Iriomote-jima

Getting Here and Around

Ferries from Ishigaki-jima connect to two ports on Iriomote, south-eastern Ohara and northern Uehara, in just under an hour. You want to head for Uehara, but in heavy storm weather boats may not continue past Ohara. There are between 9 and 12 departures daily each way for ¥2,300.

The long road ringing Iriomote's northern half terminates in the west at Shirohara and the east in Funaura, and although infrequent buses connect them, all tour companies will take care of transporting you to and from your hotel or port of call at the time of your excursion. Rental scooters and cars are available, but there aren't really a lot of places to go; rely on your tour guides to get you around, and center your meals around your lodging. The post-office ATM may be working, but its in your best interest to bring enough cash for your entire stay.