How to get to Ishigaki Island! From the standard travel course to the hole in the road and points of interest!

Hello everyone!
Ishigaki Island is a highly recommended island with numerous activities and sightseeing opportunities.

 

In a warm and comfortable environment, you can visit famous classic spots as well as deep holes in the ground that only locals know about.

 

In this article, we will introduce information that you should check before going on a trip to Ishigaki Island.

 

Ishigaki Island Climate, Annual Clothing, and Reasons to Visit

Ishigaki Island has a subtropical climate, so it is extremely warm, with temperatures averaging around 15 degrees even in winter.

 

It is also a region that lies along the path of typhoons in early fall, so you need to be mindful of the weather when traveling there.

 

When people think of things to do on Ishigaki Island, many probably think of water sports. It’s true that Ishigaki Island is blessed with beautiful seas and white-sand beaches. You can really experience the feeling of a tropical paradise there.

 

But that's not all.

 

It offers a wide variety of activities, including mangrove forests, limestone caves, and hiking. There are also many historical sites, making it a great place to learn.

 

While there are plenty of outdoor activities, you can also experience Ishigaki Island’s culture indoors at places like Minsā.

 

There is such a wide variety of activities to enjoy on Ishigaki Island, and one of its defining features is that you can try out many things for the first time.

 

As for what to wear, it depends partly on the specific activity, but if you're mainly playing near the water, I'd recommend clothes that can get wet or a swimsuit; if you're indoors, a T-shirt and shorts should be fine.

 

However, you need to be careful about UV rays. If you go out to play without taking the same UV protection measures you would on the mainland, you might end up getting sunburned and not being able to enjoy yourself, so please be careful.

 

Access to Ishigaki Island

If you are heading to Ishigaki Island, there are direct flights to Ishigaki Island if you live near Narita Airport, Haneda Airport, Chubu Centrair Airport, Kansai International Airport, or Fukuoka Airport.

Haneda→Ishigaki Island (direct flight, approx. 3 hr. 40 min.)

Kansai→Ishigaki Island (direct flight, approx. 3 hours)

Nagoya→Ishigaki Island (direct flight, approx. 3 hours)

Fukuoka → Ishigaki Island (2 hours by direct flight)

 

Ishigaki Island Recommended Anaerobic Sightseeing Spots

(1) Sabichi Cave

 

Sabichi Cave is a limestone cave said to have been formed by tectonic activity approximately 370 million years ago.

 

It is rare in Japan and is known as a “limestone cave that opens onto the sea”; you can see the ocean from inside the cave.

 

(2) Tomizaki Kannondo

This temple is located in the southwestern part of Ishigaki Island, very close to Fusaki Beach. It is situated on the hillside of the cape known as Kannonzaki.

 

For generations, she has been revered as the Kannon who watches over the islanders, ensuring their safe voyages and good health.

 

You can also grab a meal right next to Tomizaki Kannon-do
Oceanfront Grill St. ELMO ISHIGAKI

In the Shinkawa area, which is home to the Tomizaki Kannon Hall, there is also,The Restaurant Closest to the Ocean on Ishigaki IslandThere is a restaurant called “Oceanfront Grill St. ELMO ISHIGAKI.”

 

It's only about a minute's drive from Fusaki Beach, so it's a great place to stop by while exploring some hidden gems.

You can enjoy Ishigaki beef steak whether you make a reservation for the same day or come without one.So, it's fine to head out after you've decided on your driving route.

 

An 8-course French full-course meal prepared by a Michelin-starred chefIt's also popular (reservations required by the day before; starts at 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.).

 

Mt. (3) Kala

A small hill located right next to the new Ishigaki Airport. From the summit, you can see the planes taking off and landing frequently.

 

There are hardly any trees—it’s a mountain covered in thick grass—and the trail to the summit takes about 15 minutes one way, which makes it very accessible.

 

It's also famous as a photo spot, and the photos of the ocean and airplanes are really beautiful and perfect for social media.

 

Yaeyama Peace Memorial Hall

Yaeyama Peace Memorial Museum is a museum that introduces the actual situation of malaria in Yaeyama area during the Pacific War through photos and documents.

 

Established in 1999 as a branch of the Peace Memorial Museum on the main island of Okinawa, it preserves history so that the ruthlessness of war and the horrors of malaria will not be forgotten.

 

It is frequented by locals, history buffs, and children visiting on social studies tours.

 

(5) Kawadaira Kannondo

This Kannon Hall is located within Kabira Park, which adjoins Kabira Bay, known for its beautiful emerald-green waters.

 

It is also famous as a spiritual site. Built around the 17th century, this temple continues to be a center of worship for the island’s residents to this day.

 

If you're visiting Kabira Bay, it might be worth stopping by.

 

(vi) Island of Phantom

Hamajima, known as the “Phantom Island,” is one of Ishigaki Island’s premier marine attractions—a small, sandy island floating solitary in the waters off the western coast of Ishigaki Island.

 

It is known as the "phantom island" because it appears and disappears depending on the tide.

 

The sea around Phantom Island is called "Ishinishi lagoon" and is the largest coral reef in Japan designated as Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park. Therefore, you can see a lot of fishes and corals in the surrounding sea.

 

Surrounded by 360 degrees of emerald blue ocean, this white sand island is truly a paradise.

 

(7) Inoda Fishing Port

Inoda Fishing Port is located in the Inoda area in the northern part of the island. It is a fishing port frequented by many locals, and its breakwater is well-maintained.

 

This small fishing port on the island has a uniquely laid-back atmosphere that’s truly charming. It’s also a great spot for those who enjoy fishing.

 

(8) Telegraph shop ruins

Built by the Army in 1897 for military purposes, it connected Taiwan and Japan via a submarine cable and served as an important military base for about half a century, until the end of World War II.

 

Although it is now in ruins, it features charming stonework.

 

(9) Hulst Field Ruins

The Furusto Hara Site is an archaeological site dating from the early 14th century to the 16th century, located near the former Ishigaki Airport.

 

A stone wall made of limestone blocks served as the settlement’s defensive barrier. The sight of the stone walls lining the vast park is truly impressive.

 

Ishigaki Island Overnight Tourist Spot Standard Course

Day 1

 

↓arrow (mark or symbol)　Travel time: 30 minutes from Shin-Ishigakijima Airport to downtown

 

 

After check-in, 30 minutes to prepare for the activity

 

↓Transfer time: 20 minutes from Miyara River to hotel

 

 

↓Travel time: 10 minutes on foot

 

↓Travel time: 10 minutes on foot

 

 

2nd day

 

↓Movement time: 10 minutes

 

↓Transfer time: 10 minutes by ferry from Taketomi Island to Ishigaki Island

 

 

10 recommended activities on Ishigaki Island

(1) Snorkeling

When you think of Ishigaki Island, you think of its beautiful, shallow waters, don’t you? Colorful tropical fish swim gracefully, while branching corals and table corals shimmer beneath them.

 

When it comes to activities that let you fully enjoy the ocean, snorkeling is the way to go. Compared to diving and other activities, the equipment is inexpensive and easy to get, and many shops offer rentals.

 

(2) Canoe/Kayak

I imagine many of you have tried canoeing or kayaking at some point in your childhood, perhaps at a youth center or similar place.

 

It’s something people of all ages can enjoy, isn’t it? Plus, it’s very stable, making it suitable for families with children and couples alike, so it’s popular among those who want to enjoy activities safely.

 

This activity is perfect for those who want to have a lively, fun time with a large group.

 

(3) SUP

SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) is an activity that’s rapidly gaining popularity on Ishigaki Island right now.

 

There are many spots on Ishigaki Island where you can go stand-up paddleboarding, and one of its attractions is that you can do it in the ocean, mangrove rivers, and other locations.

 

More than 80% of participants are first-time SUPers on Ishigaki Island, but they quickly get the hang of it and fully enjoy the activity.

 

SUP is especially popular at Kabira Bay and the Miyara Mangrove River because even children can enjoy it.

 

Diving

Ishigaki Island attracts many divers throughout the year. While it’s a bit more challenging than snorkeling, it allows you to enjoy the waters around Ishigaki Island all the more.

 

The crystal-clear waters, blue and purple coral reefs, and the rich marine ecosystem—including manta rays, sea turtles, and clownfish—have earned the area great acclaim from experienced divers; in fact, it continues to set new records by ranking first year after year in the “Best Domestic Diving Area” category of a diving magazine.

 

5) Starry sky night tour

Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park, which spans the northern part of Ishigaki Island and the entire town of Taketomi, was designated as a Starlight Reserve in April 2018 by the U.S.-based International Dark-Sky Association (IDA).

 

Ishigaki Island, where the air is so clear that the stars are visible in great detail, is an ideal spot for stargazing: visitors can observe 21 first-magnitude stars—including Sirius and Betelgeuse—as well as 84 of the 88 constellations.

 

(6) Trekking

When you hear the word “trekking,” it might sound like hard work. I know that’s the impression many people have, but Ishigaki Island has several popular spots that are easy to hike.

 

Most of these spots are at low elevations, so even children can enjoy hiking while playing.

 

Attractions like Nosoko Mape—said to bring love to fruition—and Ishigaki Island’s version of ”Troll’s Tongue” are extremely popular.

 

7) Marine sports

Marine sports is a general term for activities enjoyed in the sea, and there are many types.

 

The options range from exhilarating motorized activities like flyboarding, ATVs, banana boats, and jet skis to more laid-back pursuits like surfing and windsurfing.

 

On Ishigaki Island, you can try many different kinds of water sports.

 

In particular, equipment is available for rent at the hotel's private beach, so if you're interested, be sure to give it a try.

 

8) Landing Tour to Phantom Island

Maboroshi Island, one of Ishigaki Island’s most renowned marine attractions, is a small island made of sandy beach that floats solitary in the waters off the western coast of Ishigaki Island.

 

It is known as the "phantom island" because it appears and disappears depending on the tide.

 

The sea around Phantom Island is called "Ishinishi lagoon" and is the largest coral reef in Japan designated as Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park. Therefore, you can see a lot of fishes and corals in the surrounding sea.

 

Surrounded by 360 degrees of emerald blue ocean, this white sand island is truly a paradise. You can enjoy snorkeling in the beautiful ocean to your heart's content.

 

10 Recommended Anaerobic Beaches in Ishigaki Island

1) Idona Beach

Idona Beach is one of the hidden gem beaches on Ishigaki Island. The sand at Idona Beach has a reddish tint, giving it a slightly different atmosphere from the other white-sand beaches typical of Ishigaki Island.

 

Since there’s a village nearby, activities that produce engine noise—such as jet skis—are discouraged to keep the area quiet, making this beach perfect for those looking to relax.

 

(2) Shani Shani Beach

Shani Shani Beach is a private beach in front of the Ishigakijima Beach Hotel Sunshine resort hotel. It is a beach that can be visited even by non-guests.

 

Since it's a private beach, you can try motorized activities like jet skiing.

 

If you'd like to experience exhilarating motorized water activities, be sure to visit here.

 

Nata Beach

This long, natural beach stretches from the area below the Tamatori-zaki Observation Deck—located east of northern Ishigaki Island—all the way to the Ihara-ma settlement. With its white sand and azure waters, it’s the perfect spot for beachcombing and strolling.

 

Because of the ocean currents, driftwood and other debris often wash ashore here, making this beach a great spot for beachcombers.

 

Hirano Beach

Hirano Beach is a beautiful beach located in the eastern part of Hirakubozaki, the northernmost point of Ishigaki Island.

 

Since it is located at the northernmost tip of Ishigaki Island, you can enjoy views of unspoiled, natural scenery free of man-made structures. As a result, the night views are exceptionally beautiful.

 

Also, since it's a distance from the airport and the city center, there are few people around, so you can fully enjoy a sense of privacy.

 

However, since there are very few facilities or amenities in the area, please make sure to bring plenty of drinks and sun protection before visiting.

 

(5) Tada Beach

This is a natural beach in the Maezato area. It's a hidden gem that's popular with locals.

 

However, the beach itself has a lot of rocks, so it doesn't really look like a place where you can swim.

 

Since there are no light sources nearby, this beach is perfect for stargazing.

 

⑥Hira Detached Island Beach

Hirajima Beach, located at the tip of the cape in Kabira Bay, is a beach surrounded by rocks where the waves are very calm.

 

Near Taira Remote Island Beach, there is also a dive site called Manta City, where you have a high chance of encountering manta rays.

 

(7) Saki branch beach

Sakieda Beach is a hidden gem known only to those in the know.

 

The coral here is incredibly beautiful, and because the water is shallow, it's the perfect spot for coral viewing.

 

I can't swim right now because of the currents and other factors, but the beach is beautiful at low tide, so please be sure to visit.

 

(8) Nannu Hamacho Beach

Minaminuhama-cho Beach, located on reclaimed land just past the Southern Gate Bridge—a popular spot for watching sunsets—is next to Minaminuhama-cho Green Park, which features a multipurpose plaza, playground equipment, a gazebo, restrooms, and other amenities.

 

The park is fully equipped with facilities, which you can use even when playing at the beach, making it a very convenient place to have fun.

 

Akashi Coast

Akashi Beach is the largest beach on Ishigaki Island, and the sunrise rising from the horizon is truly beautiful.

 

The Akashi district, home to Akashi Beach, is also home to ”Akashi Shokudo,” a famous restaurant on Ishigaki Island, so you might want to check it out as well.

 

(10) Kawahira Tabaggar

Nishihama Beach on Hateruma Island is often cited as the most beautiful beach in the Yaeyama Islands.

 

There is another beach on Ishigaki Island that is as beautiful as Nishihama Beach. That is "Kabira Taba-ga".

 

It is a popular spot known by connoisseurs because there is almost no current, it is shallow, and it is rich in biota.

 

As this is a secluded spot known only to those in the know, it is rarely visited by people, so you can enjoy a quiet and relaxing time.

 

Remote islands around Ishigaki Island

(1) Taketomi Island

 

Taketomi Island is a small island created by the uplift of coral reefs, located about 10 minutes offshore by boat from Ishigaki Island. You can enjoy swimming and diving.

 

In particular, Kondoi Beach, Kaiji Beach famous for its star sand, Takidunguchi in the northwestern part of the island, Simovishi in the southwestern part of the island, and Taketomi Island South Offshore Reef in the southern part are popular spots.

 

(2) Kohama Island

Kohama Island is a small island with an area of less than 8 km2, a circumference of 16.5 km, and a population of 568, famous for being the filming location for the morning drama Churasan.

 

Many traditional festivals are held here, and the Yugan Festival, which takes place in the eighth month of the lunar calendar, is a major event on Kohama Island. Numerous performing arts are dedicated to the gods, and the performing arts of Kohama Island—including the Yugan Festival—have been designated as Important Intangible Cultural Properties of Japan.

 

It's a relatively nearby island, about a 30-minute boat ride from Ishigaki Island.

 

Yubu Island

Yubu Island is adjacent to Iriomote Island and is a small island made only of sand deposited by ocean currents, and the entire island is a botanical garden called "Subtropical Botanical Paradise.

 

It is not far from Ishigaki Island and can be visited via Iriomote Island.

 

Iriomote Island

Iriomote Island is the second largest island in the prefecture after the main island of Okinawa, and most of the entire island is covered with virgin tropical and subtropical forest. It is famous as a habitat of precious creatures.

 

The vast jungle is home to rare creatures such as the crested serpent eagle (a special natural treasure), the Iriomote wildcat, the Semaru box turtle (a natural treasure), the Xenopus lizard, and the Sakishima habu, as well as large mangrove colonies where all seven species of Japanese mangrove plants are found, and magnificent scenery such as waterfalls, It is also known as the Galapagos of the East.

 

There is also a regular boat service from Ishigaki Island, so you can enjoy a day trip.

 

(5) Shinshirojima

Shinshiro Island consists of two islands, Kamiji and Shimoji. Kamiji Island is an elongated island stretching from northeast to southwest, mostly covered with forest, while Shimoji Island is an abbreviated semicircular island.

 

The distance between the two islands is about 420 meters, but they are connected by a reef on the east side, and at low tide, part of the reef appears above the water, making it possible to walk across the island.

 

There are no scheduled flights from Ishigaki Island, but can be visited by charter flights.

 

6) Hatoma Island

Hatoma Island is a beautiful little island located 5 km north of Iriomote Island in the sea; it was also the filming location for the TV drama “Ruri no Shima.”

 

There is a story from the early 1980s about how, when the island’s only elementary school was left with just one student and faced the threat of closure, it was saved through the efforts of relatives and people from all over the country who took in foster children.

 

The island has a unique, slow pace of life that provides a moment of quiet, peaceful healing.

 

There is one regular daily flight from Ishigaki Island, so when you visit, it's a two-day and one-night trip.

 

(vii) Kuroshima

Kuroshima has become an island of grazing cattle, with pastures spreading across the island, forming a tranquil pastoral landscape as an island of cattle.

 

Many of the calves raised on Kuroshima for about a year are fattened in brand beef production areas across the country and shipped as branded beef, including Ishigaki Beef.

 

Because of its heart-shaped outline, it is also known as “Heart Island.”

 

The sea of Kuroshima, where sea turtles come to lay their eggs, has one of the most beautiful coral reefs in Yaeyama, making it an excellent snorkeling spot.

 

There are three regular round-trip flights from Ishigaki Island. This island is recommended for those who want to enjoy snorkeling all day long.

 

8) Yonaguni Island

Yonaguni Island is located at the westernmost tip of Japan as an island, and is called a border island. The island is also famous as a location for the drama "Dr. Coto Clinic.

 

Taiwan is only 111 kilometers away, and at times you can even see the shadow of Taiwan's islands beyond the sea.

 

The island is rich in diving spots, and the Yonaguni Island undersea topography, known as "underwater ruins," which some believe to be man-made, and the hammerhead sharks that can be seen especially in winter are popular and attract many divers.

 

There are two ways to visit Yonaguni Island, by boat or by plane, and there are regular flights. You may visit Yonaguni Island because you have come all the way to Yaeyama.

 

Hateruma Island

Hateruma Island, whose name derives from the word for "the island of the end of the sea (coral reef)," is the southernmost inhabited island in Japan, as well as the southernmost place in Japan that civilians can visit on a daily basis.

 

Hateruma's unique blue ocean color is also called "Hateruma Blue," and Nishi Beach is famous as one of the most beautiful beaches in Yaeyama.

 

Furthermore, because it is located at a low latitude, it is one of the few islands where the Southern Cross can be observed under ideal conditions; and since there is very little artificial light in the surrounding area, you can see stars with the naked eye that are difficult to spot elsewhere.

 

For this reason, a stargazing tower stands on the south coast of the island, not far from Takanazaki, and is a popular tourist spot.

 

It takes only 60 to 90 minutes from Ishigaki Island, and you can visit there when you want to enjoy a relaxing island time.

 

(10) Kayamashima Island

Kamayama Island is an island located in the northern part of Kohama Island and is currently uninhabited.

 

You can visit via sightseeing tours—such as snorkeling and scuba diving—departing from Ishigaki Port or Kohama Island.

 

It might be a little difficult to visit there unless you're on a tour.

 

Conclusion

How was it?Ishigaki Island is the gateway to the Yaeyama region and has many fascinating places to visit.

 

We would also be happy to hear about any spots or activities that you learned about for the first time. Which of these activities caught your interest? We hope you will try them. It will surely be a good memory of your trip.

 

Thank you for reading to the end.

This article was written by.

Hello! I'm Niwa-chan, your source for all things Ishigaki Island. I have loved to be in touch with nature since I was a child, and I am especially fascinated by the rich natural environment of Okinawa. Currently based in Ishigaki Island, I provide information on how to enjoy activities such as snorkeling, SUP, and kayaking, as well as the hidden charms of the island.

I want to experience the best activities in Ishigaki Island! and "I want to get local information about Ishigaki Island! We provide detailed information on recommended spots and activities on the island to those who want to "experience the best activities in Ishigaki Island! We aim to deliver unforgettable experiences for our customers by interacting with the local nature every day.

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