On Yarabu-dake, a small mountain on the west side of Ishigaki Island, there is a hiking trail that offers breathtaking views in just 15 minutes one way. Near the summit is a distinctive large rock called "Troll's Tongue," from which a panoramic view of the jungle and the East China Sea unfolds.
While it's not a developed tourist destination, the area boasts dynamic natural scenery and is conveniently located near other famous Ishigaki Island spots like Kabira Bay and Cape Ogami, making it a great choice for those seeking a unique and unforgettable experience.
1.Yarabu-dake is a small mountain located in western Ishigaki Island.
2.There are two hiking trails; check the trailheads on the map.
3.A model course to enjoy the spectacular scenery along with Mount Yarabu.
4.In conclusion: Ishigaki Island's nature is more than just the sea.
▼ORDS
Yarabu-dake is a small mountain located in western Ishigaki Island.
Yarabu-dake is a mountain with an elevation of approximately 217m located on the Yarabu Peninsula in western Ishigaki Island. It is about a 30-minute drive from Ishigaki city center and about 15 minutes from Kabira Bay.
Although the elevation is not high, the view from the summit is spectacular due to the open terrain to the west.
"Troll's Tongue," a symbolic landmark near the summit of Mount Yarabu, has a unique shape with a flat, plate-like top. It's a must-see spot if you're climbing Mount Yarabu. Troll's Tongue truly serves as a pedestal for a spectacular view, offering a panoramic vista of the beautiful sea and deep forest framed by the island's coastline.
Just like the crystal-clear blue sea, the lush forest stretching out below is a landscape unique to Ishigaki Island. "Troll's Tongue" is a natural rocky area with no fences or barriers, so please enjoy it safely and without taking unnecessary risks.
There are two hiking trails; check the trailheads on the map.
Mount Yarabu offers two hiking routes: a short course that takes 15 minutes and a regular course that takes 45 minutes.
The short course is located northeast of the summit of Mt. Yarabu. There are markers for the trailhead on guardrails and trees near the trailhead.
The regular trail is located northwest of the summit of Yatabe-dake. There is also a sign at the trailhead for this route.
Neither trailhead has a dedicated parking lot, so you will have to park on the street. When visiting, please be considerate of traffic and park in a way that does not obstruct it.
Furthermore, the trails are not well-maintained like tourist walking paths; you'll be traversing through dense trees. Even if it's not raining, the ground can be muddy, so comfortable walking shoes are essential, even for the short course. Bringing a towel, drinking water, and work gloves is also highly recommended.
Some people who climbed Mt. Yarabu have left reviews saying they couldn't find "Troll's Tongue." In addition, there is a risk of getting lost or becoming stranded, so if you are not used to mountain climbing or are worried, we recommend joining a tour.
▶Search "Yarabu-dake Tour" on Google.
A model course to enjoy the spectacular scenery along with Mount Yarabu.
If you're planning a visit to Yarabu-dake, I recommend combining it with a drive around western Ishigaki Island.
Nearby is Cape Onsen, known as one of the island's best sunset viewing spots, and about a 20-minute drive away is the scenic Kabira Bay.
You can enjoy not only stunning ocean views, but also scenery of forests and mountains.
Model course:
■Kabira Bay sightseeing boat
■Lunch near Kabira Bay *Drinking water will be purchased near Kabira.
↓ Approximately 20 minutes by car
■ Yarabu-dake (Troll's Tongue) Short Course
↓ Approximately 10 minutes by car
■ Ishigaki Island Fruit Land
↓ Approximately 3 minutes by car
■Sunset at Ogamizaki
In conclusion: Ishigaki Island's nature is more than just the sea.
Okinawa is known for its beautiful seas, but Ishigaki Island offers mountain scenery in addition to the ocean!
One of the charms of a trip to Ishigaki Island is that you can encounter the simple yet wild nature typical of remote islands just by venturing out a little further.
To ensure this beautiful natural environment is preserved for future generations, please remember to be considerate of the natural environment and your surroundings, and visit while observing proper etiquette.
