Ishigaki-jima

Introducing Ishigaki-jima

Located 110km southwest of Miyako-jima, Ishigaki-jima serves as the major transport hub for the Yaeyama-shotō, and is the most populated and developed island in the group. From Ishigaki City (the southernmost city in Japan), boat services fan out to nearby islands while flights depart for cities throughout the Nansei-shotō and on the mainland.

Although the island will most likely serve as your port of entry to the Yaeyama-shotō, Ishigaki-jima should not just be viewed as a transport hub – in fact, the island itself is a major tourist destination. The seas around Ishigaki-jima are chock-full of diving and snorkelling spots, though you might find it difficult to pull yourself away from the island’s fine collection of sandy beaches. The mountainous interior is also perfectly suited for day-hiking, and there’s no shortage of bars and restaurants in Ishigaki City where you can unwind over a beer after a day beneath the tropical sun.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009