎や体験場所までの送迎もついて至れり尽くせりです！西表島のバスの運転手さんの話も面白かったです。足が悪く杖をついていましたが、座席なども気を使って頂いて大満足でした。

First of all, the bus driver who guided us around Iriomote Island was very good at explaining things, which was great. The water buffalo cart to Yufu Island was also nice because we could listen to live sanshin music. However, I felt that we had a bit too much free time on Yufu Island itself. After that, we had the Nakama River mangrove tour, but I think it would have been more enjoyable to reverse the order, shorten the time on Yufu Island, and extend the time on Taketomi Island.

先ず、西表島は島内移動バスの運転手さんのガイドは説明が上手く、良かったです。
由布島への水牛車も、三線生歌を聞けて良かったです。
ただ、由布島自体は少し時間を持て余す感じでした。
その後、仲間川マングローブツアーでしたが、順番は逆にして由布島も短くして、
竹富島の時間を長くした方が楽しめる気がしました。

It's a completely different world from the main island! Each island is totally different. Overall, it was a wonderful experience. I chose to explore Taketomi freely, but getting around was inconvenient. Next time, I would like to rent a bicycle.

とにかく本島とは別世界！
島ごとにぜんぜん違います。
とにかく素敵な体験ができました。
竹富はフリー散策にしたのですが、移動が不便でした。次回は、自転車を借りたいと思いました。

I was struggling to find winter activities, but since I was staying on Iriomote Island, I decided to sign up for a night tour. This was a great decision!

It was a night after a light rain during the day, but the weather cleared up, and we were able to see a starry sky with shooting stars. At the viewing spot recommended by our guide, there was nothing obstructing our view, and it was a very soothing experience.

Then, we went on a night jungle tour. We were able to enjoy seeing coconut crabs, crayfish, and tropical plants, with our guide searching for and explaining them to us. I was also amazed by the guide's extensive knowledge! It was a valuable experience to feel connected to nature.

During the car ride, we were able to learn about life on Iriomote Island, making it a meaningful and enjoyable tour. I highly recommend it to anyone staying on Iriomote Island!

冬の季節のアクティビティに悩んでいたところ、せっかく西表島に泊まるということで、夜のツアーに申し込みました。これが大正解！

日中に小雨が降った夜でしたが、お天気が回復して満天の星空、流れ星も見ることができました。ガイドさんご自身がおすすめされている鑑賞スポットで、視界を遮るものがなく、とても癒される時間、場でした。

そして、夜のジャングルツアー。ヤシガニやザリガニ、南国ならではの植物など、ガイドさんが探して説明してくれて、楽しむことができました。ガイドさんの知識の多さにも驚きました！自然を感じる貴重な経験です。

車の中では西表島の生活のことなども伺うことができ、有意義で楽しいツアーで、西表島で宿泊される方には大変おすすめです！