OkinawaLeisure

Sorakaze (空風)

Flow of the course

Previous stop: On your tour around the island, take in the crescent-shaped shore of a beach with 'singing sand' that squeaks as you walk

About 15 min from the previous stop

About 85 min here

About 15 min to the next stop

Next stop: Take a break at a quiet beach near Sonai village

About this spot

The Maera River, which flows through the Sonai area of Iriomote Island, is lined on both banks with hirugi (mangrove) forests, and canoe and kayak tours let you paddle through them. Gliding across the quiet water with no engine noise, you can experience the island's rich ecosystem up close, the distinctive scenery formed by the mangrove roots, birdsong, and fish leaping from the water's surface. It's a time immersed in the grand nature unique to Iriomote Island, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site.

Tips

Advance reservations for the tour are recommended. Wear clothes you don't mind getting wet, along with marine shoes. The sunlight is strong, so apply waterproof sunscreen beforehand. If traveling with young children, check in advance whether they can ride along on the tour.