Ishigaki Island


At a Glance


Introduction to Ishigaki Island

Welcome to Ishigaki Island, the vibrant heart of Okinawa’s stunning Yaeyama archipelago. This complete ishigaki island guide is your essential resource for planning an unforgettable journey to this tropical paradise. Renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, from pristine beaches and world-class diving spots to lush landscapes, Ishigaki serves as both a captivating destination in itself and the primary gateway to the surrounding remote islands like Taketomi and Iriomote.

Whether you’re seeking adventure beneath the waves, relaxation on sun-drenched shores, or an immersion in unique Ryukyu culture, Ishigaki offers a diverse array of experiences. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from how to get there and navigate the island, to the must-see attractions, best activities, and practical advice for making the most of your stay.


Quick Facts About Ishigaki

  • Japanese Names: 石垣島 (いしがきじま)
  • Romaji: Ishigaki-jima
  • Location: Yaeyama Islands, Okinawa Prefecture, East China Sea
  • Main Hub: Political, economic, and transport center of the Yaeyama Islands
  • Primary Access: New Ishigaki Airport (ISG)
  • Famous For: Beaches, diving, snorkeling, gateway to other Yaeyama Islands
  • Best Time to Visit: March-May and September-November
  • Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY)
  • Language: Japanese (some English in tourist areas)

Geographic Location & Map

Ishigaki Island is the second largest of the Yaeyama Islands, strategically positioned in the East China Sea. It lies approximately 260 km east of Taiwan and significantly west of Okinawa Main Island, serving as the central hub for the entire region. The island’s coordinates are approximately 24.4087° N, 124.2005° E, placing it in a subtropical climate zone that contributes to its lush environment and warm waters.

Note: This map shows the approximate center of Ishigaki Island. For beaches, attractions, and specific locations, see the detailed sections below.


Getting There & Away

By Air

The primary and most practical way to reach Ishigaki Island is by air, arriving at **New Ishigaki Airport (南ぬ島石垣空港 – Painushima Ishigaki Kūkō)**, with IATA code: **ISG**. The airport is located on the eastern side of the island, roughly a 30-minute drive from the main city center and port. Airport buses (Azuma Bus) and taxis are readily available for transfers.

  • Domestic Flights: Direct flights are available from major Japanese cities, making Ishigaki highly accessible from within Japan:
  • Tokyo (Haneda – HND, Narita – NRT): ~3-3.5 hours
  • Osaka (Kansai – KIX): ~2.5 hours
  • Nagoya (Chubu – NGO): ~3 hours
  • Fukuoka (FUK): ~2 hours
  • Okinawa Main Island (Naha – OKA): ~1 hour
  • International Flights: Limited direct international flights are available, primarily from Taipei (TPE) and Hong Kong (HKG). These routes are often seasonal, so it’s essential to check airline schedules in advance due to their high volatility.

    • By Sea

    While Ishigaki is a major ferry hub for inter-island travel, there are **no regular passenger ferries** connecting Ishigaki Island directly from mainland Japan or Okinawa Main Island (Naha). Air travel remains the exclusive practical method for reaching Ishigaki from these locations.

    However, Ishigaki is the undisputed gateway to the Yaeyama Islands. All ferries for island hopping depart from the **Ishigaki Port Ritoh Terminal (石垣港離島ターミナル)**, located at 24.3375° N, 124.1571° E. The main ferry companies are Anei Kankō (安栄観光) and Yaeyama Kankō Ferry (八重山観光フェリー), which often have similar schedules and sometimes accept each other’s tickets.

    • Major Ferry Destinations from Ishigaki:
    • Taketomi: ~15 minutes
    • Iriomote (Uehara or Ohara Port): ~40-50 minutes
    • Kohama: ~30 minutes
    • Kuroshima: ~30 minutes
    • Hateruma: ~60-90 minutes
    • Hatoma: ~45 minutes

    Getting Around: Car Rental vs. Bus

    Car Rental

    Car rental is highly recommended for exploring Ishigaki Island due to the flexibility it offers. Numerous rental agencies are available at New Ishigaki Airport and within the city center. It is crucial to book your rental car well in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer and Golden Week. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required for many nationalities. Driving on the island is relatively straightforward, with a main road circling the coast.

    • Pros: Freedom to visit remote beaches and cafes, not bound by bus timetables, efficient use of time to see more of the island.
    • Cons: Cost (rental fee, fuel, insurance), parking can be limited or paid at popular spots, requires an International Driving Permit.

    Public Bus

    The public bus service, operated by Azuma Bus (東バス), connects the airport, city center, port, and major tourist attractions such as Kabira Bay and Yonehara. However, service to the northern peninsula is infrequent, with only a few buses per day. A