The picturesque and unpolluted Ishigaki Island is close to Taiwan, located about 250 kilometers northeast of Taiwan. Although it belongs to Okinawa Prefecture, it is actually closer to Taiwan than to Okinawa’s main island. A direct flight from Taiwan takes just under 50 minutes.

 

Ishigaki Island, along with Taketomi Island, Iriomote Island, Kohama Island, Kuroshima Island, Hateruma Island, Hatoma Island, and Aragusuku Island, is collectively known as the Yaeyama Islands. Though smaller in area than Iriomote Island, the latter’s rugged terrain makes it unsuitable for habitation. As a result, Ishigaki Island has become the main island of the Yaeyama region, with over 80% of the population concentrated here. Ishigaki City serves as the political and economic hub, making it arguably the southernmost city in all of Japan. You don’t even need to go looking for parks here — the whole island is a garden.

You can imagine yourself as a dolphin, gliding through the breathtaking blue seas and skies, while over 2,000 species of coral and marine life take you on an underwater adventure. Or picture yourself as a dandelion seed, dancing across mountainous wilds more beautiful than any park, where you’ll often be greeted by grazing cattle and leisurely egrets. The mountains are lush green, the breeze is gentle, and the air is filled with the fresh scent of grass. With its refreshing brightness all year round, this place is Japan’s most enchanting “southern paradise.”

 

Locatedat the northern tip of Ishigaki, Kabira Bay boasts emerald and light blue waters, fine white sands, and is surrounded by small islands covered in lush greenery.It was once voted one of Japan’s Top 100 Scenic Spots and is renowned as the “Last Paradise of Japan.” The observation deck at Kabira Park offers the best views of the bay. From here, the tranquil, crystal-clear waters stretch out before you — if not for the occasional glass-bottomed boat passing by, you might think you were admiring a painting.

Kabira Bay is still home to over 200 species of reef-building corals, but due to strong currents, swimming is not allowed. To admire the coral and tropical fish, visitors can take a glass-bottom boat tour, which lasts about 30 minutes. This area is also home to Japan’s only black pearl farm.

In addition to Kabira Bay, there are many great spots for water activities along Ishigaki’s coast, but Ogimi Beach Campsite is the most popular. Aside from its especially beautiful sea and sand, another major draw is that camping and water play here are completely free. Every summer, university students from all over Japan flock here for vacation — arrive too late and you might not find a spot.

 

 

Ishigaki Island Summer Water Adventure — 5 Days & 4 Nights