Ishigaki Island
Ishigaki Island

Ishigaki Island

The second-largest and most populated island of the Yaeyama Island group in the East China Sea, Ishigaki Island (Ishigaki-jima is also the hub of the archipelago. The island appeals to visitors with its beautiful beaches, excellent snorkel and dive sites, and opportunities for kayaking along rivers and hiking through the hilly interior. 

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Okinawa

The basics

Sukuji Beach is one of the island’s prettiest beaches and ideal for families looking to swim in the crystal clear waters. The coral reefs off Yonehara Beach attract both novice and experienced snorkelers who say the close-to-shore aquatic life is some of the best on the island. Sunset Beach, located in a cove along the western side of Ishigaki's northeastern peninsula, also offers swimming and snorkeling but most of the beach is surrounded by a net to protect swimmers from habu jellyfish (a type of box jellyfish).

Travelers looking to venture into the other islands in the Yaeyama group can take a tour from Ishigaki. Tours typically take care of all logistics including round-trip ferry transfers, helping to keep down costs and ensuring a hassle-free trip.

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Things to know before you go

  • Ishigaki Island is an ideal base for those wishing to venture to Japan’s most far-flung islands.
  • Major beaches all have showers, restrooms, and changing facilities.
  • Most beaches are not patroled by lifeguards.
  • Habu jellyfish are most prevalent from June to October.
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How to get there

Direct flights are available from Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya to Ishigaki Airport. You can also get a flight from Naha, Miyako, and Yonaguni within Okinawa. Ferries connect Ishigaki to the other Yaeyama Islands. Buses operate frequently between the airport and central Ishigaki, taking 30-45 minutes. The easiest way to get around the island is by rental car or by taking a tour.

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When to get there

The beaches around Ishigaki Island are open year-round, but they are at their best from April to November when the temperature heats up; bear in mind, though, that this is also the island’s busiest period. Outside of summer, some beach facilities may be closed.

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Yaeyama Islands

Formerly part of the Ryukyu Kingdom, the Yaeyama Islands have a rich history and culture, distinct to that of the rest of Japan. You can learn more by visiting the Yaeyama Museum, open year-round, which displays such artifacts as wooden canoes, pottery, and traditional clothing, as well as items from the various cultural festivals and celebrations held across the islands.

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Frequently Asked Questions
The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
Q:
What are the nearest attractions to Ishigaki Island?
A:

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