
Ishigaki, Japan
The balmy, subtropical climate draws countless visitors to its sandy shores, but Ishigaki offers much more than your typical island getaway. It is the cultural, political and economic center of the Yaeyama Islands, originally founded in 1908 as Yaeyama Village and becoming Ishigaki Town in 1926. Ishigaki was elevated to city status on July 10, 1947. A hilltop Shinto shrine which dates back to 1614 is the perfect place to start your exploration of this lovely town. Noted for its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters to which snorkelers flock for a glimpse of the island's famed manta rays, Ishigaki Island offers many opportunities to commune with nature. Ishigaki has palm forests, mangrove-lined rivers suited for kayaking, and jungle-covered mountains perfect for hiking adventures. Amidst such natural beauty, you'll find an abundance of cultural sites with ties to the island's rich history. The Yaeyama Museum displays historic artifacts as well as traditional cultural items, and a visit to the well-preserved Miyara Dunchi, built in 1819, is a rare example of a samurai-style residence. Be sure to leave time in your busy day to sample some of the sweet island pineapple and to shop for the island's famed black pearls, a most special souvenir.
Note: Ishigaki is an anchorage port. Transportation from ship to shore is via the ship's tender service.
Points of Interest
- Kabira Bay
- Tojin Tomb (Chinese Tomb)
- Taketomi Island
- Iriomote Island
- Tamatorizaki Observatory
- Local Crafts
- Ishigaki Pottery Studio
石垣島ハイライト(日本語ガイド)(Guided in Japanese)
- Kabira Bay
- Tojin Tomb (Chinese Tomb)
- Tamatorizaki Observatory
A delightful assortment of activities introduces you to the wonders of Ishigaki. Visit Tojin Tomb, a memorial to Chinese sailors who perished at sea. Enjoy sparkling Kabira Bay beach and a glass-bottom boat tour. Capture picturesque views from the Tamatorizaki Observatory and savor locally made sugar cane candy.
Moderate Activity
$99.95
Highlights of Ishigaki
- Kabira Bay
- Tojin Tomb (Chinese Tomb)
- Tamatorizaki Observatory
A delightful assortment of activities introduces you to the wonders of Ishigaki. Visit Tojin Tomb, a memorial to Chinese sailors who perished at sea. Enjoy sparkling Kabira Bay beach and a glass-bottom boat tour. Capture picturesque views from the Tamatorizaki Observatory and savor locally made sugar cane candy.
Moderate Activity
$119.95
石垣島終日観光(日本語ガイド)(Guided in Japanese)
- Kabira Bay
- Tamatorizaki Observatory
See the best of Ishigaki's natural splendor on a sight-filled full-day adventure that makes the most of the island's outdoor activities and highlights. Bring your camera to capture all the beauty from several observation points, walk through a palm tree grove and take in the tranquility of sparkling Kabira Bay.
Moderate Activity, Includes meal
$134.95
石垣島終日観光(石垣牛ランチ付き)(日本語ガイド)(Guided in Japanese)
- Kabira Bay
- Tamatorizaki Observatory
Immerse yourself in all the natural highlights of Ishigaki, plus dine on its famed beef at a fine lunch during this ultimate adventure on this lush island. Capture expansive city and sea vistas from several observation points, stroll through the towering foliage at the Yaeyama Palm Tree Grove, and photograph the crystalline waters of Kabira Bay.
Moderate Activity, Includes meal
$164.95
Best of Ishigaki
- Kabira Bay
- Tamatorizaki Observatory
See the best of Ishigaki's natural splendor on a sight-filled full-day adventure that makes the most of the island's outdoor activities and highlights. Bring your camera to capture all the beauty from several observation points, visit Yoneko-yaki Pottery to see the variety of Shisa and take in the tranquility of sparkling Kabira Bay.
Moderate Activity, Includes meal
$179.95
A Discovery Exclusive - Ultimate Ishigaki
- Kabira Bay
- Tamatorizaki Observatory
Immerse yourself in all the natural highlights of Ishigaki, plus dine on its famed beef at a fine lunch during this ultimate adventure on this lush island. Capture expansive city and sea vistas from several observation points, visit Yoneko-yaki Pottery to see the variety of Shisa, and photograph the crystalline waters of Kabira Bay.
Moderate Activity, Includes meal
$199.95