Hello everyone! I’m an Okinawa-based blogger who travels and runs a lifestyle blog, capturing photos and videos both domestically and abroad. This time, it’s all about Iriomote Island, one of Okinawa’s remote islands.
If it’s your first time visiting Okinawa or if you’re thinking about taking a trip there, this blog is for you! I share helpful tips and information for anyone planning a trip to Okinawa.
On my second day on Iriomote Island, I rented a car and took a leisurely drive around the island. In this post, I’ll share all the details about renting a car—like the costs, where to rent, and my actual driving experience.
・Renting a Car on Iriomote Island.
On my second day, I had already reserved a rental car in advance, so this day was all about driving around. It rained a bit during breakfast, but it cleared up, making it perfect weather for a drive!
I rented my car from Minato Rent-a-Car, which is conveniently located just near Uehara Port.
The gas station “Uehara SS” also offers rental cars and will even pick you up from your accommodation.
Before the scheduled time, they contacted me saying, “We’re on our way,” and came to pick me up at the hotel. We headed to their office together, where I completed the paperwork.
A kei car (a small vehicle) is more than enough for driving around Iriomote Island. There’s a speed limit, so you can’t drive fast anyway.
They also rent out scooters and bicycles, but keep in mind that the summer sun is intense, so make sure to apply plenty of sunscreen.
When returning the car, you need to fill up the gas tank. It’s really convenient because the rental office is at the gas station.
After returning the car, they’ll give you a ride back to your accommodation.
If you’re only renting for the day, the return time is by 5 PM. Since the days are longer in summer, I felt like I could’ve enjoyed the drive a bit more.
I had researched other rental car companies before my trip, and some were fully booked, so I definitely recommend making a reservation in advance rather than waiting until the day of your trip.
Minato Rent-a-Car, Uehara, Taketomi Town, Yaeyama District, Okinawa 907-1541.
There are also buses running on the island, so if you can’t rent a car, you can still get around by bus. I’ve written a bit about the bus stops in the article below.
・Driving Around Iriomote Island.
The drive starts near Uehara Port. It’s hot across the country, and Iriomote Island in early July is no exception, with the day’s high at 34°C and a low of 28°C.
My destination is Yubu Island, where you can cross over by a water buffalo cart.
Iriomote Island is the second largest in Okinawa, so distances can be longer than expected—it takes about 35 minutes to reach the Yubu Water Buffalo Cart Ride.
Before setting out, make sure to stop by a local island supermarket to stock up on water and other essentials.
The prefectural road is so quiet that you hardly see any cars coming from the opposite direction, but with a speed limit of 40 km/h, it’s a relaxed drive. Driving through the great outdoors is very refreshing, with the lush greenery and the sea being easy on the eyes.
“Signs Along the Way: Is This a Boar?”
There are many animal warning signs, indicating that this island coexists closely with nature.
“The Iriomote Cat, a Nationally Designated Special Natural Monument”
There are two statues of the Iriomote Cat on the island, and this is one of them. The Iriomote Cat is an endangered species that only inhabits Iriomote Island, with an estimated population of around 100 individuals.
You Can Also See the Pinaisara Falls From Here.
From where the statue stands, you can see the Pinaisara Falls in the distance with the naked eye. With a drop of 55 meters, it’s the tallest waterfall in Okinawa and a very popular attraction. Participating in a tour is recommended for experiencing Pinaisara Falls and activities like mangrove canoeing. While some waterfalls can be reached on your own, if it’s your first time on Iriomote Island or if you’re new to such activities, having a guide is a safe and enjoyable option.
Thanks to the clear weather, the drive along the way offered breathtaking views.
・Stopped by a café on Iriomote Island.
Before Returning the Car, I Decided to Check Out a Nearby Café.
I had my eye on a café close to the rental car office, so I decided to give it a try. It was a Tuesday, though, and it looks like they might be closed on Tuesdays?
Unfortunately, it was closed, so I started looking for another place that might be open. I was really in the mood for shaved ice, too lol.
I asked the rental car staff if they knew of any nearby cafés that were open, but they didn’t seem to know much. So, I turned to Google to find a spot that might be open.
But the places I found were pretty far from the office lol.
Farm Café Famille
10-171 Uehara, Taketomi Town, Yaeyama District, Okinawa 907-1541
Here, You Can Enjoy Fresh Pineapple Juice Made from a Whole Pineapple.
The café is next to a guesthouse with a pineapple-shaped exterior, so you can’t miss it. They have terrace seating, a spacious counter, and table seating inside. While it’s located in a residential area, so the view isn’t anything special, it’s a great spot to relax.
Besides juice, they also offer parfaits and other treats. I was tempted to get mango juice, but since I had some for breakfast, I went with pineapple instead.
I’m glad I found this café.
Depending on the harvest season, they might not always have certain items, so if you see something that catches your eye, it’s probably best to order it.
The pineapple juice here is frozen, packed with fruit, and wonderfully smooth. It was just what I needed to cool down from the Iriomote Island heat.
If you’re a fan of tropical fruits, definitely stop by and give it a try!
Without a Rental Car, I Wouldn’t Have Made It Here
Having a car really changes your plans on Iriomote Island, so keep that in mind when planning your stay.
For dinner and other meals, some restaurants will ask if you need a pick-up service, or your accommodation might offer it. Unlike in the city, there aren’t many places to eat, so it’s important to do some research before your trip.
