A thorough guide to Yubu Island! Introducing water buffalo carts, sightseeing spots, and how to get there
Okinawa ・ Yaeyama Islands The remote island that is attracting attention Yubu Island " This time A thorough guide to sightseeing in Yubu Island I will.
Water buffalo cart information or Tourist spots on the island , Iriomote Island ・ Ishigaki Island from Access methods We will introduce the following:
Other Experience activities you can enjoy on Yubu Island or, Recommended sightseeing tours Also introduced I will.
If you are planning a day trip to one of the outlying islands from Ishigaki Island, be sure to refer to this article.
table of contents
What kind of place is Yubu Island?
Okinawa Prefecture
・Belonging to Taketomi Town
Yubu Island
"teeth,
A small remote island with a circumference of about 2km
is.
Iriomote Island
It is located about 400m offshore.
Used when crossing the sea
"
water buffalo cart
" is a specialty that represents Yubu Island.
.
Traveling by water buffalo cart through the shallow waters
An experience that lets you experience relaxed island time
is.
The whole of Yubu Island
Subtropical Botanical Garden
It has been developed as
Bougainvillea
or
hibiscus
etc.
Another attraction is being able to observe tropical flowers throughout the year.
.
butterfly garden
There is also a tour that allows you to tour the island while observing rare butterflies, plants, and scenery.
Stay time 1-2 hours is enough You can tour So, enjoy sightseeing, photography, and strolling around while savoring the nature of Yubu Island.
Including transportation to Yubu Island, If you want to efficiently enjoy your day, We recommend joining a tour That's right.
Mangrove SUP
or
Canoe
etc.
A plan with a set of activities
Then you don't have to worry about transportation or equipment.
Transportation included
or
Photo gift
etc.
Each plan has different benefits
So, check out the details of the plan and enjoy sightseeing on Yubu Island.
We will guide you through the World Heritage Site of Taketomi Town, certified by the Tourist Guide Ordinance. After the morning tour of the popular World Heritage Site of Iriomote Island, including SUP and canoeing, and the mangrove river cruise, you will board a cute water buffalo cart and enjoy the sanshin music as you are rocked across the sea. Enjoy a tour of Yubu Island, a paradise!
★Over 300,000 participants! A safe and secure tour! ★Recommended for beginners! ★Free photo data, equipment rental, and hot showers♪ ★Participant benefits (coupons for restaurants, etc., information on hidden spots) included! ★Can be participated in as a day trip from Ishigaki Island! [Splash Canyoning + Yubu Island Sightseeing] Canyoning on the Omija River, full of magnificent nature.
★Over 300,000 participants! A safe and secure tour! ★Recommended for beginners! ★Free photo data, equipment rental, and hot showers♪ ★Participant benefits (coupons for restaurants, etc., information on hidden spots) included! ★Day trips from Ishigaki Island are possible! [Yubu Island sightseeing + Mangrove SUP/Canoe (Kayak)] Iriomote Island is Pinaisara
A professional guide certified by the World Heritage Site Taketomi Town Tourist Guide Ordinance. A popular activity on the World Heritage Site Iriomote Island - Canoe Mangrove River Cruise - Experience the hidden nature! In the morning, take a leisurely canoe cruise through the mangroves. Ride a cute water buffalo cart and listen to the sanshin as you cross the sea. Paradise! Come enjoy sightseeing on Yubu Island.
How to get to Yubu Island from Ishigaki Island
You cannot go directly from Ishigaki Island to Yubu Island. .
first ferry in Iriomote Island After moving to Car/bus Go to the area around Yubu Island, From the buffalo cart ride Water buffalo cart or on foot to Yubu Island I'll cross.
On Iriomote Island, Ohara Port "and" Uehara Port " and you can get to Yubu Island from either port. Travel times and access methods vary .
Via Ohara Port
The first route from Ishigaki Island to Yubu Island is Via Ohara Port is.
From Ishigaki Port to Ohara Port,
Direct ferry ride takes approximately 40-50 minutes
.
After arrival,
Approximately 25 minutes by local bus
,or
Approximately 20 minutes by rental car
This will take you to the Yubu Island Water Buffalo Carriage Station.
Ohara Port Southeast Iriomote Island The port is located near Yubu Island and the departure and arrival area for the Nakama River Mangrove Cruise.
The distance to the destination is short up, Relatively few cancellations Therefore, it is chosen by many people as an easy access route that allows you to organize your schedule around sightseeing on Yubu Island.
Via Uehara Port
Another route from Ishigaki Island to Yubu Island is Via Uehara Port is.
From Ishigaki Port to Uehara Port,
Direct high-speed ferry ride takes approximately 45 to 55 minutes
I will.
After arriving at Uehara Port, take a local bus or rent a car to the Yufu Water Buffalo Carriage Landing Point.
The estimated travel time is
Approximately 40 minutes by local bus
,
Approximately 35 minutes by rental car
is.
In winter, strong winds and high waves are more likely to occur, The open ocean route to Uehara is likely to be canceled. .
When the Uehara route is cancelled
A connecting bus to Ohara Port is available.
will be done.
As there are limited seats on connecting buses, please check the day before and the day of departure.
Check the ferry operation status on each company's official website.
let's.
If you want to travel to Yubu Island comfortably, we recommend taking a tour!
For those who want to enjoy smooth travel and sightseeing on Yubu Island, We recommend joining a tour is.
Transportation to Uehara Port and Ohara Port is included So there is no need to move around, Efficiently tour Yubu Island and other remote islands can.
Transportation costs and various tickets , Includes water buffalo carriage fare Because it is People who want to make the most of their stay or, People who want to enjoy sightseeing on Yubu Island and a variety of activities at the same time Perfect for .
Be sure to check out the plans that interest you on Activity Japan.
Things to see and do on Yubu Island
Yubu Island for, Facilities and spots where you can experience the beautiful natural scenery and history of the island There are multiple there is.
It is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the main facilities on the island before visiting, so that you can enjoy sightseeing efficiently within your limited time.
In the following, Introducing the main attractions on Yubu Island I will.
butterfly garden
" Butterfly Garden "teeth, A spot where you can observe various types of tropical butterflies is.
Among them
Japan's largest butterfly
known as
Butterfly
is one of the highlights.
Butterfly
Golden chrysalis
You can see the process of growth by looking at it.
In the park Colorful subtropical flowering trees The trees are planted and the walking paths are well maintained, making it easy to walk. Recommended for families with small children is.
Bougainvillea Garden
" Bougainvillea Garden "teeth, Grown taking advantage of the warm environment of Yubu Island Over 30 types of bougainvillea A spot where you can enjoy the is.
Depending on the season, Changing shades You can enjoy.
especially
Late autumn to early spring
During the period leading up to
When flowers bloom
.
The greenhouse is designed to be easy to walk through, allowing you to take your time and observe the differences between each species up close.
The colorful bougainvillea, a symbol of the tropics, It also looks great in photos, A popular spot for people who want to enjoy photography is.
Oasis / Oasis Shell & Green (formerly Shell House)
" Oasis / Oasis Shell & Green " was once " Shell House The exhibition facility, which was popularly known as "" has been relocated, renovated, and renamed. Something that was done.
Inside the building, Taxidermy of sea turtles and coconut crabs , Giant seashell etc. A variety of specimens are on display, focusing on shellfish that live in the sea around Iriomote Island. You can see it up close.
There are many species that are hard to find on the coast, so you can take your time to observe them. Learn about the marine environment of Yubu Island and Iriomote Island So, Recommended for children's independent research projects and family sightseeing is.
Yubu Island Well and Former School Gate
On Yubu Island A well that was once used when people lived here is left behind.
Although it is no longer in use, it was once a small island surrounded by the sea that provided fresh water for its inhabitants. Important clues to life at the time It will be.
Also, near the well, The remains of the school gate from when there was an elementary and junior high school on the island It has been preserved and conveys the atmosphere of those days to the present day.
Both A spot where you can get a sense of the history of island life So you can stop by during your walk.
Buffalo Pond and Waiting Room
" Water buffalo carriage waiting area " is an air-conditioned indoor facility. Buy souvenirs from Yubu Island can.
To avoid the strong tropical sunlight, A comfortable spot even in hot weather is.
Right next to the waiting room is a sign saying " Buffalo Pond " Water buffaloes relaxing by the water Observe can.
You can enjoy the soothing sights that are unique to the island, such as the serene expressions of the animals as they close their eyes in the pond, or floating leisurely on the water's surface.
Recommended tours to visit Yubu Island
You can make a reservation through Activity Japan. Introducing three recommended tours I will.
For those who want to enjoy sightseeing in Yubu Island more efficiently, Tours are recommended You can use your time efficiently while you are there.
Read the plan details carefully and enjoy sightseeing on Yubu Island with a tour that interests you.
Iriomote Island + Yubu Island + Taketomi Island 3-island tour course
★A recommended course that efficiently visits the classic tourist spots! ★On Iriomote Island, you can observe a variety of flora and fauna up close on a mangrove cruise along the Nakama River. ★Cross the shallow waters in a water buffalo cart to Yubu Island, a subtropical plant paradise (sightseeing and lunch). ★On Taketomi Island, where the original Okinawan landscape remains, you can enjoy a leisurely water buffalo cart tour through the red-tiled villages. ★Free time after the water buffalo cart tour. Relax and unwind at your leisure.
★The most popular course that efficiently visits the classic tourist spots! ★On Iriomote Island, you can observe various flora and fauna up close on a mangrove cruise along the Nakama River. ★Cross the shallow waters on a water buffalo cart to the subtropical botanical garden on Yubu Island. Stroll around the garden and have lunch at a restaurant. ★After arriving on Taketomi Island, you will have free time. Feel free to stroll around the island at your leisure. ★The return trip from Taketomi Island is free.
Landing on Barasu Island and sightseeing tour of Yubu Island
★Over 300,000 participants! A safe and secure tour! ★Recommended for beginners! ★Free photo data, equipment rental, and hot showers♪ ★Participant benefits (coupons for restaurants, etc., information on hidden spots) included! ★Day trips from Ishigaki Island are possible! [Mangrove SUP/Canoeing & Landing on Barasu Island & Sightseeing on Yubu Island] Mangrove SUP
★Over 300,000 participants! A safe and secure tour! ★Recommended for beginners! ★Free photo data, equipment rental, and hot showers♪ ★Participant benefits (coupons for restaurants, etc., information on hidden spots) included! ★Day trips from Ishigaki Island are possible! [Barasu Island Snorkeling & Yubu Island Sightseeing] Yubu Island sightseeing and Barasu Island snorkeling
Yubu Island Sightseeing & World Heritage Mangrove SUP or Canoe
★Over 300,000 participants! A safe and secure tour! ★Recommended for beginners! ★Free photo data, equipment rental, and hot showers♪ ★Participant benefits (coupons for restaurants, etc., information on hidden spots) included! ★Day trips from Ishigaki Island are possible! [Yubu Island sightseeing + Mangrove SUP/Canoe (Kayak)] Enjoy the Urauchi River and other attractions.
・This popular course combines the best of both worlds, allowing you to easily tour the tourist spot "Yubu Island" and take a short canoe ride to a point where you can see Pinaisara Falls! You can also visit the newly reopened Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center run by the Ministry of the Environment, so you can not only have fun but also learn. ・This course does not involve any strenuous mountain climbing to reach the falls.
This is a recommended course for those who want to canoe but also want to sightsee on Yubu Island! For mangrove canoeing, the guide will choose the most enjoyable course from the Pinaisara, Sangara, or Maila Rivers, taking into consideration the weather conditions and crowding. Of course, you can also enjoy the waterfalls, so those who want to splash around in the water will have a great time.
A professional guide certified by the World Heritage Site Taketomi Town Tourist Guide Ordinance. A popular activity on Iriomote Island, a World Heritage Site - SUP mangrove river cruise. In the morning, enjoy a leisurely cruise through the mangroves on a SUP. In the afternoon, ride a cute water buffalo cart and enjoy a relaxing ride across the sea while listening to the sanshin music. Paradise! Enjoy sightseeing on Yubu Island.
Top 10 Popular Activities on Yubu Island
lastly, Activity Japan latest reservation data Based on Popularity ranking of Yubu Island activities " We will introduce you to the following.
- 4.8
- (201 reviews and experiences)
★Over 300,000 participants! A safe and secure tour! ★Recommended for beginners! ★Free photo data, equipment rental, and hot showers♪ ★Participant benefits (coupons for restaurants, etc., information on hidden spots) included! ★Day trips from Ishigaki Island are possible! [Yubu Island sightseeing + Mangrove SUP/Canoe (Kayak)] Enjoy the Urauchi River and other attractions.
- 5.0
- (2 reviews and experiences)
★A recommended course that efficiently visits the classic tourist spots! ★On Iriomote Island, you can observe a variety of flora and fauna up close on a mangrove cruise along the Nakama River. ★Cross the shallow waters in a water buffalo cart to Yubu Island, a subtropical plant paradise (sightseeing and lunch). ★On Taketomi Island, where the original Okinawan landscape remains, you can enjoy a leisurely water buffalo cart tour through the red-tiled villages. ★Free time after the water buffalo cart tour. Relax and unwind at your leisure.
- 5.0
- (1 review/experience)
★The most popular course that efficiently visits the classic tourist spots! ★On Iriomote Island, you can observe various flora and fauna up close on a mangrove cruise along the Nakama River. ★Cross the shallow waters on a water buffalo cart to the subtropical botanical garden on Yubu Island. Stroll around the garden and have lunch at a restaurant. ★After arriving on Taketomi Island, you will have free time. Feel free to stroll around the island at your leisure. ★The return trip from Taketomi Island is free.
★Over 300,000 participants! A safe and secure tour! ★Recommended for beginners! ★Guide with local guide! ★Free photo data and transportation♪ ★Participant benefits (coupons for restaurants, etc., information on hidden spots) included! ★Can be taken as a day trip from Ishigaki Island! [Sightseeing Photo Tour] Tour the tourist spots of Iriomote Island, surrounded by rich nature and mystery
- 4.8
- (256 reviews and experiences)
★Over 300,000 participants! A safe and secure tour! ★Recommended for beginners! ★Free photo data, equipment rental, and hot showers♪ ★Participant benefits (coupons for restaurants, etc., information on hidden spots) included! ★Day trips from Ishigaki Island are possible! [Mangrove SUP/Canoeing & Landing on Barasu Island & Sightseeing on Yubu Island] Mangrove SUP
- 4.9
- (12 reviews and experiences)
★Over 300,000 participants! A safe and secure tour! ★Recommended for beginners! ★Free photo data, equipment rental, and hot showers♪ ★Participant benefits (coupons for restaurants, etc., information on hidden spots) included! ★Day trips from Ishigaki Island are possible! [Barasu Island Snorkeling & Yubu Island Sightseeing] Yubu Island sightseeing and Barasu Island snorkeling
- 5.0
- (1 review/experience)
★ Enjoy a casual trek through the jungle of Iriomote Island, where fantastic scenery unfolds ★ Arrive at Modama Pond in 15 minutes one way. Enjoy swimming, searching for fish and shrimp, and other river activities! ★ Get free photo data taken during your trek or river activities ♪ ★ Cross the shallow waters in a water buffalo cart to Yubu Island, a subtropical botanical paradise (lunch and sightseeing) ★ Choose from a variety of sightseeing plans on Taketomi Island
★ Take a buggy ride and drive off-road through a naturally rich farm where plants and fruits grow lushly! ★ Cross the shallow sea in a water buffalo cart to Yubu Island (lunch and sightseeing) ★ Enjoy even more on Taketomi Island with a selection of sightseeing plans!
- 4.5
- (2 reviews and experiences)
★The most popular course that efficiently visits the classic tourist spots! ★On Iriomote Island, observe a variety of flora and fauna on a mangrove cruise along the Nakama River. ★Take a leisurely water buffalo cart ride across the shallow waters to Yubu Island for sightseeing and lunch. ★On Taketomi Island, where Okinawa's original scenery remains, take a bus tour to see Hoshizuna Beach and Kondoi Beach (from the car window).
- 5.0
- (2 reviews and experiences)
★Over 300,000 participants! A safe and secure tour! ★Recommended for beginners! ★Free photo data, equipment rental, and hot showers♪ ★Participant benefits (coupons for restaurants, etc., information on hidden spots) included! ★Day trips from Ishigaki Island are possible! [Yubu Island sightseeing + Mangrove SUP/Canoe (Kayak)] Iriomote Island is Pinaisara
Let's visit Yubu Island
Yubu Island teeth, The unique access is by water buffalo cart, and you can experience the tropical nature and history of the island. A tourist destination with many attractive spots is.
butterfly garden or Bougainvillea Garden , Buffalo Pond etc. There are many things to see and you can take a leisurely stroll around the island can.
Why not use the spots and tours introduced here as a reference to spend a wonderful time on Yubu Island?
*The content of this article is current as of January 2026.
