Beyond the popular beaches and souvenir stands of Okinawa lies a remarkable indigenous culture that still thrives in the lesser-known parts of the southern Japanese islands. Journey to several 500-year-old villages on Iriomote Island with a guide and become immersed in the legends and culture of the Ryukyuan people who still call this island home. This is an excellent way to understand the secret history of Okinawa up close and personal.

Programme Details

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Today hop on the ferry at 08:30 from Ishigaki to Iriomote Island (Uehara port) and aboard the shuttle bus to Sonai where the local guide will be waiting.

Begin by admiring a picturesque islet that sits in the beautiful water off the coast. This is the perfect spot to start discussing Okinawan history and learn a few words in the local dialect.

Move on to Sonai Village, where guests can enter historic locations like old shrines and thatched-roof homes, as well as learn about local edible plants. Snack on sugar cane grown in the fields surrounding the village.

Next up is a walk through Hoshidate Village, where the locals practice secret religious rites specific only to this community.  Sip local herbal tea while learning about life in the village and examining old photographs and objects.

Depart the villages with a greater understanding of the heritage of the Ryukyu Islands, having met the locals and seeing their culture first-hand.

At the end of the tour, a free shuttle bus will take you back to Uehara port, followed by a ferry back to Ishigaki Island.

Notes:

-This tour is only available from Wednesday to Sunday
-Minimum age: 6 years old (if you would like to have a family member under 5 years old, please consult with us)
- Please contact your Travel Consultant for availability. Please note that all of the services and tours have yet to be booked and that they are proposed for your reference only. We will start making reservations after we receive your confirmation.
- Please inform your Travel Consultant of any special dietary requirements and physical conditions that you may have. 
- We strongly recommend the purchase of a travel insurance that also covers emergency medical evacuation.
- We recommend to get some snacks at the Ishigaki Ferry Terminal as the lunch is not included, also, nothing sold on the ferry.
- The guided tour might be shortened in the event that the ferry to Uehara port is cancelled. Instead, the ferry will arrive at Ohara port due to the sea condition.

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