🗺️ Ishigaki Island石垣島

Ishigaki Island is the main island of the Yaeyama Islands, located about 400 kilometers southwest of Okinawa Main Island in the East China Sea. It is approximately a 50-minute flight from Okinawa Main Island. Following Okinawa Main Island and Iriomote Island, it is the third largest island in the prefecture, known for its unique warm climate and extremely clear waters. This renowned natural beauty attracts many divers from around the world. In addition to its rich natural environment, traditional landscapes, and beautiful southern flowers, the island features the red-tiled houses commonly seen throughout Okinawa, as well as numerous attractions like sugarcane fields. The waters around Ishigaki Island are home to manta rays and sea turtles, making it one of Japan's most popular marine areas. At the nationally designated scenic spot, Kabira Bay, visitors can enjoy the stunning views of white sandy beaches and the beautiful blue sea of Kabira. Furthermore, Ishigaki Island is also known as a starry island, where you can see 84 constellations, including the Southern Cross, and experience the beauty of nature at night. Local delicacies include Ishigaki beef and seafood prepared as sashimi or salt-steamed dishes, with the locally caught tuna being particularly exceptional. The new airport, Ishigaki Airport, which opened in 2013, has made travel more convenient with expanded routes and the introduction of low-cost airlines.

The unique warm climate of the southern region and the incredibly clear sea make it a famous diving spot. The suburbs feature vast traditional landscapes. At night, you can see an endless sky filled with stars.