What is a Mangrove Canoe Tour in Okinawa Main Island
The jungles of northern Okinawa will be registered as a World Natural Heritage site in 2021.
Why don’t you enjoy kayaking in the mangrove forests that Okinawa boasts to the world?
Mangrove Canoe Spot on Okinawa Main Island
Hijagawa River
The Hijagawa River is a second-class river flowing through Okinawa Main Island.
It boasts the most significant basin area on the island and functions as a water reservoir.
Because it is a vast river, the waves are calm, spacious, and magnificent as the ocean.
Recently, night tours have become popular.
Okkubi River
The Okkubi River is a second-class river about 8 kilometers long, flowing through the central part of Okinawa Main Island.
It flows directly out into the Pacific Ocean.
The number of living creatures is much greater than in other mangrove forests, and this river is recommended for those who wish to observe flora and fauna.
Gesashi River
The Gesashi River area is home to one of the largest mangrove colonies in Okinawa.
The river is so broad that it has been designated a national natural monument.
The Gesashi River has a well-maintained boardwalk, which allows visitors to explore the mangroves without canoeing or kayaking.
It is also famous for its vast number of wild birds, making it one of the best bird-watching spots in Okinawa Prefecture.
Note that kayaking may not be possible at certain times of the day due to the extreme difference in tides.
Attractions of Mangrove Canoe Tours in Okinawa Main Island
Unspoiled wilderness
Much of Okinawa’s nature has remained untouched since ancient times.
Mangrove forests are no exception.
Because humans have not maintained them for tourism, there is nothing unnatural about them, and the scenery that unfolds before your eyes are nature’s art that has been created over hundreds of years.
Enjoy the healing space created by nature in such a mangrove forest.
Encounter subtropical flora and fauna.
Okinawa Prefecture has a subtropical climate.
You can encounter flora and fauna you cannot see on the mainland.
Mangrove forests are home to giant hermit crabs and coconut crabs.
However, please refrain from trying to catch them.
Easy and Fun
Because mangrove kayaking involves cruising through “brackish water,” a relatively calm area of mixed fresh and salt water, there is no need to worry about getting hit by large ocean waves.
This activity is very beginner-friendly and allows you to enjoy the subtropical wilderness.
It is also enjoyable, even on rainy or cold winter days.
What to wear, bring, and rent on a mangrove canoe tour in Okinawa Main Island
What to wear on a mangrove canoe tour in Okinawa Main Island
| Summer (April-October) | swimsuits, rash guards, leggings, short-sleeved clothing, half pants, etc. |
| Winter (November-March) | Rash guard, leggings, half pants, short-sleeved clothing, nylon long-sleeved clothing |
What to bring on a mangrove canoe tour in Okinawa Main Island
| Personal belongings | sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, drink, towel, change of clothes |
Rental equipment for mangrove canoe tours in Okinawa Main Island
| Rental equipment | felt boots, life jacket, paddle, kayak |
