What is an Ishigaki Island Jungle Trekking Tour?
Ishigaki Island is famous for its emerald-green sea and untouched mangrove forests. While most visitors come for the crystal-clear waters, the island’s lush jungle offers an equally captivating experience.
Jungle trekking allows you to hike through the dense mangrove forests, which can only be found in Okinawa’s subtropical climate. Among the best places for this experience are Ishigaki Island and Iriomote Island, where you can explore thick tropical forests filled with unique plant life.
As you walk through the jungle, you may encounter rare subtropical wildlife, from small creatures hiding in the trees to insects emerging from the ground. The humid air, sudden rain showers, and natural surroundings make this adventure even more exciting. Fortunately, the thick jungle canopy provides natural shelter, so even in heavy rain, you won’t get completely soaked.
With its unique untouched landscapes, an Ishigaki Island trekking tour is guaranteed to be a memorable and refreshing experience.
Jungle Trekking Tours You Can Enjoy on Ishigaki Island
Ishigaki Island is home to expansive mangrove forests and unexplored jungle areas.
As you hike up through the forest, the views improve with every step, making the climb worthwhile. Reaching the summit and gazing at the breathtaking landscape will make all the effort worthwhile.
A few notable plants found in the Ishigaki jungle include:
✔ Sakishima-Suo Tree (Heritiera littoralis): Recognizable by its unique plank-like roots, creating a mysterious atmosphere in the jungle.
✔ Modama Tree: Some of these trees have remained unchanged for tens of thousands of years, adding to the prehistoric feel of the jungle.
Additionally, many trekking tours lead to stunning waterfalls, where you can cool off in the refreshing waterfall basins. This is especially enjoyable in summer, as the cool water provides a perfect way to recharge after a hike.
Recommended Attire & Items for Ishigaki Island Trekking Tours
What to Wear
| Summer (April–October) | Shorts, short sleeves, rash guard, leggings, backpack |
| Winter (November–March) | Long sleeves, long pants, shorts with leggings, backpack |
Even in summer, wearing leggings under shorts is recommended to protect your skin from insects and scratches while walking through the dense forest.
What to Bring (Recommended)
| What to Bring (Recommended) | ✔ Drinking water ✔ Salt tablets (to prevent dehydration) ✔ Towel ✔ Sunscreen ✔ Sunglasses ✔ Hat |
Although the trek itself is not too physically demanding, UV protection is essential due to the strong sunlight in Ishigaki.
Rental Gear
| Rental Gear | ✔ Felt-soled boots (for better grip on slippery trails) ✔ Waterproof backpack |
Since some trekking paths have uneven ground, felt-soled boots are available for rental to ensure a safe hike.
Why Join a Guided Trekking Tour in Ishigaki?
The main attraction of trekking on Ishigaki Island is its unique subtropical nature, which cannot be found anywhere else in Japan.
However, exploring the jungle alone can be challenging if you are unfamiliar with the terrain or the local wildlife. Joining a guided tour allows you to:
✔ Learn about rare plants and animals from an experienced guide.
✔ Discover historical and cultural insights about the area.
✔ Avoid missing out on hidden gems within the jungle.
Trekking tours are also popular for educational purposes, making them a great option for children’s summer research projects.
Best Trekking Destinations on Ishigaki & Iriomote Islands
| Islands | Trekking Field |
| Ishigaki Island | ✔ Nosoko Dake (Mount Maapee) – Offers the best panoramic view on the island and is known as a romantic power spot. ✔ Arakawa Falls – A scenic waterfall spot ideal for a refreshing jungle hike. ✔ Yarabudake (Troll’s Tongue) – Features dramatic rock formations with spectacular views. |
| Iriomote Island | ✔ Pinaisara Falls – The tallest waterfall in Okinawa, accessible via a mix of canoeing and trekking. ✔ Kura Falls – A sacred waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. ✔ Sangara Falls – A hidden gem, perfect for swimming and relaxation. ✔ Komidake – A challenging trek through untouched jungle terrain. |
In the Yaeyama region, you can enjoy trekking and waterfall adventures on both Ishigaki Island and Iriomote Island.
On Ishigaki Island, some of the best trekking spots include:
✔ Nosoko Dake (Mount Maapee) – Famous for its Nosoko Maapee Legend and stunning panoramic views.
✔ Arakawa Falls – A perfect spot to cool off in crystal-clear waterfall basins.
✔ Yarabudake (Troll’s Tongue) – Known for its dramatic rock formations and breathtaking scenery.
Iriomote Island, just a 40-minute ferry ride away, is a top destination for jungle trekking. With numerous waterfalls and untouched nature, it is a paradise for adventure seekers.
Many set tour packages combine canoeing and trekking in a single day, allowing you to fully experience the island’s natural beauty. If you’re looking for an immersive jungle adventure, Iriomote Island is the best choice!
View the list of Iriomote Island trekking tours
Who Can Join an Ishigaki Island Trekking Tour?
Many people associate trekking with challenging mountain hikes, but Ishigaki Island offers various course levels to suit different participants:
✔ Challenging hikes for those who enjoy physical activity.
✔ Family-friendly routes for those who prefer a relaxing jungle walk (available for children as young as 3).
Since Ishigaki offers customizable tours, you can choose a trekking experience that best matches your group’s fitness level.
Can I Join an Iriomote Island Trekking Tour as a Day Trip?
Yes! If you want more adventure, consider joining an Iriomote Island trekking tour.
Iriomote Island is only about 40 minutes by ferry from Ishigaki, making it a great day-trip option.
With over 90% of the island covered in dense jungle, Iriomote is home to some of Japan’s most immersive trekking experiences. Tours range from half-day hikes to full-day treks lasting up to 10 hours, offering a truly wild jungle adventure.
