Covered in deep green, Iriomote is a fabulous place where many protected species dwell.

Your tour will start on a boat from the mouth of the Urauchi River. Riding upstream for eight kilometers, the boat heads to Gunkan-iwa Rock. The river gets narrower as you go along and you'll enjoy seeing close-up views of green mangrove plants. The river's surface is deep green, as if reflecting the greenery along its banks. If the timing is right, you'll get to see a Crested serpent eagle lazily soaring through the sky.

After arriving at Gunkan-iwa Rock, your trekking tour through a jungle thick with subtropical trees and plants begin. While following the signs leading to an observation platform, you'll climb stairs and be greeted by the sight of Mariyudo Waterfalls deep in the jungle. Filling the air with white spray, the sight of this waterfall is itself an image of Iriomote's majestic nature. A 10-minute trek from the observation platform will take you to the falls, and a short five-minute walk will bring you to Kanpire Waterfalls.

After looking at the falls, your guide will take you back to Gunkan-iwa Rock. From there, you'll return to your starting point by canoe. Guides will show you how to paddle and how to get in and out of a canoe, so it is safe even for beginners. The view from the canoes differs from that of the boat. If you're lucky, you'll see azaleas in bloom.

This is just one example out of the many tours available on Iriomote Island. The island has many other rivers and waterfalls. Choose a tour that will suit your schedule and energy level.