Discover Yubu Island, a serene subtropical paradise accessible by a leisurely stroll or a charming water buffalo cart ride from Iriomote Island.
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About Yubu Island
Yubu Island is a small remote island that can be traversable in about 1 hour on foot and is a subtropical botanical garden where you can enjoy colorful flowers and butterflies. You can traverse from Iriomote Island to Yubu Island aboard a water buffalo cart.
In the past, around 300 people inhabited the island, but following a typhoon in 1964, most relocated to Iriomote Island. Amidst these changes, one couple chose to remain, accompanied by a water buffalo. They began planting palms and flowers, crafting a handmade paradise. Finally, in 1981, it was opened as the Subtropical Botanical Garden.
Recommended spots to explore on Yubu Island
There are 11 spots to explore on Yubu Island. It's worth exploring every corner of the island during your visit.
1. Water buffalo cart waiting area
There's a parlour here where you can purchase souvenirs and seasonal fruits.
2. Water buffalo pond
A pond where water buffaloes spend their leisure time resting. Here, you can observe several buffaloes taking a break in the pond, relaxing and unwinding. If you're lucky, you might even see the adorable baby water buffalo.
3. Butterfly Garden
In the butterfly garden, visitors can observe a diverse array of butterflies and plants, with a particular focus on the Oogomadara butterfly. This butterfly, one of the largest in Japan, is the prefectural butterfly of Okinawa Prefecture. Its pupa is golden, and you are lucky if you can see it.
4. Shell & Green Oasis
Here, you'll find displays showcasing the diverse shellfish inhabiting the waters around Iriomote Island. Additionally, you can admire taxidermy sea turtles and the coconut crab, which is a natural monument of Okinawa Prefecture.
5. Restaurant, the Water Buffalo Store
A spacious restaurant is available for lunch. Here, you can savour Okinawa's famous Soki soba and taco rice. Additionally, the water buffalo shop offers a variety of items featuring original water buffalo characters, sweets, souvenirs, and more.
6. Old school gate ruins
In the past, when Yubu Island had a population of 300, there was an elementary and junior high school. The remnants of which can still be found on the island today. However, the site now serves as a habitat for small animals.
7. Yubushima Tea House / Manta Beach (Manta no hama)
Yubushima Tea House offers handmade gelato made from Yaeyama ingredients. You can enjoy a variety of gelato flavours and drinks, each tailored to the season. Take a leisurely break while admiring the scenic Manta Beach in front of you.
8. Children's playground
Families with children will be delighted to discover that Yubu Island offers playgrounds and athletic facilities. Children are sure to have a blast and enjoy their time on the island without getting bored!
9. Bougainvillea Garden
In the Bougainvillea Garden, there are more than 30 species of bougainvillea trees, which can be seen blooming throughout the year. Late autumn to March is the peak season, and you can see the flowers in full bloom.
10. Calliandra haematocephala (December ~ March)
© Photo-pot
From December to March, visitors can enjoy the vibrant red flowers of the Calliandra haematocephala in bloom.
11. Mangrove Trail
Along the mangrove trail, visitors can observe the mangrove ecosystem while walking.
Access to Yubu Island
You can reach Yubu Island either by foot from Iriomote Island or by taking a water buffalo cart. Tickets for the water buffalo cart can be purchased at the "Traveler's Station" on Iriomote Island. Please ensure to purchase your ticket at least 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time of the water buffalo cart.
You can check the schedule for the water buffalo cart from this link: Yubu Island Access (Japanese)
Basic information about Yubu Island
Address: Komi, Taketomi, Yaeyama District, Okinawa 907-1432, Japan
Business Hours:
9:15-16:30 (Admission deadline 15:45) *Opening may be delayed due to high tide.
Admission (Round-trip water buffalo cart & entrance fee):
￥2,000 (junior high school students and older) / ￥1,000 (elementary school students)
Official Website: Yubu Island Official Website (Japanese)