Japan Guide
Okinawa
The Yaeyama Islands
Edging ever closer to the Tropic of Cancer, a further 100km southwest of Miyako-jima and 430km south of Okinawa-Hontō, is a cluster of coral reefs and forested mountains that make up the YAEYAMA ISLANDS. The main base for exploring the nine inhabited islands is Ishigaki-jima, though you can also stay on nearby Iriomote-jima, famous for its wild, wooded interior and unique wildlife population, or the delightful Taketomi-jima, where the traditional Ryūkyū way of life is most in evidence. As with the Miyako Islands, the main reason for coming here is the spectacular diving and snorkelling opportunities, although trekkers and kayakers will also be inspired by the forest trails, rivers and indented coastline of Iriomote.