Japan's first] Recognized as a starry sky protected area! The starry sky of Iriomote Island is explained.
Table of Contents
- 1 Iriomote Island has the most beautiful starry sky in Japan
- 2 Why Iriomote Island was selected as a starry sky reserve
- 3 Recommended time of year and time of day for stargazing
- 4 Can you see almost all constellations?
- 5 Recommended stargazing spots in Iriomote Island
- 6 Types of starry sky tours to enjoy in Iriomote Island
- 7 About the starry sky of Iriomote Island Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 8 summary
Iriomote Island has the most beautiful starry sky in Japan

Iriomote Island is one of the most beautiful spots for starry skies in Japan. Among the Yaeyama Islands, it has a starry sky environment of international standard, and the whole area of Taketomi Town is the first "starry sky area" in Japan.Starry sky reserve*.The site is recognized as an "internationally certified" site.
You can see it all year round.Milky WayYou can see soothing and inspiring scenery that you will never get tired of seeing all night long, including constellations that change with the seasons.

The boats between Ishigaki Island and Iriomote Island do not operate at night, so only those who stay at hotels in Iriomote Island,Limited starry skycannot be seen!
This is a sight you must see at least once in your life♪
*Starry Sky Reserve is a system by the International Dark Sky Association (headquartered in the United States). Currently, 64 areas around the world are recognized, and Iriomote Island was recognized on March 30, 2018.Recognized as a "Starry Sky ReserveThe first time the company was founded, it was in the process of being reorganized into a new company.
◆Those who want to know the charm of Iriomote Island
◆Those who want to know about the starry sky of Iriomote Island.
◆For those who want to know the popular tours held in Iriomote Island.
◆Iriomote Island: For those who want to know how to get to Iriomote Island and popular sightseeing spots.
Click here for Iriomote Island Tour Popularity Ranking
Why Iriomote Island was selected as a starry sky reserve

In 2022, Iriomote Island will be the first island in Japan to receive thestarry sky reserveThe company was recognized by the
The world-recognized dark night sky and rich natural environment have attracted attention as a sacred place for stargazing!
What is a starry sky reserve?

The starry sky reserve is,International Dark Sky AssociationThis title is given to regions that meet the criteria set by the
Light pollution control measures have been thoroughly implemented to protect the dark night sky and star visibility.
Background and History of Certification

Toward AccreditationTaketomi Townandlocal residentscooperated in an effort to adjust the direction and brightness of streetlights!
Research and environmental improvements are underway to maintain the darkness of the night sky,official recognitionThe result is that we have come to a ☆.
Relationship between the natural environment of Iriomote Island and the starry sky

Iriomote Island has a small population, and town lights and tourist facilities are modest,Darkness of the night skyis maintained.
The lush jungle and ocean block light pollution and provide the best conditions for observing the stars in full bloom♪
Recommended time of year and time of day for stargazing

Stargazing in Okinawa,crisp, clear airandOpen viewis the attraction. By being aware of the season and time of day, you can enjoy more stars and the Milky Way♪
Keep in mind the best season and observation tips,The best starry sky experienceLet's plan for ☆.
▼ Guided ☆ Iriomote Island popular star gazing tour
Special Autumn SALE [Iriomotejima/Night] Same-day reservation OK! Starry sky & subtropical jungle night tour♪Recommended for families with children and group tours (No.16)開始時間20:00-22:00所要時間Approx. 2 hours5,900 yen →directional marker or indicator4,900suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Iriomotejima Island/2 hours] June-August only ◆Summery summer in Iriomote Island ☆Sagaribana viewing & starry sky jungle night tour (No.138)開始時間20:00~22:00所要時間Approx. 2 hours8,900 yen →directional marker or indicator7,900suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Iriomote Island Guests Only] Enjoy the Miracle Island and Starry Sky☆Barasu Island Snorkeling & Jungle Night Tour You are welcome to join on the day you arrive... (No.143)開始時間Summer: 13:00-22:00Winter] 13:00 - 21:30所要時間Approx. 4 hours13,000 yen →directional marker or indicator12,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
When is the best season?

What is the best place for stargazing in Okinawa?Autumn from the end of the rainy seasonÂ
especiallyJuly - SeptemberThe Milky Way crosses the night sky in the "Starry Night," offering a spectacular view of the stars!
In winter, too, the air is clear and beautiful stars can be seen, but the wind is strong.Thermal protection is a must.It is.
How to check the weather and the age of the month

In stargazingweatherandage in months (esp. of an infant)It is important to check the On cloudy or rainy days, it is difficult to see the stars, and strong moonlight makes the stars faint.
in advanceWeather Forecast Appand ... andMonthly Calendarand aim for a new moon or a clear night is ideal ◎.
Choosing the right time and place for observation

Observations areAfter 9 p.m. to midnightThe best time to view the stars is between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. ☆ Choose a location in the suburbs with few city lights, on the beach, or at an observatory to see the stars clearly!
In tourist areasIshigaki Islandand ... andIriomote Island (Okinawa)The starry sky of the city is also famous for its starry sky spots, and you can feel the starry sky up close and personal♪.
Can you see almost all constellations?

Iriomote Island isOne of the best stargazing spots in JapanAnd of the 88 constellations in the84 Constellationand21 first-magnitude starsAll can be observed☆.
There are fewer lights than on Ishigaki Island, and beautiful stars spread out in the pitch black night sky.
Enjoy the starry sky☆Iriomote Island popular star gazing tour
Iriomote Island Night Tour (star gazing) Night tour is recommended to see the deep nature of Iriomote Island! If you come all the way to Iriomote Island, it would be a waste if you don't enjoy the island until night! (14 in total) アクティビティの詳細を見る
Iriomote Island Guests Only] Enjoy the Miracle Island and Starry Sky☆Barasu Island Snorkeling & Jungle Night Tour You are welcome to join on the day you arrive... (No.143)開始時間Summer: 13:00-22:00Winter] 13:00 - 21:30所要時間Approx. 4 hours13,000 yen →directional marker or indicator12,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Iriomotejima Island/2 hours] June-August only ◆Summery summer in Iriomote Island ☆Sagaribana viewing & starry sky jungle night tour (No.t-138)開始時間20:00~22:00所要時間Approx. 2 hours8,900 yen
Why 84 of the 88 constellations can be seen

Because Iriomote Island has few city lights, clear air and wide visibility, the 88 constellations84 constellations can be observedIt's ☆.
This is one of the reasons why the area was recognized as a starry sky reserve!
The Southern Cross, which is rare in Japan, can be observed.

Southern Cross (asterism formed with the brightest four stars of the constellation Crux)is in Japan.Part of OkinawaIt can only be seen in
In Iriomote IslandApril - JuneThe cross shape shines beautifully in the pre-dawn southern sky.
◆Visible season: Early December to end of June
◆Viewing time: One hour before and after the time when the constellations are at their highest point and at the time of the southern center of the sky. Watch out for the southern horizon!
1/1 = 6:30 AM
2/1 = 4:31 AM
3/1=AM 2:40
4/1=AM 0:41
5/1 = 10:39 PM
6/1 = 8:37 PM
Time is about 4 minutes earlier each day. The best time is when there are no clouds near the horizon and the moon is not in the sky (new moon)!
The Hometown Forest of Sonai is one of the most famous starry sky spots in Iriomote Island.
Recommended stargazing spots in Iriomote Island

Iriomote Island is rich in nature with few street lights,Ideal environment for stargazingare in place!
beachand ... andaccommodations, ,Take a tourThe attraction is that you can enjoy the stars in a variety of places and ways, such as
Enjoy the starry sky☆Iriomote Island popular star gazing tour
Iriomote Island Night Tour (star gazing) Night tour is recommended to see the deep nature of Iriomote Island! If you come all the way to Iriomote Island, it would be a waste if you don't enjoy the island until night! (14 in total) アクティビティの詳細を見る
Iriomote Island Guests Only] Enjoy the Miracle Island and Starry Sky☆Barasu Island Snorkeling & Jungle Night Tour You are welcome to join on the day you arrive... (No.143)開始時間Summer: 13:00-22:00Winter] 13:00 - 21:30所要時間Approx. 4 hours13,000 yen →directional marker or indicator12,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Iriomotejima Island/2 hours] June-August only ◆Summery summer in Iriomote Island ☆Sagaribana viewing & starry sky jungle night tour (No.t-138)開始時間20:00~22:00所要時間Approx. 2 hours8,900 yen
Great beaches for stargazing

Iriomote IslandbeachThe view of the sky is unobstructed, so you can enjoy the star-filled sky that stretches out from the horizon.
especiallySouth side beachis a popular spot for viewing the Milky Way and shooting stars because it is less affected by city lights.
Spectacular viewpoints from accommodations

resort hoteland ... andprivate homeThe charm of Iriomote Island is that you can view the beautiful starlit sky from
In addition to enjoying the night sky easily from the terrace or garden,Stargazing for overnight guests onlyThere are also facilities where you can enjoy the stars in comfort.
Advantages of participating in night tours

If you take a night tour,Professional Guideswill provide explanations of constellations and celestial objects, making stargazing more enjoyable!
Many tours are combined with nighttime jungle walks and animal observation for a special experience.â
▼ Guided ☆ Iriomote Island popular star gazing tour
Special Autumn SALE [Iriomotejima/Night] Same-day reservation OK! Starry sky & subtropical jungle night tour♪Recommended for families with children and group tours (No.16)開始時間20:00-22:00所要時間Approx. 2 hours5,900 yen →directional marker or indicator4,900suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Iriomotejima Island/2 hours] June-August only ◆Summery summer in Iriomote Island ☆Sagaribana viewing & starry sky jungle night tour (No.138)開始時間20:00~22:00所要時間Approx. 2 hours8,900 yen →directional marker or indicator7,900suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Iriomote Island Guests Only] Enjoy the Miracle Island and Starry Sky☆Barasu Island Snorkeling & Jungle Night Tour You are welcome to join on the day you arrive... (No.143)開始時間Summer: 13:00-22:00Winter] 13:00 - 21:30所要時間Approx. 4 hours13,000 yen →directional marker or indicator12,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Types of starry sky tours to enjoy in Iriomote Island

Iriomote Island combines stargazing and nature experiences.A variety of night tours are popularIt is!
A range of plans that take advantage of the island's unique environment, including jungle, river, and ocean, provide travelers with an unforgettable evening experience.â
Sagaribana appreciation &.
Starry sky jungle night tour

Enjoy summer only.Appreciation of SagaribanaandstargazingThe tour that includes the following is a luxury experience unique to Iriomote Island!
You can spend a special time experiencing the mystery of nature by simultaneously savoring the fantastic flowers blooming at night and the stars in the sky☆.
Iriomotejima Island/2 hours] June-August only ◆Summery summer in Iriomote Island ☆Sagaribana viewing & starry sky jungle night tour (No.138)開始時間20:00~22:00所要時間Approx. 2 hours8,900 yen →directional marker or indicator7,900suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Snorkeling &.
Jungle Night Tour

In the daytime, the sea is crystal clear.snorkelingand enjoy the jungle at night.stargazingand ... andcreature searchThis is a greedy plan that allows you to experience
To be able to enjoy the charms of the sea and forest throughout the day,Active travelersI recommend it for â
Iriomote Island Guests Only] Enjoy the Miracle Island and Starry Sky☆Barasu Island Snorkeling & Jungle Night Tour You are welcome to join on the day you arrive... (No.143)開始時間Summer: 13:00-22:00Winter] 13:00 - 21:30所要時間Approx. 4 hours13,000 yen →directional marker or indicator12,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Canyoning &.
Starry sky jungle night tour

Waterfalls and rivers.canyoningAfter a daytime wilderness adventure in theStargazing in the JungleActivities to enjoy â
You can enjoy the contrast of movement and stillness, and experience the nature of Iriomote Island for a whole day.
Iriomotejima Island Guests Only] Enjoy both day and night☆Canyoning & Starry Sky Jungle Night Tour with Free Photo and Pick-up Service開始時間Summer: 13:00-22:00Winter] 13:00 - 21:30所要時間Approx. 4 hours13,000 yen →directional marker or indicator12,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
about the starry sky of Iriomote Island
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Prepare a flashlight because it is pitch-dark at night. Insect repellent and long-sleeved clothing are also recommended, as the island is rich in nature and insects abound. Please also check the weather and the age of the months in advance.
summary

In Iriomote, you can see not only one of the most starry skies in Japan, but also stars on the ground (firefly light) that can only be seen here.
If you are considering a trip to Okinawa, why not include star gazing in Iriomote as one of your sightseeing options?
Also, there are many activities to enjoy the night in Iriomote Island. It is a privilege for those who stay in Iriomote Island, so please join them.
⬇︎ Click here for Iriomotejima Jungle Night Tour
Special Autumn SALE [Iriomotejima/Night] Same-day reservation OK! Starry sky & subtropical jungle night tour♪Recommended for families with children and group tours (No.16)開始時間20:00-22:00所要時間Approx. 2 hours5,900 yen →directional marker or indicator4,900suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.⬇︎Iriomote Island Night SUP Tour is here













