12 Best Tours in Iriomote Jima

Okinawa’s Iriomote Island packs serious adventure into a compact tropical paradise. The best tours focus on two main draws: pristine mangrove waterways and rich marine ecosystems. Morning paddling tours – by SUP or canoe – offer the most peaceful way to experience the UNESCO-protected mangroves. Local guides lead excellent half-day cultural walks through traditional villages, while night tours reveal a completely different island under starlit skies. We especially love the sunrise water tours for their mix of tranquility and wildlife spotting opportunities. The guided mangrove explorations stand out for combining physical activity with environmental education. Ready to explore? Check out our favorite Iriomote tours below.

Good To Know

• Water-based tours, including sunrise, Sagaribana, night, and sunset SUP/canoe tours, offer unique experiences in Iriomote Jima’s mangrove forests and scenic waterways.
• Cultural experiences, such as the half-day walking tour of the indigenous Iriomote Village, provide insights into local traditions and history.
• Mangrove forest tours, both SUP/canoe-based and limestone cave exploration, allow visitors to enjoy the island’s World Heritage-listed landscapes.
• Snorkeling tours at Coral Island offer the opportunity to discover the area’s vibrant marine life.
• Tour operators consider health restrictions and accessibility, with group sizes generally limited to 15 participants for a personalized experience.

[Okinawa Iriomote] Sunrise SUP/Canoe Tour in Iriomote Island

Although Iriomote-jima is renowned for its lush, primeval landscape, one of the best ways to experience the island’s natural beauty is through the Sunrise SUP/Canoe Tour. The tour takes travelers on an early morning journey along the island’s rivers and mangrove forests, allowing them to witness the stunning sunrise and diverse wildlife.

The experience includes a SUP or canoe kit, safety equipment, and liability insurance, ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure. Participants will also receive photo data, life jackets, and exclusive shoes, as well as an experience fee and consumption tax. The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.

The meeting point is at the Densa Terminal in Uehara, Taketomi, with free pickup available in the Uehara area. Those staying outside the area can take a bus or taxi to the Uehara Port.

The tour starts at 5:30 AM and concludes at the meeting point, providing an unforgettable start to the day on Iriomote-jima.

Read our full review: [Okinawa Iriomote] Sunrise SUP/Canoe Tour in Iriomote Island Review
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Sagaribana SUP / Canoe Tour Early in the Morning (Limited From June to August)

The Sagaribana SUP/Canoe Tour on Iriomote-jima provides travelers a unique opportunity to explore the island’s lush mangrove forests and witness the stunning early morning scenery.

This limited-time tour, available only from June to August, departs at 5:00 am, allowing participants to catch the sunrise. Groups are capped at 15 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

The tour includes all necessary equipment, including SUPs (or canoes), life jackets, and special shoes, as well as liability insurance and photo data.

Pickup is free for those staying in the Uehara area, though hotels outside this zone aren’t included. Certain health conditions, such as back problems, heart issues, and pregnancy, make this tour unsuitable.

Read our full review: Sagaribana SUP / Canoe Tour Early in the Morning (Limited From June to August) Review
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Okinawa Iriomote] Sagaribana Watching Tour (Limited From June to August)

Offered exclusively from June to August, the Okinawa Iriomote Sagaribana Watching Tour invites travelers to witness the stunning early morning scenery of Iriomote-jima’s lush mangrove forests. Priced at £26.92 per person, this experience accommodates a maximum of 15 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized adventure.

The tour includes liability insurance, the experience fee, consumption tax, and light refreshments. Pickup is available in the Uehara area at no extra cost, though hotels outside this range aren’t included.

Participants must be able to sit on laps if bringing infants, have no serious medical conditions, and aren’t recommended for drinking.

With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior, this tour offers flexibility. However, a minimum number of participants is required; if not met, guests may be offered rescheduling or a full refund.

Read our full review: [Okinawa Iriomote] Sagaribana Watching Tour (Limited From June to August) Review
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Half-Day Walking Tour to Indigenous Iriomote Village – Iriomote-jima

As travelers seek to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Iriomote Island, the Half-Day Walking Tour to Indigenous Iriomote Village stands out as a must-experience opportunity.

This half-day tour offers an intimate exploration of an old village, providing visitors with the chance to engage with a knowledgeable guide who shares local folktales and personal stories. The tour takes participants to traditional houses, shrines, and historic sites, allowing them to discover the island’s indigenous culture firsthand.

At the end of the tour, guests can enjoy coffee or tea with breathtaking beach views, including a tea made by a local shaman and Iriomote black sugar.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. With a perfect 5.0 rating from past participants, the tour is highly recommended for those interested in Iriomote Island’s cultural heritage.

Travelers can book the tour with flexibility, taking advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.

Read our full review: Half-Day Walking Tour to Indigenous Iriomote Village – Iriomote-jima Review
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Okinawa Iriomote] Sup/Canoe Tour at Mangrove Forest

Exploring the serene mangrove forests of Iriomote Island is an unforgettable experience offered through the Okinawa Iriomote Mangrove SUP or Canoe Tour.

With a 4.9-star rating from 170 reviews and a 99% recommendation, this tour provides a unique opportunity to take in the island’s lush ecosystem.

Participants are equipped with SUP boards or canoes, life jackets, and special shoes, ensuring both safety and comfort throughout the excursion.

The tour also includes a hot shower, photo data, and liability insurance, making it a well-rounded and convenient package.

The meeting point is at the Densa Terminal in Uehara, Taketomi, with free pickup from the Uehara area. Guests staying outside this zone must arrange their own transportation to the port.

With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour offers an intimate and personalized experience, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to explore the natural wonders of Iriomote-jima.

Read our full review: [Okinawa Iriomote] Sup/Canoe Tour at Mangrove Forest Review
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Iriomote] SUP / Canoe Tour at Mangrove Forest Sightseeing in Yubujima Island

Travelers seeking a comprehensive exploration of Iriomote Island’s natural wonders can embark on the Okinawa Iriomote SUP or Canoe and Sightseeing in Yubujima Island tour.

Rated 4.9/5 with a 99% recommendation, this excursion offers an immersive experience through the island’s mangrove forests, where participants can spot diverse wildlife like butterflies, crabs, and mudskippers.

The tour also includes a visit to Yubujima Island, where visitors can explore butterfly gardens and beaches via an ox cart ride accompanied by traditional music.

While the experience isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, it provides a unique opportunity to connect with Iriomote’s stunning natural landscapes.

With life jackets, liability insurance, and a range of included amenities, this tour ensures a safe and memorable adventure for up to 15 travelers.

Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.

Read our full review: [Iriomote] SUP / Canoe Tour at Mangrove Forest Sightseeing in Yubujima Island Review
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Okinawa Iriomote]SUP/Canoe Tour at Mangrove ForestSplash Canyoning!!

For those seeking an exhilarating adventure on Iriomote Island, the Okinawa Iriomote SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboard) or Canoe Tour combined with Splash Canyoning provides an unparalleled opportunity to take in the island’s stunning natural landscapes.

Rated an impressive 4.9 stars out of 79 reviews, this tour offers a thrilling blend of activities that allow participants to explore the mangrove forests and cascading waterfalls.

The tour includes essential equipment such as life jackets, exclusive shoes, and helmets, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Participants can choose between SUP or canoe, depending on their preferences, and will have the opportunity to capture memorable moments with the provided photo data.

After the paddle, adventurers will embark on a splash canyoning adventure, navigating through the island’s unique geological formations. The tour concludes with a well-deserved hot shower and a delicious lunch, leaving participants energized and fulfilled.

Read our full review: [Okinawa Iriomote]SUP/Canoe Tour at Mangrove ForestSplash Canyoning!! Review
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Okinawa Iriomote] Night SUP/Canoe Tour in Iriomote Island

As the sun dips below the horizon, Iriomote Island‘s mangrove forests and winding waterways come alive with a serene, ethereal beauty during the Okinawa Iriomote Night SUP/Canoe Tour. This popular 13-reviewed tour, with a 100% traveler recommendation, offers a maximum of 15 guests the chance to explore the island’s enchanting nocturnal landscape.

The tour includes all necessary SUP/canoe equipment, safety gear, liability insurance, and even photo data capture to preserve the memories. Guests are picked up free of charge from the Uehara area, though those staying outside this zone must make their own way to the Densa Terminal meeting point.

The tour begins at 8 PM and lasts until participants return to the starting location. With an impressive 5.0 overall rating, this experience is suitable for all ages, including infants, provided they can be accommodated.

Travelers should note that no serious medical conditions or wheelchair accessibility are catered for. The Okinawa Iriomote Night SUP/Canoe Tour provides a unique opportunity to take in the magical, nocturnal ambiance of Iriomote Island.

Read our full review: [Okinawa Iriomote] Night SUP/Canoe Tour in Iriomote Island Review
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Okinawa Iriomote] Sunset SUP/Canoe Tour in Iriomote Island

The Okinawa Iriomote Sunset SUP/Canoe Tour in Iriomote Island provides travelers with a captivating opportunity to witness the island’s breathtaking natural beauty during the golden hour.

This 5-star rated tour offers a relaxing and scenic experience, with a maximum of 15 participants. Guests will be equipped with SUP/canoe kits, safety gear, and liability insurance, ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure.

The tour starts at the Densa Terminal in Uehara, Taketomi, where guests can be picked up for free if they’re staying in the Uehara area. Guests staying outside the pickup range must reach the meeting point via bus or taxi.

Once the tour begins at 5:30 PM, you will glide along the tranquil waters, capturing stunning photos and soaking in the serene atmosphere as the sun dips below the horizon.

The tour concludes back at the meeting point, providing a memorable sunset experience on Iriomote Island.

Read our full review: [Okinawa Iriomote] Sunset SUP/Canoe Tour in Iriomote Island Review
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Okinawa Iriomote] Sup/Canoe Tour at Mangrove & Limestone Cave Exploration

Travelers seeking an immersive experience in Iriomote’s natural wonders can embark on the Okinawa Iriomote Sup/Canoe Tour at Mangrove & Limestone Cave Exploration.

This highly-rated activity takes participants on a journey through the island’s stunning World Heritage-listed landscapes, including a paddling adventure on stand-up paddleboards or canoes in the mangrove forests and a guided exploration of a limestone cave.

The tour includes all necessary equipment, such as SUP/canoe kits, safety gear, and wetsuits, as well as liability insurance, photo data, and a hot shower after the activities.

Pickup is available from the Uehara area, making it convenient for travelers. With a maximum of 15 participants, the tour ensures a personalized experience.

Suitable for moderately fit travelers, the activity isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions. Reviews consistently praise the tour, with a 5-star rating across the board, making it a must-do for visitors to Iriomote-jima.

Read our full review: [Okinawa Iriomote] Sup/Canoe Tour at Mangrove & Limestone Cave Exploration Review
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Okinawa Iriomote] Snorkeling Tour at Coral Island

What better way to explore the vibrant marine life of Iriomote-jima than the Okinawa Iriomote Snorkeling Tour at Coral Island?

With 14 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate from travelers, this tour offers an exceptional opportunity to encounter the island’s stunning coral reefs and diverse aquatic wildlife. Priced at $51.81 per person, the tour includes essential safety equipment, liability insurance, and top-notch snorkeling gear, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Participants can also look forward to a hot shower and photo data to capture their memorable moments. The tour’s meeting point at Densa Terminal in Uehara is conveniently located, with free pick-up service available for those staying in the area.

Accommodating a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour caters to a variety of participants, though it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those in wheelchairs.

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, making this Coral Island snorkeling tour a must-consider activity for visitors to Iriomote-jima.

Read our full review: [Okinawa Iriomote] Snorkeling Tour at Coral Island Review
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Iriomote] SUP / Canoe Tour at Mangrove Forest Snorkeling Tour at Coral Island

Combining a canoe or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) tour of Iriomote-jima’s serene mangrove forests with a snorkeling adventure at Barasu Island, this excursion offers visitors a well-rounded exploration of the island’s diverse natural wonders.

Highly rated with 100% traveler recommendations and a 5.0 score, the tour provides a range of included amenities, from life jackets and exclusive shoes to wetsuits and photo data.

Participants will paddle through the lush mangrove ecosystem before snorkeling at the nearby Barasu Island, taking in the vibrant underwater world.

With a maximum group size of 15, the tour caters to moderate fitness levels and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with certain medical conditions.

Offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve now, pay later options, this Iriomote-jima adventure provides flexibility and convenience for travelers seeking an immersive experience in Okinawa’s natural treasures.

Read our full review: [Iriomote] SUP / Canoe Tour at Mangrove Forest Snorkeling Tour at Coral Island Review
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Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Way to Get to Iriomote Island?

The best way to reach Iriomote Island is by taking a ferry from Ishigaki Island. Ferries depart several times a day and the journey takes approximately an hour. Travelers can also access the island by private boat or chartered flight.

Can I Rent Equipment for the Tours or Do I Need to Bring My Own?

Visitors to Iriomote Island can generally rent equipment for the tours, such as kayaks and snorkeling gear. Many tour operators offer packages that include the necessary equipment, so travelers don’t need to bring their own.

What Type of Wildlife Can I Expect to See on the Tours?

Visitors on Iriomote Jima tours can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including endangered species like the Iriomote cat, mangrove crabs, and a diverse array of tropical birds. The tours often provide opportunities to observe the island’s unique natural habitats.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements for the Tours?

Most tours don’t have strict age or fitness requirements, but some physical ability is expected. Visitors should check with tour operators to ensure the activities match their capabilities. Adventurous travelers of all ages can typically participate, with appropriate safety precautions.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if the Weather Is Bad?

The cancellation policy for tours typically allows for full refunds if poor weather conditions force the tour to be cancelled. Operators generally aim to accommodate travellers, offering alternative dates or activities when possible to ensure a positive experience.

The Sum Up

Iriomote Island offers a diverse range of guided tours that allow visitors to explore its stunning natural landscapes. From sunrise SUP and canoe adventures to mangrove forest explorations and coral island snorkeling, there’s an activity to suit every interest. Whether you’re seeking tranquil early-morning experiences or thrilling sunset outings, Iriomote has something special to discover.