There is no airport on Iriomote. The only way in is by ferry from Ishigaki, about 35 to 50 minutes depending on the boat. Two routes operate:
- Ishigaki to Uehara (north Iriomote) — fastest route to the Urauchi River, the Pinaisara area, and Hoshizuna Beach.
- Ishigaki to Ohara (south Iriomote) — for the Nakama River, Yubu Island, and the wildlife centre.
Both routes run several times a day, year-round, weather permitting. Ferries to Uehara are more often cancelled in heavy weather because the harbour is more exposed.