Ishigaki Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Island

Facts and practical information

Known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, Ishigaki Island is a tropical paradise located in the Okinawa region of Japan. This idyllic destination offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventurous activities that cater to all types of travelers.

One of the main highlights of Ishigaki is its pristine beaches. With powdery white sand and turquoise waters, it's no wonder that many visitors flock to Kabira Bay. This picturesque bay is famous for its beautiful coral reefs, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Take a glass-bottom boat tour to explore the vibrant underwater world or simply relax on the beach while enjoying the breathtaking views.

For those seeking a more active adventure, Ishigaki offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Hike up to the top of Mount Omoto, the highest peak in Okinawa, and be rewarded with panoramic views of the island. Explore the island's lush jungles and discover hidden waterfalls, such as the picturesque Pinaisara Falls, where you can take a refreshing dip in the cool waters.

Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Ishigaki by visiting its traditional villages. The Yaeyama Museum showcases the island's unique heritage, with exhibits on traditional crafts, music, and dance. Take a stroll through the streets of Kabira Bay Village and admire the traditional houses and local handicraft shops. Don't miss the chance to try the island's famous Ishigaki beef, known for its exceptional flavor and tenderness.

Another must-visit attraction in Ishigaki is the stunning Hirakubo Lighthouse. Located on the northernmost tip of the island, this iconic lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline and the East China Sea. Capture the perfect sunset photo or indulge in a romantic picnic with your loved ones as you soak in the serene atmosphere.

Local name: 石垣島 Population: 44.8 thous.Area: 85.81 mi²Maximum elevation: 1724 ftArchipelago: Yaeyama IslandsCoordinates: 24°25'34"N, 124°12'11"E

Location

OkinawaJapan

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Ishigaki Top Attractions

Ishigaki Attractions - What to See and Explore

Ishigaki offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Mount Omoto, Kabira Bay, Shiraho Saonetabaru Cave Ruins, Tang ren mu. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Nature • Natural attraction • Mountain
Mount Omoto
Mount Omoto is a mountain located on Ishigaki Island in Okinawa, Japan. Together, with Kabira Bay, it is a nationally designated Place of Scenic Beauty.
Beach
Kabira Bay
Kabira Bay is located on the north coast of Ishigaki Island, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. Renowned for its white sands, turquoise waters and dense vegetation, the bay forms part of the Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park.
Archaeological site
Shiraho Saonetabaru Cave Ruins
Shiraho Saonetabaru Cave Ruins is a paleoanthropological site located on Ishigaki Island of the Yaeyama Islands in Japan. Shiraho Saonetabaru is a limestone cave. It was discovered in 2007 when plans for the New Ishigaki Airport were being developed.

Day trips

Ishigaki – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Ishigaki, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Tarama Prefectural Natural Park (Tarama), Ishigaki City Yaeyama Museum (Ishigaki), Kayama Island (Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park).

35 milesNE
Park
Tarama Prefectural Natural Park, Tarama
Tarama Prefectural Natural Park is a Prefectural Natural Park on and around the islands of Tarama and Minna, in the village of Tarama, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. The park was established in 2011 and includes a designated marine zone of 31.47 km².
6.6 miSW
Specialty museum, Museum
Ishigaki City Yaeyama Museum, Ishigaki
Ishigaki City Yaeyama Museum opened in 1972 in Ishigaki, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. The collection covers the archaeology, history, art, and folk traditions of Ishigaki and the Yaeyama Islands.
14 milesW
Area
Kayama Island, Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park
Kayama Island is a small uninhabited island located in the Yaeyama Islands of Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. It situated 2 kilometers northeast of Kohama Island. It is known for its rabbit population, numbering anywhere between 500 and 1,000. Travel agencies offer tours to the island.
5.1 miS
Forts and castles
Furusutobaru Castle, Ishigaki
Furusutobaru Castle is a Ryukyuan gusuku in Ishigaki, Okinawa. It is located on Ishigaki Island next to Miyara Bay. It was listed as one of the Historic Sites of Japan in 1978.
6.4 miSW
19th-century house and traditional garden
Miyaradunchi, Ishigaki
The old residence of Miyaradunchi is located on the island of Ishigaki, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. Erected around 1819 by the local governor, it has been designated an Important Cultural Property as representative of the architecture of the Yaeyama Islands.