The Best of Ishigaki
I've put together a selection of the island's most popular attractions so that people can gain a quick idea of what Ishigaki has to offer. This isn't intended to be a definitive list and a few of my personal favorites aren't even included, so please take time to browse the rest of the site while planning your trip.
Kabira Bay
Kabira bay has received so much media coverage over the last few years this it's always going to have trouble living up to its own reputation. Having said that, in sunny conditions and at the right time of day the view of the bay's emerald-green ocean is enough dispel any suspicions that images in guide books are the result of clever Photoshop work.Swimming in the bay is prohibited but glass-bottomed boat tours offer an inexpensive means of enjoying the ocean's beauty.
Diving with Manta Rays
There are many quality dive points dotted throughout the Yaeyama archipelago but the best known is 'Manta Scramble' which located just off Kabira's northern coast.
This world-famous site offers visitors the opportunity to view manta rays year-round and even those who have no diving experience can enjoy a trial dive with these majestic creatures.
Hirakubo Lighthouse
This beautiful spot is found on the tip of the Hirakubo peninsula, just a few miles north of Sunset Beach. The view of the lighthouse and the coral reef which lies behind it has made this one of the most photographed scenes on the island.It may be an hour's drive from the town centre but there's so much natural beauty to be enjoyed along the way that they journey itself makes the trip worthwhile..
Beautiful Beaches
If you're reading this article then there's a good chance that you've already heard that Ishigaki has some of the most beautiful beaches in Japan.Many beaches are equipped with facilities such a showers and safety nets, but more adventurous individuals may choose to head out to coastal areas on the Hirakubo and Uganzaki peninsulas in search of deserted bays.
Uganzaki
While Kabira bay and Hirakubo lighthouse seem to get most of the limelight, there are plenty of people who regard Uganzaki as being one of the most beautiful spots on Ishigaki island.Positioned on Ishigaki's western cape this is one of the best spots on the island to enjoy a sunset. It's also located just a few minutes drive from one of the island's finest 'secret' beaches.
Snorkeling
One of Ishigaki's finest assets is its beautiful coral reefs, many of which are easily accessible from the shore.Many people choose to go it alone and head out to Yonehara where the reef lies just meters from the beach. However, safety reasons it is recommended that you join a professional tour which will undoubtedly offer a superior experience.
Mt. Nosoko
Mt. Nosoko, which is located on the Hirakubo peninsula, offers outstanding views from its summit. The trek to the top only takes about 45 minutes and on a clear day its distinctive peak offers one of the best panoramas to be found on the island.
For those of you can't face climbing in the summer heat there's even a shortcut which places the summit just 15 minutes away by foot.
Kayaking
Ishigaki is one of the few places in Japan which has mangrove-lined rivers, and a kayak is one of the best ways to explore them. This is a great opportunity for people who don't fancy snorkeling or diving to enjoy a water-based activity on the island.If you're interested in doing some ocean kayaking you'll find that there are several tour operators on the island which offer such services, some of which combine kayaking with reef snorkeling experiences.