The crystal-clear "fish fields" of Kohamajima – you can still see your whole body when diving underwater

Reported & photographed by reporter You / Ishigaki Island




The stunning sea area known as the “fish fields” is a rare sight in the world.

Located to the west of Ishigaki Island, Kohamajima can be reached by boat in about 20 minutes. Since the Taoyuan–Ishigaki route began operating at the end of May 2013 (year 102 in Taiwan’s calendar), flying from Taiwan to Ishigaki takes just 40 minutes, plus a 20-minute boat ride. To reach the “fish fields” (Osakana badake) of Kohamajima, it only takes a morning to easily jump into the sea and enjoy a dazzling and surprising ocean experience.

Captain Maeda explains that the sea area known locally as the “fish fields” not only has a rich variety of fish and colorful coral, but is also a shallow paradise perfect for snorkeling – accessible only during high tide. During low tide, the distance between the coral reefs and sea level is extremely short, making it difficult for boats to pass even if they wanted to, out of fear of damaging the coral. When passing through the shallow coral reef areas, Captain Maeda would slow the boat down several times to carefully navigate over the coral, anxious not to harm it – a reflection of his deep care and protectiveness for his hometown.






It takes about thirty minutes by boat from Kohamajima to reach the “fish fields.” When the boat stops on the expanse of coral rocks, looking out at the sea from the boat, the ocean shows beautifully layered shades of light blue and aquamarine depending on the distribution of the coral. Peering over the edge of the boat into the sea, one can clearly see schools of fish swimming through the coral – a breathtaking view.

“Be careful in the water, and don’t step on the coral to avoid harming it,” Captain Maeda reminds. After putting on snorkeling gear and jumping into the water, we find ourselves during coral spawning season, with white, cloudy bubbles floating on the sea surface – a sign that the water here remains unpolluted. As I dive in, colorful schools of tropical fish swim past, and the water is so clear and calm that even first-time snorkelers can comfortably enjoy this pure, natural environment.

To help first-timers feel at ease, the snorkeling instructor repeatedly demonstrates moves underwater. Amazingly, when she dives, every movement and posture can be clearly seen from the boat – the clarity of the water is astounding, making the “fish fields”’ natural beauty truly admirable.





For a Kohamajima itinerary, you can refer to Tang Guizhen International Travel Agency →http://www.rolisa-tour.com.tw/index.php