Contents
1.Basic Information
Located a further 400 kilometers south of the main island of Okinawa, Ishigaki Island is a true ‘Southern Paradise’ of Japan. This island with a subtropical marine climate stays warm throughout the year. The strong sunlight throughout the year illuminates the natural beauty of Ishigaki Island. Therefore, it is recommended to take precautions against UV rays, such as wearing hats, protective clothing, and sunglasses when visiting. Extend your journey from Ishigaki Island, and its charm will double.
Taketomijima
You can leisurely explore the villages with red tile roofs, Shisa (lion statues), and coral stone walls, which vividly preserve the traditional Okinawan scenery.
Iriomotejima
Experience mangrove kayaking, exploring rivers lined with untouched primeval forests on this island. You can also observe various creatures living in the tidal flats.
Kabirawan
Emerald seas spread out in Kabirawan. Riding a glass boat to peek into the seabed is also recommended.
Coral Reefs
The variety of activities is also a major attraction of Ishigaki Island. Diving and snorkeling will allow you to see colorful coral reefs and tropical fish up close. Ishigaki Island continues to captivate visitors with its beauty, abundant nature, and variety of activities. Experience the charm of Ishigaki Island for yourself.
2.Reviews
Ishigaki Island starts with a city in the south, and from the center to the north are areas rich in nature, with high mountains and vast primeval forests. Palm trees and mangroves are surrounded, and eagles are flying in the blue sky. In March, Deigo flowers bloom beautifully, and the sea shines in a bright blue color.
The roads from the central to northern parts have few traffic lights and little traffic, so you can enjoy a leisurely drive. In the sea, snorkeling, diving, and marine sports are popular, and you can observe beautiful corals and colorful tropical fish. Kabira Bay and the lighthouse at Hirakubo Cape, the northernmost point of Ishigaki Island, are known for their spectacular views.
Ishigaki Island has both the sea and mountains, and in the city, you can get everything you need. However, just a 10-minute drive from the city opens up a peaceful remote island landscape that soothes your mind. Also, if you stretch your legs to the north, there are many beautiful places like in the pictures, and you can find your favorite spot and spend your time leisurely.
The number of tourists has increased due to the opening of the new airport, but there are still few visitors. There are countless tourist spots, but you will never get bored. Fishing and diving are the main activities, so the places to visit are limited if you are just sightseeing. It’s a great place for people who like to spend time in a natural environment.
You can also go to each of the Yaeyama Islands from Ishigaki Island. Basically, you use a high-speed boat from the remote island terminal, but you can also go to Yonaguni Island by a combination of plane and ferry.
3.Local Food
4.Transportation Information
Access to Ishigaki Island is only by air. Direct flights operate from major cities in Japan, and if you need to transfer, you can use Naha Airport. Flights operated by Japan Airlines (JAL) and All Nippon Airways (ANA) take approximately 1 hour from Naha to Ishigaki Airport. Ishigaki Island is an island with a beautiful coastline, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery during takeoff and landing.
Buses run from the airport to the city at intervals of 20-30 minutes, but be aware that other routes are infrequent. There is a bus terminal for Azuma Transportation near the Yugurena remote island terminal in the city.
Rental cars are convenient on Ishigaki Island, and there are many rental car companies. It is recommended to use a rental car to efficiently tour the entire island. In addition, taxis are always on standby at the airport, remote island terminal, city center, and large hotels, which is convenient. If you wish to sightsee for a day, there are dedicated taxi tours. Also, if you are touring around the city, renting a bicycle is a sufficient option. In addition to rental cycle shops, some hotels and guesthouses also lend bicycles.
5.Map Information
Ishigaki Island is located in the Yaeyama Islands of Okinawa Prefecture, and the entire area belongs to the city of Ishigaki. It is the third largest in Okinawa Prefecture in terms of area, and 21st in Japan, with a population of approximately 49,651 people. This island is the political, economic, educational, and transportation hub of the Yaeyama Islands, located 410km from Naha City, the capital of Okinawa Prefecture, and approximately 270km from Taiwan. It is also known as a diving spot, and many divers visit.
