Local Column
COLUMN
10 Recommended Activities for Company Retreats on Ishigaki Island! Our Ishigaki-based staff provide a comprehensive guide!
Hello everyone!
When planning a trip for a large group, such as a company outing or a group tour, it can be hard to decide where to go, right?
It’s true that it can be quite difficult to decide on a place that’s spacious enough for a large group to move around comfortably, accommodating, and fun at the same time.
I totally get why it can be nerve-wracking—when it comes down to that, your personal taste is on the line. In times like that, don’t hesitate—just go with ”Ishigaki Island”!
Ishigaki Island is one of Japan’s top resort destinations, and most places there are well-equipped to accommodate large groups for activities and hotel stays.
In recent years, there has also been a growing number of activities that are becoming new favorites. While traveling abroad involves the hassle of checking everyone’s passports, that’s not an issue at ”Ishigaki Island,” a domestic resort destination. It’s a done deal—this year’s company trip will be to Ishigaki Island!
In this article, we’ll introduce some recommended activities for company trips to Ishigaki Island.
Table of Contents
Features of Company Trips to Ishigaki Island and Why They're Recommended
As mentioned at the beginning, Ishigaki Island is very well-suited for and popular with large groups, such as company trips and college club trips.
The reason is that, among domestic resort destinations, Ishigaki Island has a large number of izakayas and restaurants, and the variety of activities available on the island is on a whole different level. In addition, there are numerous tourist attractions, making it a resort destination that caters to both those who want to take it easy and those who want to go all out with Ishigaki Island’s activities—and that is a major reason for its popularity.
Many places on Ishigaki Island can accommodate large groups, and the fact that groups can split up and each visit the spots they prefer is likely one of the reasons why the island is a popular choice for group tours.
10 Top Activities for a Company Trip to Ishigaki Island
Ishigaki Island Company Trip Activities: #1 Blue Cave Snorkeling Tour
The first activity I’d like to introduce is ”Blue Cave Snorkeling".
The Blue Cave on Ishigaki Island is one of the island’s most iconic tourist attractions, alongside Kabira Bay.
The Blue Cave snorkeling tour on Ishigaki Island takes place at a natural cave located about a 30-minute drive from the ferry terminal; the cave got its name because the interior of the cave and the sea surface shimmer with a blue glow.
A mysterious cave—a true hidden paradise—that comes into being only when various conditions align, such as the angle at which sunlight enters, the cave’s composition, the terrain, and the clarity of the water.
There are various activities you can enjoy at the Blue Cave, such as canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkeling, but I especially recommend snorkeling. Viewing the Blue Cave from underwater offers a magical experience where you’re completely enveloped in a deep blue hue.
Also,Blue CaveThere is a vast natural coral reef nearby, and since tropical fish live there, you can enjoy observing marine life—so be sure to visit the Blue Grotto.snorkelingBe sure to give it a try.
Ishigaki Island Company Trip Activities #2: SUP at Kabira Bay
Kabira Bay is not only one of Ishigaki Island’s most iconic scenic spots but also a hugely popular tourist destination renowned as one of Japan’s 100 Most Beautiful Views.
The sea at Kabira Bay is simply beautiful, and as time passes, its hues change depending on the angle of the sunlight and various environmental factors. Because the water is so clear and of such high quality, the bay is also used as a black pearl farm.
A SUP experience at Kabira Bay—Ishigaki Island’s No. 1 scenic spot—will be a memory you’ll never forget. SUP is a new kind of marine activity that has been rapidly gaining popularity both domestically and internationally in recent years. It allows you to glide across the water with the sensation of walking on the sea.
Also, if you peer into the crystal-clear water from your SUP board, you’ll see colorful coral reefs and an abundance of vibrantly colored fish.
Even if you're a beginner, you can rest assured that a guide who knows Kabira Bay inside and out will be there to help you.SUPYou can enjoy it. Why not try a stylish SUP experience at the number one tourist spot?
Ishigaki Island Company Trip Activities #3: Jungle Night Tour
The Blue Cave and Kabira Bay are among the top tourist attractions on Ishigaki Island, so they’re must-see spots. The tour we’re introducing today is a night tour that’s been gaining popularity in recent years!
One of the great things about night tours is that there are far fewer other tourists, so even large groups can enjoy the tour with a high degree of freedom.
There are two main highlights of this Jungle Night Tour. The first is the starry sky.
Ishigaki Island has been designated as Japan’s first Starlight Reserve and is home to a beautiful night sky that has been recognized as the second most beautiful in Asia. It is said that the stars are so clearly visible because the air is exceptionally clean and there is virtually no city light, making the night sky pitch black.
On Ishigaki Island, it is said that you can observe not only famous celestial features such as the Milky Way and the Summer Triangle, but also 86 of the 88 constellations. You can even see the Southern Cross, which is said to be invisible from the Northern Hemisphere. This means you can see the vast array of stars in striking clarity.
Jungle Night TourThe second highlight is that, thanks to the subtropical climate, you can observe unusual nocturnal creatures. Have you ever heard of the coconut crab?
These are land-dwelling creatures shaped like crabs or hermit crabs, with massive bodies and claws. Although they are technically members of the hermit crab family, they have evolved larger bodies and developed a carapace instead of carrying a seashell on their backs.
It’s said that the claws of these hermit crabs are as powerful as a lion’s jaws. Although they don’t move very quickly, their claws are incredibly strong, so be sure to observe them from a safe distance and avoid getting too close!
Company Trip Activities on Ishigaki Island, Part 4: Sightseeing on Taketomi Island
Taketomi Island is a remote island that comes highly recommended for those who want to enjoy a leisurely trip to Ishigaki.
The flowers and plants that grow wild on Taketomi Island display their natural, vibrant colors, and the island is characterized by its traditional Okinawan landscape, featuring red-tiled houses surrounded by stone walls.
Since it’s a small island, it’s a popular spot where you can enjoy a leisurely experience—whether you choose to explore the island on a rental bike while feeling the breeze or take a leisurely tour on a water buffalo cart.
It’s the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate after a busy day of work or studying.
Ishigaki Island Company Trip Activity #5: Mount Nosoko Hike
This ” is a popular choice among groups"Mt. Nosoko trekking"!
Mt. Nosoko is a mountain known as a "power spot" for romance, famed for the Mape legend. With a trail that takes a little over an hour and an easier one that takes about 10 minutes, you can choose based on your fitness level.trekkingenjoy.
While its convenience is certainly part of the reason for its popularity, the main draw is the view from the summit. With nothing to obstruct the view from the top, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view.
A beautiful, majestic view stretches out before you—one that will make all your everyday fatigue melt away. At the summit, there’s a rock shaped like a person praying, and it’s said that if you touch it and make a wish, it will come true. Let’s blow away the stress and recharge our energy!
Activities for the Company Trip to Ishigaki Island #6: Sunset Canoeing
A sunset canoeing experience where you can marvel at the sky ablaze with red and be enveloped in silence
canoeSince the boat is very stable, there’s no risk of capsizing, and the gentle rocking of the waves feels incredibly pleasant. As you let the waves carry you while taking in the breathtaking views of Ishigaki Island, your body naturally slips into a state of deep relaxation.
Enjoy the twilight hours on Ishigaki Island while cruising in a canoe! You’ll be speechless at the beauty of Ishigaki Island’s sunset.
Ishigaki Island Company Trip Activity #7: Sunset SUP
The activity we're introducing today is the SUP version of the sunset canoeing tour we mentioned earlier.
Because SUPs are so maneuverable, they're great for exploring various sights and spots during a sunset cruise.
Another great thing about SUP is that you can not only stand but also sit, lie down, or assume whatever position makes you feel most relaxed.
You will surely enjoy a moment of bliss as you watch the sun set quietly and forget about everything!
Ishigaki Island Company Trip Activities #8: Kayaking at the Blue Cave
Earlier, I introduced snorkeling at the Blue Cave, but kayaking is also highly recommended. I imagine there are companies where families can join in on company outings. Also, it’s not uncommon for people who aren’t strong swimmers or for groups of relatives with small children to have trouble participating in certain activities.
In that case, why not try kayaking? The kayaks used on tours tend to be on the larger side and are generally stable and highly buoyant.
As a result, the minimum age requirement is set quite low. In addition, since two-person kayaks are available, you won’t have to leave your child alone, so you can participate with peace of mind.
The water here is so clear—arguably the clearest in the country—that you can see the coral and tropical fish even from a kayak, so you’re sure to have a great time!
Ishigaki Island Company Retreat Activity #9: SUP at the Blue Cave
Next up is the ”Blue Cave SUP” activity!
If you think sea kayaks aren't very maneuverable and make it hard to get where you want to go smoothly, then SUP might be the right choice for you.
With SUP, since it’s not as large as a sea kayak and you can paddle in small, precise strokes, you can make tight turns and smoothly navigate to wherever you want to go.
Of course, since you can go faster than when snorkeling—whether you want to chase after fish you spot, race with your colleagues, or get to the Blue Cave easily—we highly recommend SUP at the Blue Cave!
Ishigaki Island Company Trip Activity #10: Firefly Tour
The last tour we will introduce is "Firefly Tour"!
Ishigaki Island is home to the Yaeyama Princess Firefly, a species found only in parts of the Yaeyama Islands. Known as Japan’s smallest firefly, it is characterized by its ability to glow only for short periods and its limited flying ability, which causes it to fly close to the ground, emitting sporadic flashes of light.
Hearing this far, it might seem a little lonely to watch, but in fact, this isn’t what the Yaeyama Princess Firefly is truly known for. These fireflies are known to gather in groups of several thousand or even tens of thousands and glow all at once. The sight is truly spectacular.
Because of its beauty."light carpet“...is what it’s known as. Since the season for viewing the Yaeyama Princess Firefly is limited to March through May, you’ll need to plan your visit specifically for that time.”
The tour leader chose this for a group tripRhizophora mucronata (species of midge)If you incorporate this experience into your itinerary, you’re sure to be praised for your good taste. Don’t miss the Yaeyama Princess Firefly viewing tour—it’s sure to move you!
社員旅行におすすめの飲食店5選
アクティビティを満喫した後は、社員みんなで楽しめる懇親会・打ち上げの場所も気になるところですよね。
大人数でも対応しやすいお店を厳選してご紹介します！
①Oceanfront Grill St. ELMO ISHIGAKI
石垣島の社員旅行の懇親会なら、The Restaurant Closest to the Ocean on Ishigaki Island「Oceanfront Grill St.ELMO ISHIGAKI」がおすすめです。
全48席は全席オーシャンビューで、ドレスコードもないので、アクティビティ後のラフな服装でも気兼ねなく利用できます。
You can enjoy Ishigaki beef steak whether you make a reservation for the same day or come without one.ので、旅程が決まってから幹事さんが予約しても間に合います。
少人数からまとまった人数までご相談いただけるので、社員旅行の締めくくりの食事としても対応しやすいお店です。
| address (e.g. of house) | 1629-3 Shinkawa, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture |
| sales Hours. |
Lunch: 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. Dinner 5:00 PM–10:00 PM |
| regular closing day | Wednesday |
| phone | 0980-87-6250 |
(2)YAKINIKU USHIGAKI
石垣島で人気を集める焼肉店「USHIGAKI」。美味しさはもちろん、洗練された空間と清潔感にもこだわっています。
石垣牛と全国から厳選した特選和牛を食べ比べながら、それぞれの個性や旨みをご堪能いただけます。
一口ごとに広がる香りや肉の旨み、五感に突き刺さる焼肉体験をご提供します。
On Ishigaki Island“本当に美味しい焼肉”を味わうなら、USHIGAKIで特別なひとときをお過ごしください。
| address (e.g. of house) | 1st Floor, Nishi Building, 9-9 Misaki-cho, Ishigaki City |
| sales Hours. |
11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. / 5:00 PM–11:00 PM |
| regular closing day | Open year-round (irregular holidays) |
| phone | 080-9857-8609 |
③石垣島ビアガーデンスカイ
夜景を楽しみながらビールが飲める、開放的な屋上のビアガーデンです。
石垣牛のバーベキューを楽しむことができ、大人数での宴会にぴったりの開放感There are
| address (e.g. of house) | Rooftop, RF, 249 Okawa, Ishigaki City, Okinawa, Japan |
| sales Hours. |
17:00-23:00 |
| regular closing day | non-scheduled holiday |
| phone | 0980-87-0072 |
④石垣牛MARU
社員みんなで焼肉を楽しみたいなら「石垣牛MARU」も外せません。
上質な石垣牛を一皿1,000円前後という手頃な価格で提供しており、希少部位も含めて種類豊富です。
夕方17時にオープンし、良い肉からどんどん売り切れるため「開店と同時に予約して訪れるのが吉」だとか。
団体での予約についても事前に相談しておくと安心です。
| address (e.g. of house) | 沖縄県石垣市登野城26−4 |
| sales Hours. |
17:00～22:30 |
| regular closing day | Tuesday |
| phone | 05017225409 |
⑤きたうち牧場
離島ターミナル近くにある大箱の焼肉レストランで、座席数120席と島内最大級。団体での利用にも向いています。
一番人気は特上焼肉定食で、サシたっぷりの石垣牛数種類を少しずつ食べ比べできる贅沢なセットです。
| address (e.g. of house) | 沖縄県石垣市浜崎町2-3-24 |
| sales Hours. |
11:30～14:30 16:30～22:00 |
| regular closing day | nashi (Pyrus pyrifolia, esp. var. culta) |
| phone | 0980837000 |
Conclusion
We’ve introduced some recommended activities for company trips to Ishigaki Island. What did you think?
I hope you found a variety of options—from classic activities perfect for groups to unique activities and tours that showcase the event planner’s good taste. All of these activities are ideal for company trips, so please feel free to use this list as a reference.
Thank you for reading to the end.
This article was written by.
