Welcome to this travel guide brought to you by a professional tour conductor. Today, we’re exploring Yubu Island—a small paradise floating just off the coast of Iriomote Island in Okinawa—and the unique water buffalo carts that provide the only way to reach it.
Picture this: a gentle water buffalo slowly pulling a cart across a shallow sea, the sound of a sanshin (Okinawan three-stringed instrument) drifting on the breeze, and the brilliant blue horizon stretching before you. The water buffalo cart to Yubu Island isn’t just transportation—it’s an immersive experience of Okinawa’s authentic landscape. Accessible as a day trip from Ishigaki Island, this destination captivates travelers with its uniqueness: the entire island functions as a botanical garden filled with subtropical plants.
However, without proper planning regarding access to Iriomote Island and the logistics of getting around, you might face unexpected crowds or waiting times. To make the most of your limited travel time, it’s essential to understand the ferry system, water buffalo cart schedules, and the island’s highlights before you arrive.
Understanding the Multi-Step Access Route
Yubu Island sits at the westernmost edge of Okinawa Prefecture and requires several transportation steps to reach. You cannot take a direct ferry from Ishigaki Island to Yubu Island. Instead, you must first travel to Iriomote Island (either Uehara Port or Ohara Port), then continue by land to the water buffalo cart boarding area called “Tabibito no Eki” (Traveler’s Station).
From Uehara Port, it takes approximately 35 minutes by car; from Ohara Port, about 20 minutes. Iriomote Island has very few taxis, and bus service is limited. While renting a car locally offers the most freedom, joining an organized tour from Ishigaki Island provides the smoothest experience for first-time visitors, as it handles everything from ferry bookings to bus transfers.
Additionally, during summer months (approximately June to September), high tides may affect operating hours. When planning your itinerary, it’s wise to check tidal conditions in advance.
A Typhoon That Erased a Village and One Elderly Man’s Dream
The island’s name “Yubu” comes from the Yaeyama dialect word for sandbar. This tiny island—approximately 2.1 km in circumference with a maximum elevation of just 1.5 meters above sea level—formed over centuries from sediment deposited by the Yonara River.
Yubu Island was once home to a small farming community of people who had migrated from Taketomi and Kuroshima islands. Water buffaloes were essential to agriculture here, having arrived around 1932 (Showa 7) with settlers from Taiwan via Ishigaki Island. At the time, water buffaloes were so valuable that “two water buffaloes could build a house.” By the 1950s-60s, the island thrived with nearly every household owning one.
Then came 1969 (Showa 44), when Typhoon Elsie struck Yubu Island directly. The devastation was catastrophic—the entire low-lying island flooded, and most survivors relocated to the Mihara district on neighboring Iriomote Island.
One elderly couple, the late Seiji Iriomote and his wife, chose to stay. After everyone else had left, they remained on the abandoned island with a single water buffalo, transporting soil and compost, planting palm trees and tropical flowers. Their vision was to transform the island into a “paradise garden.” Touched by their passion and character, many people offered support. Gradually, the couple built a handmade paradise that became what we now know as the “Subtropical Plant Paradise Yubu Island.”
This botanical garden—now welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors annually—began with one water buffalo and an elderly couple’s dream. Knowing this history adds profound depth to the experience of crossing to the island by water buffalo cart.
The Water Buffalo Cart Experience: 15 Minutes of Pure Magic
The greatest attraction of Yubu Island is undoubtedly the experience of crossing the sea by water buffalo cart—a mode of transportation found nowhere else in the world. The sea separating Iriomote and Yubu islands spans about 400 meters, with a depth of only about 1 meter even at high tide. Large, sturdy water buffaloes pull carts slowly across this shallow water.
The journey takes approximately 15 minutes each way. During the crossing, staff members often play the sanshin and sing island songs, creating a luxurious moment to soak in the southern island atmosphere while feeling the sea breeze.
Each water buffalo has its own name, and staff members share details about individual buffaloes’ personalities and characteristics during the ride. One charming detail visitors often learn: “When the tail goes up, it’s bathroom time”—the buffaloes patiently wait throughout the day at the waiting area, holding it in until they can relieve themselves in the seawater.
Water buffalo carts operate on a regular schedule. Purchase tickets at “Tabibito no Eki” (Traveler’s Station) on the Iriomote side before boarding. During peak seasons and weekends, crowds can form, so arriving 10 minutes before your desired departure time is advisable.
Water Buffalo Cart Schedule
The latest regular service schedule from the official website is as follows (subject to change based on tidal conditions):
| Depart Iriomote | Depart Yubu |
|---|---|
| 9:15 | — |
| 9:45 | 10:00 |
| 10:15 | 10:30 |
| 10:45 | 11:00 |
| 11:15 | 11:30 |
| 11:45 | 12:00 |
| 12:15 | 12:30 |
| 12:45 | 13:00 |
| 13:15 | 13:30 |
| 13:45 | 14:00 |
| 14:15 | 14:30 |
| 14:45 | 15:00 |
| 15:15 | 15:30 |
| 15:45 | 16:00 |
| — | 16:30 |
Operating Hours: 9:15 AM – 4:30 PM (Last entry 3:45 PM)
Admission Fees
Water buffalo cart fare includes admission to Yubu Island. While you can walk across to the island, the water buffalo cart is the quintessential Yubu Island experience, so the round-trip cart option is highly recommended.
Fee Structure
| Category | Adult (Junior High+) | Child (Elementary) |
|---|---|---|
| Round-trip Cart + Admission | ¥2,000 | ¥1,000 |
| Walking + Admission | ¥700 | ¥350 |
| Disability Discount (Cart) | ¥1,600 | ¥800 |
| Group Discount (15+, Cart) | ¥1,800 | ¥900 |
※Children under elementary school age are free.
※Disability discount applies to the cardholder and one companion.
Ticket Purchase
Tickets are available at “Tabibito no Eki” (Traveler’s Station) on the Iriomote side. Payment accepts credit cards (VISA, MasterCard, JCB, AMEX, etc.), transportation IC cards (Suica, ICOCA, etc.), PayPay, iD, and various other electronic payment methods—no cash necessary. Advanced reservations for regular water buffalo cart service are also available through the official website’s booking system.
Facility Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Facility Name | Subtropical Plant Paradise Yubu Island |
| Address | 694 Komi, Taketomi-cho, Yaeyama-gun, Okinawa |
| Ticket Office | Tabibito no Eki, Iriomote Island (Komi area) |
| Operating Hours | 9:15 AM – 4:30 PM (Last entry 3:45 PM) |
| Closed | None (subject to weather/high tide cancellations) |
| From Uehara Port | Approx. 35 min by car |
| From Ohara Port | Approx. 20 min by car |
| Parking | Available (near Tabibito no Eki, free) |
Highlights of Subtropical Plant Paradise Yubu Island
Upon arrival by water buffalo cart, subtropical plants and tropical flowers greet you across the island. Though small enough to walk around in about an hour, each area offers distinct attractions with more to see than you might expect.
Bougainvillea Garden
This area bursts with colorful bougainvillea varieties year-round—Sanderiana, Rainbow, red, white, and yellow. Among the tropical flowers, bougainvillea is particularly photogenic, drawing many visitors to pause for photos.
Butterfly Garden
This dedicated area is home to Japan’s largest butterfly species, the “Okinawan Tree Nymph” (Oogomadara). The sight of these large butterflies with black-and-white wings gliding gracefully through the air is mesmerizing. The must-see attraction is the chrysalis—Oogomadara pupae shine like golden jewelry in brilliant metallic gold. Yubu Island is particularly famous as an observation spot for this phenomenon, and it’s truly worth seeing.
Water Buffalo Pond
As the name suggests, this is where water buffaloes rest after work. True to their name, water buffaloes love water and often spend entire days submerged in the pond. You might see newborn calves spending time peacefully with their parents—a heartwarming healing spot.
Manta Beach
This beautiful beach offers views of Kohama Island directly ahead. Named because the waters between Yubu and Kohama islands serve as a manta ray passage, this location provides an open, tropical atmosphere. The adjacent “Yubu Island Tea House” serves coffee and gelato with ocean views.
Shell & Green Oasis
This area displays shells and plants, allowing closer observation of the flora growing throughout the garden. It’s perfect for deepening interest in nature and biology for visitors of all ages.
Restaurant and Shops
The island features a restaurant, Yubu Island Tea House (coffee, gelato, etc.), and Suigyu Shoten (water buffalo shop, souvenirs). For lunch, the island restaurant offers Okinawan cuisine, though seats fill quickly during peak season, so early arrival is recommended. Note that as of October 2025, meal service has changed to a self-service format.
Tips for Maximizing Your Water Buffalo Cart Experience
Here are several points to enhance your Yubu Island visit:
Avoid crowds by choosing early morning or late afternoon departures
Peak times run from 10 AM to 2 PM. Targeting the 9:15 AM first departure or departures after 2 PM generally means smoother boarding.
Check tidal conditions in advance
During spring tides or typhoons/heavy rain, water buffalo carts may be suspended. Despite the shallow water, high tide depths reach about 1 meter maximum. Checking tidal conditions before your trip provides peace of mind.
Walking across is an option
If water buffalo carts are full with long wait times, or during low tide periods, walking across is possible (separate admission fee required). However, since the water buffalo cart represents the quintessential Yubu Island experience, planning with ample time is ideal.
Clothing and essentials
Prepare for strong sunlight and sea breezes with a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses. The water buffalo cart boarding area is sandy, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Plan for 2-3 hours including island exploration.
Nearby Attractions Worth Visiting
A Yubu Island journey pairs perfectly with Iriomote Island’s natural wonders. Here are notable spots accessible by car from the water buffalo cart boarding area (Tabibito no Eki).
Nakama River Mangrove Cruise
Located immediately near Ohara Port, the Nakama River boasts Japan’s largest mangrove forest area. Sightseeing boats (50-90 minutes, no reservation required) allow observation of mangrove forests from the water. Encounters with Japan’s largest “Sakishima Suou Tree” and the rare species “Mayapushiki” (found only in Nakama River’s eastern region) offer academically valuable experiences. Many travelers combine this with Yubu Island visits. It’s less than 5 minutes by car from Ohara Port, making it convenient to visit en route to Yubu Island.
Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center
This facility protects and provides information about rare wildlife inhabiting Iriomote Island, including the Iriomote wildcat, crested serpent eagle, and coconut crab. Life-size taxidermy displays, ecological exhibits, and bird call quizzes engage visitors from children to adults. While encounters with live Iriomote wildcats aren’t possible, this serves as a valuable base for understanding the island’s natural depth. It’s just minutes by car from Tabibito no Eki.
Omijya Road Park (Mangrove Boardwalk)
This boardwalk along Omijya River offers a fantastical walking path surrounded 360 degrees by mangroves. The observation deck provides panoramic views of Hatoma Island and Iriomote’s ocean. The well-maintained route is casual enough for sandals. You can also descend to Omijya River—the shallow water allows children to enjoy water play safely.
Recommended Nearby Accommodations
Yubu Island has no lodging facilities, so overnight stays require accommodation on Iriomote Island. Choosing the Ohara Port area as a base provides convenient access to Yubu Island, Nakama River cruises, and the Wildlife Conservation Center. For those prioritizing activities and resort experiences, the Uehara Port area offers more options.
Iriomote Hotel by Hoshino Resorts
Located in northwestern Iriomote Island, about 10 minutes by car from Uehara Port, this resort hotel is operated by Hoshino Resorts. The beachfront Tudumari Beach, known in legend as “the place where gods rest,” offers serene beauty. Spacious rooms, buffets featuring island ingredients, complimentary sunset drinks and morning stretches for guests, outdoor pools, and diverse activities make it popular with families. Stargazing and nature walks let guests fully experience Iriomote’s magnificent natural environment.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 2-2 Uehara, Taketomi-cho, Yaeyama-gun, Okinawa |
| Access | Approx. 10 min by complimentary shuttle from Uehara Port |
※From Tabibito no Eki near Yubu Island, it’s approximately 45 minutes by car. Rental car or Ishigaki Island tour participation is convenient.
Eco Village Iriomote
This Bali-style resort hotel sits midway between Ohara and Uehara ports. The expansive 1,200-tsubo grounds offer ocean and mountain views, with a private beach just 5 seconds on foot. Ryukyu creative cuisine using island ingredients receives high praise, and an outdoor pool is available. When artificial lights disappear at night, the Milky Way becomes visible to the naked eye in the brilliant starry sky.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 280-36 Takana, Taketomi-cho, Yaeyama-gun, Okinawa |
| Access | Approx. 20 min by car from Ohara Port |
Iriomote Island Jungle Hotel Painumaya
Located in eastern Iriomote Island near Ohara Port, this wilderness-style hotel embraces its name “Painumaya” (meaning “southern cat” in Yaeyama dialect)—Iriomote wildcats occasionally pass through the hotel grounds. All rooms offer jungle views with sounds of Hora River and birdsong reaching the rooms, providing nature-immersive accommodation. Buffets featuring Iriomote island ingredients receive acclaim. It ranks as Iriomote Island’s second most popular accommodation on TripAdvisor.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 243 Takana, Taketomi-cho, Yaeyama-gun, Okinawa |
| Access | Approx. 35 min by bus from Ohara Port |
Making Your Iriomote Journey Seamless with a Private Tour Conductor
Navigating Iriomote Island’s limited public transportation and coordinating ferry schedules can be challenging, especially for international travelers. This is where a private tour conductor service can transform your experience.
A dedicated tour conductor provides comprehensive travel management throughout your Yaeyama Islands journey. Unlike standard group tours, a private conductor focuses exclusively on your party, handling all logistics including:
- Ferry reservations and schedule coordination
- Transportation arrangements on Iriomote Island
- Water buffalo cart timing optimization
- Restaurant reservations and meal planning
- Real-time adjustments for weather or tidal conditions
The conductor accompanies you throughout the day, managing the complex logistics while you focus on experiencing Yubu Island’s magic. They facilitate communication with local operators, and ensure smooth transitions between activities—particularly valuable when coordinating water buffalo cart schedules with other Iriomote attractions.
For travelers seeking a stress-free, personalized Yubu Island experience, a private tour conductor offers invaluable peace of mind and cultural insight that self-guided travel cannot match.
Conclusion: A Journey to Okinawa’s Authentic Landscape
The Yubu Island water buffalo cart offers a travel highlight worth experiencing. During the approximately 15-minute crossing over shallow water, the view of Iriomote’s greenery and Yaeyama skies beyond the slowly walking water buffalo creates a scene more memorable than any photograph. Strolling through the subtropical botanical garden, witnessing the golden Oogomadara chrysalis, and photographing with resting water buffaloes—each moment accumulates as cherished travel memories.
For efficient exploration of Iriomote and Yubu islands, day tours from Ishigaki Island provide convenience. These packages handle everything from ferry arrangements to local transportation, allowing first-time visitors to confidently enjoy Yaeyama’s magnificent nature.
The Yubu Island water buffalo cart is an experience that makes everyone who visits think “I want to come back.” Consider adding it to your Yaeyama journey for an unforgettable adventure in Okinawa’s pristine landscape.