Ishigaki Island Tourist Guide! Complete guide to must-see spots and activities

Ishigaki Island is over 410 km southwest of the main island of Okinawa.

Ishigaki Island is an attractive resort island with rich nature, plenty of activities, and rich culture.

It is also the gateway to the air and sea of the Yaeyama Islands, such as Iriomote Island, Taketomi Island, Kohama Island, and Yonaguni Island.

The only way to get to Ishigaki Island is by air, and there are also air flights connecting Taipei and Hong Kong.

In this guide, we'll introduce recommended sightseeing spots, activities, and travel tips on Ishigaki Island.

Kabira Bay

Kabira Bay is one of Ishigaki Island's representative scenic spots.

The emerald green waters and white sandy beaches spread out, and their beauty is breathtaking.

In Kabira Bay, you can observe coral reefs and fish on the seabed on a glass boat.

We also recommend enjoying the beauty of nature while walking along the surrounding walking trails.

Ishigaki Yaima

Ishigaki Yaima Village is Japan's southernmost and westernmost theme park, where you can experience traditional culture.

Old-fashioned red tile houses and traditional crafts from Yaeyama are on display.

Also, in the park, you can experience local cuisine and enjoy traditional dance and music performances.

At the Squirrel Monkey Forest, you can also experience interacting with squirrel monkeys that are small enough to fit in the palm of your hand.

It is a facility that can be enjoyed by children and adults alike, so it is also recommended for families.

Shiraho Sea

For those who want to enjoy diving and snorkeling, Shiraho's sea is perfect.

The Shiraho Sea has some of the world's leading coral reefs, and is home to a wide variety of marine life.

Encounters with colorful fish are impressive in the highly transparent sea.

There are also many tours for beginners, so it's safe even for first-time visitors.

Mitake

Source: Nanjo City Hall

Mitake is a general term for “sacred places” widely distributed in the Nansei Islands, and Sefa Utaki (Sefa Utaki) is the highest sacred place in the Ryukyu Kingdom, appearing in Ryukyu Kaikyo (Ryukyu Kaikyo) legends.

Ishigaki Island is dotted with Utaki where you can feel the faith and history of the island.

Mitake is a sacred place and has been cherished by the islanders since ancient times.

Also, if you take a tour around each Utaki, you can learn about deep history and culture through the guide's explanations.

Gourmet experience on Ishigaki Island

When you visit Ishigaki Island, don't forget to enjoy the local cuisine.

Ishigaki beef is particularly famous and can be enjoyed as yakiniku or steak. Also, the dishes made with seafood from the island are excellent. We also recommend tasting fresh seafood at markets and restaurants.

Be sure to try local dishes such as Yaeyama soba and sata andagi.

Means of transportation on Ishigaki Island

There are three main means of transportation within Ishigaki Island: rental cars, local buses, and taxis.

In order to tour Ishigaki Island efficiently, it is convenient to rent a car.

Public transportation is also available, but a car is the best way to freely travel around tourist spots.

It takes about 3 hours to complete one lap by car.

There are also bicycles and electric motorbike rentals, so moving around while feeling nature up close is one of the pleasures.

summary

Ishigaki Island is an attractive tourist destination that combines natural beauty with rich culture.

Speaking of Ishigaki Island, it is attractive not only for its beautiful ocean, but also for its rich nature, such as starry skies and mangrove forests.

Island hopping, which takes you to the surrounding remote islands, is another popular activity.

Please enjoy the island's nature, culture, and cuisine while visiting tourist spots such as Kabira Bay and Shiraho Sea.

Make wonderful memories of your trip on Ishigaki Island, where every time you visit, there is something new to discover.

Ishigaki Island/ “Akabana Treatment Room”

Refresh your mind and body on Ishigaki Island! A salon that offers an extraordinary treatment experience.

In the clear air and rich nature of Ishigaki Island, we offer a treatment experience that refreshes both mind and body.

This salon is based on the concept of “revitalizing the world from Ishigaki Island in Japan,” and uses Ryukyu finger acupuncture and exercise acupuncture, which are unique treatments, to effectively relax muscles.

Enjoy a special beauty and health experience amidst the nature of Ishigaki Island.

This salon is recommended for those who want to feel refreshed and those who pursue beauty and health.

Why don't you spend a special time on Ishigaki Island?

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