Complete Guide to Yanbaru Forest | Explaining the World Heritage Site's Appeal, Recommended Tours, and Highlights
This time Okinawa in the northern part of Special feature on the World Natural Heritage Site "Yanbaru Forest"!
Yanbaru
There is a forest
Location, access information, highlights, and travel preparation guide
In addition,
Also includes information on recommended tours and activities
I will.
Based on the latest reservation data on this site
Popular Activities in Yanbaru
Please use this as a reference for planning your trip to Okinawa!
table of contents
- 1 About the Yanbaru Forest, a World Natural Heritage Site
- 2 How to get to Yanbaru Forest
- 3 Yanbaru Forest Popular Activities and Tours
- 4 A travel preparation guide to make the most of Yanbaru forest
- 5 Yanbaru Forest Activities Top 10
- 6 Experience Okinawa's great outdoors in the Yanbaru Forest!
- 7 Feature articles recommended by the editorial department
About the Yanbaru Forest, a World Natural Heritage Site
First of all, Okinawa World Natural Heritage Site " Yanbaru Forest This article provides an overview of "
What is Yanbaru Forest?
Yanbaru Forest teeth, Subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forests spread across the northern part of Okinawa Island It is written as "Yamahara" in kanji. It means "an area with mountains and forests." The area is centered around the three villages of Kunigami, Ogimi, and Higashi, located north of Nago City. It is so vast that it spans multiple villages. And there is a lot of untouched, rich nature remaining.
It has become more widely known since being registered as a World Heritage Site in 2021 (Reiwa 3).
Why Yanbaru Forest was registered as a World Natural Heritage Site
Yanbaru Forest but The main reason for its inscription on the World Heritage List is its biodiversity. is!
The Ryukyu Islands were part of the continent until about 12 million years ago. After crustal movements caused them to become separated from the mainland,
The creatures left on the island have created their own unique ecosystem.
It is believed that...
The unique ecosystem is still alive and well! Take a walk through the rich forest,
Diverse organisms that continued to evolve in isolated environments
You can meet.
Rare creatures that can be seen in the Yanbaru forest
Yanbaru Forest The habitats include mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, insects, and plants. A wide variety of creatures !
The Okinawa Rail, the only flightless bird in Japan, the Okinawan Shikawa Frog, which is said to be the most beautiful in Japan, and the Yanbaru Long-armed Scarab, one of the largest beetles in Japan, are some of the species that can be seen here. Species endemic to the Yanbaru forest are both It has evolved in its own way As a result, it has a unique ecology and appearance.
How to get to Yanbaru Forest
The Yanbaru forest is vast, so when you visit the area,
"
Yanbaru Forest Visitor Center
"or"
Yanbaru Learning Forest
"
etc.
Set related facilities as destinations
We recommend doing so!
In the following,
How to get to Yanbaru Learning Forest from Naha Airport
We will introduce the following.
By car
If you're heading to Yanbaru Manabi no Mori by car from Naha Airport, you must take the Okinawa Expressway! From Naha IC to Kyoda IC, head north on National Route 58 to access the site.
The journey time from the airport is approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes.
Okinawa Expressway "Naha IC" → "Kyota IC" → Head north on National Route 58 → "Yanbaru Learning Forest"
[Driving time: approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes]
How to get there by bus and taxi
If you are heading to Yanbaru Manabi no Mori from Naha Airport by bus and taxi, you will need to reserve a taxi in advance to come to the Aha bus stop.
First, take the express bus (number 111 or 117) from Naha Airport to Nago Bus Terminal. From Nago Bus Terminal, transfer to the local bus (number 67) on the Hentona Line to the final stop, Hentona Bus Terminal. From Hentona Bus Terminal, transfer to a village bus operated by Kunigami Village and get off at Awa Bus Stop.
From the bus stop to Yanbaru Manabi no Mori, you can take a taxi that you have arranged to go by taxi. The journey takes about 5 minutes.
The entire journey takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes.
However, for a limited time only, the Kunigami Village Tour Bus is currently operating from in front of the Kunigami Village Office near the Hentona Bus Terminal.
Although there are fewer buses running, it is free to ride and stops at Yanbaru Manabi no Mori bus stop, so you can save on transportation costs compared to the routes above.
*You must make a reservation in advance for a taxi to Aha bus stop.
Take the express bus from Naha Airport to Nago Bus Terminal → Transfer to the Hentona Line → Hentona Bus Terminal → Transfer to the Kunigami Village bus → Aha Bus Stop → Transfer to a taxi → Yanbaru Manabi no Mori
[Travel time by bus and taxi: approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes]
Yanbaru Forest Popular Activities and Tours
Yanbaru Introducing popular activity tours you can enjoy in the forest! Okinawa There are plenty of tours available to enjoy the great outdoors.
1. Canyoning and shower climbing
If you want to enjoy the coolness of the Yanbaru forest,
Canyoning and shower climbing
is recommended!
Natural Attraction
Get soaked climbing the streams and ravine descents, also known as "the 'waterfall climb'," and experience the World Heritage forest with your whole body.
Small children can also participate
We will pick out recommended tours, including:
☆Six features of the plan☆ [1] More than 1,500 people participated last year! [2] Enjoy waterfall jumping, Tarzan, and natural swings. [3] Perfect for relieving lack of exercise! Recommended for those who don't like the sea. [4] Very little to bring. Participants from age 3. [5] High-quality photo and video recording is included, with unlimited number of photos. [6] Discount plans and Go
Subtropical trees soften the sun's rays that burn your skin. You can feel the cool air even in midsummer. You can hear the wild birds singing in the distance and the sound of the clear stream flowing at your feet. You will be able to enjoy a charm that is a little different from the seaside of Okinawa.
☆6 Features of Adventure Island☆ [1] Over 1,000 people participated last year! [2] High-quality video and photo shooting included, popular by word of mouth *Unlimited number of photos [3] Very little equipment required. Participants from age 12 [4] Perfect for getting some exercise! Recommended for those who aren't good at the ocean [5] Zip slides, climbing, natural water slides, jungle
2. Trekking
Take a leisurely stroll through the Yanbaru forest,
Trekking Tours
What do you think?
Private tour limited to one group
Then, you can fully enjoy the Yanbaru forest at your own pace with commentary from a local guide.
At Activity Japan,
A tour that is easy for couples and parents and children to participate in
We are also currently listing tours. Please try to find a tour that suits your travel group!
[Okinawa, Yanbaru] Trekking through the World Heritage Forest! 3-hour private tour
Why not take a walk through a subtropical forest with vegetation different from that of Honshu? You can enjoy trekking in a forest that looks like it could be home to dinosaurs, with broccoli-like branches of Castanopsis (acorn trees) and a variety of ferns. Why not relax in a forest filled with the healing scent of forests, "phytoncides"? You might even encounter creatures unique to Yanbaru!? This is a one-group-only tour.
This tour is limited to one group per session. The Yanbaru Forest in the northern part of Okinawa's main island will show you a completely different side of the area when you walk with a guide who is knowledgeable about the topography, geology, culture, and history. There are two different courses available, so please choose the one that best suits your goals and the people you will be touring with.
Speaking of Okinawa, it's the "Gajumaru" (Ficus chinensis). On this course, you can meet the giant king of the Gajumaru trees, which can only be seen with a guide. You can also experience the "Boar fence" designated as a cultural asset by Ogimi Village up close, and in 90 minutes you can fully enjoy the nature, culture, and history of Yanbaru. In addition, the view from the Mutsutawara Observatory, where you meet, is of Shioya Bay, one of the Eight Views of Okinawa, below you.
3. Canoeing and Kayaking
Canoe and Kayak Tours
is a popular activity that takes place in the river that flows through the Yanbaru forest. The mangrove forest is designated as a national natural monument.
A unique cruise experience through a tunnel of lush trees
You can enjoy.
All of these boats are located in areas with gentle currents, so even beginners can feel at ease. The boats used are generally two-seaters, so
Feel free to join even with children
Check out the link below for more details about the tour.
A relaxing mangrove kayaking experience at a point that is not well known even among locals! The tour is timed to coincide with high tide (high tide times and meeting times change daily). At low tide (when the tide is out), the dried-up areas around the mangroves, such as shallow waters and sandy areas, expand. The appeal of this point is that at high tide, the water area expands and the narrow area around the mangrove forest becomes even more open.
[Kayaking experience in the largest mangrove on Okinawa's main island!!] You can experience exploring the jungle in the Gesashi River, which is said to be the most pristine on the main island. Especially in the summer (March to early December), you can see many creatures, so if you're lucky, you might encounter a giant mangrove crab or a giant clam!!! [The instructor was raised locally and
4. Night Tour (Stargazing and Wildlife Viewing)
In the Yanbaru forest, it is held at night.
Stargazing and wildlife observation tours available
It's definitely worth checking out. The night safari allows you to encounter rare nocturnal creatures, and you can enjoy a blissful moment gazing up at the starry sky.
An extraordinary experience that can only be enjoyed in Yanbaru at night
We can say that.
If you take a photo tour accompanied by a professional photographer, you can enjoy observing wildlife and the starry sky.
You can also keep your memories in a memorable way.
Yo.
[Macro World! Yanbaru Night Safari Tour in the Ancient Forest!] Take pictures of the beautiful starry sky and search for wildlife such as the Okinawa Rail! Free SLR photography ♪ Macro World! Yanbaru Night Safari Tour Ancient subtropical forest [Yanbaru World Natural Heritage Site] At night, many creatures wake up. This is the exciting opportunity to sneak into the jungle area where these creatures live.
★Serious photography by a professional photographer who has won numerous competitions and has pursued breathtaking views on remote islands overseas♪ ★Capture your fleeting memories in a way that will last a lifetime!! ★Various photography techniques, from starry skies to full moons! ★Local stories and dialects from a guide from Okinawa♪
A travel preparation guide to make the most of Yanbaru forest
Next, Yanbaru Here is some information you should know to enjoy the forest comfortably. Please use it as a reference when planning your trip and choosing what to bring.
Recommended season/best season
Subtropical forest Yanbaru There are different attractions in each season, so the recommended season and best season are: Varies depending on the purpose of visiting Yanbaru Forest .below, Recommended points by season Here is a brief introduction.
- Spring (March to May) is when seasonal flowers and new greenery sprout and cicadas begin to sing.
- Cool off in the summer (June to October) by splashing around in the river or going river trekking
- Autumn (November to December) is a time when you can stroll through the forest in comfortable temperatures and listen to the sounds of insects and birds.
- Experience Yanbaru's nature in the quiet forests of winter (January to February)
Festivals and events are often held around Yanbaru Forest! Adjust your schedule to suit the things you want to enjoy Please visit while you're there!
Tips for clothing, belongings, and rain protection
What to wear when visiting the Yanbaru forest: Comfortable long sleeves and pants for outdoor activities It is better to avoid wearing high heels as there are many areas where the sidewalks are not well maintained. Comfortable trekking shoes or sneakers Let's wear it. Also, the bag A backpack-type bag that leaves both hands free is recommended.
Don't forget to bring sun protection such as a hat and a parasol. During the rainy season and typhoon season in summer and autumn, it's useful to prepare a waterproof or water-repellent jacket and backpack cover in case of sudden heavy rain.
In addition to insect repellent and drinks, which are essential for forest activities, it is also a good idea to carry a lightweight folding umbrella (for both sunny and rainy weather) and rainwear.
Nearby tourist spots (Cape Hedo, Okinawa Rail Observatory, etc.)
The area around Yanbaru Forest is full of popular tourist spots in the northern part of Okinawa's main island!
Cape Hedo, the northernmost view spot on Okinawa's main island
Now, please enjoy the spectacular panoramic view that stretches from the East China Sea to the Pacific Ocean.
The Yanbaru Kuina Observatory, an observation deck modeled after the Okinawa Rail
From here, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the vast subtropical forest and the ocean.
Also,
Asumui Hikes, a nature spot near the northern tip of Okinawa's main island
Here, you can stroll around the place that is said to be the birthplace of the Ryukyu Kingdom in Ryukyu mythology with an audio guide!
Why not experience the mysterious side of the Yanbaru forest by taking in the unique scenery created by the various strangely shaped rock formations and the spectacular view from the observation deck?
Yanbaru Forest Activities Top 10
Based on Activity Japan's booking data, Popular Activities in Yanbaru is!
- 4.8
- (14 reviews and experiences)
[Kayaking experience in the largest mangrove on Okinawa's main island!!] You can experience exploring the jungle in the Gesashi River, which is said to be the most pristine on the main island. Especially in the summer (March to early December), you can see many creatures, so if you're lucky, you might encounter a giant mangrove crab or a giant clam!!! [The instructor was raised locally and
- 4.8
- (24 reviews and experiences)
☆6 Features of Adventure Island☆ [1] Over 1,000 people participated last year! [2] High-quality video and photo shooting included, popular by word of mouth *Unlimited number of photos [3] Very little equipment required. Participants from age 12 [4] Perfect for getting some exercise! Recommended for those who aren't good at the ocean [5] Zip slides, climbing, natural water slides, jungle
- 5.0
- (4 reviews and experiences)
[Macro World! Yanbaru Night Safari Tour in the Ancient Forest!] Take pictures of the beautiful starry sky and search for wildlife such as the Okinawa Rail! Free SLR photography ♪ Macro World! Yanbaru Night Safari Tour Ancient subtropical forest [Yanbaru World Natural Heritage Site] At night, many creatures wake up. This is the exciting opportunity to sneak into the jungle area where these creatures live.
- 4.9
- (75 reviews and experiences)
Even in Okinawa in the winter! Even on rainy days! You can have fun to your heart's content! Yanbaru Buggy Adventure Tour Even beginners can feel at ease! We will practice thoroughly in the wide field! Participants from 4 years old are welcome! This is a very popular activity with families. ☆★Recommended for★☆★Families with children ★Couples, friends, solo travelers ★Want to see domestic coffee! ★Okinawa's ocean
- 5.0
- (2 reviews and experiences)
Speaking of Okinawa, it's the "Gajumaru" (Ficus chinensis). On this course, you can meet the giant king of the Gajumaru trees, which can only be seen with a guide. You can also experience the "Boar fence" designated as a cultural asset by Ogimi Village up close, and in 90 minutes you can fully enjoy the nature, culture, and history of Yanbaru. In addition, the view from the Mutsutawara Observatory, where you meet, is of Shioya Bay, one of the Eight Views of Okinawa, below you.
- 4.8
- (35 reviews and experiences)
☆Six features of the plan☆ [1] More than 1,500 people participated last year! [2] Enjoy waterfall jumping, Tarzan, and natural swings. [3] Perfect for relieving lack of exercise! Recommended for those who don't like the sea. [4] Very little to bring. Participants from age 3. [5] High-quality photo and video recording is included, with unlimited number of photos. [6] Discount plans and Go
- 4.9
- (18 reviews and experiences)
This is the first one-day tour in northern Okinawa to be guided by a female guide. It's an exciting activity tour where you will traverse the clear stream flowing through the jungle by yourself! This is a highly recommended tour that will give you a refreshing feeling, adding many elements of canyoning (waterfall descent) and waterfall climbing (sawa-nobori) to river trekking.
- 4.9
- (5 reviews and experiences)
☆★Recommended for★☆★Families with children ★Couples, friends, solo travelers ★Want to experience the nature of Okinawa! ★Want to experience something active! ★About 1 minute by car from Gesashi Mangrove ★Near the popular Gesashi Mangrove area! Easy to incorporate into your travel schedule! ★【Participation requirements】●Weight 25kg-100kg, height 1
- 5.0
- (6 reviews and experiences)
A local guide will take you through an underground world that tells the story of over 100,000 years of history. Unlike tourist caves, you can experience the mystery of nature with your whole body in this untouched cave. This is an adventure tour that only participants can experience.
- 4.9
- (10 reviews and experiences)
Enjoy the summer in Okinawa!! Super refreshing!! Fly through the Yanbaru forest on a zip line!! You can fly on five zip lines in the breathtaking scenery of Yanbaru, which was registered as a World Natural Heritage Site in July 2021. The higher you fly, the more exciting and thrilling it gets. ★About 1 minute by car from Gesashi Mangrove★ Close to the popular Gesashi Mangrove Kayaking area! Travel
Experience Okinawa's great outdoors in the Yanbaru Forest!
This time Okinawa ・ Yanbaru We featured the forest!
Spread across northern Okinawa Yanbaru Forest, a World Natural Heritage Site for, Spectacular views, activities, and unique wildlife There are so many things to see. Be sure to check it out on your next trip to Okinawa. Visit the Yanbaru Forest and enjoy the natural beauty of Okinawa Please do!
*The content of this article is current as of January 2026.
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