This tour takes in the three very different islands of Iriomote, Yubu and Taketomi.

Iriomote, the largest of the three islands on our tour, is largely unspoilt and covered with mangrove forests. Hidden within are rivers and waterfalls. After a ferry ride from Ishigaki Ferry Terminal to Ohara port on Iriomote, we take an exotic cruise further inland on the Nakama River through the beautiful jungle and unspoilt mangrove plantations, within the Nakama River zone (a protected area). Animals, birds, reptiles, butterflies and fireflies are found in abundance on the island and in the surrounding sea and the rivers. The biggest sakishima-suou tree (the looking glass mangrove) in Japan is located on the Nakama River. Depending on the tides, it is sometimes possible to stop and get off the boat for a short while so you can admire this tree and the surrounding forest area.

Having completed our river cruise, we transfer to Mihara.  Just 400 meters offshore lies the tiny island of Yubu, and we cross over to it by way of water buffalo drawn carriages, which gently wade through the shallow sea. The entire island comprises a sub-tropical garden, containing over 100 types of tree, a butterfly garden and a shell house. The trees which can be admired include the 10 varieties of local palm tree, many fruit trees and many flowering plants, including 30 varieties of hibiscus.

After lunch on Yubu we move on to Taketomi, the third island of our tour. Taketomi has many beautiful beaches, including Kaiji Beach, which has fascinating star shaped sand, and Kondoi Beach, with its beautiful white sand. Inland, the island has retained its local charm, with coral sand roads winding through the central village with its traditional Kawara style, red tiled roofed houses, topped with shiisa, the lion dog figures, to ward off evil spirits. There is also a small local museum and a wealth of other things to see and find.