Iriomotejima Monsoon - Hostel

The one-day snorkeling trip with monsoon was such a memorable experience. Mister Shoten, our guide and captain, was caring, chatty, showed us incredible snorkeling spots, and took great photos. A friend of his came along too, and her freediving made the trip even more fun. We snorkeled, had lunch on Hatoma island, then got back in the water for more. Booking through the homepage or instagram was easy, and when we had to change dates at the last minute because of weather, they handled it really well and replied quickly in English. Thanks so much, hope to see you again!

We spent four nights here and had a great time. The people and service were lovely, and there are tours available with good guides. The view and location are great too. This place gives you a real feel for the island, though if a good room, bath, and separate toilet are priorities, you’d want a hotel. We visited in low season, so I can’t say how the bathrooms and toilets would be during the summer rush, but they might be an issue then.

We booked a snorkeling trip through this place, which also offers island tours as well as accommodation. The next morning we had to cancel because we were sick, and hadn’t realized the cancellation fee was so steep. We tried to work something out by phone, hoping to reschedule or at least get time to reach an ATM across the island. Thinking it was settled, we went on with our morning. Then they came to our hotel and demanded we go with them “NOW!” or pay the cancellation penalty. They were unfriendly, and it felt especially intimidating to have two grown men confronting one woman. The worker stood behind his manager with a smug expression and spoke as if he were tough. If you’re considering this place, pay attention to the one-star reviews. I trusted them too late. The way they treated us over a misunderstanding nearly ruined our trip to Japan. I’ve never had an experience like it there, and it felt like gangster-style harassment, especially as a woman. Think Sopranos.

Had a really nice time here. It’s a peaceful place, with plenty of things to do around the island, and it’s near the bus and seaport.