Iriomote Culture Discovery // Let’s dive into Iriomote indigenous culture!

Taketomi Trip Overview

This is a unique and only tour to discover Iriomote culture, history, customs, and local stories.
You will have access to first-hand distinctive knowledge of the indigenous culture that is not available elsewhere. It’s a perfect rest between forest hikes and snorkeling. A great introduction to Iriomote island!
We will have a lovely easy walk through one of the oldest villages, Sonai. We will visit a shrine, a traditional house, and historical places. During the walk, I will introduce you to the fascinating little-known history and religion of this beautiful island. I will share some local stories, folk tales, and my own experiences. I’ve participated in many rituals and events.
After the walk, we will rest by the beach under a shadow and refresh over a cup of locally made tea and sugar snacks. You will have an opportunity to ask questions and see photographs, videos and listen to folk songs.
You will see Iriomote from a different angle than just nature and we will have a great time!

Additional Info

Duration: 80 to 90 minutes
Starts: Taketomi, Japan
Trip Category: Cultural & Theme Tours >> Cultural Tours



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What to Expect When Visiting Taketomi, Okinawa, Japan

This is a unique and only tour to discover Iriomote culture, history, customs, and local stories.
You will have access to first-hand distinctive knowledge of the indigenous culture that is not available elsewhere. It’s a perfect rest between forest hikes and snorkeling. A great introduction to Iriomote island!
We will have a lovely easy walk through one of the oldest villages, Sonai. We will visit a shrine, a traditional house, and historical places. During the walk, I will introduce you to the fascinating little-known history and religion of this beautiful island. I will share some local stories, folk tales, and my own experiences. I’ve participated in many rituals and events.
After the walk, we will rest by the beach under a shadow and refresh over a cup of locally made tea and sugar snacks. You will have an opportunity to ask questions and see photographs, videos and listen to folk songs.
You will see Iriomote from a different angle than just nature and we will have a great time!

Itinerary
This is a typical itinerary for this product

Stop At: 前泊御嶽, Iriomote, Taketomi, Yaeyama District, Okinawa 907-1542, Japan

We will see an original shrine where people still pray nowadays. I will describe the indigenous religion, religious practices of local people and how the typical shrine is built. Please mind, we cannot go inside due to respect to the locals.

Duration: 15 minutes

Stop At: 前泊御嶽, 562-1 Hatoma, Taketomi, Yaeyama District, Okinawa 907-1544, Japan

Next, we will proceed to see two traditional houses. One is a designated historical monument that we can visit and explore. I will describe how the typical household used to look like, what are the materials used to build traditional houses and local customs of worship within a house. You can find out details about Shisa lions, the household gods or the use of corals and typhoon protection.

Duration: 15 minutes

Stop At: 前泊御嶽, Iriomote, Taketomi, Yaeyama District, Okinawa 907-1542, Japan

Old well and old forest street

Duration: 20 minutes



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