All Reviews for Japan Hidden Gems: Secret Islands

I participated in a snorkeling tour! Due to the weather, I received a call the day before informing me that the tour would be held at a different location instead of the Blue Cave. I felt that the explanation was thorough and I was able to participate with understanding, which showed a very polite and sincere response.

On the day of the tour, there were two staff members for six participants, and since we wore life jackets, I felt safe and was able to enjoy myself. During snorkeling, I appreciated the staff's careful attention as they watched over the entire group and checked in with each individual. They provided a lot of support, like letting us pick up shells and taking pictures of us!

In the sea, I was able to see fish and coral, which I think was a rare experience that I wouldn't normally have. Although it was a bit disappointing not to go to the Blue Cave, I had such a fun and fulfilling time that I forgot all about it.

シュノーケリングツアーに参加しました！
天候の影響で前日に青の洞窟ではなく別の場所での開催になるとお電話をいただきました。事前にきちんと説明があり、納得したうえで参加できたので、とても丁寧で誠実な対応だと感じました。

当日は6人の参加者に対してスタッフの方が2名ついてくださり、ライフジャケットも着用だったので安心して楽しめました。シュノーケリング中もグループ全体を見守りながら、一人ひとりに声をかけてくださる細やかな気配りが嬉しかったです。貝を拾って持たせてくれたり、その写真を撮ってくれたりと、たくさんサポートしてくれました！

海の中では魚や珊瑚を見ることができ、普段なかなかできない貴重な体験ができたと思います。
青の洞窟に行けなかったのは少し残念でしたが、それを忘れてしまうほど楽しく充実した時間を過ごすことができました。

The weather was great, and I had a lot of fun. The islands had their own unique characteristics, and the rural feel was also very appealing.

It would be amazing to see the Iriomote cat.

天気に恵まれてとても楽しかったです
その島々の特徴があり田舎感がまた魅力がありました


イリオモテヤマネコが見れたら最高です

The beaches of Taketomi Island are so beautiful that they seem unreal. The bus guide on Iriomote Island was interesting and great!

竹富島のビーチがこの世のものとは思えないほどキレイ。西表島のバスガイドさん、話が面白く良かったです！

It was very nice to cross to Yufu Island by water buffalo cart. The water buffalo were cute, and the explanations were easy to understand. It was a bit disappointing that there were few flowers since it wasn't the season for them, but I was able to take my time exploring places like the butterfly house. I think it would have been even better if I could have done some sightseeing on Iriomote Island as well.

水牛車で由布島へ渡るのがとても良かったです。
水牛も可愛いし、説明も分かりやすかったです。
由布島も季節ではなかったので花が少なかったのは残念でしたが、蝶々のハウスなどゆっくり見学する事が出来ました。
西表島の観光もできればもっとよかったと思いました。

The weather on the day was perfect, and the blue cave looked absolutely beautiful, which was truly moving. I was able to feel the mysteries of nature up close, making it a very special experience.

Our guide, Mako, was very cheerful and approachable, and the conversations were enjoyable, creating a fun atmosphere throughout the tour. The explanations were clear, allowing us to participate with peace of mind. She also paid careful attention to the children, which was really helpful.

During snorkeling, we saw a lot of fish, and it was so exciting! The underwater world was even more beautiful than I had imagined, and I was very satisfied.

After that, I participated in a mangrove canoe tour. Our guide, Sugi, explained the ecology and characteristics of the mangroves in a very understandable way, which was very educational. Spending time in nature was truly refreshing and rejuvenating for my mind.

The guides were very kind and cheerful, maintaining a fun atmosphere throughout. The children got to ride on the SUP, which was thrilling! It was a rare experience that we don't often get to have, and I was very satisfied.

Both tours were truly wonderful and became the best memories of my time in Ishigaki Island. I would love to participate again!

当日はお天気も最高で、青い洞窟が本当に綺麗に見えて感動しました。自然の神秘を間近で感じることができ、とても特別な体験でした。

ガイドのmakoちゃんはとても明るくて親しみやすく、お話も楽しく、ツアー中ずっと楽しい雰囲気でした。説明もわかりやすく、安心して参加できました。子供にも丁寧に気を配っていただき、本当に助かりました。

シュノーケリングでは魚がたくさん見られて大興奮！海の中の世界は想像以上に綺麗で、大満足でした。

その後、マングローブのカヌーツアーにも参加しました。
ガイドのすぎちゃんは、マングローブの生態や特徴についてとてもわかりやすく説明してくださり、大変勉強になりました。自然の中でゆったりと過ごす時間は本当に気持ちよく、心までリフレッシュできました。

ガイドさんはとても親切で明るく、終始楽しい雰囲気でした。子供たちをSUPに乗せていただき、大興奮！普段なかなかできない貴重な体験ができて、大満足です。

どちらのツアーも本当に素晴らしく、石垣島での最高の思い出になりました。またぜひ参加したいです。

We were able to efficiently visit three islands, and the explanations made it a fulfilling day. The water buffalo was also working hard, and I felt like cheering for it. Keep it up!

手際よく3島巡れて説明もしてくれて充実した一日でした
水牛も頑張ってて応援したくなります
がんばってー

The mangroves of Iriomote Island and the water buffalo cart to Yufu Island were amazing. The water buffalo cart ride, in particular, was a wonderful experience. The bus driver's stories while we traveled from place to place were also enjoyable.

On Taketomi Island, I rented a bicycle for free and explored the area. While it's possible to walk around, I recommend biking since time is limited in the afternoon. This tour, which doesn't waste any time, comes highly recommended.

西表島のマングローブ、由布島への水牛車、最高でした。
特に水牛車は素敵な時間でした。
場所場所を回るバスの運転手さんのお話も楽しかったです。
竹富島では、フリーで自転車を借りて回りました。徒歩でも回れますが午後からの限られた時間ですので自転車がおすすめです。
無駄な時間を取られることないこのツアーはおすすめです。

I leisurely rode a water buffalo along the peaceful row of houses while listening to island songs, and it brought me to tears. It was a 30-minute stroll, but I wanted to ride more. The stories from the lady were enjoyable, and the shamisen songs were wonderful. I definitely want to go again!

のどかな家並みをのんびり
水牛さんに乗り　島唄を聞きながら
涙出ました
30分の散策でしたが
もっと乗りたいと思いました
お姉さんのお話も楽しくて
三味線の歌も素敵で
絶対また行きたいです

I booked a day tour that included a SUP tour in the mangroves and snorkeling in the Blue Cave. The guide was very knowledgeable about Ishigaki Island and the mangroves, and I learned a lot, which was enjoyable. The day before, I received a phone call explaining the details of the tour. I thought I understood the overview of the tour, but I had some misunderstandings, so it was good to confirm everything. Unfortunately, the snorkeling in the Blue Cave in the afternoon was canceled due to bad conditions, which was disappointing, but the mangrove tour in the morning was fulfilling enough to leave me very satisfied. Thank you!

マングローブでのSUPツアーと青の洞窟でのシュノーケリングがセットになった一日ツアーを申し込みました。
ガイドさんは石垣島やマングローブの知識が豊富でいろいろと教えて頂き楽しかったです。
前日にお電話でツアーに関する詳細の説明がありました。ツアーの概要は理解しているつもりでしたが、勘違いもあり確認いただいて良かったです。
午後からの青の洞窟はコンディションが悪いと言うことでキャンセルとなり残念でしたが、午前中のマングローブツアーだけでも十分満足出来るほど充実したツアーでした。
ありがとうございます。

On the mangrove cruise in Iriomote Island, you can fully immerse yourself in untouched nature. After being pulled by a water buffalo to Yubu Island, you can enjoy lunch, as well as mini hiking and shopping. On Taketomi Island, you can search for star sand and explore traditional villages. I believe that experiencing all of this in about eight hours is something special to the tour. Additionally, on Taketomi Island, you can choose your preferred way of sightseeing.

西表島のマングローブクルーズでは手つかずの自然を全身に浴びることができます。水牛に引かれて由布島へ移動したら、昼食をいただき、ミニハイキングやショッピングも楽しめます。竹富島では星の砂を探したり昔ながらの集落を見て回ることができます。これだけの内容を約８時間で堪能できるのはツアーならではだと思います。また、竹富島ではご自身の好きな観光方法を選択できます。

I was interested in visiting the remote islands, but since I didn't have time to research or plan, I chose this one-day trip to the three islands.

Lunch: It was delicious. I liked that it was a buffet style.
Transportation: It was great that everything was taken care of. I think the safety is sufficient for an average adult.
Staff Response: Everyone involved was cheerful and friendly, leaving a good impression.
Tour Content: Everything was great. Since we could visit and experience famous spots, it helped me decide what I want to spend more time on next.
Price: I’m not sure about the market rate, but personally, I feel it was reasonable. It might even be a good deal.
Other: I was lucky that the weather was nice.

離島には興味がありましたがアクセスを調べたり計画する時間がなかったことから一日で三島行けるこちらのプランを選択しました。

ランチ:おいしかった。バイキング形式なのがよかった
交通手段:全てお任せできたのがよかった。一般的な大人なら安全性も十分だと思う
スタッフ対応:関係者のみなさんは全員明るくて人当たりもよく好印象
ツアー内容:全てよかった。有名どころを観光・体験できるため、自分が次に何に時間をかけたいかの判断材料にできる
価格:相場はわかりませんが個人的な感覚ででは適正。むしろお得かも
その他:天気がよかったのがラッキーでした

Unfortunately, we couldn't go to the Blue Cave due to the weather, but the snorkeling at the "Phantom Island" we were taken to instead was amazing! I received a thoughtful confirmation call the day before, which allowed me to look forward to the day with excitement.

The boat rocked a bit and made me feel a little seasick, but the underwater scenery was filled with the beautiful blue fish and coral unique to Okinawa, which quickly made me forget my discomfort. I was worried about the cold winter sea water, but thanks to the kind support from our guide, I was able to enjoy the experience throughout.

I was a bit disappointed that I didn't get to see a sea turtle, but the burger place and the yakiniku restaurant I was told about during the return ride were exceptional. I definitely want to go see sea turtles next time.

Thank you for a wonderful day!

あいにくの天候で青の洞窟へは行けませんでしたが、代わりに案内された「幻の島」でのシュノーケルが最高でした！
前日に丁寧な確認連絡をいただけたので、期待を胸に当日を迎えられました。

少し船が揺れて酔ってしまいましたが、海の中には沖縄ならではの青い魚とサンゴが広がっていて、その美しさに酔いも一瞬で吹き飛びました。
冬の冷たい海水が心配でしたが、ガイドさんが優しくサポートしてくれたおかげで、終始楽しく体験できて良かったです。

ウミガメに会えなかったのは心残りですが、帰りの送迎で教えてもらったハンバーガー屋さんと焼肉屋さんが絶品でした。
次はぜひウミガメを見に行きたいです。

素敵な一日をありがとうございました！

There are various plans available, and you can choose the one that suits you. The driver seemed to have a tough time juggling the guiding duties, but he was wonderful. Being able to choose the return time is also great! 👍️

色々なプランがあって、自分に会うプランを選べます。
運転手さんがガイド掛け持ちで大変そうでしたが、素晴らしかったです。
帰りの時間を選べるのもグッド👍️

I participated on New Year's Day this year. Although the strong north wind made for unfortunate weather, I was able to visit all the places I wanted in just one day. I really enjoyed the mangroves of Iriomote Island, riding the water buffalo cart to and from Yubu Island, and searching for star sand on the streets and beaches of Taketomi Island. I think it would be quite difficult to visit all these places individually due to transportation issues in each area. It was also nice that lunch was included, making the trip much easier.

26年元日に参加しました。北風強く生憎のお天気でしたが、行きたかった場所に1日で回れました。西表島のマングローブ、由布島への行き帰りに乗る水牛車、竹富島の街並みや浜辺で星砂探しとても楽しかったです。個人で全て回るのは各地での交通などの問題もあり大変だと思います。お昼も付いていて楽に旅が出来ました。

We participated in our first family trip with our 2-year-old daughter! Despite the mishap of forgetting the reservation holder's iPhone at home, we were able to adapt and enjoy ourselves without any issues! The captain of the mangrove tour, along with the water buffalo Mirai-kun (who was with us both going and returning, haha), was very kind to our daughter, creating the best memories! I hope to revisit as a family in 5 or 10 years when our daughter is old enough to remember the experience!

2歳の娘と初めての家族旅行で参加しました！
予約した本人のiPhoneを自宅に忘れるハプニングもありながら、臨機応変に対応していただき無事に楽しむことができました！
マングローブの船長さんも、水牛のみらいくん(行きも帰りもみらいくんでした笑)とおじさんも、娘にとても親切にしてくださり最高の思い出になりました！
また5年後10年後、娘が記憶に残る年齢になった頃に家族で再訪したいなと思います！

It was a cloudy day with strong winds, which made it unsuitable for the glass-bottom boat, but the underwater environment was calm and filled with colorful fish. Especially, the captain found a turtle, and I was moved because it was my first time seeing a baby turtle. Thank you!

曇天で風が強く、グラスボートには向かない環境でしたが海中は穏やかで色鮮やかな魚がいました
特に船長さんが亀を見つけてくれ、子亀できしが初めて見たので感動しました
ありがとう

I was satisfied with the smooth flow of the trip from check-in to the end. At first, I honestly thought it was a bit expensive, but the cost performance wasn't bad. It was a shame that the weather wasn't great, so I want to try again with my family next time. Thank you very much.

　受付から最後までスムーズな流れで旅行できて満足です。最初ちょっと高いかなぁと正直思いましたがコスパは悪くなかったです。天気がイマイチだったのが残念だったので、今度家族とまたリベンジしたいです。ありがとうございました。

The guide's storytelling was wonderful! The water buffalo had names and were so cute. They are smart and hardworking, and I could feel the bond between the guide and the water buffalo.

The mangrove tour at Nakagawa was done by boat. The guide provided various explanations, and I felt the vitality of the mangroves. I learned that the dead trees sink underwater and never float back up. It was incredibly mystical! The tour guides were all knowledgeable and had emotions, which was lovely. I felt that the experience was very worthwhile for the price, and I'm glad I participated.

ガイドさんの口談が素敵でした！水牛に名前が付いていて可愛いです。賢くて働き者、ガイドさんと水牛の絆を感じました。
仲間川のマングローブツアー、船で周ります。ガイドさんに色んな説明をしていただき
マングローブの生命力を感じ枯れた木は水下に沈み二度と浮き上がらないそうです。
凄く神秘的で！ツアーのガイドさんは、誰も物知りで感情があり素敵です。料金からは凄くお得感があり参加して良かったです。

From the morning gathering to the evening dispersal, the guidance was clear, and the ferry ride was enjoyable. The mangrove tour lasted a full hour, and the explanations made it fun. Since it was quite windy, wearing a hooded jacket might be a good idea. The water buffalo cart ride was a unique experience, and I appreciated hearing about the characteristics of the water buffalo. During the bus ride, the driver shared stories like a guide, which was entertaining and brought laughter and applause.

We had lunch on Yubu Island, where the local flavor was present. Although there weren't many dishes, the buffet style left us feeling full. The cute canned brown sugar caramel we bought as souvenirs was delicious. After exploring, we headed to Taketomi Island. There are rental bicycles available, but if there are many tour guests, you might not be able to use them. Since there is plenty of time for exploration, those who are unsure about walking should prepare by doing some walking beforehand. The beautiful beach, nature, and traditional houses allowed us to relax and enjoy a fulfilling day.

早朝集合から夕方解散まで
案内もわかりやすくフェリー移動
マングローブ遊覧じっくり1時間案内説明で楽しめました　風が強かったのでフード付きの服がいいかも　水牛車も貴重な体験で水牛の特徴などお話し聞けて良かったです　バス移動では運転手さんがガイド並みにお話しされ　それが面白くて笑いと拍手が起きます
由布島でランチ　地域色あり品数は多くはありませんがバイキング形式で満腹になりました　お土産で可愛い缶入りの黒糖キャラメルが美味しかったです　散策後　竹富島へ　レンタサイクルありますがツアー客が多いと利用できないかも　散策する時間が多いので歩きに不安な人はウォーキングして準備しといた方がいいです　綺麗なビーチと自然と家並みでのんびりゆったりとした気持ちになり充実した1日を過ごせました

I was able to efficiently visit three islands, each with its own unique charm. The transportation was smooth, and the guide's stories were interesting and enjoyable. The Okinawan cuisine for lunch was even more delicious than I had imagined. Overall, it was a fulfilling experience that made me think about which island I would like to visit again next!

3つの島を効率良く巡りながら、それぞれに違う魅力を味わえました。移動はスムーズで、案内の方のお話も興味深く楽しく、沖縄料理の昼食も想像以上においしかったです。全体を楽しんだ上で次はどの島にもう一度来ようかなと思える、充実した内容でした！

I was able to visit Iriomote, Yufu, and Taketomi all at once! Yufu is a very small island, and there wasn't much to do, so I spent my time collecting seashells! The rental bicycles in Taketomi were in such bad shape that my rear end hurt and I was surprised they were on the verge of a flat tire, but now it's a funny story!

西表、由布、竹富といっきにまわれました！
由布はとても小さい島で、することがなかったので、貝がらひろいしてました！
竹富のレンタル自転車がボロボロすぎて、おしりも痛くてパンク寸前でびっくりしましたが、いまでは良い笑い話です

I participated with my younger sister. The content was very good, but the weather was unfortunate, so I give it four stars. I had heard that the weather in January can be bad, so I wasn't too disappointed when it rained, but I think the beaches of Taketomi Island would have been even more wonderful if the weather had been nice. Still, the mangrove tour had a cover on the boat, so we were able to enjoy the sightseeing without getting too wet.

We were able to ride the water buffalo cart twice, and it was fun to cheer on the water buffalo pulling the cart while listening to the sanshin and songs. During the island tour, I noticed that many young people, both locals and non-locals, were working, and it was clear that everyone loves this environment, which made me feel warm inside.

妹と参加しました。内容はとても良かったのですが、お天気が残念だったので星4つです。
1月は天気が悪いと聞いていましたので、雨が降ってもそれほどがっかりしませんでしたが、竹富島のビーチはお天気が良ければもっと素晴らしかったと思います。それでもマングローブ遊覧は船にカバーがかかっていて、ほとんど濡れずに観光できました。
水牛車には2回乗ることができましたが、車を引いてくれる水牛さんを応援し、三線と歌を聴かせていただき楽しかったです。島の観光では地元出身もそうでない方も若者が沢山働いていて、皆この環境が大好きなんだなと伝わってきてこちらも暖かい気持ちになりました。

I was able to efficiently visit Iriomote Island, Yubu Island, and Taketomi Island in one day, and I was very satisfied. The bus driver guide on Iriomote Island was very entertaining. I highly recommend it.

一日で西表島・由布島・竹富島に効率よくまわることができて、大満足でした。西表島のバスの運転手さんのガイドがとても面白かったです。おすすめです。

Since the mangroves follow the same route for both the outbound and return trips, I was able to see both sides. It was fun listening to the explanations too! You can buy souvenirs on Yufu Island!

マングローブは行きと帰り同じところを通るため両側見ることが出来た。解説も聞いていて楽しかった！お土産は由布島で買えるよ！

Unfortunately, the weather was cloudy, but I was comforted by the guide's humorous storytelling and the water buffalo (Apar-kun). It was so relaxing!

あいにく、天候は曇りでしたが、ガイドのユーモアたっぷりの語りと水牛(アーパー君)に癒されました。まったり！

It was a winter snorkeling experience, but since I was wearing a wetsuit, I hardly felt the cold and was able to enjoy it comfortably. Unfortunately, we couldn't go to the Blue Cave due to the weather conditions, but our guide, Sugimori, explained the situation thoroughly each time and I felt that safety was given ample consideration. He made sure to check on each participant as we progressed, which allowed me to feel secure during the experience.

冬のシュノーケリング体験でしたが、ウエットスーツを着用していたため寒さはほとんど感じず、快適に楽しむことができました。天候の影響で青の洞窟には行くことができず残念でしたが、その都度ガイドの杉森さんが状況を丁寧に説明してくださり、安全面にも十分配慮されていると感じました。参加者一人ひとりの様子を確認しながら進めてくださったため、安心して体験することができました。

A luxurious trip visiting three islands in one day. It was a solo journey, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. The driver on Iriomote Island was the best! The guiding while driving was absolutely wonderful! I was also able to rent a bicycle on Taketomi Island that day, so I spent my time efficiently. The lunch that included a meal was delicious as well.

1日で3島巡り。贅沢な旅でした。ひとり旅でしたが、大変満喫できました。
西表島のパスドライバーさん、最高！運転しながらのガイドが素晴らしすぎた！
竹富島でも当日自転車が借りられたので、時間を無駄なく過ごせました。
お昼つきのランチも美味しかったです。

You can efficiently visit places like Yufuin Island, which are difficult to access on your own, without wasting time. I did a preliminary visit on this tour and then spent a relaxing day on Taketomi Island the next day.

自力では行きにくい由布島なども無駄なく非常に効率よく廻れます。このツアーで下見をして、翌日竹富島でゆっくり一日過ごしました。

I was able to experience the extraordinary by riding a water buffalo cart and seeing the mangroves that can only be found on Iriomote Island. I had a relaxing and enjoyable time.

水牛車に乗ったり、西表島でしか見られないマングローブを見たり、非日常が体験出来ました。
ゆっくりのんびり、楽しくすごせました。

A one-year-old calf was happily playing with the water buffalo. A young elementary school boy got stuck in the mangroves. The lunch buffet was enjoyed by the older kids, but it might be a good idea to bring something for the little ones aged 0-3.

水牛に一才の末の子が喜んでいました。
小学生の男の子にマングローブ刺さります。
お昼ご飯のバイキングは上の子たちは食べでしたが、小さい0-3歳くらいの子は何か持参した方がいいかもです。