| Water activity type | Canoe・Kayak |
| Instruction language | Japanese |
Please note that we will only be able to respond in Japanese.
Please gather 30 minutes before the start time of each session.
The tour will be held with a minimum of 2 people.
Participants must be 6 years old or older to participate in the tour.
For canoe tours on the Urauchi River, we use sit-on type canoes. There is a drainage hole on the bottom of the boat, so your butt will get wet, so be sure to bring clothes you don't mind getting wet, a change of clothes, and a bath towel.
In the summer, you will be swimming and being hit by waterfalls, so please wear a swimsuit beforehand.
Please make a reservation at least one day in advance for transportation to your accommodation.
There is a shower room with hot water (free of charge)
Please refer to the list on the right for clothing and items to bring on the day. (Marine boots or sports sandals with closed heel, full change of clothes, towel, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent spray)
In the winter, a raincoat to protect you from the cold (we also sell a simple poncho type for 500 yen)
Your luggage will get wet during the tour, so we will lend you a waterproof dry bag free of charge.
Iriomote Island is primarily accessed by ferry from Ishigaki Island. High-speed ferries operate daily from Ishigaki Port, taking approximately 35-40 minutes to reach either Ohara Port or Uehara Port on Iriomote. It is advisable to check the ferry schedules in advance, especially during peak travel periods, to ensure smooth arrival for your experience.
The most convenient method for traveling from Ishigaki to Iriomote Island is by high-speed ferry. These ferries depart from Ishigaki Port and serve two main ports on Iriomote: Ohara Port in the south and Uehara Port in the north. Uehara Port is often closer to various activity departure points. Travel time is usually around 35-40 minutes, but schedules can be impacted by weather conditions.
To reach Iriomote Island from Okinawa (Naha), you must first take a domestic flight from Naha Airport (OKA) to Ishigaki Airport (ISG), which typically takes about one hour. Upon arrival at Ishigaki Airport, you will then need to travel by bus or taxi to Ishigaki Port, where you can board a high-speed ferry to Iriomote Island.
On Iriomote Island, common transportation methods include renting a car, using local buses, or taking taxis. Rental cars offer the most flexibility for exploring the island. Local buses connect major ports and some villages, but service frequency can be limited. Many tour operators, including those for canoe experiences, often provide convenient pick-up services from the main ports or accommodations, so it's best to confirm this when booking.
The half-day canoe experience on Iriomote Island usually lasts for approximately 2 to 3 hours. Participants can choose between two main timings: a morning session, commonly starting around 10:00 AM, or an afternoon session, which typically begins at 1:30 PM. These options provide flexibility to fit the activity into your travel itinerary while enjoying the natural surroundings.
During the canoe tour, you will gently paddle through a unique and enchanting wooden tunnel, formed by the island's lush mangrove forests. You can expect to observe the beautiful way sunlight filters through the dense leaves, creating a serene atmosphere. The journey offers an immersive experience in the great outdoors, allowing you to appreciate the rich biodiversity and tranquility of the river.
Yes, the canoe experience on Iriomote Island is generally well-suited for beginners and individuals with limited paddling experience. Tours typically include comprehensive basic paddling instructions and essential safety briefings before the activity begins. The pace of the tour is usually relaxed, allowing everyone to comfortably enjoy the scenic environment and the presence of experienced guides ensures a safe and pleasant outing.
For the half-day canoe experience, it's recommended to bring comfortable, quick-drying clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. Insect repellent is also advisable. Don't forget a water bottle to stay hydrated. If you plan to take photos, ensure your camera or phone is waterproof or kept in a dry bag. Water shoes or sandals are suitable footwear.