Japan’s southwesternmost frontier, the Yaeyama Islands are a tropical archipelago of jungle, coral and old Ryukyu charm — closer to Taiwan than to Tokyo. Gateway island Ishigaki dazzles with the emerald Kabira Bay, while neighbouring Iriomote is a wild, mangrove-and-jungle island roamed by the rare Iriomote cat, and tiny Taketomi preserves a postcard village of red-tiled houses and water-buffalo carts. Linked by quick ferries, the Yaeyama are an island-hopper’s dream.

This guide covers the main islands, what to do, ferries and flights, and how to get around.

🗓️ Quick Reference
Location Far southwest of Okinawa (near Taiwan)
Gateway Ishigaki (New Ishigaki Airport)
Islands Ishigaki, Iriomote, Taketomi, Hateruma…
Time needed 3–5 days
Good for Beaches, jungle, snorkelling, island-hopping

The main islands

  • Ishigaki: the hub — Kabira Bay (glass-bottom boats, no swimming), great beaches, snorkelling and a lively town.
  • Iriomote: ~90% jungle and mangrove; river kayaking, waterfall hikes and the elusive Iriomote cat.
  • Taketomi: a preserved traditional village of coral walls and red-tiled roofs, water-buffalo carts and star-sand beaches.
  • Hateruma: Japan’s southernmost inhabited island, famed for star-gazing.

What to do

  • Snorkelling and diving over superb reefs; manta rays off Ishigaki.
  • Kabira Bay sightseeing by glass-bottom boat.
  • Iriomote mangrove kayaking and jungle trekking.
  • Taketomi village stroll and buffalo-cart ride.

Ferries, flights & getting around

  • Fly to Ishigaki from Naha (~1 hour) or mainland cities.
  • Ferries from Ishigaki Port reach Iriomote, Taketomi, Kohama and more in 10–45 min.
  • Rent a car on Ishigaki/Iriomote; Taketomi is walk/bike/cart only.
  • Book flights, ferries and cars early in peak season.

Combine your visit

The Yaeyama are a destination in themselves, but pair with other islands:

  • Combine with the Miyako Islands (separate flight) — see our Miyako guide .
  • Closer to Naha, the Kerama Islands are an easy ferry trip — see our Kerama guide .

How to get there

  • Fly to New Ishigaki Airport from Naha or major mainland cities.
  • From Ishigaki, hop to other islands by ferry from Ishigaki Port.