What is Okinawa Yanbaru? Thorough explanation of sightseeing, access, and hotels with local photos!

Where is Yanbaru located?
A thorough guide to the unexplored, nature-rich areas of northern Okinawa!

Yanbaru," which stretches across the northern part of Okinawa's main island, is a mountainous area of mountains and forests that is home to a variety of precious flora and fauna.“The unexplored region of Okinawa.”It is known as the

This article introduces many of Yanbaru's attractions, including popular spots, hotels, accessibility, and even the popular theme park "Jangria!

Held in Yanbaru
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Meaning and etymology of "Yanbaru

Yanbaru" is an Okinawan dialect word"Yanbaru."and means "a place where a series of mountains are located.

As its name suggests, it is surrounded by mountains and deep forests, and is known as one of the richest natural areas on the main island of Okinawa.

The three villages that make up Yanbaru

Yanbaru is,Kunigashira Village)interpoint (interword separation)Ogimi Villageinterpoint (interword separation)East VillageThe village consists of three villages.

Each has its own unique character, and each is a great place to enjoy nature experiences and cultural exchanges!

Kunigami Village

Kunigami Village, located at the northernmost tip of Okinawa's main island, is the center of Yanbaru.

Also registered as a World Natural Heritage siteThe area is home to lush forests that are home to endemic species such as the Okinawa rail and the Okinawa woodpecker.

Cape Hendo, Oishi-Rinzan, and many other spots where visitors can enjoy the great outdoors.

⬇︎Recommended tours in Kunigami Village are here: ⬇︎

Okinawa/Kunigashira Village/2 hours] To the World Heritage Yanbaru Forest☆Completely private tour Qualified by the Japan Mountain Guides Association for your peace of mind... (No.133)開始時間10:00 / 13:30所要時間Approx. 2 hours5,500 yen

Ogimi Village

Longevity VillageOgimi Village, known as the "village of the gods," is one of the most attractive places in Yanbaru, with its calm mountainous areas and clear streams.

It is also famous for Shioya Bay and Shikwasa, and the scenery of the village is peaceful.

⬇︎Recommended tours in Ogimi Village are here: ⬇︎

Ogimi Village, Okinawa/3 hours] Participation OK for ages 3 and up!開始時間9:00-12:00 / 14:00-17:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours4,800 yen

Yanbaru (Ogimi Village)/2 hours] Sailing Sabani Cruise Tour♪ Adventure in Yanbaru Churaumi Sea by Okinawa's traditional wooden boat!開始時間10:00-12:00 / 13:00-15:00 / 16:00-18:00所要時間Approx. 2 hours7,200 yen

Yanbaru Walking/2.5 hours] Trekking tour to "Mt. Nekumachiji," the highest peak in Ogimi Village☆Overlooking the World Heritage forest and the Churaumi Sea! Beginners OK♪ (No.237)開始時間9:30-12:00 / 14:00-16:30所要時間Approx. 2.5 hours7,000 yen

East Village

The East Village is,Fukuchi Dam, the largest dam in Yanbaruand mangrove forests, the village is attractive for its water and forest nature.

Ecotourism is thriving, and there are many activities to experience nature, such as canoeing and nature-guided trekking.

⬇︎Recommended tours held in the East Village are here: ⬇︎

Northern Okinawa, Higashimura】Spectacular location photo tour in the popular Yanbaru area☆<Aerial drone photography & kayaking experience addition OK＞Recommended for women's trip and family tour (No.222)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Approx. 90 min.40,000 yen

Okinawa, Higashimura】Mysterious Yanbaru Night Tour☆A great adventure into a fantasy world of sleeping Yanbaru rail and glowing insects! Photo gift and guide commentary included (No.283)開始時間20:00-22:00 (April-October) / 19:00-21:00 (November-March) 所要時間Approx. 2 hours8,000 yen →directional marker or indicator6,500suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.

Geography and Climate of Yanbaru

Yanbaru has a subtropical climate,Warm climate throughout the yearis a feature of this product.

The area offers beautiful natural scenery with abundant precipitation, lush forests, and many rivers and waterfalls in the mountainous areas!

Held in Yanbaru
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Nature and Ecosystem of Yanbaru

Yanbaru is home to subtropical forests and a rich ecosystem that is home to a variety of precious plants and animals.

Experience the mysteries of nature that can only be found here♪

Subtropical forests and precious flora and fauna

The forests of Yanbaru are home to rich subtropical vegetation and a wide variety of flora and fauna.

Many rare plants and animals,Okinawa rail (Gallirallus okinawae)and ... andOkinawa woodpecker (Sapheopipo noguchii)and other endemic species can be observed!

Yanbaru Marine Life

Yanbaru's waters are covered with coral reefs and teeming with colorful fish and marine life.

You will be able to explore the beautiful marine world through snorkeling and diving â

Yanbaru Conservation

In Yanbaru, nature conservation activities are thriving.

Tourists can also participate.ecotourand ... andVolunteer Activitiesand enjoy the nature of Yanbaru while learning about the importance of nature conservation.

From Naha Airport to Yanbaru
How to get there and how long it takes

Yanbaru is located in the northern part of Okinawa's main island and is a distance from Naha Airport, but this makes it a special area with abundant nature!

Use the means of transportation that suits you best, such as a rental car or highway bus, to get to Yanbaru's wilderness in comfort.

Excellent flexibility!
Access by rental car

If you value the freedom of sightseeing, renting a car is convenient!

From Naha Airport to Nago and Kunigami VillageApprox. 2 to 2.5 hoursThe hotel is located in the center of Yanbaru, and is a great place for touring around Yanbaru. It is also the best place to visit spots in Yanbaru.

No need to worry without a car!
Access by Highway Bus

If you take the express bus,Entrance to Northern OkinawaTo Nago CityAbout 2 hoursThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.

Nago City can be reached by local bus or cab to various locations. Recommended for those who are not comfortable driving a car!

Five recommended sightseeing spots in Yanbaru

The Yanbaru area in the northern part of Okinawa's main island is woven with nature, and is home to lush forests and spectacular scenic spots.

Here are some carefully selected tourist attractions that can only be experienced here!

Yanbaru National Park

Yanbaru National Park was established to protect the rich natural environment of the Yanbaru region!

Diverse ecosystems such as subtropical forests, rivers, and wetlands spread throughout the area,Rare plants and animals inhabit the area.I am doing it.

Yanbaru National Park Basic Information

Address: Hedona, Kunigami-mura, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa, Japan
Access: 45 minutes by car from Naha Airport

Yanbaru National Park   Yanbaru National Park is located in the northern part of Okinawa Island and is home to one of the largest subtropical evergreen forests in Japan, as well as a wide variety of endemic and rare plants and animals, including the Yanbaru rail, and is also home to limestone sea cliffs, karst landforms, mangrove forests and other diverse natural [...].

Cape Hendo ((Hedo-misaki)

Cape Hendo ((Hedo-misaki)is a cape located at the northernmost tip of Okinawa's main island, a spectacular spot with spectacular ocean views!

It is a historically significant place, and a monument commemorating the reversion of Okinawa to Japan has been erected.

Cape Hendo Basic Information

Address: Hendo, Kunigami-mura, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa, Japan
Access: 2 hours and 11 minutes by car from Naha Airport

Cape Hendo   What is Cape Hendo? Located at the northernmost tip of Okinawa's main island, the highlight is the view of the Pacific Ocean and the East China Sea from the sheer cliffs of the rising coral reef. On a clear day, Yoron Island and Okinoerabu Island can also be seen. The Hen [...].

⬇︎Click here for Cape Hendo recommended tours: ⬇︎

Diving at Cape Hendo, the northernmost tip of Okinawa! Boat Diving Course (No.100)開始時間6:30-12:00所要時間Approx. 5.5 hours25,000 yen

Oishi Forest Mountain

Oishi Rinzan is a mysterious rock formation spreading out in the Yanbaru forest, dotted with uniquely shaped rocks.

It has been an object of faith since ancient times,location thought to be flowing with mystical energyIt is also known as ☆.

Basic Information on Oishi Rinzan

Address: 1282-1 Ginama, Kunigami-mura, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa, Japan
Access: 2 hours 21 minutes by car from Naha Airport

Oishi Forest Mountain   Oishi Rinzan was formed when limestone rocks formed in the ocean 250 million years ago were brought to the surface by crustal movement. The limestone rocks were formed in the ocean 250 million years ago, and then appeared on the earth's surface due to crustal deformation.

tahtaki (species of waterfall, Polygonum hydropiper formosum)

Ta Falls is an unexplored waterfall in Higashi Village, Yanbaru.Popular trekking spotsOne of the

The sense of adventure is appealing as you cross rivers and reach across rocky terrain.

Water play can be enjoyed at the waterfall basin, and is recommended for families!

Tar Falls Basic Information

Address: Tsunami, Ogimi Village, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa
Access: 1 hr. 33 min. by car from Naha Airport

tahtaki (species of waterfall, Polygonum hydropiper formosum)   About Tha Waterfall This waterfall is located in the Yanbaru forest, where tropical and subtropical plants grow thickly and animals and insects that are only found here live. On the way to Tha Falls, you can enjoy trekking to experience the sensation of touching the river water, the smell of the soil and forest, and the sounds of birds [...].

⬇︎Tar Falls recommended tours are here: ⬇︎

Ogimi Village, Okinawa/3 hours] Participation OK for ages 3 and up!開始時間9:00-12:00 / 14:00-17:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours4,800 yen

Okinawa/Ogimi Village/Half Day]OK for children from 5 years old◎Ta-Taki River Trekking in Okinawa's Unexplored Terra River☆Thrilling adventure in the Yanbaru Forest♪ ＜Wear rental & photo data present＞ (No.250)開始時間8:00-12:00 / 13:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 4 hours7,500 yen

Mt. Nekumatji

Nekumachiji-dake, which rises in the Yanbaru forest, offers outstanding views from the trail despite its relatively low elevation of 360 meters!

Easy hiking spotsIt is also popular locally as a

⬇︎Nekmatjidake recommended tours are here: ⬇︎

Yanbaru Walking/2.5 hours] Trekking tour to "Mt. Nekumachiji," the highest peak in Ogimi Village☆Overlooking the World Heritage forest and the Churaumi Sea! Beginners OK♪ (No.237)開始時間9:30-12:00 / 14:00-16:30所要時間Approx. 2.5 hours7,000 yen

I want to experience it in Yanbaru.
3 Popular Activities

A wide variety of activities are available for visitors to enjoy the great nature of Yanbaru.

Held in Yanbaru
Click here to see the ranking of popular plans

trekking

In trekking through the Yanbaru forest,Experience subtropical nature, rivers and waterfalls up closeCan be done!

There are a variety of plans that can be enjoyed by beginners and experts alike, including canyoning, shower climbing, and guided forest walks.

⬇︎Trekking tours in Yanbaru are available here: ⬇︎

Yanbaru Walking/2.5 hours] Trekking tour to "Mt. Nekumachiji," the highest peak in Ogimi Village☆Overlooking the World Heritage forest and the Churaumi Sea! Beginners OK♪ (No.237)開始時間9:30-12:00 / 14:00-16:30所要時間Approx. 2.5 hours7,000 yen

Okinawa Nago City/Half Day] Exhilarating Shower Climbing & Canyoning Tour in the Unexplored Yanbaru Region (with Zip Slide Experience)★Free Photo & Video (No.73)開始時間Morning service: 8:30 a.m.
Afternoon service] 1:30 p.m. meeting 所要時間Approx. 3-4 hours8,800 yen

Ogimi Village, Okinawa/3 hours] Participation OK for ages 3 and up!開始時間9:00-12:00 / 14:00-17:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours4,800 yen

Exploring in an 8-wheeled chariot

Yanbaru Forest.Explore in a special 8-wheel drive vehicleThis is a very popular activity that you can do.

Guided by a guide, you can go deep into the forest, which is normally inaccessible by car, to observe wild animals and rare plants up close.

⬇︎Yanbaru 8-wheeled chariot jungle tour is here: ⬇︎

Okinawa Yanbaru/2 hours] Be careful not to laugh too much☆Excursion in an 8-wheeled chariot to explore the jungle with spectacular views開始時間9:00-11:00 / 12:00-14:00 / 15:00-17:00所要時間Approx. 2 hours16,000 yen

Okinawa Yanbaru/1 hour] Wild Jungle Night Safari Tour with an 8-wheeled chariot! Excitement of starry sky & nocturnal animals♪ (No.226)開始時間20:00-21:00所要時間Approx. 1 hour16,000 yen →directional marker or indicator11,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.

Sailing Sabani Experience

Sabani, a traditional Okinawan sailing boatand cruising the beautiful waters of Yanbaru!

The experience of moving forward while feeling the sea breeze is a unique and special time.

⬇︎Yanbaru Sailing Sabani Experience Tour is here: ⬇︎

Yanbaru (Ogimi Village)/2 hours] Sailing Sabani Cruise Tour♪ Adventure in Yanbaru Churaumi Sea by Okinawa's traditional wooden boat!開始時間10:00-12:00 / 13:00-15:00 / 16:00-18:00所要時間Approx. 2 hours7,200 yen

Okinawa Traditional Wooden Boat Adventure in Yanbaru Churaumi Sea (4 years old and up) (No.179)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 13:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours10,800 yen

Recommended Accommodations in Yanbaru

There is a wide variety of lodging options in Yanbaru, from luxury resort hotels to pensions surrounded by lush nature.

Find a place to stay where you can enjoy a moment of healing.

Spend your time in luxury.
Luxury Resort Hotel

As a luxury resort surrounded by the rich nature of Yanbaru,Okuma Private Beach & ResortandKanucha Bay Hotel & Villasis popular!

Okuma offers a vast private beach and a variety of activities, while Kanucha offers a diverse lodging experience for golfers and vacationers.

Popular with families!
Comfortable resort hotel

Recommended for family trips,ANA InterContinental Manza Beach ResortandAda Garden Hotel OkinawaOh my god!!!

The ANA Hotel adjacent to Manza Beach has a swimming pool and spa, as well as a wide variety of programs to experience local culture.

Ada Garden Hotel is surrounded by the nature of the World Natural Heritage site and offers an open-air stay♪

Spend a relaxing time with nature
Pension & Cottage

If you are looking for a more homey and free stay,Yanbaru-no-satoandPension Yonahadake.is recommended!

Okuyanbaru-no-sato offers cottages with kitchens where you can enjoy barbecues, and Pension Yonahadake offers a high platform from which you can enjoy a star-filled night sky.

⬇︎More about Yanbaru accommodations: ⬇︎

Recommended Hotels to Stay in Yanbaru, Northern Okinawa Main IslandContents1 Recommended Hotels to Stay in Yanbaru, Northern Okinawa Main Island2 Attractions of Yanbaru Area2.1 Nature and Sightseeing Spots in Yanbaru2.2 Activities and Experiences in Yanbaru3 How to Get to Yanbaru4 List of Recommended Hotels4.1 Luxury Re [...]

Born in Yanbaru!
What is the new theme park "Jangria"?

JUNGLIA is a new hot spot in the Yanbaru region,Scheduled to open in July 2025 in Nakijin Village.It is a nature experience theme park in

The vast jungle setting offers athletic activities, plant and animal observation tours, and a wide variety of activities for children and adults alike.

It is expected to become a new spot where visitors can spend special time with family and friends while enjoying the rich nature of Yanbaru.

⬇︎ Learn more about "Jangria" at ⬇︎

Introducing the latest information on Jungleia Okinawa, an OPEN theme park in Yanbaru, northern Okinawa & 9 popular Okinawa theme parks!Contents1 The theme park situation in Okinawa is hot right now☆ The world is paying attention! Large-scale theme park OPEN2 New theme park to open in northern Okinawa "JUNGLIA Okinawa" 2.1 Expected to revitalize Okinawa's economy 2.2 Already completed? Where is the location [...]?

To avoid mistakes on your trip to Yanbaru

Here are some tips to further enjoy your trip to Yanbaru!

Plan a comfortable trip by taking note of the best season, what to bring, and how to get around.

Best Season and Climate

Visit YanbaruThe best season is from spring to fall.It is said to be the most beautiful time of the year. Especially in spring, when the flowers are in full bloom, and in autumn, when the leaves are very beautiful!

You can enjoy ocean and river activities in summer, and even in winter, the mild climate makes for a comfortable stay.

Clothing tips and list of things to bring

For trips to Yanbaru,Lightweight, comfortable clothingis recommended.

If you enjoy hiking or trekking, bring comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen.

Local Transportation

How to tour Yanbaru efficiently,Car rental is convenientOh my god!!!

Smooth and free access to major tourist attractions and accommodations.

When using public transportation, check the bus schedule in advance and plan your trip accordingly.

⬇︎Recommendations for car rentals can be found here: ⬇︎

Toyota Yaris《Maximum 5 Passengers》Car Navigation System/ETC Standard Equipment【Including Exemption Compensation Fee】(No.r18)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Negotiable5,000 yen

Compact Class Car Rental S】Compact Class Car《Maximum 5 Passengers》 Standard equipment of car navigation system 【Including Exemption and Wide Compensation】(No.r-3)開始時間8:00-19:00所要時間Negotiable6,400 yen

Standard Class Car《Maximum 5 Passengers》 Standard equipment of car navigation system 【Including Exemption and Wide Compensation】(No.r-5)開始時間8:00-19:00所要時間Negotiable7,400 yen

⬇︎Learn more about car rentals: ⬇︎

Okinawa Main Island Car Rental Let's enjoy your trip to Okinawa comfortably 120%! Okinawa Traveling with a Rental Car The main island of Okinawa is dotted with many beautiful and spectacular spots that can only be reached by car. Enjoying a drive in Okinawa surrounded by the emerald green scenery is a blissful [...]. (31 total) アクティビティの詳細を見る

summary

Yanbaru is easily accessible from Nago City, which has many tourist attractions, and is an attractive area that combines the rich nature and culture of the northern part of Okinawa's main island.

It is home to subtropical forests, beautiful seas, rare flora and fauna, and traditional culture and history.

We invite you to come and experience its natural beauty!

▼Click here for articles to read in conjunction with this one.

Nature Activities in Yanbaru! Exciting Experiences & Popular Tour SpecialsContents1 Enjoy the wild nature of Yanbaru! Recommended Activities for Beginners2 What is Yanbaru like? 2.1 A secluded area of unspoiled nature2.2 Enjoy the warmth of the year and the transition of nature2.3 Enjoy nature with all your body [...].

A thorough guide to model sightseeing courses in the Yanbaru area of Okinawa's main island!Contents1 Enjoy Nature & Activities to the Fullest! Thorough Explanation of Okinawa Main Island Yanbaru Model Course2 What is Yanbaru Area2.1 How to get to Yanbaru Area2.2 Best Season for Yanbaru Area3 Introduction of Yanbaru Sightseeing Model Course 1 Day [...].

Enjoy the unexplored region of Okinawa's main island with the Yanbaru Sightseeing Bus Tour! Recommended Courses and HighlightsContents1 Efficiently enjoy the northern part of the Okinawa main island! What is the Yanbaru Sightseeing Bus Tour2 Attractions of the Yanbaru Sightseeing Bus Tour2.1 Natural beauty and rich ecosystem2.2 Cultural and historical experience2.3 Convenient and comfortable sightseeing means3 Recommended sightseeing bus tour courses3 [...]

Visit the World Natural Heritage Yanbaru Forest in Northern Okinawa! A Complete Guide to Recommended Sightseeing Spots & Wilderness ActivitiesContents1 Thorough explanation of the charms of Okinawa Yanbaru! 2 What is the World Natural Heritage Okinawa Yanbaru? 2.1 Background of its registration as a World Natural Heritage site3 Where is Okinawa Yanbaru? The three main villages3.1 Kunigamison 3.2 Ogimi Village 3.3 Higashi Village [...