Yubu Island (Taketomi Town, Yaeyama District, Okinawa Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Yubu Island is a small island in the Yaeyama Islands of Okinawa Prefecture, located close to Ishigaki Island, and belongs to Taketomi Town. Once home to only a few residents, it was developed into a tourist spot in the mid-20th century, and its greatest attractions today include a tropical botanical garden, folklore exhibits, and, above all, water buffalo cart journeys. The buffalo carts slowly wading through the shallow waters, the subtropical plants and flowers that spread across the island, and the idyllic scenery all give you a sense of the passage of time that is so characteristic of the Yaeyama Islands.

Highlights

• Crossing by water buffalo cart: Experience a leisurely crossing of the shallows from the Ishigaki Island side in a water buffalo cart (takes about 10-15 minutes). The power of the water buffalo and the relaxed stories and folk songs of the cart driver are famous attractions.
• Tropical Botanical Garden: A collection of subtropical to tropical plants, where you can observe seasonal flowers, rare fruit trees, orchids, etc. Walking paths are provided so you can take your time looking around.
• Exhibits of old life and folk tools: There may be exhibits introducing the history of the island and the life of the Yaeyama people, as well as reproductions of traditional houses.
• Photo spot: The contrast between the water buffalo carts, the island scenery, and the sea and sky is popular for photography. The evening light is also beautiful.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

There is no direct public transportation (railway) to Yubu Island, so you will first need to travel to Ishigaki Island.

• By plane: Fly to Painushima Ishigaki Airport (New Ishigaki Airport). From the airport, take a bus or taxi to the city center or remote island terminal (approximately 30-45 minutes).
• From Ishigaki Island City Center/Remote Island Terminal: Take a local bus or taxi to the "Yubu Island Water Buffalo Carriage Station." The journey takes about 15 to 30 minutes from the city center (depending on road conditions).
• Crossing by water buffalo cart: Board a water buffalo cart from the boarding point for the Yubu Island bound cart to cross to the island. The service may be suspended in bad weather or high tides.

*Please check the official website or local information center before visiting for the latest information on operating times, fares, exact boarding locations and schedules.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Round trip buffalo cart ride + stroll through the botanical garden: Approximately 1 to 2 hours
• If you want to take your time taking photos and having lunch, you should plan on allowing yourself 2-3 hours.

Nearby spots

• Taketomi Island: A popular remote island with red-tiled villages, star-sand beaches, and traditional townscapes (accessible by ferry from Ishigaki Port).
• Kabira Bay: A scenic spot that represents Ishigaki Island, famous for its glass-bottom boats and views.
• Yonehara Beach/Coral Reef Point: A spot suitable for diving and snorkeling.
• Tourist facilities on Ishigaki Island, such as Yaima Village (Folk Village): Learn about Yaeyama culture and ecology.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Operation and business hours: Water buffalo carts and facilities may be subject to change or suspension due to weather (strong winds, heavy rain, typhoons) or tide levels. It is recommended to check in advance.
• Crowds: It gets crowded during peak periods such as Golden Week, summer vacation, and the New Year holidays. If you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend going early in the morning or in the evening.
• Clothing and precautions: You will need to take precautions against strong sunlight, heat, and insects such as mosquitoes. Bring a hat, sunscreen, drinks, and insect repellent.
• Wheelchairs and strollers: Please check in advance whether wheelchairs and strollers are available, as there are steps and unpaved areas when getting on and off the water buffalo carts and in some areas of the island.
• Manners: In order to protect the plants and ecosystem, please observe basic manners such as not entering restricted areas, not taking plants home, and not feeding animals.
• Payment and Facilities: Payment at the on-site shops and information desks may only be cash-based. Restrooms and eating and drinking facilities are limited, so be prepared if necessary.

We recommend checking the latest information on operation, opening hours, and fares on the official website or local guide before visiting. Yubu Island is a place where you can experience the nature and atmosphere of the Yaeyama Islands in a short amount of time, so please make sure to allow plenty of time and consider the weather before heading out.