Ishigaki & the Yaeyama Islands
Ishigaki is the most developed of the Yaeyama Islands, the southernmost group of islands in the Okinawa Prefecture and in all of Japan. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and white-sand beaches, cobalt skies above and towering tropical mountains in its interior, this island is a true paradise for nature lovers who want to get away from it all.
Go snorkeling or scuba diving to catch a glimpse of the majestic manta rays and other marine life, take a stroll along the beach or an easy hike through the palm groves. Ishigaki is known for its many musical and dancing traditions, and scattered around the island are also various museums showcasing architecture and craftsmanship from throughout the Yaeyama archipelago.
Iriomote is a largely undeveloped island and 90% of it is covered in jungle. The entire island is designated as a national park, by many considered to be Japan’s most unique national park as it’s teeming with wildlife and flora you won’t find anywhere else. Marvel at the island’s impressive waterfalls, go on a jungle trek or try to spot some of the endemic wildlife as you kayak through the mangroves. At night, Iriomote is also great for stargazing as the light pollution is very low, and in early summer fireflies make the evenings even more magical.
The tiny island of Taketomi is home to traditional ryukyu architecture, and the low buildings with their red tile roofs, surrounded by pink hibiscus, bougainvilleas and plenty of lion-like shisa figurines to ward off evil spirits, are a nostalgic and romantic sight.
Kabira Bay
Marvel at the unbelievably blue sea at Kabira Bay and discover the creatures that live beneath its surface on a glass-bottom boat ride. The bay is considered to be Ishigaki’s most scenic view and is also one of Japan’s just two cultivation sites for black pearls.
Manta scramble
Manta rays gather at the manta scramble off the coast of Ishigaki, and these peaceful giants of the sea are indeed a sight to behold. Even beginners can join diving excursions and set out to look for these magnificent creatures.
Hoshizuna Beach
Hoshizuna Beach is famous for its star-shaped sand, formed by foraminifera shells. The beach offers nice swimming and snorkeling although the water is very shallow during low tide. Several forested little islets dotting the bay can be seen from the beach.
Yamaneko Museum
Visit this museum to learn more about the shy Iriomote wildcat (yamaneko) and other species endemic to the island. The museum also serves as a refuge for rescued yamaneko that are unfortunately often injured by cars, and the cats can be observed through live video streams.
Ishigaki Yaima Village
The Ishigaki Yaima Village is home to a collection of relocated residences from across the archipelago, many of them more than 100 years old. A troop of friendly squirrel monkeys live in the nearby forest, and visitors often get the chance to see and interact with them.
Yonehara Beach
Yonehara is one of Ishigaki’s nicest and most popular beaches, for the most part covered in tiny pieces of pretty white coral. It offers great snorkeling at its reef just off the coast, and snorkeling equipment can be rented nearby.
Pinaisara Falls
With its 55 meter vertical drop, Pinaisara is Okinawa’s tallest waterfall, and it can only be accessed through a guided kayak tour followed by a short jungle hike. Walking through the giant ferns and other tropical plants will make you wonder if you’re still in Japan.
Taketomi villages
Visiting the tranquil Taketomi villages is like stepping back in time. With their red-tiled roofs and coral sand streets lined with pink hibiscus and bougainvillea there is a nostalgic feel to these sleepy little towns.
Sunset Beach
This beach is located towards the Hirakubo peninsula at the northernmost tip of the island and offers good snorkeling and swimming even during low tide. The name speaks for itself - stunning sunsets over the ocean can be enjoyed from here.
Tamatorizaki Observatory
The Tamatorizaki Observatory is located on the northeastern coast and offers amazing views towards the Hirakubo peninsula where the Pacific and East China Sea meet. Views of the stunning ocean, its reefs and the lush surroundings can all be enjoyed from here.
Kondoi Beach
Kondoi is Taketomi’s best beach and the only one with public facilities. It’s big and sandy, and while the water is too shallow to swim in at low tide, it’s the perfect place to laze in the sun or enjoy a picnic lunch at the nearby grassy area.
Kayak River Tours
The mangrove forests here are crisscrossed by rivers and streams, perfect to explore on a leisurely kayak tour with a guide who can point out all the curious details about Iriomote’s fascinating flora and fauna.
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