📝 1. Overview
Ishigaki Island is the beating heart of the Yaeyama Islands—a tropical gem in Okinawa’s far south. Surrounded by turquoise waters, coral reefs, and jungle-cloaked mountains, it’s paradise for divers, foodies, and nature lovers. Whether you’re chasing sunsets on the beach, diving with manta rays, or exploring island traditions, Ishigaki will slow your soul in the best way.
🌟 2. Highlights
🏝️ Kabira Bay – Crystal-clear waters, no swimming, just pure views
🌊 Manta Scramble (Diving Spot) – World-famous dive site with giant manta rays
🛶 Iriomote & Taketomi Access – Island-hopping gateway via ferry
🌿 Mount Omoto – Lush hiking trail to Okinawa’s highest peak
🎋 Yaima Village – Traditional Ryukyu village with performances
🍣 Ishigaki Beef – Legendary wagyu raised in tropical pastures
🗺️ 3. Zones in Ishigaki Island
| Zone | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Kabira Area | Scenic bay, glass-bottom boat tours, quiet cafés |
| Downtown Ishigaki | Port, shops, night market, bars, rental centers |
| Shiraho & Southern Shore | Coral coast, snorkeling, local villages |
| Omoto Mountain Area | Hiking, waterfalls, jungle exploration |
| Ishigaki Airport Area | Access, car rentals, quick eats |
🎟️ 4. Tickets & Passes – Popular Attractions
| Attraction | Price (Adult) | Opening Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Kabira Glass Boat | ¥1,200–1,500 | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Yaima Village | ¥1,000 | 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM |
| Ishigaki Starlight Observatory | ¥1,000 | 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM (seasonal) |
| Ishigaki Limestone Cave | ¥1,200 | 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM |
| Ferry to Taketomi Island | ¥700–900 one-way | ~15 min ride, all day |
🟣 Book diving/snorkeling tours early—slots fill fast during peak seasons.
💡 5. Tips
🌞 Strong southern sun—bring reef-safe sunscreen & a hat
🚗 Rent a car or scooter for full island freedom
🚤 Island-hop to Iriomote, Taketomi & Kohama from Ishigaki Port
🌌 Go stargazing—the night skies here are among the clearest in Japan
🍹 Some beaches are remote—bring snacks & water if you explore far
🍽️ 6. Must-Try Foods on Ishigaki Island
🥩 Ishigaki Wagyu – Rich, tender, often served as sushi or steak
🥢 Yaeyama Soba – Island-style noodle soup with pork or fish cake
🐟 Gurukun Karaage – Deep-fried fish, crispy & beloved locally
🥭 Tropical Fruits – Pineapple, mango, dragon fruit—fresh & juicy
🍧 Shikuwasa Sorbet – Local citrus flavor perfect for island heat
🏨 7. Hotel Areas (Why Stay Here?)
Downtown Ishigaki
→ Perfect for foodies, nightlife, and ferry access
Kabira Bay
→ Ideal for romantic stays, views, and peace
Southern Villages
→ Quiet, local-life experiences near snorkeling beaches
Airport Area
→ Quick stays or late arrival convenience
✳️ Ishigaki offers beach resorts, eco-lodges, guesthouses, and stylish villa rentals with ocean views.
🚗 8. Access
📍 From Airports
🛫 New Ishigaki Airport (ISG) → Downtown: ~30 min by car or bus
📍 Getting Around
🚗 Car/Scooter rental – Recommended for flexibility
🚌 Public buses – Slow but scenic, covers most zones
⛴️ Ferry – Fast access to nearby islands: Iriomote, Taketomi, Kohama
🌐 9. Contact / Info
🔗 Visit Ishigaki – Official Site
📞 Info Line: +81-980-82-2809
📍 Visitor Centers: Ishigaki Port, Airport, Kabira Bay