Local Guide
Check out Iriomote Island's four seasons, temperatures, and clothing!

Iriomote Island is located in the Yaeyama Islands at the southwesternmost tip of Japan, more than 400 km away from the main island of Okinawa. It is the second largest island in Okinawa Prefecture after the main island. About 90% of the island is covered with virgin tropical and subtropical forests, a treasure trove of nature, and the entire island is designated as a national park. The mangrove forests that make up three-quarters of the mangrove vegetation in Japan and 15 natural monuments, including the Iriomote wildcat, are home to many eco-tours and other activities that take advantage of this precious natural environment.

Iriomote Island has a hot and humid subtropical oceanic climate with an average annual temperature of about 24°C. Winters are warm and summers are subtropical. Winters are warm and summers are hot and humid, characteristic of the subtropical zone. The annual precipitation is more than 2,000㎜, and you need to prepare rain gear especially during the rainy season and typhoon season.

Iriomote Island Temperature Graph

The shallow sea is perfect for swimming with children
The shallow sea is perfect for swimming with children

Spring is called "Urizun" in the Okinawan dialect. The average temperature in March is 20.3°C, which is about the same as the late May temperature in Tokyo. The average temperature in March is 20.3 degrees Celsius, about the same as in late May in Tokyo, and the difference between day and night is less than 5 degrees Celsius, making it a comfortable time to spend time on the island. The average maximum temperature in April is a comfortable 22°C, but summer is in full swing in May. Summer days (25°C or higher) continue. Be sure to stay hydrated and take precautions against sunburn.
March to early May is the best season for Yaeyama fireflies, the smallest fireflies in Japan. Some days in the forest on a spring night may feel chilly. Wear a jacket and long pants, and bring insect repellent.

Sagaribana
Sagaribana" vividly colors the forest at night

The rainy season in Iriomote Island starts around early May. Until early June, when the rainy season ends, it often rains like a waterfall (squall) peculiar to the subtropical zone suddenly, so carrying rain gear is a must.
In June, the average maximum temperature exceeds 30°C (86°F), and the hot and humid weather continues until August. From June to mid-July, the "sagaribana," a rare flower that blooms only one night at riverside areas and other wetlands, is in full bloom, and early in the morning, its scattered blossoms decorate the surface of the river.
In July and August, when typhoons are most likely to approach, it is necessary to check typhoon information frequently. In addition, ultraviolet rays in summer are extremely strong, so when spending time outdoors, be sure to prepare sunscreen, hats, and other sun-protection products, and drink plenty of water.

Enjoy trekking in the dense forest as well as forest bathing
Enjoy trekking in the dense forest as well as forest bathing

In September and October, when the average temperature is over 25℃, summer is still in full swing. The sun shines strongly and it is possible to swim in the sea. September continues to be hot and humid due to typhoons, but the mornings and evenings become cooler in late October. In preparation for the temperature difference between morning and evening, it is advisable to bring light outerwear such as cardigans and parkas for greater comfort.
The average temperature in November is about 23℃. This is the perfect time to enjoy trekking in the forests and other physical activities. Also, be sure to go stargazing on Iriomote Island, the first island in Japan to be recognized as a starry sky protected area. You can spend a romantic time basking in the fullness of stars shining in the night sky.

Oxcart crossing the shallow sea of Iriomote-Yubu Island
Oxcart crossing the shallow sea of Iriomote-Yubu Island

In winter of Iriomote Island, the minimum average temperature is over 15℃ and there is little precipitation, so you can enjoy sightseeing regardless of weather conditions. The temperature difference between the two months can be quite large. It is advisable to prepare a thick cardigan or light coat that can be easily taken off and put on according to the minimum temperature.
In winter, when relatively few tourists visit the island, it is recommended to relax and enjoy the island's unique and peaceful time. Whether you take a canoe trip down the mangrove forests or take a walk on the sea by ox cart to the neighboring Yubu Island, spending time in the great outdoors will heal your mind and recharge your batteries.

After enjoying sightseeing, please enjoy a quality stay at the largest hotel in Iriomote Island, where you can encounter the profound nature.

Jungle resort on the island where the Iriomote wildcat lives

Many activities such as trekking, kayaking, snorkeling, etc. are available to fully enjoy the unexplored Iriomote Island.
Many activities such as trekking, kayaking, snorkeling, etc. are available to fully enjoy the unexplored Iriomote Island.

This resort hotel is located in Iriomote Ishigaki National Park, about 45 minutes from Ishigaki Island by regular high-speed boat, and opened in October 2019. Hoshino Resorts Iriomote Hotel is located in one of the Yaeyama Islands at the most southwestern tip of Japan. Surrounded by a sea of coral reefs and 90% covered by jungle, this subtropical island is also known as "the last unexplored region in Japan" because of its rare flora and fauna, including the Iriomote wild cat, a special natural treasure. Please spend a healing moment becoming one with the workings of nature through outdoor activities that allow you to fully enjoy the great nature of Iriomote Island, rare ecosystems, and tours that bring you into contact with the island's culture.

▼ Declaration of the Highest Level of Corona Protection
Hoshino Resorts has set forth the two axes of "hygiene management" and "three-density avoidance" to ensure that everyone can spend their time with peace of mind, and all of our Properties have evolved our existing services to the highest level. Corona Countermeasures We are implementing the "Corona Measures," which are an evolution of our existing services, at all of our facilities.

Hoshino Resorts Iriomote Hotel
The information in this article is current as of the date of the update. Please check before visiting as they are subject to change.