Do you need a rental car for sightseeing in Iriomote Island? Notes before renting a car and recommended driving spots!
Table of Contents
- 1 Is a rental car necessary for sightseeing in Iriomote Island?
- 2 How to get to Iriomote Island
- 3 Introducing the rental car situation in Iriomote Island! Can I rent a car on the day? Do I need to make a reservation? Is it OK to drop-off?
- 4 Recommended car rental stores in Iriomote Island
- 5 I want to go there privately with a rental car! Recommended Driving Spots in Iriomote Island
- 6 What transportation options do you have other than renting a car?
- 7 The best deal by far! Ishigaki Island⇄Iriomote Island 3 recommended tours with round-trip ferry
- 8 When using a rental car in Iriomote Island Frequently Asked Questions
- 9 Cautions for driving in Iriomote Island
- 10 summary
Is a rental car necessary for sightseeing in Iriomote Island?
Iriomote Island is a large island covering an area of about 290 square kilometers.
Cabs and local buses are available for sightseeing on the island, but if you want to go all out, you can take a cab or a bus.I want to go to the spot where I want to go freely without being tied down by time.Most of you probably think that this is a good idea.
If you want to explore Iriomote Island freely and to the fullest,Rental cars are the best way to travel.It is.
In this issue, we will provide information on the rental car situation in Iriomote Island, as well as some precautions for driving in Iriomote Island!
◆Those who want to enjoy sightseeing efficiently
◆Those looking for a means to travel freely
◆For those who are looking for a cheap car rental plan
◆ Planning a family trip that includes children and the elderly
◆Iriomote Island by rental car for sightseeing
Click here for a list of rental car plans in Iriomote Island
How to get to Iriomote Island
Ferry service from Ishigaki Port Terminal is available from Ishigaki Island to Iriomote Island.
Bound for Uehara Port and Ohara PortThere are two routes, which take about 50 minutes and 40 minutes respectively from Ishigaki Island.
From Uehara Port, Urauchi River is nearby, and from Ohara Port, you can reach spots around Nakama River and Yubu Island.
It takes about 50 minutes by car between each port, so it is best to choose the route according to your sightseeing plans.
Click here to book ferry tickets to Iriomote Island.
Introducing the rental car situation in Iriomote Island!
Can I rent it out on the day of the event? Do I need to make a reservation? Can I drop off and pick up?
Iriomote Island, a remote island full of sights and attractions. How is the rental car situation?
If you want to book a rental car at a low price
Advance reservation on the web is recommended!
During summer, the on-season of Iriomote Island, many tourists visit the island not only from Japan but also from all over the world, so all rental cars are usually rented out on the same day or the day before.
When you decide the date to go to Iriomote Island,Rent a car as soon as possible.Make a Web Reservationis recommended.
Some car rental companies offer pick-up and drop-off services, and others allow you to drop off your car at the port, so choose the one that best suits your needs.
↓Car rental plans can be booked through ↓Tours



Cost of Car Rental in Iriomote Island
The market price for car rental in Iriomote Island is,Approx. 5,000 yen per day for a light carIs. (as of September 2024)
For vehicles between 1000㏄ and 1500㏄, the price is 7,000-10,000 yen, and for 2000㏄ and up, the price is 12,000 yen.
In addition, there are separate charges for exemption from liability and when leaving the vehicle.
Points on how to select a rental car in Iriomote Island
The following is a summary of points to consider when choosing a rental car on Iriomote Island!
◆Check the availability of transportation service.
◆Check to see if it is possible to ride out.
◆Determine the type of car based on the amount of luggage and number of people
There are two ports on Iriomote Island, "Uehara Port" and "Ohara Port", so rent a car at a store near the port you plan to use.
Recommended car rental stores in Iriomote Island
Here are some recommendations for car rental stores in the two port areas!
↓ Click here for plans regarding Iriomote Island's harbor.

Car rental store near Uehara Port
Yamaneko Rent-a-Car Uehara Office
◆Address:984-57 Uehara, Taketomi-cho, Yaeyama-gun, Okinawa, Japan
◆Access: 5 minutes walk from Uehara Port
◆Opening Hours:8:00-18:00
Hoshisuna Rent-a-Car Iriomotejima Uehara Office
◆Address:423 Uehara, Taketomi-cho, Yaeyama-gun, Okinawa, Japan
◆Access: Pick-up service is available.
◆Opening Hours:8:00-18:00
Iriomote Island Island Service Kukai
◆Address:934 Iriomote, Taketomi-cho, Yaeyama-gun, Okinawa
◆Access: 15 minutes by cab from Uehara Port,Pick-up service is available within the western area (Shirahama~Funaura)
◆Opening Hours:8:00-18:00
Car rental store near Ohara Port
Yamaneko Rent-a-Car Ohara Office
◆Address:201-109, Minami-fumi, Taketomi Town, Yaeyama County, Okinawa, Japan
◆Access: 5 minutes by car from Ohara Port (pick-up service available)
◆Opening Hours:8:00-18:00
Orix Rent-A-Car Iriomotejima Ohara Branch
◆Address:201-204, Minami-fumi, Taketomi Town, Yaeyama County, Okinawa, Japan
◆Access: 1 minute walk from Ohara Port
◆Opening Hours:8:00-18:00
Tink Rent a Car
◆Address:203, Minamikazumi, Taketomi Town, Yaeyama District
◆Access: Pick-up service is available.
◆Opening Hours:8:00-18:00
I would like to go privately with a rental car!
Recommended Driving Spots in Iriomote Island
If you can rent a car safely, let's enjoy the island as soon as possible! Here are some recommended spots in Iriomote Island.
Click here for a list of rental car plans in Iriomote Island
(1) Hoshi-suna Beach (Star Sand Beach)
Hoshi-suna Beach is a popular spot in Iriomote Island.Star-shaped sandIt is so called because it has
There are many rocky areas, and except for the crevices between the rocks, colorful fish can be observed close at hand.
The waves are calm,snorkelingFor those who want to enjoy theRecommended for trips with children.Oh my god!!!
Access: 5 minutes by car from Uehara Port

↓ Near Star Sand Beach! Recommended plan is here↓.



(2) Yubu Island
Yubu Island can be reached by purchasing a ticket at the "Traveler's Station," located about 20 minutes by rental car from Ohara Port, and then leisurely crossing in a buffalo cart.
The entire island is a botanical garden with subtropical trees and flowersThe company is now in the process of
Instead of renting a car, we recommend a tour that includes canoeing or SUP!
Access: 20 minutes by car from Ohara Port

↓Click here for recommended plans related to Yubu Island.



(iii) Omija River
Omija River (Omija River) is located about 10 minutes by rental car from Uehara Port, and you can go down to the river and see various creatures including fish.
Take advantage of the dynamic scenery at Omija Falls.canyoningActivities such as these are also popular!
Access: 10 minutes by car from Uehara Port
↓Click here for recommended plans related to the Omi River.


(4) Omijie Road Park
Omija Road Park is a spot to visit with the Omija River.Boardwalk in mangrove forestThe park is well maintained, and a variety of flora and fauna can be seen up close.
The view from the observatory is also a highlight.
Access: 15 minutes by car from Uehara Port

(5) Yutun River (Yutun Falls)
The river in Yutun was introduced in the Degawa Women's Corner on May 15, 2022 on Itte Q to the Ends of the World!
Approximately 20 minutes by car from Uehara PortIt takes about 2 hours to reach the mouth of the river. First-time visitors are recommended to join a tour and go with a guide.
↓ Click here for the plan including Yutun River (waterfall) ↓ Click here for the plan including Yutun River (waterfall)



Access: 20 minutes by car from Uehara Port (to the mouth of the river)

(6) Mariyudu Waterfall
Mariyudu Falls is about a 10-minute drive from Uehara Port.100 best waterfalls in JapanIt was also selected as one of the best in the world, and is unique in that it is three-tiered.
After climbing for about 30 minutes, there is an observatory. There is also a nearby waterfall called Kanpire Falls, and a common course is to take a Urauchi River cruise boat to visit these two waterfalls.
↓ Recommended itineraries including Mariyudu Falls ↓ Click here


Access: 20 minutes by car from Uehara Port

(7) Ida beach
Ida beach, a 30-minute drive from Uehara Port, is a TripAdvisor 2018Ranked 6th in "Best Beaches in JapanThe beach is so beautiful that it was chosen as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
The shallow waters make it safe for children. Participation in activities is also recommended.
↓ Click here for recommended plan including Ida beach ↓ Click here for recommended plan including Ida beach


Access: 10 minutes by boat from Shirahama Port

8) Pinaisara Falls
Pinaisara Falls" is the representative waterfall of Iriomote Island,It is the highest waterfall in Okinawa Prefecture.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
A popular tour is to cruise through the mangroves by canoe to the entrance to the falls, then disembark the canoe and trek to the waterfall basin.
It can be viewed from the underwater road during the drive.
↓ Learn more about Pinaisara Falls ↓.

Click here for plans including Pinaisara Falls ↓ Click here for plans including Pinaisara Falls ↓ Click here for plans including Pinaisara Falls



Access: 10 minutes by car from Uehara Port
(ix) Unarizaki Park
This park is located about 10 minutes by car from Uehara Port. It has playground equipment, etc., and is recommended for relaxing.
There is also a beautiful Zenbei Beach nearby. It is also a good spot for sunset and stargazing.
Access: 10 minutes by car from Uehara Port

⑩Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center
The Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center is a facility for the conservation of rare plants and animals that inhabit Iriomote Island, as well as for the conservation of the Iriomote Island's natural environment,Iriomote wildcat conservation activitiesThis facility is where you can learn about
It is fun for both adults and children and is recommended for sightseeing on rainy days. The tour takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Access: 15 minutes by car from Ohara
Admission: Free
Business hours: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Closed: Mondays, June 23 (Memorial Day), year-end and New Year's holidays

What transportation options do you have other than renting a car?
Here are some ways to enjoy Iriomote Island other than renting a car.
Incidentally, as of May 2025, the Iriomote IslandAll cab companies are closed.It is.
Click here to read the article in conjunction with this one.

scheduled bus
In Iriomote Island, Iriomote Kotsu Co., Ltd. operates a local bus service.
A little further south of Ohara Port,Japan's southernmost bus stop "Toyohara" to "Shirahama" in the westIt takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes to get to the airport, and there are four buses a day.
For timetables and up-to-date information, please contactOfficial SiteCheck the
Rental Motorcycles and Scooters
If you like motorcycles, renting a bike is also recommended!Covered 3-wheeled bikeYou can rest easy even in a sudden rain.
Ishigaki Island in the distance, the marine blue ocean, and the sun shining brightly. The island winds are blowing and we are ready to go!
Bike rental rates range from 2,000 to 5, 000 per day.000 yen is the market price.
Click here for recommended bike rental plans

rent-a-cycle
There are bicycle rental stores near both Uehara and Ohara ports in Iriomote Island.
Bicycle travel is highly flexible,Easy and time-savingIt is refreshing to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the island!
However, there are some hills, so it is recommended for those who are confident in their physical strength.
↓Click here to read the article.

Participate in a tour with pick-up and drop-off
80% of the visitors to Iriomote Island are day-trippers.
If you want to make the most of your limited time & enjoy mainly activitiesParticipation in a tour with transportation is recommended!
You can enjoy the charms of Iriomote Island in a day trip without renting a car.
↓Click here to read the article.

The best deal by far! Ishigaki Island⇄Iriomote Island
3 recommended tours with round-trip ferry
If you choose the plan that includes a round-trip ferry ticket from Ishigaki Island to Iriomote Island, you don't need to rent a car.This is definitely more economical than making reservations at each of them!
Here are three recommended day trip packages that include ferry tickets♪
Popular "Yubu Island" Sightseeing & Tourist Information
Mangrove SUPor Canoe Tour
Riding SUP or canoe in the great nature of Iriomote IslandMangrove forest walkand very popular.Sightseeing on Yubu IslandThis is a greedy plan in which you can enjoy
Recommended for those who want to enjoy plenty of variety.The choice of canoeing or SUP is also a nice feature.
↓Click here for more information about ↓SUPor Canoe Tour

The big classic! Mangrove SUP or Canoe
Half Day Course
Iriomote Island, the largest in Japan.Standard tour to enjoy mangrove forest by SUP or canoeIt is. Here, too, you can choose between SUP or canoe.
It takes 5 to 6 hours, so if you sign up for the one departing Ishigaki Port in the morning, you can relax in Ishigaki Island in the afternoon.
It is recommended to enjoy with small children.
↓Click here for more information about SUPor Canoe Plan.

Barras Island Snorkeling &
Yubu Island" Buffalo Car Tour
Barras Island, known as the "Miracle IslandThis plan allows you to enjoy snorkeling and two "islands" of "Yubu Island" at
The sea around Barras Island is "It is called "Shihsi Lagoon.One of the largest and most beautiful coral reefs in JapanThis is the point at which the
Enjoy the beauty of the island together with Yubu Island!
↓Barasu Island & Yubu Island Sightseeing Tour

See more Iriomote Island recommended tours
When using a rental car on Iriomote Island
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions about using a rental car on Iriomote Island are summarized below.
Click here for a list of rental car plans in Iriomote Island
What is indemnity coverage?
The Compensation for Deductible Waiver (CDW) is a compensation program that can be added for a fee when you rent a car, which means that if something happens to your rental car, you will not have to pay part of the repair costs yourself.
Membership is optional, but it is recommended to join in case of emergency.
What if my flight is cancelled due to a typhoon?
In most cases, there is no cancellation fee if the flight is cancelled due to a typhoon or natural disaster.
Check when you make a reservation.
When can I reserve a rental car?
For car rental reservations,3 months prior to the date of useMany stores accept from
Make reservations as early as possible, especially if you plan to travel during the tourist season!
Click here for a list of rental car plans in Iriomote Island
Cautions for driving in Iriomote Island
The great nature of Iriomote Island is very attractive to travelers.
However, the rare animals that have lived on this island all their lives can be endangered by cars.
From here,Cautions for driving in Iriomote IslandWe will inform you of the following
Beware of Iriomote wildcat and other animals!
Iriomote Island is an endangered species ofIriomote wildcat (Prionailurus bengalensis iriomotensis)(Ministry of the Environment's Fourth Red List) is famous for its habitat.
The current population of Iriomote wildcat is approximately 100 animals, and sadly, due to traffic accidents and other factors, the number is decreasing every year.
Iriomote wildcat as well as other wild animals.Increased road killis a problem.
We should be aware that "we are the ones who are intruding," and try to conduct tourism that respects the lives of the island's living creatures.
↓Click here for an article about the Iriomote wildcat.

What we can do to protect animals in Iriomote Island
Drive at 30 km/h or slower in the village.
To know where the Iriomote wildcat often appears.
Be careful where there are Iriomote wildcat signs.
Contact the Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center if you spot or see a bobcat.
summary
We introduced rental cars in Iriomote Island.
Please enjoy the great nature of Iriomote Island 120% while taking care of these things!
↓Click here to read the article.
