One-hour direct flight to Ishigaki Island – Queenie & Brother Hung lead the way to experience tropical charm

Reported by Travel Center / Taipei

The newly opened Ishigaki Island International Airport in March (2013) is seen as a major boon by domestic travel operators, prompting airlines to actively launch direct flights. It has been confirmed that TransAsia Airways will operate one weekly flight from Taoyuan International Airport to Ishigaki Island every Thursday and Sunday starting May 23; China Airlines is expected to begin offering one weekly direct flight every Wednesday and Saturday from July. Well-known travel bloggers Queenie and Brother Hung are also preparing to take enthusiastic fans to Okinawa’s Yaeyama Islands to be among the first to experience the convenience of direct flights and the unique tropical charm of Okinawa.


▲ With a total area of just 9 square kilometers, tiny Kobama Island boasts the world’s second-largest coral reef system, pollution-free beaches, and zero-light-pollution starry skies. (Photo / Provided by operator)
Direct flights make Okinawa travel even more appealing
Among the over 160 islands of varying sizes in Japan’s Okinawa Prefecture, the Yaeyama Islands – including Ishigaki, Taketomi, Kobama, and Iriomote – are the closest to Taiwan. As the administrative and transportation hub of the region, Ishigaki Island previously lacked an international airport. Travelers from Taiwan had to either take irregular chartered flights, cruise ships, or first fly to the more distant Naha International Airport before transferring to a domestic Japanese flight to reach Ishigaki, incurring both time and cost. The opening of Ishigaki’s new airport and the introduction of direct flights from Taiwan not only save travelers time and airfare but, more importantly, eliminate the physical and mental exhaustion of transfers.

The inaugural direct flight by TransAsia Airways on May 23 marks a milestone in reshaping travel between Taiwan and Okinawa. Rolisa Tour President Tang Guizhen noted, “From now on, travelers heading to the Yaeyama Islands for a vacation can simply pack their suitcases and wallets and be on their way to Ishigaki Island in just one hour – closer than taking the high-speed rail from Taipei to Kaohsiung. From Ishigaki, it takes just 10 to 40 minutes by boat to reach Taketomi, Kobama, or Iriomote Islands, where you can fully enjoy the warm embrace of sunshine, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters. This is undoubtedly highly attractive to customers who love island getaways and are savvy about budgeting.”

Premium hotels that preserve nature and offer international-level service
Hoshino Resorts President Hoshino Yoshiharu stated that for most Japanese, the Yaeyama Islands are a hidden paradise that retains pristine natural scenery and simple, traditional culture. Because they are farther from mainland Japan, travel costs are relatively higher. “As such, the majority of visitors from Japan tend to be mid- to high-end

▲Iriomote Island is the largest island in the Yaeyama region, but over 90% of it is covered by pristine forests and mangrove swamps. (Photo provided by the operator)

First direct flight from Ishigaki, team leader Jian takes fans to Iriomote Island
Iriomote Island is the largest island in the Yaeyama region, but over 90% of it is covered by pristine forests and mangrove swamps. The island is home to a variety of rare flora and fauna, including the world-famous Iriomote wild cat and the precious coconut crab. Nestled within this natural paradise, "Hoshinoya Nirakanai Iriomote" blends seamlessly with the island’s environment. Its architectural design features elegant tones of brown and white, complemented by dense, lush greenery that evokes a tropical ambiance. The resort offers activities such as hiking, forest trekking, canoeing, stream climbing, snorkeling, and water play, allowing you to explore Iriomote's stunning ecosystems under the guidance of professional guides. On May 23, popular blogger "Jian Toujian" will lead fans on an exclusive trip to Iriomote Island to experience its pristine forests, mangrove canoeing, and the tropical charm of Okinawa.

Relax and enjoy life on Kohamajima Island, where the queen takes fans on a foodie adventure
Kohamajima Island, with a total area of just 9 square kilometers, boasts the world’s second-largest coral reef system, pollution-free beaches, zero-light-pollution starry skies, and Japan’s southernmost golf course. "Hoshinoya Risonare Kohamajima" stands proudly on this small island, with each guest room being exceptionally spacious and designed with a fusion of tropical and stylish aesthetics. Here, you can also savor innovative Italian cuisine with Ryukyuan flavors. On July 11, the queen will lead a fan group to Kohamajima Island to enjoy the delicious food and beautiful scenery of Okinawa.

This summer, the Yaeyama Islands are closer and trendier than southern Taiwan
Rolisa Tour President Tang Guizhen pointed out that both Kohamajima and Iriomote have their own unique appeal. "Generally, tour packages offered by travel agencies for three or four nights, or four or five nights, mainly use hotels as bases with two meals included (breakfast and dinner), along with one or two guided hikes or snorkeling activities arranged by the hotel. These packages allow travelers to visit Ishigaki, Kohamajima, and Iriomote all in one trip, while also experiencing a range of boutique hotels and enjoying diverse services. For travelers who prefer not to join group tours and want more flexibility with their time, independent travel is also a great option. No visa is required—just book a round-trip flight, reserve your accommodation, and within less than three hours, you can immerse yourself in the endless blue seas and skies, enjoying a luxurious vacation of relaxation, food, and fun on a tropical island."

This summer, with the introduction of direct flights to Ishigaki Island, island holiday lovers now have a vacation destination that’s closer than southern Taiwan, even more tranquil, and rich in exotic charm.

Team leader Jian’s first direct flight tour activity website:
http://www.liontravel.com/webpd/webpdsh00.aspx?sprod=13jo523gea&Sprima=trs37R3A11
Queen’s Okinawa fan group event: Please contact ROLISA TOUR