Best trails in Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park
Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park is the southernmost national park in Japan and is characterized by impressive natural scenery created by a rich ecosystem, including Japan's largest mangrove forest, a subtropical evergreen broadleaf forest, and coral reefs.
Japan's largest coral reef area, located between Ishigaki Island and Iriomote Island, is home to over 360 species of reef-building coral (Scleractinia), creating a spectacular underwater seascape. Divers may encounter manta rays in the waters surrounding Yaeyama.
The area is also known for its beautiful beaches, which attract many visitors. If you're interested in snorkeling, head to Kitahama, located in the northwestern part of Hateruma Island. The sparkling, clear blue waters are a paradise for sea lovers. A variety of water and nature activities are popular within the national park, including scuba diving, canoeing, and glass-bottom boats.
Top trails
- (37)•Hard•3.0 mi•Est. 2–2.5 hrMount Omoto (於茂登岳) From the summit of the mountain, you see the stunning sea of coral reefs, which is a symbol of Okinawa's rich nature, and Kabira Bay, designated as a national scenic spot. There are springs and waterfalls in the mountains, one of the important water sources for Ishigaki Island. The mountain retains the valuable ecosystem, such as endangered Kinobori lizard inhabits. Hub snakes and bees are in the mountain, so be prepared in advance. Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts,...
- (23)•Hard•4.0 mi•Est. 2.5–3 hrNote: Due to the sunlight of Iriomote Island and the bugs that live in the jungle, long sleeves and long pants are recommended. Pinaisara Falls (ピナイサーラの滝) Pinaisara Falls is the highest waterfall in Okinawa Prefecture. And it has become a popular tourist destination for the combined tour of mangrove kayaking and jungle trekking. (Reservations are required for tours.)
- Hard•11.0 mi•Est. 5–5.5 hrIriomote West Coast Course (西表西海岸コース) This trail goes to Haemida Beach, next to the camping site from Funauki Port through several beautiful beaches of Iriomote Island. This trail offers you incredible views of the sea of Okinawa. Iriomote Island / Iriomotejima(西表島) is known to be the largest in Yaeyama. It is the second largest island in Okinawa. The island is covered in dense forest and jungle. There are many wildlife on the island, such as the Iriomote Yamaneko. This wildcat can only be...
- Easy•2.0 mi•Est. 0.5–1 hrIriomote-jima Island is known for the largest mangrove forest in Japan. Mangrove forests spread out on both banks along Mare River (マーレ川) which offers you the opportunity to see the nature of Iriomote-jima Island. This trail goes along the Mare River and there are falls near the U turn point of this route.