What Are the Famous Spots and Dishes on Iriomote Island? 4 Recommended Iriomote Island Specialties

Iriomote Island has many “specialties.” There are experiences you can’t have elsewhere, unique products found only here, and precious creatures that live on this island but are rarely seen. Iriomote Island is full of charms that will make you want to visit again and again. If you have the chance to go to Iriomote Island, here are four must-try specialties:

1. The Endemic Iriomote Cat, a National Special Natural Monument

When it comes to Iriomote Island, the Iriomote cat is the most famous. However, even though it is known to live on the island, it is a rare specialty that is hard to see. It has been designated as a National Special Natural Monument, is endangered, and has only been confirmed on Iriomote Island—an incredibly precious endemic species.

Since the Iriomote cat is nocturnal, a night tour is recommended for those who desperately want to see one. An experienced guide will take you to spots with a high chance of encountering one. However, because their numbers are very low, even at night it is extremely difficult to encounter an Iriomote cat. If you happen to see one, you'll be incredibly lucky!

While exploring Iriomote Island, you may notice signs warning you to be cautious of the Iriomote cat. Although actual encounters are rare, taking a commemorative photo with one of these signs will create a great memory.

If you find an injured Iriomote cat or a lost kitten, please contact the 24-hour Iriomote Cat Emergency Hotline. Let’s all work together to protect this precious endemic species.

The Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center (IWCC) is a facility dedicated to protecting the Iriomote cat and offers information on Iriomote Island’s flora, fauna, and nature. Although there is no live display of Iriomote cats, you can see taxidermy exhibits and videos.

2. Kamai Dishes at “Inokariya”

On Iriomote Island, there is a small wild boar called “Kamai,” and dishes made with Kamai have become a local specialty. On Iriomote, Kamai hunting is permitted from November to February. If your trip coincides with that season, you can enjoy the famous Kamai dishes.

Several restaurants serve Kamai dishes, but one of the most popular is “Inokariya.” Their popular set meal comes with Iriomote soba and is very generous in portion. The Kamai meat, stir-fried with garlic, is so mild that you might not even realize it’s wild boar, and it is highly praised for its delicious flavor.

3. “Hoshisuna no Hama” – A Beach with Star Sand

One of the charms of Iriomote Island is its beautiful sea. At “Hoshisuna no Hama,” located in the northernmost part of Iriomote, you can see adorable star sand along the shoreline. There used to be much more star sand here, but many inconsiderate visitors took it in bulk as souvenirs, causing its numbers to drop drastically.

At the shop in “Pension Hoshisuna,” you can buy star sand in bottles or small jars to take home as a souvenir or memento. If you do take some, please take only a little and let everyone cherish this treasure.

4. Mangrove Crab “Gazami” Served in Pasta or Soba

Another local gourmet on Iriomote Island that is rapidly gaining popularity is “Gazami.” Its full name is “Togenokogiri Gazami,” a type of crab from the swimming crab family, which lives in the mangrove forests near river mouths. Because it lives in the crevices of mangrove roots and in the mud, it is also known as the “Mangrove Crab.”

Locals normally boil the entire crab or prepare it in miso soup, but for tourists, it is considered a luxury ingredient. There are restaurants and dining spots where you can enjoy Gazami pasta or Gazami soba, so please give it a try. The meat is hearty and its rich, concentrated flavor and aroma perfectly complement the pasta or soba, allowing you to fully enjoy its umami taste.

◎ Summary

The specialties of Iriomote Island are all unique and precious. They include experiences and items that you cannot achieve elsewhere, as well as rare creatures that call the island home. It’s easy to see why many visitors become repeat travelers to Iriomote Island. If you haven’t been yet, be sure to make a trip to Iriomote Island and experience these local treasures for yourself!

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What Are the Famous Spots and Dishes on Iriomote Island? 4 Recommended Iriomote Island Specialties