A 45-minute flight to Ishigaki Island — Resort shows rival Cirque du Soleil

Reported and photographed by reporter Chen Ying-pei in Ishigaki Island

Ishigaki Island belongs to Ishigaki City in Okinawa Prefecture, just 270 kilometers off the coast of Yilan, Taiwan. A direct flight from Taiwan takes only 45 minutes, and you’ll be greeted by stunning scenery reminiscent of the Maldives. Club Med resort offers an all-inclusive, meticulously crafted holiday experience. Each evening, you can head to the theater to watch special performances prepared by the G.O.s (short for Gentle Organizer, the general term for resort staff) exclusively for guests. The shows vary daily, featuring Okinawan local songs and dances, gymnastic circus acts, and a wide array of dynamic dance performances — all refined to a level comparable to Cirque du Soleil.


▲ The beautiful seascape of Ishigaki Island can be seen from the resort rooms.

Club Med Kabira Beach is the largest and most diverse resort on Ishigaki Island. It offers a wide range of land and water activities, such as archery, beach yoga, trapeze, pool aerobics, mountain biking, fitness center, and various ball games. You can also book spa treatments and nail art services, arranging your leisure just the way you like it.

As for water activities, they are the main attraction. Gazing at the crystal-clear, gradient blue-green waters with waves stacking like snowflakes, and feeling the gentle breeze while walking barefoot on the fine white sand, you’ll feel as if you’re embracing the ocean alone — a seamless harmony between heaven, earth, and humanity. Take a deep breath, then try some beach yoga to rejuvenate both body and soul.

For something more thrilling, try a transparent canoe. Transparent canoes are one of the highlights here, as the sea is so clear you can see the underwater world while gliding along. If you want to swim with the fish, snorkeling and scuba diving are also available — an experience that’s sure to amaze. Still not enough excitement? Then you must try stand-up paddleboarding. G.O. instructors will guide you, and you won’t know the thrill of riding the waves until you try it.

▲ The resort offers a variety of water activities for you to experience.

When you’re tired of playing, head to the bar for drinks and conversation. But even better, go listen to a performance of sanshin (a three-stringed instrument), Okinawa’s most famous and distinctive musical tradition. You’ll feel the simple, tender, and deeply emotional melodies, accompanied by sea views, island scenery, mountain vistas, and the setting sun. The lingering notes will captivate you completely.


▲ The sanshin performance paired with the seascape has a unique charm.

There’s also a kids’ play area exclusively for children. You can confidently leave your little ones in the care of the G.O.s, who have organized a variety of games and arts-and-crafts activities. Kids even have their own swimming pool, so parents don’t have to constantly supervise. You can relax and join in the resort activities while having fun.

At dinner time, head to the restaurant to enjoy a variety of international buffet dishes — the chefs’ freshly made creations are not to be missed. In the evening, the bar area features performances by G.O.s from around the world, who sing and interact with the audience. You can also gather with friends to request songs, sing tunes from your own country, or dance. In this foreign land, there’s a unique sense of familiarity, and gathering with friends from all over the world for fun is a truly relaxing experience.


▲ The tender and flavorful Ishigaki beef requires advance reservation to enjoy.