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[2026 Updated Edition] Introducing the Best Sushi on Ishigaki Island! A Local’s In-Depth Guide to Everything from Sushi Restaurants to Izakayas
Hello everyone!
One of the largest activity stores in Ishigaki Island
"Ishigaki Island ADVENTURE PiPi"It is!
Ishigaki Island is one of Okinawa's premier culinary destinations.
Among these, “sushi” features fresh seafood andIshigaki Beef Nigiri SushiThese are popular culinary delights packed with the unique charms of the island.
In this article, we’ll introduce seven carefully selected sushi restaurants on Ishigaki Island that you definitely shouldn’t miss.
Further,To Enjoy Ishigaki Island to the FullestWe'll also provide information on recommended activities.
Table of Contents
The Appeal of Sushi on Ishigaki Island
Sushi restaurants on Ishigaki Island range from authentic establishments where you can watch the chefs at work up close from the counter to casual izakaya-style spots where you can enjoy sushi alongside local island cuisine.
When you take a bite of nigiri made with fresh island fish or Ishigaki beef, you’re sure to experience a sense of exclusivity that can only be found here.
It looks gorgeous, too, andInstagram-worthyA dish you’ll want to try. It’s not just about the taste—the sheer joy of capturing it on camera is what makes Ishigaki Island sushi so special.
As you savor sushi crafted from fresh ingredients and masterful technique amid the laid-back tropical atmosphere,A memorable travel experienceIt is sure to be a great experience.
Characteristics of Sushi on Ishigaki Island
When it comes to sushi on Ishigaki Island,The Unique Character of the Land...is clearly evident.
What materials are used, and how can you enjoy them?
If you know this before your trip, choosing restaurants and savoring the food will be even more enjoyable.
Sushi toppings unique to Ishigaki Island!
Ishigaki Island is a treasure trove of fresh seafood, and the island’s bounty is used generously in sushi toppings.
Tuna, bonito, and whitefish caught in local waters have firm flesh, andFreshness and flavor unique to the local areaYou can fully enjoy it.
In addition, there’s even a piece of sushi made with Ishigaki beef—a famous local specialty—and the ability to enjoy both the bounty of the sea and the mountains at the same time is something unique to Ishigaki Island.
Made with ingredients typical of OkinawaA wide variety of creative sushiIt is.
We offer a selection of unique sushi—such as sea grape gunkan-maki and rolls made with island vegetables—that you rarely find on the mainland.
The tuna, bonito, and whitefish caught in nearby waters have firm, firm flesh—trulyFresh, locally caught seafoodYou can taste its rich flavor.
From conveyor-belt sushi to authentic Edomae-style sushi
Ishigaki Island is known as a treasure trove of fresh seafood, and there are many different ways to enjoy sushi there.
At these casual conveyor-belt sushi restaurants—a favorite among tourists—tuna, bonito, and seasonal whitefish caught in nearby waters flow down the conveyor belt, allowing you to easily savor the bounty of the southern islands.
On the other hand, for those who want to enjoy a special experience,Authentic Edomae SushiWe also recommend renowned restaurants that serve [this dish].
Each piece of sushi, expertly crafted by skilled artisans, features locally caught fish and traditional preparation methods, offering a depth of flavor distinct from that of conveyor-belt sushi.
It's Not Just Seafood! Ishigaki Beef Nigiri
When it comes to sushi on Ishigaki Island, it’s not just about the seafood.
The Island's Premier Brand of BeefIshigaki BeefBeing able to savor it in the form of luxurious nigiri sushi is another charm unique to this region.
This piece, lightly seared on the surface, lets you savor the balance between the melt-in-your-mouth sweetness of the fat and the firm texture of the rice, offering a delight quite different from that of seafood.
Here, you can fully enjoy Ishigaki beef.Recommended Restaurantsto the following.
5 Recommended Sushi Restaurants on Ishigaki Island
From here on, we’ll be featuring a place on Ishigaki Island that’s renowned for its delicious sushi—4 Recommended Sushi RestaurantsIntroduction.
We’ll also explain the unique features and popular menu items at each restaurant, so please use this information to help you choose where to eat.
① Sushi Taro
"Sushi Taro," a long-time favorite on Ishigaki Island, is,Specialty Store for Island FishIt's a sushi restaurant where you can enjoy fresh, locally sourced seafood at reasonable prices.
It's within walking distance of Euglena Mall (the public market), and since it's open continuously from lunch through dinner, it's very convenient to visit.
For lunch, in addition to nigiri sushi, they offer a wide selection of seafood bowls and set meals, making it the perfect spot for a meal while sightseeing.
In the evenings, you can enjoy local cuisine and drinks in an izakaya-style setting, and60 seatsThe spacious interior provides a comfortable setting for families and groups to relax.
Popular menu items include the "Island Fish Nigiri" and the "Seasonal Fish Sashimi Platter."
The nigiri made with seasonal island fish sourced that very day has an exceptionally firm, springy texture and a distinctive sweetness.
Watching the chef skillfully transform these colorful, tropical-looking fish into sushi is a sight that naturally draws you in as you sit at the counter.
TakeoutThey also offer sushi platters, which are convenient for guests who want to enjoy a leisurely meal at the hotel.
| address (e.g. of house) | 34 Aza Ishigaki, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture |
| Business Hours | 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. / 5:00 p.m.–12:00 a.m. |
| regular closing day | open every day of the year |
| phone | 0980-88-7171 |
② Sushinchu Conveyor-Belt Sushi
"Sushinchu" is located on Ishigaki IslandThe Conveyor-Belt Sushi Restaurants at Japan's Westernmost and Southernmost PointsIt is.
The nigiri made with fish caught off the coast of Okinawa features a wide variety of rare ingredients not commonly found in other regions.
For example, Okinawa Prefecture's fish...Gurukun (Takasago)or freshIsland Squid...and the conveyor belt is lined with sushi that you’ll just have to try, such as sea grape gunkan-maki with its fun, crunchy texture.
The restaurant has both counter seating and table seating, andEasy to use whether you're alone or in a groupAtmosphere.
| address (e.g. of house) | 341-5 Maezato, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture |
| Business Hours | 11:00 - 20:00
(Lunch is available only on weekdays and Saturdays.) |
| regular closing day | non-scheduled holiday |
| phone | 0980-83-0141 |
③ Kappo Misushi
"Misushi" isIn business for over 60 yearsIt is a long-established sushi restaurant on Ishigaki Island that prides itself on [...].
With its calm, traditional Japanese ambiance, if you sit at the counter, you can watch an experienced sushi chef carefully prepare each piece right before your eyes.
The selection ranges from fish caught in the waters around the island to high-quality seafood shipped directly from Tsukiji, with a focus on the flavors of the season.Edomae Sushi...is what we're proud of.
From rich, fatty tuna to fresh white fish and shellfish with a delightfully crunchy texture, every dish is an exquisite creation that showcases the finest ingredients.
At lunchtime, they offer sets featuring nigiri sushi and seafood rice bowlsRelatively affordableIt's available here, so you can enjoy authentic sushi in a casual setting.
Many local regulars visit for dinner, and you can often see them leisurely enjoying a drink alongside the chef's tasting menu or à la carte dishes.
"I want to enjoy authentic sushi on Ishigaki Island."For those who feel that way, San Sushi is the perfect choice.
| address (e.g. of house) | 2-11 Shin-ei-cho, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture |
| Business Hours | 5:30 p.m.–10:00 p.m.
Closes at 9:30 p.m. |
| regular closing day | The first and third Mondays
Sunday |
| phone | 0980-82-3708 |
④ Sushi Kitakura
"Sushi Kitakura," which opened in 2022, is a place where you can enjoy authentic sushi kaiseki on Ishigaki Island.By appointment onlyIt's a hidden gem of a sushi restaurant.
In an intimate space with just seven counter seats, they serve Edomae sushi that rivals the quality found in Tokyo and Osaka.
It operates on a reservation-only basis with two seatings (5:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.), and it’s so popular that seats sometimes fill up as soon as reservations open.
It’s a bit of a splurge, but as a memento of our trip to Ishigaki Island,A Special Sushi ExperienceThis is a great spot for anyone who wants to [...].
| address (e.g. of house) | 293-Nishi 3, Okawa, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture |
| Business Hours | 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. / 8:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m. (Two-part series; reservations required) |
| regular closing day | Sunday, Monday, Tuesday |
| phone | 0980-87-6892 |
⑤ Flowers of the Sea
This popular restaurant serves sushi made with an abundance of fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
In a serene, traditional Japanese setting, across the counter fromThe Artistry of a Craftsman's Skillful HandsYou can enjoy a leisurely meal while taking in the view.
We take pride in our sushi, which showcases the rich flavors of the season, featuring a wide selection ranging from local fish caught in the waters around Ishigaki Island to carefully selected, high-quality ingredients shipped directly from Tsukiji.
Each one is a masterpiece that truly brings out the best in its ingredients.
| address (e.g. of house) | 270-28 Ishigaki, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture |
| Business Hours | 5:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m. |
| regular closing day | Thursday |
| phone | 0980875091 |
Recommended sushi on Ishigaki Island, too
5 Fun Izakayas to Check Out
On Ishigaki Island, there are many izakayas where you can enjoy sushi made with fresh local fish and Ishigaki beef.
The styles vary widely, ranging from shops popular with tourists to hidden gems frequented by locals.
Here are some recommended spots where you can casually enjoy sushi that’s unique to the island:tavernto the following.
① Hitoshi (Sekikantou Store / Main Store)
"Hitoshi," a perennial favorite on Ishigaki Island, is an izakaya-style restaurant famous for its tuna dishes.
In the city centerMain Storeandstone monument bearing an inscription (esp. memorial for future generations of Japanese martians)There are two locations, both of which are so popular that they’re packed every day with locals and tourists alike.
In particular, the famous “Bluefin Tuna Sushi" is made with fresh tuna caught right on the island—it's absolutely delicious!
From rich, lean cuts to melt-in-your-mouth otoro, the flavors are irresistible to tuna lovers.
Also, “Ishigaki Beef Nigiri"This is a dish you'll definitely want to try if you visit."
Not only the tuna, but the meat is delicious too.It has a reputation for being a place where even those who aren't big on seafood can enjoy themselves—that's the charm of Hitoshi.
Every dish is of such high quality that people say, “If you go here, you can taste all of Ishigaki Island’s delicious foods!”
Because it's such a popular restaurantReservation requiredSo, I strongly recommend reserving a seat in advance by phone.
| address (e.g. of house) | 15-8 Shin-ei-cho, Ishigaki City, Okinawa, Japan |
| Business Hours | 5:00 PM–11:30 PM (Last Order: 10:00 PM) |
| regular closing day | non-scheduled holiday |
| phone | 0980-83-9610 |
② The Top
"Teppen" is an izakaya-style sushi restaurant where you can enjoy both Ishigaki beef and seafood at the same time.
In addition to sushi made with seasonal seafood sourced daily from local fishermen, we also offer an extensive selection of dishes featuring island vegetables and Ishigaki beef.
In addition to sashimi and nigiri sushi,"Seared Ishigaki Beef Nigiri"This is a popular dish you'll definitely want to try.
The sweet fat from the seared Ishigaki beef seeps into the rice, creating a flavor so delicious that it will bring a smile to your face with just one bite.
The Restaurant's Recommendations"Teppen Platter (Assorted Sashimi)"It is a dish featuring fresh fish beautifully arranged in a spiral pattern, making it look truly luxurious.
You can enjoy an abundance of fresh seafood—including tuna, yellowtail, and whitefish—sourced that very day.
Open from 3:00 p.m.Because of this, it’s perfect for daytime drinking or an early dinner, making it incredibly convenient for tourists as well.
With its wide variety of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients and its lively atmosphere, this restaurant lets you fully experience the unique charm of Ishigaki Island.
| address (e.g. of house) | 1F Wakore KAMIJI, 15-4 Aza Ishigaki, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture |
| Business Hours | 3:00 PM–11:30 PM (Last Order: 10:30 PM) |
| regular closing day | non-scheduled holiday |
| phone | 050-1725-4916 |
③ Ishigaki Island Restaurant Sakabaru
"Sakabaru" is a local izakaya located near the Remote Islands Terminal that stays open late into the night.
In addition to sushi, the restaurant is renowned for its regional and creative dishes, and is loved not only by tourists but also by the islanders.
Just as the name suggestsA lineup that even the biggest wine lovers can't resistWith a wide selection, ranging from local Awamori to sake from all over Japan.
Since it stays open late into the night, this restaurant is perfect for after-parties or a late-night sushi meal after a day of sightseeing.
| address (e.g. of house) | 11-1 Misaki-cho, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture 1st Floor |
| Business Hours | 6:00 p.m.–2:00 a.m.
LO. 25:00 |
| regular closing day | non-scheduled holiday |
| phone | 0980-87-6381 |
④ Uminchu Izakaya Gen(GEN)
Ishigaki'sFishermen's CultureIt's an izakaya where you can experience [...].
K
The restaurant is bustling with energy and prides itself on dishes made with freshly caught seafood.
From generous sashimi platters to local specialties, you can fully enjoy the bounty of the sea.
| address (e.g. of house) | 286 Okawa, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture |
| Business Hours | 3:50 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. |
| regular closing day | Monday |
| phone | 0980-88-8321 |
⑤ Sushi & Island Izakaya Jigoro Ishigaki
In a serene, modern Japanese-style setting, you can enjoy not only authentic sushi prepared by skilled chefs but also local dishes and regional sake unique to Ishigaki.
Shima Yasai YaSeafood caught in local watersThe menu also features a wide variety of dishes made with [ingredient], and the restaurant is loved by everyone from tourists to local regulars.
| address (e.g. of house) | 2F East, 198-7 Okawa, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture |
| Business Hours | 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. |
| regular closing day | nashi (Pyrus pyrifolia, esp. var. culta) |
| phone | 0980-82-8090 |
If you'd like to discover more recommended izakayas to enjoy, click here!
It's not just about the food!
Ishigaki Island
5 activities
In addition to delicious food, Ishigaki Island offers the chance to enjoy the lush natural scenery unique to the tropics.Attractive ActivitiesThere's plenty to see and do.
Since you’ve made the trip all the way to Ishigaki Island, let’s make the most of both the food and the fun!
Here, we’ll introduce five of the PiPi staff’s top recommended activities.
① Mangrove SUP and Canoeing Experience
If you want to explore the subtropical jungle of Ishigaki Island,."Mangrove SUP & Canoeing"is recommended.
Take a leisurely tour by SUP or kayak through the mangrove forests—including those along the Miyara River, which has been designated a National Natural Monument—and explore the area at your own pace.
Walking through the mangrove forest as sunlight filters through the trees is a mystical experience, as if you’ve wandered into another world.
The mangrove tour, where you can experience Ishigaki Island’s majestic nature from the river, is the perfect way to refresh yourself after filling up on sushi!
② Snorkeling at the Blue Cave
When it comes to snorkeling on Ishigaki Island, the "Blue Cave"—as it's commonly known—is a must-see classic spot.
A sea cave in the northern part of the island, with sunlight streaming into the interiorThe sunlight casts a blue glow on the sea's surfaceThat is why it is called that.
Explore the Blue Grotto with a dedicated guide and enjoy the mystical scenery of this underwater limestone cave.
Once you pass through the cave and emerge into the open sea,outstanding transparencyThe ocean stretches out before you, and you’ll be greeted by colorful tropical fish and vibrant coral reefs.
sea turtleYou might even come across one, and if you're lucky, you might be able to swim with it!
Since this is a snorkeling tour that’s easy to join and only takes about half a day, you can enjoy a luxurious day—swimming in the ocean in the morning and then heading out for some delicious sushi in the afternoon.
Snorkeling at the Blue Cave, where you can experience firsthand the blue waters of Ishigaki Island and the vibrant marine life, isFor all agesThis is a popular activity.
The sight of sunlight shining up from beneath the sea is truly breathtaking.
③ Landing on the "Phantom Island" & Snorkeling
"The Phantom Island" is an uninhabited island consisting solely of a sandy beach that appears about 30 to 40 minutes by boat off the coast of Ishigaki Island."Hamajima"It's a nickname.
Known as the “Phantom Island” because it appears and disappears with the tides, it has gained popularity as a scenic spot surrounded by emerald-blue waters in every direction.
One of Japan's Largestthe coral reefsShihsi LagoonIt is also an area known for its expansive reefs, and the experience of swimming surrounded by colorful tropical fish and vibrant coral is truly exceptional.
Depending on the sea conditions, you might even encounter sea turtles—it’s one surprise and delight after another.
The "Mysterious Island Landing & Snorkeling" tour—an experience you definitely shouldn't miss when visiting Ishigaki Island—offers both morning and afternoon departures.Half-Day CourseIt's also nice that it's easy to fit into your schedule.
Why not spend some unforgettable time on a beautiful uninhabited island?
④ Kayaking in Kabira Bay
Three Michelin StarsIshigaki Island's premier scenic spot, which also shone in the spotlight"Kabira Bay"The Kabira Bay Kayak (Canoe) Tour lets you enjoy all of this from the water.
エメラルドグリーンやコバルトブルーに色を変える“七色の海”と称される絶景を、自分のペースで海上散歩しながら満喫できます。
点在する小島や珊瑚礁の合間を縫って漕ぎ進む体験は爽快感抜群です。
海底を覗き込めばサンゴや魚影が見えることもあり、タイミングが良ければカヤックの真下にsea turtleが現れるサプライズも！
透明度の高い川平湾ならではの感動シーンに出会えるかもしれません。
ツアー時間帯はサンライズ（朝日）、デイタイム、サンセットと選べるプランもあります。
昼間にお寿司を楽しんだ日は、夕方にサンセットカヤックでロマンチックなひと時を過ごす、なんてプランも素敵ですね。
Starry Sky & Jungle Night Tour!
日が沈み、静けさに包まれた石垣島の森を探検するJungle Night Tourは、通年楽しめる人気のアクティビティです。
昼間は鮮やかな緑に彩られる亜熱帯のジャングルも、夜になると全く違う顔を見せます。
運が良ければヤシガニ、リュウキュウコノハズクなど、珍しい生き物との出会いも。
木々の間から見上げると、満天の星空や天の川が広がり、ジャングルの静けさと相まって非日常感が一層深まります。
舗装されていない自然の道を歩くため、まるで探検家になったような気分で楽しめます。
小さなお子様連れや初めての方でも、ガイドが丁寧にサポートするので安心して参加できます。
昼は海や観光を満喫し、夜はジャングルで神秘的な時間を過ごす——そんなメリハリのある旅を体験してみませんか？
in the end
美味しいお寿司でお腹が満たされた後は、石垣島の大自然を感じるアクティビティにも挑戦してみましょう。
海・山・川と舞台を変えて楽しめる体験が豊富に揃っているのも石垣島旅行の醍醐味です。
私たち『石垣島 ADVENTURE PiPi』は、食も遊びも全力で堪能したい皆さまの旅を心を込めてサポートいたします。
Thank you for reading to the end.
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