52 km

Transportation within Ishigaki

Upon reaching Ishigaki, you will also need to make sure that you have some method of transportation. Within the city, you can find rental bicycles, rental cars, taxis, and city buses. If you are going to be staying within the city area, the area is compact and can be easily be covered on foot.

Bicycles and Scooters: The average rate for a rental bicycle is about 200 yen per hour. Scooters can be rented at a rate of about 500 yen per hour or 2200-7000 yen per day. Rates are cheap but rental bicycles do not have gears. Bicycles are excellent for riding around town but, if you plan on venturing farther then it would be better to rent a car or scooter. In most cases, bicycles can also be taken aboard the ferries that travel to other islands. It is highly likely that the hotel or inn that you are staying in will offer bicycle rentals. Ask your front desk or concierge. If your hotel does not have rentals then you can call one of the following companies.

Taxis: Taxis are very convenient. Luckily, the starting fare for Ishigaki Taxis is one of the lowest in Japan. They start at 390 yen compared to 660 yen in Tokyo. Using a taxi to get to and from the airport is a good idea. Within town, taxis can readily be found. A trip from the city area to the airport will be less than 1000 yen. To call a taxi, simply stand near the road and wave to it. At some hotels and at the airport, there is one set location for taxi pickup. The taxi's will only pick up customers at this pickup location.

Lodging in Ishigaki

There are many lodging options in Ishigaki. Please select the type of accomodation that you would like to see a list of what is available. Some of the places listed do not have webpages but they may be contacted directly over the phone.

HOTEL TYPE ACCOMODATIONS This category includes Resort, Business, and Economy Hotels JAPANESE INN TYPE (Minshuku) Inns in this category make use of Japanese and/or western style rooms and facilities. LONG STAY/KITCHEN TYPE (Condo, Pension, Apartment) These types are economical for those who want to stay in one area for a long time. CAMPING AREAS Camp outdoors and enjoy Ishigaki's beautiful nature. Camping areas are only open during certain periods of the year and require the purchase of a camping permit.

If you have more questions or would like further help with finding lodging, please feel free to email us. We will do our best to help you.

Sightseeing in Ishigaki

Ishigaki Island Map (PDF Format)
Ishigaki City Map (PDF Format)
Ishigaki City Downtown Self-Guided Tour (PDF Format)
"Things to Do in Ishigaki" Sheet (PDF Format)

Ishigaki is famous for beach spots that provide excellent diving/snorkeling views. Although there are many beaches near town, most of these beaches are used for recreational swimming. These beaches are protected by nets and walls and are therefore safe for children and adults to swim in. These beaches are free of jellyfish and other dangerous sea critters. The beaches of Maezato, Fusaki, and Ohama are safe for recreational swimming. If you just need to take a dip and relax then this is an excellent choice for you. These beaches are popular with locals and visitors alike.

Maezato Beach - located directly in front of the ANA Intercontinental Hotel. The hotel is shaped like a manta ray but, you can't see any manta in this beach. Beyond the walls of the protected beach, you can find a popular surf spot. There are also many opportunities for water recreational activities here such as paddle boats, canoes, rafts, as well as glass bottom boats. Unless you are staying at the hotel, please do not use the umbrella chairs. If you use them, the hotel will charge you per hour of use. Staying at the Best Inn Ishigaki will also put you within walking distance of this beautiful beach. When going to the beach with a bicycle, please be sure to leave your bicycle up at the parking lot. You will not be allowed into the area if you have a bicycle with you. The walkway to the beach can be found near the parking lot that is to the right of the ANA Intercontinental Hotel.

Beaches on the Northern Side of the Island

If you have time and are willing to either drive or ride your bike, the beaches on the northern side of the island are beautiful and perfect for swimming, diving, and snorkeling. These beaches include Yonehara, Sukiji, Uganzaki, and Shiraho.

Yonehara Beach - Located right in front of a camping spot. The beach has all the facilities that you will need including showers and bathrooms. The beach is extremely popular with campers so it can also be crowded. With just a snorkel set, you can see many fish as well as a spectrum of coral. Be sure not to step on the coral and do not touch the coral. Over the years, tourists have already done substantial damage to the coral population. If you are brave enough to venture out beyond the reefs, be careful to pay attention to the currents. Although it may look calm, the current below can be strong and can pull you way out to sea. If you get caught in a current, swim sidways parallel to the shoreline. Once you escape the current, you can then swim back to shore. Please watch out for habukurage jellyfish warnings as well. To find Yonehara, drive out west in the direction of Nagura and Kabira. Signs will lead you to a turnoff on the left side of the road. If you plan on spending the night at Yonehara, be prepared to hear a lot of noise. Many of the campers like to bring along portable generators. Also, the camp site is a popular spot for parties. In any case, this is an excellent beach to see. In order to camp at Yonehara Beach or any other Ishigaki Campsite, you will need to obtain a camping permit. Camping is allowed from April 1st through to December 28th. The cost is 400 yen per person per day. The campgrounds at Inoda are also available for use. The Inoda Campsite is available for camping from April 1st through to September 30th. The cost for a campsite is 400 yen per person per day. Permits can be obtained by calling the Ishigaki Public Managing Company at 0980-88-5292.

Oganzaki Beach - When coming down from the road that leads to the Oganzaki Lighthouse, make a right turn and continue up over the hill. On the left side, you will see a small area to park your car. Near this parking area, you will also see a small trail that leads down to the beach area. This beach has coral that is very close to the beach but, there is also a strong current. This beach is not found on the map so be careful and use caution.

Shiraho - Shiraho is an old fishing village located on the Northeast side of Ishigaki City. Many of the people here are originally from the island of Miyako. Off the shore here is the world's largest colony of blue coral. The area is also home to a World Wildlife Foundation Coral Research Station. The water off Shiraho is very clear and is home to a variety of saltwater tropical fishes. The coral reef is located about 200m's from the shoreline and is a little difficult to swim to. The best way to see the reef is to go on one of the half-day snorkeling tours which operate from Shiraho. There are usually at 8:30am and 1:00pm. Tours last for about 3 or 4 hours and take you to 3 or 4 sites within the coral reef. Prices for the tours vary from 3000-4000 yen per person and includes snorkel gear, wetsuit, and a life jacket if needed.

Sunset Beach - Sunset Beach is located in the northern part of the island. It has a net which protects swimmers from jellyfish. The beach is very relaxing and a perfect place for an family outing. The view of the island from the ocean is quite breathtaking. The only downside to this beach is that there is a fee to make use of the areas toilet and shower facilities. There is also a small shop which sells things such as sunscreen and ice cream. Kuura is the closest bus stop to this beach. Caution: Also remember to use common sense and be careful when swimming in the beaches at Ishigaki. Keep a careful eye out for jellyfish warnings and do not swim in places which do not match your swimming ability. The waters of Yaeyama are very clean but they have many hidden dangers. Strong undercurrents are common. Most beaches do not have lifeguards so please think about your safety and about the safety of others.

Diving! - One of the main activities for tourists is to go diving. Courses are set up to suit the needs of beginners as well as advanced divers. See the famous manta rays, explore the lush coral, or simply swim with the colorful fish. Most of the dive companies in Ishigaki provide you with a pick up and drop off service. For beginners, most dive companies offer an introductory diving course which will allow you to take part in a very safe but fun dive. Make sure that you are physically capable of carrying out the dive. If you have any questions or problems with your equipment, be sure to tell the dive assistant before going into the water. Here at Ishigaki....safety is always a first!

For those people who would like English support, fun, and a great dive, there is a company called "Diving School Umicoza". The company conducts dives out near the beautiful Kabira area and free pickup from the city is included. One of their main dive stops is the famous "Manta Scramble" area. For more information on pricing, schedules, and dive plans, please check out their english website at http://www.umicoza.com/english. If you are traveling in a large group, they also have a group discount. For questions or reservations, call them at 81-980-88-2434. Manta Rays can usually be seen between June and December. Hammerhead sharks can be seen off of Ishigaki between November and March.

For a little more information on diving in Ishigaki, there is a webpage that was made by one of the scuba diving instructors. His name is Satoki Ohira and you can see his webpage at http://www7a.biglobe.ne.jp/~satoki/.

If you have time, you can take a trip to Yonaguni Island to see some mysterious underwater rock formations that have been dubbed "undersea ruins". Whether or not they are manmade has been a subject of hot debate among geologists and archeologists. In any case, Ishigaki has many options to quench your thirst for diving.

Kabira Bay/Park - Although swimming in the bay is not allowed, this is one of the most beautiful spots in all of Japan. Swimming is not allowed because of extreme tides and also because the bay is home to black pearl cultivation. Ryukyu Black Pearl's are known worldwide for quality and beauty. After parking, take a short stroll through the park area and then you will be at the Kabira lookout area. If the sun is shining, the different hues of the ocean along with the lush green foliage will give you a view that you will not forget. After you have taken enough pictures, take a short walk to the left until you hit the pearl showroom. Inside there is a quick display which explains about how black pearls are created. Across the street you will find the Omoto Awamori Factory. You can view the creation process as well as taste the popular okinawan liquor. Club Med can also be found in this area. Club Med is known for its delicious but expensive western style meals. Kabira Bay is also famous for its glass bottom boats. The boats run frequently throughout the day until about 5pm. The cost is about 1,000 yen per person for a 30-40 minute ride. Click here to see a video of a Kabira Bay glass boat.

Hirakubozaki - The northernmost point of Ishigaki. After a short walk up a small trail, you will see grass flailing in the wind, sparkling water, and the solitary white lighthouse. Sometimes cattle also graze in the calm pasture. All of the above join to create a scenic point that allows you to enjoy the beauty of nature. If it's not too windy and if you can find parking, there is a small hill that you can climb up. The top of the hill would be a perfect place to sit down and take a break or even have a light lunch. Most of the time, this area is very busy and parking space is scarce. If you drive to the area of Hirakubo, there is also a dirt road which you can take. This dirt road will lead you to the northern part of Ishigaki Island. This area is beautiful because there are very few people but lots of nature. Although you may see some horses and cows. If you have 4-wheel drive then you will be able to go on the road but, if not then you will have to walk the path yourself. If you walk the path, it will take you about 3 hours to reach the end of the peninsula. People say that the fishing off of this area is excellent.

Tamatorizaki Observation Point - An excellent spot for a picture shoot. The scenery features a blue and green sea, Mt. Hanna, as well as numerous flowering plants. On a clear day, this observation point can provide a postcard picture perfect snapshot.

Yaima Mura (Yaeyama Village) - The Yaeyama Village features a number of 80-100 years old traditional houses of the Yaeyama area that have been removed from their original sites and carefully rebuilt for educational purposes (you may go into those houses, but if you do that please take your shoes off). Information in English is available on information boards placed near these houses. Live folk music performances and a mini-zoo with squirrel monkeys add an entertaining touch, and there is a boardwalk leading into the Mangrove forest of the Nagura River. The Yaima Mura is open every day from 9am to 5pm, and the admission fee is 840 yen for adults, and 420 Yen for children. Detailed information, inclduing photos and an access map, can be found on their homepage at http://www.minzokuen.com/.

Banna Park - This is a prefecturally run and maintained park. It is a very picturesque park and is perfect for a walk, bike ride, or a run. It is an excellent place to have a picnic or to simply explore. The park itself is very large and has numerous trails for you to explore. The park is home to a large collection of tropical plants made up of over 2,500 different species. Depending on when you go in the year, you might see cherry blossoms, butterflies, or even fireflies. The park is also home to the one and only suspension-style bridge in Okinawa. Be sure to go to the top observation point in the park. If offers an excellent view of Ishigaki City and nearby Taketomi Island.
Malaria Memorial Stone and the Battle of Okinawa Memorial Stone - These memorial stones are both found near the entrance to Banna Park. The Malaria stone was erected in memory of the people who perished from Malaria during WWII. Many of the local people in Yaeyama were forced out of their homes into the jungle areas. Malaria claimed the lives of over 3,000 people in Yaeyama. The Battle of Okinawa Memorial Stone pays respect to the many people that perished during one of the bloodiest land wars of all time. In Okinawa alone, over 250,000 people were killed. In addition to respecting those who were lost, the stone represents Ishigaki's and Japan's resolve to work towards world peace. On June 23rd each year, a memorial service is held at both stones. June 23rd marked the end of the Battle of Okinawa. Click here to see a video of memorial day.

Ishigaki Limestone Caves - Located not too far away from Banna Park are some very amazing and interesting limestone caves. These limestone caves were formed by the coral deposits that can be found surrounding each island. About 30 percent of The Ryukyu Islands are made up of these limestone deposits. In addition to coral, foraminifera, lime algae, bivalve, univalve shell, polyzoan, and sea eggs are also included in the limestone. The Ishigaki Limestone Cave attraction is an underground 600m trail which has steps, turns, and some low ceiling areas.

Yonehara Palm Tree Grove - Located not too far from the Yonehara Campgrounds, this area features native Yaeyama Palm Trees. The entire area is covered with about 150 of these beautiful plants. Most of these trees grow to be about 10m tall. Although you may think that they look like coconut trees, Yaeyama Palm Trees do not produce fruit. These trees are endemic to the Yaeyama area. If you have time, you can walk all the way up to the observation area. Surrounded by exotic plants you will be able to clearly see the Urasoko Bay area. Be sure to also check out the Yaeyama Palm Tree Museum which can be found right up the hill from the parking lot. Not only does the museum offer a nice view from its roof but you can also see palm seends from around the world and the world's oldest palm encyclopedia. The price is right at 300 yen per person. The museum building looks somewhat like a modern cube deco piece.

Nagura Anparu - The tidal flats of the Nagura River estuary are protected under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. It is a self sustaining ecosystem which provides a home to many rare plants and animals. The best way to explore the Anparu is by kayak. During low tide you should be able to find some interesting critters moving about in the sand and mud.

World-Class Research Facilities Ishigaki is home to some world class astronomy research areas. The first is the VERA Radio Telescope. It is one of four systems installed in Japan which uses the latest technology to study the stars and other galaxies. The newest facility on the island is the Ishigaki Observatory. The facility opened up in March 2006 and features a 105cm Ritchey-Chretien telescope with a dome that is 8 meters. The reflector used in this telescope is the same as the one found in the Subaru Telescope on Mauna Kea, Hawaii. Click here to see a video of the VERA Radio Telescope.

Shinei Park World Peace Bell - Just like the one that is found at the United Nations Headquarters, this bell is rung during the International Day of Peace. There are three world peace bells located in Japan. The other two bells are in Wakkanai City-Hokkaido and Osaka. The bells are created by using coins and medals from the countries of the world. The International Day of Peace is held on the opening day of the United Nations General Assembly. Its purpose is to call for world peace as well as a 24 hour cease-fire and day of non-violence. World Peace Bells can also be found in Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, Poland, Turkey, Mongolia, Australia, the Philippines, Argentina, Ecuador, Spain, Uzbekistan, and in New Zealand. Click here to see a video of the World Peace Bell.

Ishigaki City - Ishigaki City is filled with historical sites, shopping, and natural beauty. By simply walking around the town, one can see traditional Kawaraya houses as well as stone walls. In some areas, you feel as though you have stepped back in time. Within the city you can also find a Citizens' Hall, Public Library, Municipal Yaeyama Museum, as well as the World Peace Bell. The shopping arcade Ayapani Mall has an array of fruit, vegetables, fish, and meat as well as clothing and souvenir items. City Hall Street offers a variety of shops and restaurants for you to explore. Misaki-cho is an entertainment district which features late night bars, Japanese style pubs, snack bars, and numerous restaurants.

Municipal Yaeyama Museum - This museum will give you a visual view into the people of the Yaeyama area. Over 5,000 artifacts as well as cultural treasures are on display in this museum. Although the museum is not very large, it is a good place to get a glimpse into Yaeyama's past. 200 yen for adults, 100 yen for high school and middle school students, free for elementary students and younger.

Ishigaki Port - The port area in Ishigaki is a lively spot to people watch or to catch the ferry to a nearby island. In Japanese it is called "ritou-sanbashi". In this area, you can see ferry boats, fishing boats, glass bottom boats, as well as larger cargo boats that act as the lifeline for the outer islands. There are two main ferry companies at the port. They are the Yaeyama Kankou Ferry and the Anei Kankou Ferry. Both of their offices are located directly in front of the port area.

Miyara Dunchi - Built in 1819 by Miyara Pei-chin Toen, an official of the Ryukyu government who had been appointed administrator for the Miyara-Magiri, an administrative district that encompassed parts of Ishigaki Island and Iriomote Island. This national important cultural property includes the one-storied building with hip tiled roof and the surrounding garden. (The latter is also designated as a national scenic beauty.)

The house is built in the modern Ryukyu style for residences of the nobility and originally included a red-tile roof. However, in the Ryukyu Kingdom the style of residences was regulated and prescribed in accordance with a person's social status, and in 1874, the Pei-chin, whose rank was not high enough for a residence with a tile roof, was ordered to replace the original roof with a thatched roof. After the annexation of Ryukyu by Japan, in 1879, and the subsequent establishment of the prefecture of Okinawa, the roof was changed to a tile roof again.

There is a small admission fee of 200 yen for adults and 100 yen for children.

Tourinji Temple & the Gongendo Shrine - Both of these religious structures were built in 1614. Tourinji is a buddhist temple which is part of the Myoshinji sect of Rinzaishu. The statues in this temple are the last remaining ones in all of Okinawa. The statues were made by pressing together pieces of Michelia compressa. Gongendo Shrine is located next door to the Tourinji Temple. Gongendo Shrine was created in 1614 but was destroyed by the great tidal wave of Meiwa in 1771. It was later rebuilt in 1786. The shrine features a hipped roof structure and a wave style structure that has three rooms. You will notice that the shrine has an elephant figure on each side pole. Were their any elephants in Japan? Just something to ponder.

Toujin Grave/Kannondo Temple - In 1852, a ship crashed into the coast of Ishigaki. This ship was filled with Chinese laborers (Coolies, as they were known at the time) who were brought over by American ships to work in California. While on the ship they were treated like slaves and therefore revolted. They attempted to escape on Ishigaki but, many were shot at and over 128 of the Chinese were killed. For some of the laborers, they were sheltered and protected by the royal government. This grave was erected to honor their memory. Toujin is an archaic umbrella term for all continental Asian peoples. Kannondo temple is located right down the road from the Toujin Grave. It is a small buddhist temple, but is worth a visit. Both of these are located near the road to Fusaki Beach. There is also a monument near the grave which is dedicated to three United States soldiers that were killed in Ishigaki during WWII. It is a monument dedicated to making peace between the two former enemy nations.

Denshinya (Imperial Japanese Army Telegraph) - During the time in which Taiwan was owned by Japan (1897), this small structure was used as a communications system between Taiwan and Ishigaki. Numerous relay stations were located all the way from the Japanese mainland to Taiwan, all connected by huge undersea cables. From the Sino-Japanese War until World War II, this station was used by the military. During WWII, it was bombed and has been in this damaged state ever since. Some locals claim that many ghosts live in this area. Since it was bombed, it has been abandoned and has continued to deteriorate. As simple as the building may look, it was once a very important tool for the Japanese Imperial Government.

Akanma Soccer Park - Beautiful soccer facility that has all of the necessary facilities. The facility has training/trainer rooms, coffee lobby, footsal area, cross country course, ground golf course, and a club house. In the past, this facility has even been used for J-League training. This facility was created using leftover dirt from a dam construction site. The facility was created with the aim of getting more people involved in outdoor activities as well as creating a way for Ishigaki to integrate sports and tourism. The facilities are available for rental and use by the public. It is well utilized by the youth soccer teams that can be found in Ishigaki. If you are interested in using the facilities for your own events, please call the following phone number: (0980-88-5292). This is a Japanese language line. If you need English help in making a reservation or have questions, please email here.

Ishigaki City Traditional Arts Museum - Learn about the traditional weaving methods of Yaeyama. The Ryukyu Kingdom was famous for its high quality cloth techniques called Minsa and Joufu. Minsa is a cotton dying technique which is dyed with indigo. Joufu is a linen which is created from hemp. It is said that the minsa technique came from India where it is called "mensa". A visit to the traditional arts museum will allow you to see how these traditional crafts are created, where the methods came from, and what they mean. Located on the same road as the Nikko Hotel Yaeyama. Admission is free.

Ishigaki Festivals and Events

Juu Roku Nichi Sai (16th Day Festival) - This celebration is a time when families gather and enjoy lunch together in front of their family tomb. It is a day when the spirit of the families ancestors will gather together with the family and enjoy food. Elaborate meals are made and brought to the tomb. People even play music and sing with their families. Unlike Western culture, the Okinawan culture creates a positive image for the area as children even play atop the tombs.

Umubiraki (Opening of the Sea Ceremony) - A celebration marks the opening of the sea to swimmers. It is the first sea opening ceremony in all of Japan. The celebration also includes the Miss Yaeyama Pageant, contests, and an offshore fishing tournament. The location of this event rotates each year between Ishigaki's Kabira Bay and Kohama Island.

Orion Beer Festival - This huge party is sponsored by Orion Beer each year and features lots of food, drinks, and live entertainment. Shinei Park becomes packed with locals and visitors. The exciting night is capped with a wonderful fireworks. It is best to get to the park early because sitting space can become very difficult to find. Click here to see a video of the Orion Beer Festival.

Ishigakijima Marathon - The Ishigaki Marathon features a wonderful course which is beautiful and challenging. The race features three different courses including a 10k, half marathon, and a full marathon course. The race has been held four times so far and attracts a variety of runner from around the world as well as from all over Japan. Registration usually takes place between September and November.

Click here to visit the Marathon's Official Website

BG Ishigaki Triathlon World Cup - The biggest sporting event in Yaeyama. In April or May, Triathletes from all over the world will contend for the cup title. Due to the fact that the Ishigaki race is one of the qualifying events for the olympics, spectators are sure to see a race full of energy and top class competition. Amateurs can also participate in the Ishigaki Triathlon which is held on the same day. The 2007 family race had a total of over 1,400 participants. Participants may compete individually or as a 3-person team. The race is not just a day for the athletes, it is also a day full of international exchange as athletes and spectators from all over the world meet and become friends. The race day is topped off with a party filled with live music, dancing, drinks, and food. Click here to visit the Triathlon's Official Website 2007 Triathlon Photo Gallery *Updated*		If you live in Japan and would like to receive a race application, please send us your name, address, phone number, and email address in an envelope along with 160 yen in stamps. Please send the information to the address below: Ishigaki City Hall, Kouhoukouchou-Ka Okinawa-Ken, Ishigaki-Shi, 14 Misaki-Cho Matt Topping (CIR) Coordinator for International Relations

Hari Taikai (Hari Boat Race) - The haree boat races are held as a tribute to the sea god and as a prayer which asks for a year of good fishing. Athough local groups participate, the main attraction is the race featuring the local fishermen. They do an nteresting race which includes flipping over the boat and then all getting back in. The traditional okinawan style of boat is used in the race. It is known as a Sabani and it is made from wood. Click here to see a video of the Hari race.

	Hou Nen Sai (Harvest Festival) - This festival is done to thank the gods and to also ask for a good harvest next year. Various festivals are held throughout the island to thank the gods. The Ishigaki Area Hou Nen Sai includes City Hall, Shin'ei-Cho, Okawa, Tonoshiro, Ishigaki, Futaba and Arakawa. On the first day of the festival, people celebrate at their respective shrines. On the second day, all areas will parade to the shrine that is located in Arakawa. In the past, the area of Arakawa produced the most rice. The people of Arakawa then invited people from other areas to come to their shrine. This tradition has carried on till today. One of the main features of the procession are the "kashira" or large banner poles. The poles are made of bamboo, have an unique banner, and also feature a large decoration or symbol on the top. One person balances the pole on their stomachs while other group members prevent it from falling. Hundreds of people gather near the Arakawa Shrine and perform dances, songs, and staged fighting. The finale includes a staged fight which represents a farmer holding sickles and a warrior holding a halbert. The match goes unfinished and the crowd is left to decide the fate through a huge tug of war. If the red side representing the farmer wins then the year is supposed to be a very prosperous one. Hou Nen Sai is the most important festival for the people of Ishigaki. The festival is usually held over a period of two days. The festival is usually held near the end of July. Click here to see a video of the Kabira Hou Nen Sai Click here to see a video the Ishigaki Area Hou Nen Sai

Angama Photos by Ms. Karen Guinea

Kyubon Angama (Angama Procession) - This is the time when ancestors are welcomed back to the land of the living. Families pay visits to family tombs with rice wine, awamori and food. The angama procession visits, dances and sings at households throughout Ishigaki. A costumed grandmother and grandfather dance and offer incense to the ancestors of the house. Other members of the group are covered from head to toe with a japanese yukata as well as a hat and handkerchiefs. Funny questions are asked and answered in Yaeyama dialect and in a high pitched tone which sounds like something out of a horror movie. Each village in Ishigaki has their own unique Angama group. Click here to read an article from the August 2006 Issue of EyeAi Magazine (PDF Format).

Tubarama Taikai (Traditional Tubarama Song Contest) - Tubarama is one of the traditional types of yaeyama songs. It is usually performed with one or two people. The music for the song is made with the sanshin. The sanshin is played by plucking its three strings. Tuburama songs are usually sung in local dialect making them hard to understand for even mainland Japanese. Tubarama singing styles vary greatly with some singers in tune and with others singing in a slightly off pitch high tone. This is an excellent example of preserved traditional Yaeyama culture. The contest began in 1947 and has been held every year. The usual theme for Tubarama is a lovers ballad.

Kitsugansai (Harvest Festival) - The island is home to numerous harvest festivals. These festivals are usually held in front of each town areas shrine. These festivals are held to please and honor the spirit or god within the shrine. Each village also has special dances and or event features which make their harvest celebration unique. The harvest festival in the Miyara area is marked by the villagers racing back and forth on horses.

Ishigaki Matsuri - The largest festival of the year in Ishigaki. One focal point of the festival is a parade down city hall street. Within the parade are huge poles that are balanced with one person holding them and with other people to prevent them from falling down. There are groups that represent each section of the island. The parade also features marching bands, yaeyama dancing groups, eisa drums, and much more. For two nights, Shinei Park becomes a huge fairground of entertainment and food. Click here to see video from this years festival parade.

Dining in Ishigaki

There is a lot of dining in Ishigaki! It's popularity as a tourist destination has allowed for the flourishing of many different kinds of restaurants. There are japanese style izakayas, yakiniku restaurants, big eating places, small eating places....everything to satisfy your hunger. Enjoy!

Famous Yaeyama cuisine includes Yaeyama Soba, Yaeyama Kamaboku, Ishigaki Beef, and Mozuku. The area also offers all of the delicacies that you can find on mainland Okinawa...some with a twist. The best way to enjoy cuisine in Yaeyama is to just explore the different restaurants that are found throughout the town and the islands. If you would like, please give the below eating establishments a try! You can find their locations on the english guide map.

Meiyoken Curry Restaurant Map: No.1, 13-E Phone: 83-7320 (Shinei-Cho 10-7) Open from 11:30~22:00 (Closed on Mondays) Delicious curries as well as a variety of western style food. This restaurant has a very friendly atmosphere and lunch meals include an all you can eat salad as well as self service drinks.

KAPI Asian Kitchen Map: No.2, 14-G Phone and Fax: 82-2113(Okawa 199-102) Open from 11:30~15:00, 17:30~23:00 (Closed on Thursdays) Southeast Asian Cuisine that will delight your taste buds. English Menu is available.

GO! GO! Cafe Map: No.3, 14-H Phone: 83-5126 Open from 10:30-22:00 (Closed on Tuesdays) Located on Yui Road. Features a wide menu of tasty hawaiian style items. Also features delicious burgers which are made from Ishigaki Beef. At night, the restuarant has garlic toast, salads, and lots of volume to fill your stomache.

Genoa Crepe and Pizza Map: No.4, 15-H Phone: 88-5470 (Tonoshiro 1 - Right behind the Chisun Resort Hotel) Open from 10:00-21:00 (Closed on Wednesdays) Yummy thin crust pizzas, pasta, ice cream filled crepes, and much more can be found in this small restuarant. There are over 50 items on the menu. Most items can be changed from ala carte to a set by adding 200 yen.

Vanilla Deli Map: No.5, 14-G Phone and Fax: 83-3270 (Ishigaki 12-2 1F) Open from 10:00-24:00 (Open Everyday) New York Style menu items..in addition to coffees, cappuccinos, and many other drinks that will help to satisfy your sweet tooth. All items made into take out.

Ma-Sando Map: No.6, 15-G Phone: 83-4050 Open from 10:00-22:00 (Open Everyday) This restaurant offers a very good selection of local dishes including Yaeyama Soba. They also serve a very tasty melt in your mouth soki soba. Give the restaurant a try and stick one of your business cards on their wall.

Chisun Resort Hotel Restaurant Harborside (Located in the Chisun Resort Hotel) Map: No.7, 15-H Phone: 82-6161 Open from 11:30~14:00 Lunch, 14:00~18:00 Brunch, 18:00~22:00 Dinner This restaurant has a good lunch buffet for just 980 yen. The buffet is open daily from 11:30am-2:00pm. Dinner is also available.

A&W All American Food Map: No.8, 14-G Phone: 83-1234 (Okawa 245) Burgers, Fries, and Root Beer are the mainstay for this restaurant. The restaurant has a picture menu which is convenient for customers who cannot speak Japanese.

Asahi Shokudou Map: No.9, 11-H Phone: 82-3234 (Tonoshiro 218 - Across from Hotspar) Open from 11:30-21:00 (Closed on Sundays) Simple local restaurant with lots of food and good food! Give it a try. Prices are very reasonable starting at just 400 yen.

Yunta Restaurant and Bar Map: No.10, 15-G Phone: 82-7118 (Located on City Hall Road) Open from 17:00-23:00 Excellent food with a nice atmosphere..conveniently located on the main street (very close to Hotspar). Occasionally offers an all-you can drink special for 1,500 yen.

Gelato Ishigaki Map: No.11, 15-I Phone: 87-8055 Fax: 87-8054 (Tonoshiro 485 - Near Manta Park) Delicious italian style with local flavors. Flavors include Milk, Awamori, Passion Fruit, Strawberry, Chocolate, Cheese, Pineapple, Pistachio, Caramel, Mango, Goya, Ishigaki Salt, Shikwasa, and Ahsa. They have regular sizes or you can get one large cone with two little cones attached on. This way, you can try out three flavors. Eat it fast because it melts quick in Ishigaki's weather.

Cafe Taniwha Map: No.12, 13-H Phone: 88-6352 Open from 11:00~23:00 (Closed on Sunday and Monday) Great atmosphere and yummy food and drinks! Great place to meet locals, adverturers, and many english speaking people. The owner has travelled around the world extensively on his boat and is very knowledgeable and interesting. Stop by, have a chat, and relax.

Kaisen Kan Map: No.13, 16-J Phone: 84-2121 (Yashima-Cho 2-4) Open from 11:30~14:00 (Closed on Wednesdays) Located very close to the Tonoshiro Boat Harbor, this restaurant is open during lunch. The shop specializes in using fresh fish that is only caught in the Yaeyama area. Excellent cuisine at a reasonable price.

PUFFPUFF Map: No.14, 14-M Phone: 88-7083 (Maezato 193-1) Open from 11:30 daily Excellent shoreside location restaurant which is refreshing, relaxing, and which offers unique and tasty dishes. They have lunch set, drinks, and even deserts.

Majun Fresh Creme Cheese Map: No.15, 14-F Phone: 82-7207 (Shinei-Cho, Very Near to the Gas Station Eneos) Open from 12pm~5pm (Closed on Mondays) Fresh creme cheese made using jersey and cow milk. Very delicious! They have a type of yogurt creme cheese which is almost like ice cream. The shop also sells creme cheese that goes well with saltines or any type of crackers. Give it a try because you wont be disappointed.

Here are some recommended links: Hirata Tourism Company - "The Islands of Yaeyama" Ishigaki Kanwa Committee - "The Idle Talk of Ishigaki Island" Ishigaki City Homepage (English Version) Japan-Guide.com - "Yaeyama Island Information" Wikipedia - "Yaeyama Islands" Metropolis - "Yaeyama Islands - Japan's Final Frontier Wonder Okinawa - "The Nature of Yaeyama Islands" Traditional Crafts of Japan - "Yaeyama Minsaa" ::Mahae plus:: - Okinawa Tourish Information Open Coast Travel - Mainland Japan Tours and Okinawa