Nakara Waterfall
The “Waterfall of Phantom” Expedition
Duration: Full Day (~6-7 Hours) | Location: West Iriomote & Nakara River
This is our most immersive wilderness experience. Starting from the remote Shirahama Port, you will journey deep into the heart of the island’s western frontier to find the legendary Nakara Waterfall.
The Journey:
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Sea to River Kayaking (About 2 Hours): Begin in the open waters of the west coast before entering the wide, ancient mouth of the Nakara River. Watch the landscape transform from coastal vistas to dense, towering mangrove jungles.
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Deep Jungle Trek (30 Minutes): Leave the kayaks behind and hike through some of the island’s most pristine, “thick” rainforest.
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The “Waterfall of Phantom”: Reach the stunning Nakara Falls. Its nickname comes from its secluded location—few travelers ever make it this far. Here, you can truly “become one with nature” in total peace.
Expedition Highlights:
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Untouched Wilderness: Experience the west side of the island, which is far less crowded than the east.
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Diverse Scenery: A rare tour that combines sea kayaking, river kayaking, and jungle trekking.
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Year-Round Beauty: This deep-jungle route is spectacular in every season.
| Level of difficulty |  |
| Tour Available | All year round |
| Required age | Middle school age or older ~ 65 years |
| Fees | Adult ¥15,000
＊¥20,000 if the tour will be only 1 person. Ask us!! Private Summer 2 ¥40,000 / 3 ¥52,000 /4 ¥65,000/ 5 ¥78,000 Private Winter 2 ¥35,000 / 3 ¥49,000 /4 ¥63,000/ 5 ¥65,000 Leave a message on the booking form about private. |
| Tour lenght | 7.5h~8h |
| Items used | Sea Kayak |
✅ What to Bring
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Hydration: Please bring 500ml to 1000ml of drinking water per person.
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Dry Clothes: If you are visiting from Ishigaki, please bring a full change of clothes for the return journey.
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Swimwear: Please wear your swimsuit underneath your trekking/kayaking clothes. Be ready to get wet!
💰 What’s Included in the Price
We provide everything you need for a safe and comfortable day:
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Professional Equipment: Kayaks, paddles, and snorkeling gear.
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Safety & Comfort: Marine shoes/trekking boots and a waterproof bag for your small belongings.
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Lunch: A delicious local meal is included!
⚠️ Important Safety Note (Caution)
Your safety is our top priority. Please be aware that:
Depending on weather or tide conditions, the tour route may be modified, shortened, or ended early to ensure the safety of all guests.
| 9:00 | Pick up at the Hotel or Sea Port. |
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| 9:40 | Arrive at tour preparation point (Shirahama Port). |
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| 10:30 | Depart on tour (Sea Kayak to Nakara River) |
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| 12:30 | Arrive at Nakara River, start hiking to Nahra Waterfalls. |
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| 13:00 | Arrive at the waterfalls , break for lunch, rest and water play. |
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| 14:00 | Depart the waterfalls and hike back down to Nakara River. |
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| 14:30 | Arrive at the Nakara River, and depart by Sea kayak to Shirahama Port. |
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| 16:30 | Arrive back at Shirahama Port |
Rough Time Table
NOTE:
Summer Season: Tour departure might start one hour earlier then normal.
Above tour listed is the basic tour, based on changes in the season or request from the costumer some modifications can happen.
What is Nakara river? (Nara Falls)
What is Nakara river?
It is a large river that flows into Funauki Bay, and a mangrove forest has developed at the mouth of the river.
In Iriomote, it is called “Narakara”, and the waterfall upstream is called “Nara Falls”.
It is a large and very beautiful waterfall, and is also called “phantom waterfall”.
Along with Nakama River and Urauchi River, it is famous as a big river in Iriomote Island.
Seika and Sakimatsu azaleas are beautiful from March to May.
