Since I was in Okinawa, I wanted to do something outdoors, but unfortunately am not a good swimmer, so I really wasn’t too sure about going snorkeling. And let me guarantee you, scuba diving is out. When I explained this dilemma to the young man at the front desk of the Hotel Rocore Naha, he immediately suggested a trip to Yanbaru Mangrove Forest. He said they had a lot of ecologically-friendly tours where you could see all sorts of interesting things, either by walking or kayak. He had already give me some great advice on visiting Shuri Castle, Fukushu-en Chinese Garden, and some shopping
Kokusai-Dori International Street in Naha, Okinawa
That caught my fancy, but he was not sure about a trip that had English guides or explanations. So he called a friend who suggested the local military base, and before I knew it, I was put into contact with MCCS Tours + at Camp Foster. They had just the tour for me, a kayak trip in the northern part of Okinawa. They assured me that the guide not only spoke English, but that he would be sympathetic to my lack of experience.
@ Okinawan Family Mart
The person at Tours+ was true to his word. The next morning I had a hearty buffet breakfast at the hotel, then went to the nearby FamilyMart for a sack lunch and lots of beverages. I also picked up some sunscreen and put it in the bag with my change of clothes and towel and other things recommended for the trip. I found my way to the meeting point, and soon we were on a shuttle bus to Yanbaru Mangrove Forest.
Drive to Yanbaru Mangrove Forest
The ride was about two and a half hours, but it seemed shorter because of my excitement. The instructor was very patient about explaining how to use the kayak, and stayed close until he was sure I was relaxed and settled. Everyone stayed in a group as we explored the mangrove forest, and it was really amazing to see it all.
Yanbaru Mangrove Forest waterfall
The water of the river was green, but nothing compared to the lush, damp rainforest all around us. The trees had branches drooping into the water, and it felt alive with the sounds of insects. There was a distinct smell of earth and water and organic matter. Even the heavy, humid air felt alive. It was an awesome place, overpowering in its natural state, like it was showing how small and powerless we humans really are.
Dragonfly at Yanbaru Mangrove Forest
The guide pointed out things of interest which I would never have seen on my own. At first I was too focused on paddling, but later I knew it was just because he was so experienced at picking out birds and creatures and unusual plants from the dense undergrowth and branches arching overhead.
Yanbaru mangrove Forest Amazing trees (photo: Ippei & Janine Naoi/flickr)
He even indicated fish and a turtle in the water. Supposedly there are many species unique to the area, and I felt like I had seen a dozen of them. Even the trees were unlike those which I know from home.
Yanbaru mangrove Forest view (photo: Ippei & Janine Naoi/flickr)
We were on the water for about two and a half hours, and by the time we were stowing the gear to return to Naha, I was tired and aching in muscles that I never knew that I had. I know why they suggested to bring a lot of beverages, I went through all that I had and could have drunk even more. But even though I was tired, it was a good feeling. Being outside and using my body like that was somehow renewing and invigorating.
Yanbaru mangrove Forest kayaking (photo: Makoto/flickr)
I fell asleep in the bus on the way back to Naha from the Yanbaru Mangrove Forest, and thought about going out for dinner. But that sounded too much like a bother, and I ended up getting some snacks and a beer at the FamilyMart on my way back to the hotel. The young man at the Hotel Rocore Naha front desk beamed when I told him that I enjoyed my day and appreciated his suggestion of where to go. I then went to my room, took a long, hot shower, and settled down to enjoy my snacks and cold beer, trying not to get too many crumbs on the bed!
photo by:
jetalone
