How to Get to Iriomote Island, Japan?

It seems that Iriomote Island has become a must-visit destination for international travelers arriving on Ishigaki Island. If you’re one of them, planning an adventure to Iriomote, Japan, you’re likely drawn by its wild landscapes: dense jungles, mangrove forests, and colorful coral gardens. But you might still be wondering… However, you might be still wondering…how do I get to Iriomote Island? What are the things I should know before heading there?

In this guide, I will break down the best ways to reach Iriomote Island, ensuring you arrive smoothly and ready to explore. Whether you’re traveling from within Japan or abroad, here’s everything you need to know about accessing one of Japan’s most remote and beautiful destinations.

Best Ways to Travel from Tokyo to Iriomote

Traveling from Tokyo to Iriomote, one of the southernmost islands in Japan, is an adventure in itself. It takes almost an entire day to travel from Tokyo to Iriomote. 1 flight and 1 ferry ride. 

Tokyo to Ishigaki, then Ishigaki to Iriomote

Iriomote is located in Okinawa Prefecture, which means you’ll need to fly from Tokyo to the nearest larger island, Ishigaki, before taking a ferry to Iriomote.

I know Iriomote is remote, but the journey is well worth it for those seeking nature and tranquility. You will find the breakdown of how you can get from Tokyo to Ishigaki and then from Ishigaki to Iriomote in Fly to Ishigaki section below.

Best Ways to Travel from Naha to Iriomote

Though Iriomote Island is one of Okinawa’s most stunning natural destinations, there is no flight from Naha, Okinawa to Iriomote nor a direct ferry from Naha to Iriomote.

Naha to Ishigaki, then Ishigaki to Iriomote

Traveling to Iriomote from Naha involves two main steps, 1 flight to Ishigaki then 1 ferry ride: flying to Ishigaki Island and then taking a ferry to Iriomote. Since Iriomote doesn’t have its own airport, Ishigaki serves as the nearest hub.

While it’s remote, the journey from Naha, the capital of Okinawa, to Iriomote is straightforward with a combination of flights and ferries. The guide below will walk you through how to get from Naha to Iriomote and offer practical tips to make your trip seamless.

Best Ways to Travel from Osaka to Iriomote

Though Iriomote Island is a prime destination for nature enthusiasts, there is no direct flight or ferry from Osaka to Iriomote Island.

Osaka to Ishigaki, then Ishigaki to Iriomote

Traveling to Iriomote from Osaka involves two main steps: one flight to Ishigaki Island followed by one ferry ride to Iriomote. Since Iriomote has no airport, Ishigaki serves as the nearest access point.

Osaka has 2 airports: Kansai Airport（KIX）and Itami Airport　(ITM). Although Itami Airport is more convenient to reach from the center of Osaka, there is no direct flight from Itami to Ishigaki. Unfortunately, you have less flight choices from Osaka than from Tokyo to Ishigaki in this regard.

The guide below will elaborate on this and walk you through how to travel from Osaka to Iriomote and share practical tips for a seamless trip.

Step 1: How to Fly to Ishigaki Island

To reach Iriomote, you first need to fly to Ishigaki Island, which serves as the gateway to the Yaeyama Islands, including Iriomote. There are no direct flights to Iriomote itself, so the closest airport is New Ishigaki Airport (ISG).

Several airlines offer regular flights to Ishigaki from major cities in Japan:

• From Tokyo (Haneda or Narita): Approximately 3 hours
• From Osaka (Kansai International or Itami): Around 2.5 hours
• From Naha (Okinawa’s main island): Just over an hour

International travelers can reach Ishigaki via connections from Tokyo or Osaka. It’s advisable to book your flights in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer or Golden Week.

Flights from Tokyo to Ishigaki

The first leg of your journey is a direct flight from Tokyo to Ishigaki, the nearest airport to Iriomote. Ishigaki Island has a major airport (New Ishigaki Airport, code: ISG), which is well-connected to Tokyo’s main airports.

• Direct Flights: You can find daily direct flights from both Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) and Narita International Airport (NRT) to Ishigaki. Airlines such as ANA, JAL, and Peach Aviation offer multiple flights per day.
• Flight Duration: The flight from Tokyo to Ishigaki takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes.
• Ticket Prices: Prices can vary depending on the season, but expect to pay between ¥10,000 to ¥30,000 for a one-way ticket. Booking in advance or using budget airlines can help lower costs.

Which Airline to Choose for a flight from Tokyo to Ishigaki?

Airlines flying from Tokyo to Ishigaki include ANA, JAL, and Peach Aviation. While ANA and JAL fly from Haneda, Peach is a low-cost airline that operates between Narita and Ishigaki.

• ANA & JAL: These airlines provide more comfort and convenience, especially for travelers carrying larger luggage or seeking a more seamless experience. Both airlines offer premium services and flexible ticket options, making them ideal for those who prefer more comfort and amenities.
• Peach Aviation: For budget-conscious travelers, Peach is a solid option if you’re fine with carrying only hand luggage and don’t mind a no-frills experience. This airline offers much lower fares, but be mindful of extra charges for checked baggage or seat selection.

Flights From Osaka to Ishigaki

Travelers flying from Osaka have the option to fly with ANA, JAL, and Peach Aviation as well.

• From Kansai International Airport (KIX) to Ishigaki: Both ANA and Peach offer flights from KIX, making it easy to compare between a premium experience and a budget-friendly option.
• From Itami Airport (ITM) to Naha, then from Naha to Ishigaki: JAL offers flights from Itami, which is more centrally located in Osaka. For those staying closer to the city, this might be a more convenient choice than traveling to KIX.

Similar to flights from Tokyo, ANA and JAL provide better onboard services, while Peach remains the cheaper alternative, with the same limitations on luggage and services.

Flights From Naha to Ishigaki

If you’re already on Okinawa’s main island, flying from Naha to Ishigaki is the quickest option, with a flight time of just over an hour. You have several airlines to choose from, offering frequent daily flights:

• ANA
• JAL
• Solaseed Air

ANA and JAL are the primary airlines, providing reliable service with options for more comfort and flexibility, including various ticket types and baggage allowances. Solaseed Air, is another good choice for budget travelers. It offers affordable fares, though it may have fewer onboard services and more restrictions on baggage compared to ANA and JAL.

For a balance between price and service, Solaseed can be an attractive option, but if you value flexibility and comfort, ANA or JAL might suit you better.

Step 2: from New Ishigaki Airport to the Ishigaki Ferry Terminal

Once you’ve landed at New Ishigaki Airport, you’ll need to travel to the ferry terminal at Ishigaki Port to catch your boat to Iriomote Island. The ferry terminal is about 30-40 minutes away from the airport, depending on your mode of transport.

Option 1: Bus from Ishigaki Airport to Ishigaki Ferry Terminal

There are regular buses connecting the airport to Ishigaki Port. The bus is an affordable option, typically costing ¥500, and runs several times a day. Be sure to check the bus schedule in advance to coordinate with your flight arrival time, as bus services are less frequent in the evening.

• Travel Time: 40-50 minutes
• Cost: Approximately ¥500

Ishigaki Airport Bus Operators to choose from

There are 2 bus operators serving from Ishigaki Airport to Ishigaki Ferry Terminal.

Karry Kanko:

This company operates the direct Bus service from Ishigaki Airport to Ishigaki Port. Karry Kanko typically operates every 30 minutes, departing at 20 and 50 minutes past the hour, and connects the airport to the city center in about 30 minutes. The fare is approximately ¥500​
南ぬ島石垣空港公式ウェブサイト
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Azuma Bus:

This city bus operator provides various routes, including the Airport Line (Route 4 and 10), which also connects to Ishigaki Port. Azuma bus takes the same route and another similar route to Karry Kanko, but Azuma bus has many bus stops as this operator provides services for the residents on the island to get around the city.

Option 2: Taxi from Ishigaki Airport to to Ishigaki City

If you prefer a faster and more convenient option, taking a taxi is the easiest way to get from the airport to the ferry terminal. Taxis are available right outside the airport and can take you directly to Ishigaki Port in about 30-40 minutes. The fare typically ranges from ¥3,000 to ¥3,500, depending on traffic and time of day.

• Travel Time: 30-40 minutes
• Cost: Approximately ¥3,000-¥3,500

If you’re traveling in a group or have luggage, a taxi might be the more comfortable and time-efficient option.

Ishigaki Island Taxi

Taxi call center	Telephone
Yaeyama Kyodo Musen	0980-83-3355
Ishigaki Taxi Call Center	0980-82-4649
Sakishima Taxi	0980-82-3988
Ishigaki Taxi	0980-82-3088
Azuma Taxi	0980-82-5553

Step 3: How to Travel from Ishigaki to Iriomote

The only way to travel from Ishigaki to Iriomote is by ferry. It is fairly simple by now that you are already in Ishigaki city center. The bus from the airport takes takes you to the ferry terminal and you just take a ferry from there. Simple, right? Now here are more details on how your ferry trip to Iriomote works.

Ferry from Ishigaki to Iriomote Island

Once you’ve arrived at the Ritou Ferry Terminal, the next step is taking a ferry to Iriomote Island. The ferry is the only way to access Iriomote, as there is no airport on the island. There are two main ferry ports on Iriomote:

• Ohara Port (southeast Iriomote)
• Uehara Port (northwest Iriomote)

How Long is the Ferry Ride from Ishigaki to Iriomote?

Ferries depart from Ishigaki Port and typically take about 35-40 minutes to reach Uehara or 40-50 minutes to reach Ohara, depending on sea conditions. Uehara Port is the more popular choice as it is closer to many of the island’s popular attractions, such as the Urauchi River and star-sand beaches. However, during bad weather, ferries to Uehara might be canceled, and you’ll be directed to Ohara instead.

Ferry Companies from Ishigaki to Iriomote

Two companies run ferry services between Ishigaki and Iriomote, with slightly different schedules and ticketing systems. It’s important to book the correct ferry and ensure you’re at the right platform before departure.

Let’s look closer at those 2 ferry companies, Yaeyama Kanko Ferry and Anei Kanko.

What is Yaeyama Kanko Ferry like?

You’ll notice the eye-catching livery of the Yaeyama Kanko Ferry, featuring a design by local illustrator pokke104 that showcases the vibrant flora and fauna of Yaeyama Prefecture. The ferries operated by Yaeyama Kanko are generally larger than those of the other company, Anei Kanko. Choosing Yaeyama Kanko is advisable if you want to ensure a comfortable seat and a more spacious experience during your journey.

Yaeyama Kanko Ferry Website

What is Anei Kanko like?

Anei Kanko is known as the “Ferry Gang of the Sea” due to its somewhat rough driving style. However, it is also said that Anei Kanko provides a more personable service. Taking the high-speed ferry from Ishigaki Island to Iriomote with Anei Kanko might just become a memorable experience that reflects the spirit of Ishigaki.

Anei Kanko Website

Their Schedules are different

Both companies run multiple ferries daily from morning to late afternoon. However, schedules can change due to weather conditions, and ferry services may be canceled, especially during typhoon season. It’s highly recommended to check the schedule ahead of time.

What to Be Careful About When Taking a Ferry

• Arrive Early: Ferry bookings do not guarantee a seat. Ferries operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive at least 20 minutes before departure and line up to secure your spot.
• Check the Ferry Schedule: Given that ferries are often canceled due to bad weather, it’s crucial to check the departure status the day before and on the day of your ferry ride. Make sure to confirm that the ferries are operating, especially if you’re heading to Uehara.
• Monitor the Weather: Keep an eye on the weather, especially if you have a return trip planned. Storms or high winds can lead to cancellations, so it’s essential to stay updated.

Step 4: Getting Around Iriomote Island

Iriomote is the largeest island in Yaeyama and  with limited public transportation, so getting around requires some planning. Once you arrive at either port, you have a few transportation options:

1. Car Rental: The most convenient way to explore the island is by renting a car. Both Ohara and Uehara ports have rental car services available, and it’s best to reserve a vehicle ahead of time, especially during busy periods.
2. Bus: There are buses running along the main roads of the island, but they operate infrequently. If you prefer to rely on public transport, plan your itinerary around the bus schedule.
3. Tours: Guided tours include transportation, so if you’re planning activities like kayaking or jungle trekking, joining a tour is a hassle-free option. This is the most recommended option if you are staying there only for a day to a few days.

Best Time to Visit Iriomote Island

Iriomote Island has a subtropical climate, but strong north winds during the winter months (November to March) can impact your travel plans. Therefore, the best time to visit is between April and October, when the weather is warm and perfect for outdoor activities like snorkeling, river kayaking, and hiking.

During the rainy season (May to June), the island’s lush forests come to life, but be prepared for occasional showers. For those looking to avoid crowds, it’s best to skip peak domestic travel periods like Golden Week (late April–early May), Silver Week (mid-September), and the busy summer holiday season (July–August).

Important Travel Tips for Iriomote Island

• Ferry Cancellations: Due to Iriomote’s location and weather conditions, ferries, especially to Uehara Port, are often delayed or canceled during bad weather or typhoon season. Always check the ferry company’s website or confirm at Ishigaki Port for real-time updates.
• Accommodation: While Iriomote offers a range of accommodations, including Resort hotels like Hoshino Resort and guesthouses, availability is limited, especially during peak seasons. Book in advance to secure your stay.
• Cash: ATMs are few and far between on the island, and many businesses only accept cash. Be sure to carry enough yen with you, especially if you plan on staying in more remote areas.

Immerse yourself into the nature and culture of Iriomote with guided tours

Living in the Yaeyama Islands, I know firsthand how complex travel planning can be for remote destinations like Iriomote, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Japanese. You’ll certainly enjoy your trip regardless of language, but if you want to deepen your experience in the mystical Yaeyama Islands and connect with the local culture, lifestyle, and history, consider having a day or two with a local English-speaking guide.

Many local activities, such as jungle trekking or river kayaking, require you to be accompanied by an interpreter if you don’t speak the language. I offer end-to-end travel planning counseling, followed by interpreter services to assist you from the moment you book until the day of your actual travel.

Whether it’s arranging an itinerary, securing accommodations, or ensuring smooth communication during activities, I’m here to make your Iriomote adventure seamless and stress-free. Reach out today to start planning!