Iriomote

Iriomote is part of the subtropical Yaeyama island chain. It is the second biggest island in Okinawa but has a population of only 2000. Access is only by sea and the main reason for its small population is the dense protected jungle and mangrove that covers most of the island's surface.

“Being on Iriomote feels like you are in unchartered jungle and much of it is. Kayaking up from the clear blue sea, cutting through the mangrove rivers or trekking through the jungle you feel as though you are in one of the last frontiers of Japan”

James Mundy, PR Manager

Iriomote was largely unpopulated up until World War Two due to the dense jungle and malaria. During the war residents of the nearby islands such as Ishigaki took refuge on the island and since US forces eradicated malaria the population has grown. Even with the small population, the jungles are still dominant on the island with an array of rare flora and fauna that is mostly protected.

Perhaps the most famous resident of Iriomote is the extremely rare Iriomote Neko. This wild cat, only discovered in 1965, is considered a primitive subspecies to the leopard cat but is similar looking to the domestic cat. The chances are that you will not see this shy beast as it is thought that there are fewer than a 100 animals in existence. You could, however, visit the Yamaneko museum where you may be lucky to see rescued specimens. You could also buy chocolate 'Yamaneko Poo' sweets which are a popular gift from the area.

As well as the dense jungle, there are empty golden beaches and some beautiful coral around the island with rich marine life making it a great place for snorkelling. The island does have a growing eco-tourism industry based on the jungle and the life within it. One of the best ways to see the island is by joining a group which will take you kayaking through sea and up the mangrove rivers deep into the heart of the island. Here you can trek to untainted waterfalls that seem to appear from nowhere and witness all sorts of strange jungle wildlife on the way.

Eco-tourism is the growing industry in Iriomote but along with fishing, the islands main produce is pineapple which are very refreshing after a day's trekking in the jungle. An alternative form of relaxation is the traditional Japanese pastime of hot spring bathing. There is one hot spring in Iriomote which is thought to be the most southerly hot spring in all of Japan.

In short, Iriomote is a true subtropical adventure.

Recommended Accommodation in Iriomote

The following are our favourites from among the western-style hotels and Japanese-style inns of Iriomote.

Iriomote

Iriomote Eco Village

Superior
Iriomote

Hoshino Resort Iriomote

Deluxe

Experiences in Iriomote

Iriomote offers a wealth of exciting experiences that will help you get beneath the surface of Japan's fascinating culture. See below for a few of our favourites

Weather in Iriomote

The Climate Guide for Iriomote, Japan is perfect for planning your holiday. Monthly weather averages give the best indication of what the weather is usually like for every month of the year including figures for temperature, rainfall and sunshine.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec

Max Daytime Temperature (°C)	20	20	22	25	27	29	31	31	30	28	24	22
Min Night-time Temperature (°C)	15	15	16	19	22	25	26	26	24	22	19	16
Hours of Sunshine (Daily)	2	2	3	4	5	6	8	7	6	5	3	2
Hours of Daylight (Daily)	11	11	12	13	13	14	14	13	12	12	11	11
Heat and Humidity Discomfort	None	None	None	Low	Moderate	High	Very High	High	High	Moderate	Low	None
Days with some Rainfall	18	16	17	15	18	18	16	18	17	16	17	18
Monthly Rainfall (mm)	124	130	138	136	212	209	176	261	219	165	143	120
UV Index (Maximum)	7	9	11	11+	11+	11+	11+	11+	11	9	7	6

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Featured trips including Iriomote

Self-Guided Adventure

Okinawa Island Hopping (Superior)
- Tokyo
- Ishigaki
- Taketomi
- Iriomote
- Tokyo
This 10-night superior island-hopping itinerary introduces Japan's subtropical side in style, with superb accommodation and fine dining included.

10 nights: from US$6769 pp (twin share) Read more >

View more Self-Guided Adventures