Introducing must-see tourist spots and model itineraries in Ishigaki Island

Ishigaki Island, the second largest island in Japan after Okinawa Main Island, boasts a variety of attractions, from its sea and mountains to its rich history.
While exploring islands like Taketomi Island and Iriomote Island and experiencing the unique character of each island is one of the charms of traveling in the Yaeyama Islands, Ishigaki Island, the base for exploring the Yaeyama Islands, also has plenty to see! This time, we'll introduce some of Ishigaki Island's representative tourist spots and model itineraries.
Please use this for reference.

<Table of Contents>
▼Natural scenic spots
・Kawahira Bay
・Yonehara Yaeyama Palm
・Tamatorizaki Observatory
・Hirakubo Cape
・Sekisei Lagoon (Phantom Island)
・Kawahira Tabagar
・Cape Goshinzaki
▼beach
・Fusaki Beach
・Yonehara Coast
・Maesato Beach
・Sukuji Beach
・Shiraho Coast
▼Tourist facilities and other attractions
・Ishigaki Yaima Village
・Yonago Yaki Kobo Sesame Farm
・Dolphin Fantasy Ishigaki Island
・Chinese tomb
・Prefectural Banna Park
・Ishigakijima Astronomical Observatory
・Ishigaki Island Limestone Cave
・Sabichi Cave
・Miyara-dono
・Torinji Temple
▼MODEL COURSE
・Half Day Course
・1-day course
▼Ishigaki Island Cuisine

Show all table of contents

Natural scenic spots

Kabira Bay

Located on Ishigaki Island in Okinawa Prefecture, this place boasts breathtaking scenery with its emerald green sea and white sandy beaches. It's the only place in Okinawa Prefecture to receive three stars in the Michelin Green Guide, making it a world-famous spot. While swimming is prohibited, a popular tourist activity is a glass-bottom boat tour. The water is so clear that you can observe coral reefs and tropical fish even from the glass-bottom boat – it's truly worth seeing.

Kawahira Bay

Address: 827-8 Kawadaira Uchihara, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture (Kawadaira Bay First Parking Lot)

Remarks: Glass-bottom boat tours (additional charge applies) operate from 9:00 to 17:00, with departures every 15 to 20 minutes.

Yonehara Yaeyama Palm

This is a type of palm tree called the Yaeyama palm, an endemic species that grows only in limited areas of Ishigaki Island. Due to its rarity, it has been designated a national natural monument. The tall trees are said to be "the most beautiful palms in the world" and create a unique tropical atmosphere. Another point to note is that rare plants and ecosystems, such as the Gilan fig, are protected in the surrounding area.

Yonehara Yaeyama Palm

Address: 491 Fukai, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture

Tamatorizaki Observatory

This observation deck is located at the entrance to the Hirakubo Peninsula in northern Ishigaki Island. It's about a 10-minute walk along a hibiscus-lined promenade to reach the observation deck. The contrast between the lush green hills of the Hirakubo Peninsula and the vibrant sea formed by coral reefs is breathtakingly beautiful. The varied and spectacular views make this a perfect spot to fully appreciate the grandeur of Ishigaki Island's nature.

Tamatorizaki Observatory

Address: Iharama, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture

HP: https://www.okinawastory.jp/spot/20400902

Hirakubo Cape

Located at the northernmost tip of Ishigaki Island, this cape is known as a scenic spot. Characterized by its landscape of lush green hills and a deep blue sea, on a clear day you can see the horizon stretching endlessly, and the sunset over the East China Sea is truly breathtaking. The sight of the white lighthouse standing against the blue sea is also picturesque. A refreshing drive through the pastures leading up to the lighthouse is also a delightful experience.

Hirakubo Cape

Address: Hirakubo, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture

HP: https://www.okinawastory.jp/spot/1376

Sekisei Lagoon (the phantom island)

Located between Ishigaki Island and Iriomote Island, this is Japan's largest coral reef system, stretching across the Yaeyama Islands. Spanning approximately 400 square kilometers, this vast area boasts a rich ecosystem, home to a wide variety of corals and tropical fish. Diving and snorkeling tours from the floating sandbar (the "phantom island") are popular marine activities. After surfacing, enjoy the resort-like atmosphere, surrounded by a sea of blue and white.

Sekisei Lagoon

Kabira Tabaga

This is one of Ishigaki Island's most iconic photo spots. The location is wonderful, with a beautiful contrast between the shallow sea and the white sand beach. The swing set up in one corner of the sandy beach and the dynamic rock formations make for a very picturesque scene. Among Ishigaki Island's beaches, it also has an appealing, secluded atmosphere. Driving along the overgrown road, which makes you wonder if there's really a beach ahead, is also a wild and scenic experience.

Kawahira Tabagar

Address: Kawadaira, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture

Uganzaki

Located at the westernmost tip of Ishigaki Island, where the Ogamisaki Lighthouse stands, this cape boasts towering cliffs and a beautiful ocean, and is particularly famous as a spot for watching sunsets. On clear days, the setting sun paints the sea red as it sinks below the horizon, creating a fantastical scene. The area around the cape is home to wild morning glories, and in spring, white trumpet lilies bloom profusely, showcasing the rich vegetation. It's a place where you can fully enjoy the natural beauty of Ishigaki Island.

Cape Goshinzaki

Address: Sakieda, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture

beach

Fusaki Beach

This beach is adjacent to Fusaki Beach Resort Hotel & Villas. Surrounded by coral reefs, this natural beach allows you to observe tropical fish even within the swimming area. With security guards on duty, it's a safe place to use, and you can enjoy more than 10 types of marine activities, including Fusaki cruises. The pier extending into the sea is also photogenic, and you can enjoy a beautiful sunset in the evening.

Fusaki Beach

Address: 1625 Shinkawa, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture

HP: https://www.fusaki.com/

Remarks: Summer operating period: Typically March 1st to October 31st

Yonehara Beach

This tranquil beach is adjacent to a pottery workshop and welcomes visitors with large Shisa statues. It boasts beautiful coral reefs and a lush green coastline, offering a rich and natural landscape including tropical fish, groves of Yaeyama palms (a national natural monument), and Mount Omoto (526m), Okinawa's highest peak. It's also a recommended spot for snorkeling, but caution is advised due to strong currents.

Yonehara Coast

Address: 644 Fukai, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture

Maesato Beach

This resort beach is located right in front of the ANA InterContinental Ishigaki Resort. Despite being close to the city center, it boasts crystal-clear waters. Even non-guests can use the beach, and the hot showers and changing rooms are free of charge. Marine leisure activities, including the island's largest floating obstacle course, "Maesato Ocean Park," are also popular.

Maesato Beach

Address: 354-1 Maezato, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture

HP: https://www.anaintercontinental-ishigaki.jp/

Opening hours: 9：00-17：00（3月～11月　12月～2月は10：00営業開始）

Sukuji Beach

Located near Kabira Bay, this is one of Ishigaki Island's classic spots. A white sandy beach stretches for about 1km, and the crystal-clear blue sea and shallow coastline create a magnificent landscape. Basic facilities such as showers and toilets are available, and you can enjoy various marine activities, including SUP & kayaking and pedal-powered kayaks (hobie). It's highly recommended for a relaxing time.

Sukuji Beach

Address: Kawadaira, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture

Shiraho Coast

This beautiful coastline on Ishigaki Island is known for having the largest colony of blue coral in the Northern Hemisphere. Heart-shaped corals can also be seen, and the sea, teeming with marine life, truly deserves to be called a paradise. The ideal coral reef area for snorkeling is about 1km from the shore, and at high tide, you'll need to travel there by boat. To protect the coral and ensure a safe snorkeling experience, it's recommended to join a snorkeling tour rather than going on your own.

Shiraho Coast

Address: 2107-2 Shiraho, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture

Tourist facilities and other attractions

Ishigaki Yaima Village

This theme park is located on a hill overlooking Nagura Bay in the southwestern part of Ishigaki Island. It recreates the charm of old Yaeyama amidst abundant nature. The 110-year-old red-tiled farmhouse, relocated from within the city, is a nationally registered tangible cultural property, and the space, filled with the sound of the sanshin (Okinawan stringed instrument), evokes a truly Okinawan travel atmosphere. The park also boasts a variety of hands-on experiences, such as trying on Ryukyuan costumes, creating star sand art, and painting Shisa (Okinawan guardian lion statues), making it a truly appealing destination.

Ishigaki Yaima Village

Address: 967-1 Nagura, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture

TEL: 0980-82-8798

HP: https://www.yaimamura.com/

Opening hours: 9:00-17:30 (Last entry accepted at 17:00) *Hours may change due to bad weather, etc.

Remarks: Admission fee: 1,200 yen for junior high school students and older, 600 yen for children, free for children under 2 years old.

Yoneko Pottery Workshop Shisa Farm

Located near Yonehara Beach and the Yonehara Yaeyama Palms, this pottery workshop and farm offers free admission. The grounds feature numerous unique, gigantic Shisa statues that defy the typical image of cute little Shisa, creating a somewhat mysterious spot that surprises visitors. After enjoying a stroll, browsing the colorful Shisa souvenirs at the on-site shop is also a fun activity.

Yonago Yaki Kobo Sesame Farm

Address: 447-1 Fukai, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture

TEL: 0980-88-2559

HP: https://yonekoyaki.com/

Opening hours: 9:00-16:50

Dolphin Fantasy Ishigaki Island

Located near the Yaeyama Ferry Terminal, this facility offers opportunities to interact with dolphins. It features three experience programs: a "Watching Course" where you can observe dolphin training; an "Interaction Course" where you can feed and interact with dolphins; and a "Swim Course" which includes all the activities of the Interaction Course plus the chance to swim with dolphins. These programs are enjoyable for both children and adults. Lectures on the history and ecology of dolphins are also popular.

Dolphin Fantasy Ishigaki Island

Address: Minami-no-hama-cho, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture

TEL: 0980-87-5088

HP: https://df-ishigaki.com/

Opening hours: 9:00-18:00 Each experience course has a set start time.

Remarks: Example price: Interaction Course 6,980 yen (Reservations preferred)

Chinese tomb

This is a tomb dedicated to the spirits of the Chinese who died in the Bowne incident. In the mid-19th century, while en route from China to America aboard the merchant ship Bowne, the Chinese crew, unable to endure the abuse any longer, rioted and killed the captain. As a result, they were abandoned on Ishigaki Island and either killed or taken prisoner by the British forces dispatched to the island. The Chinese Tomb was built to commemorate these Chinese. Behind its impressive exterior lies a tragic history.

Chinese tomb

Address: Shinkawa Tomisaki, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture

Prefectural Banna Park

This forest park is located in the northern part of Ishigaki City, around Mt. Banna (230m above sea level). From the Panna Park Observatory near the summit, you can see the emerald green Nagura Bay, and on a clear day, you can even see the islands of the Yaeyama archipelago. The views from the Banna Skyline, which runs through the center of the park, are magnificent, and the Southern Island Observatory, with its uniquely shaped windows that frame the scenery, is also a recommended spot.

Prefectural Banna Park

Address: 2241-1 Tonoshiro, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture

TEL: 0980-82-6993

HP: https://banna.jp/

Opening hours: 9: 00-21: 00

Remarks: *The observation deck on the Banna Skyline is open 24 hours a day.

Ishigakijima Astronomical Observatory

This astronomical observatory is located on a hill not far from the city center. It houses the Murikabushi Telescope, one of the largest reflecting telescopes in Japan at 105cm, and is primarily used for observing exoplanets and researching celestial bodies. It is also open to the public, and you can enjoy stargazing with a reservation. Ishigaki Island is also a popular destination for stargazing tours. Why not experience the mysteries of the universe under the clear night sky?

Ishigakijima Astronomical Observatory

Address: 沖縄県石垣市新川1024-1

TEL: 0980-88-0013

HP: https://murikabushi.jp/

Opening hours: Opening hours: 10:00-15:30. Please check the website for opening days.

Remarks: Facility tour: 100 yen; Space Theater: 400 yen; Stargazing event (reservations required): 500 yen

Ishigaki Island Limestone Cave

This massive limestone cave, a representative landmark of Ishigaki Island, was created by nature over approximately 20 years. It stretches for 3.2 km, with about 660 m open to the public. Inside, a mystical space unfolds, illuminated by lights, and the uniquely shaped stalactites and stalagmites captivate visitors. The cave remains cool and comfortable year-round, making it an ideal summer retreat.

Ishigaki Island Limestone Cave

Address: Ishigaki 1666, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture

TEL: 0980-83-1550

HP: https://www.ishigaki-cave.com/

Opening hours: 9:00-18:30 (Last entry to the cave is at 18:00)

Remarks: Admission fee: Adults 1,200 yen, Children 600 yen

Sabichi Cave

Along with Ishigaki Island's famous limestone cave, this is one of the island's most representative caves. It boasts a 300-meter-long tour route, where various shapes of stalactites and stalagmites abound. As you proceed through the cave, a beautiful ocean view unfolds at the end, offering the unique experience of combining cave exploration with beach sightseeing. The cave is illuminated, creating a fantastical atmosphere. It's a place where you can feel the natural mystery of Ishigaki Island.

Sabichi Cave

Address: 185-44 Iharama, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture

TEL: 0980-89-2121

HP: https://www.ishigaki-ibaruma.com/

Opening hours: 9:30-17:00 (last entry 16:30)

Remarks: High school students and older: 1,200 yen; Ages 4 to junior high school students: 600 yen

Miyara-donchi (Mēra-dōnujii)

Located near Ishigaki Port, this Ryukyu Kingdom-era residence is also known as "Merayaradunuji." Modeled after the samurai residences of Shuri, it is a valuable building designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Incidentally, "Denuchi" is an honorific title for the residence of a family holding a high-ranking position. Characterized by its red tiled roof, wooden pillars, and spacious garden, it allows visitors to experience the lifestyle and culture of that era.

Miyara-dono

Address: 178 Okawa, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture

HP: https://www.okinawastory.jp/spot/1370

Opening hours: 9:00-17:00 Closed on Tuesdays

Remarks: Admission fee: Adults 200 yen, Elementary to High School Students 150 yen

Torinji Temple

This is Okinawa's oldest Buddhist temple, founded in 1614 by King Sho Shin. In 1956, the oldest wooden Nio statues in Okinawa, enshrined in the temple gate, were designated as a prefectural tangible cultural property, and the adjacent Gongendo hall was designated as a national important cultural property. The main hall has a red tiled roof, and the temple grounds feature beautiful gardens, stone monuments, and unique Ryukyuan stone walls, making it a place where you can feel the history and culture of the Ryukyu Kingdom era in a tranquil atmosphere.

Torinji Temple

Address: Ishigaki 285, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture

TEL: 0980-82-2142

HP: https://www.tourinji.net/

Opening hours: 7: 00-18: 00

MODEL COURSE

Half Day Course

Tamatorizaki → Kabira Bay → Ishigaki Yaima Village → Fusaki Beach (sunset)

Let's start at Tamatorizaki Observatory. Here you can enjoy a panoramic view of the beautiful blue sea and the rolling hills that stretch to the Hirakubo Peninsula. Afterwards, we'll head to Kabira Bay. Kabira Bay is a spectacular spot with crystal-clear waters and beautiful coral reefs, and you can enjoy the underwater scenery by taking a glass-bottom boat ride. Next, let's visit Ishigaki Yaima Village and enjoy sightseeing to experience Ryukyu culture and nature. Finally, we'll move to Fusaki Beach to enjoy the sunset. Fusaki Beach is famous for its sunsets, and we'll end our trip with a photogenic sunset. You can fully enjoy the natural beauty and culture of Ishigaki Island in just half a day.

1-day course

Kabira Bay → Yonehara Yaeyama Palm → Yoneko Pottery Workshop → Hirakubo Cape → Banna Park → Ishigaki Island Limestone Cave → Ishigaki Yaima Village → Ogami Cape (Sunset)

We'll start at Kabira Bay. Take a glass-bottom boat and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of crystal-clear waters and beautiful coral reefs. Next, we'll head to Yonehara Yaeyama Palms. Here, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of lush palm trees. Afterwards, we'll visit the nearby Yoneko Pottery Workshop. This is a photo spot with unique giant Shisa statues standing throughout the grounds. Finally, we'll move on to Hirakubo Cape. From this cape, located at the northernmost tip of Ishigaki Island, you can admire a magnificent panoramic view of the landscape and the sea.

Once we return to the city center, we head to Banna Park. Here, surrounded by abundant nature, the vast park offers stunning ocean views from the observation deck and refreshing walks through the forest. Next, we visit Ishigaki Island Limestone Cave. The stalactites, formed over many years, exude a mystical atmosphere. Afterwards, we move to Ishigaki Yaima Village to see and observe Ryukyu culture, traditional houses, and flora and fauna. Finally, we head to Cape Ogami, a little distance from the city center. Known as a famous spot for sunsets, the beautiful sunset viewed over the lighthouse is the perfect way to end the day.

Ishigaki Island Cuisine

Yuhei Tonosho, a cyclist and photographer who delves deep into Japan

Born in 1993 in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture. Graduated from Doshisha University, Faculty of Letters, Department of Cultural History and Department of English Literature. While working as a salaryman, he is a travel writer who travels all over Japan by bicycle and mountain climbing. He captures and shares the changing seasons of Japan with all his senses.