【Okinawa Main Island】Trekking Tour

What is a trekking tour in Okinawa?

Have you ever heard of trekking tours that allow you to enjoy the magnificent nature of Okinawa?
Trekking means mountain climbing, but nowadays, it has come to mean more and more “exploration” or “adventure,” and exploring rivers and forests is also called trekking.

Although there is no clear line between trekking and mountain climbing, trekking is characterized by lighter clothing and more casual enjoyment than full-scale mountain climbing.

Trekking can be enjoyed anywhere in the world, but it is a relatively popular activity, especially in Japan.
This is especially true in Japan, a country with many mountains, unexplored areas, and lush greenery.

Types of Trekking Tours Available in Okinawa

Jungle Trekking

In the northern part of Okinawa Main Island, there is a forest called “Yanbaru Forest,” which is a candidate for registration as a World Natural Heritage site along with Amami Oshima and Iriomote Island. In the jungles of Yanbaru, you may be lucky to encounter such natural monument animals as the Yanbaru rail, the Noguchi woodpecker, the Ryukyu leatherback turtle, and the Japanese lesser white-fronted rat, all of which can never be seen on the mainland. Jungle trekking is easy to join, but there are a few things to remember. Insect bites are a concern in the wilderness, so bring insect repellent. It is also recommended to wear long sleeves even if it is a bit hot and to avoid cutting your skin on trees and leaves.

River Trekking

Okinawa has numerous rivers flowing through it, and Okinawa is the only place in Japan where you can see mangroves distributed in brackish water, which is a mixture of seawater and freshwater.

Trekking in brackish water areas with mangroves generally tends to be done from upstream to downstream.

Other options include river climbing tours.
You enter the river near the upper stream and climb the creek in river climbing.
Diving and swimming in the cascade of waterfalls along the way, the fun is endless.

Attractions of Trekking Tours in Okinawa Main Island

Unspoiled wilderness

With the recent development of resorts, there are few unspoiled beaches in Okinawa.
However, many places in the forests and mountains still have yet to be developed and remain untouched.

Untouched wilderness and mountains have a completely different landscape and atmosphere from the well-maintained nature we are used to seeing, which can be a thrilling experience.

Encounters with a variety of plants and animals

Okinawa Prefecture has an entirely different environment and temperature from mainland Japan’s.
You will see subtropical plants and Okinawan native reptiles and birds that you would never see in mainland Japan.
The jungle is like a zoo created by nature.

However, endemic species tend to have their ecosystems easily disrupted by outside influences.
Be careful not to catch any creatures you find.

Various fields to suit your fitness level

Trekking may sound strenuous, but you can choose the fields and tour time to suit your fitness level.

If you are not confident about your physical strength, you can choose a half-day or several-hour tour.

Trekking tours can be enjoyed by everyone, from children to older people.

All three generations of the family can enjoy trekking tours.
While many marine sports such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving require physical strength, trekking tours target people of all ages, from older people to children.

When you visit Okinawa on a family vacation, please try trekking.

What to wear, bring, and rent for trekking tours on Okinawa Main Island

What to wear on trekking tours in Okinawa Main Island

What to bring on trekking tours in Okinawa Main Island

Rental equipment for trekking tours on Okinawa Main Island