Iriomote Island & Yubu Island One Day Tour

It was very convenient to pick up the package at the Ishigaki Remote Island Terminal. There were also staff members who spoke Mandarin and English to help with the itinerary exchange and provide detailed explanations. After that, it was a short walk to the pier to board the boat, so there was no need to search around. Upon disembarking, staff members were waiting with signs (they spoke simple English). The pier for the mangrove boat tour was right next door, and the captain provided explanations along the way (Japanese only), even preparing mangrove creatures for tourists to see. Afterward, a shuttle bus took us to the water buffalo cart area. The driver also provided explanations along the way (Japanese only). The round-trip water buffalo cart experience to Yubu Island was quite unique; depending on the buffalo's personality, some trips were fast and some were slow. The only downside was that after the lunch buffet and sightseeing on Yubu Island, it felt a bit rushed, and it was hard to see everything. Overall, this itinerary was quite good, and I noticed there are many options at the Ishigaki Remote Island Terminal, so everyone doesn't need to worry about finding food or shopping.

Even though we don't speak Japanese and were aware that we had booked a guided tour only in Japanese, the organization was excellent. We were always given logistical information in English, and the staff made sure we understood and were accounted for. Obviously, we couldn't benefit from the explanations, but this didn't detract from the places, which we were still able to fully appreciate.

The itinerary wasn't rushed, and the timing was just right. The boat was very comfortable for sleeping. I really liked Yubu Island, where I could see water buffalo. Remember to apply sunscreen as the weather is sunny.

The highlight of the tour is definitely the round trip on the carabao cart; the carabaos are so adorable. Lunch is acceptable, quite substantial, and offers good value for money. Unfortunately, the boat tour portion was a bit dull.

Although the weather wasn't great, the experience was still good. Lunch was delicious.

Amazing! Amazing!