Sightseeing on Ishigaki Island

Fukido River

Fukido river lies just south of the small town of Nosoko which is located on west coast of the Hirakubo peninsula. Much like the Miyara river the river Fukido is lined with mangroves and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. This is a great stop-off for observing nature if you're travelling along the Hirakubo peninsula.

Hirabanari Island

If you're travelling as far as Kabira bay or Sukuji beach you should really make time to head out to this relatively undiscovered spot which offers superb views of Hirabanari island and Kabira's northern cape.

Hirakubo Lighthouse

Without a doubt one of the most spectacular views to be had on the island can be found at Ishigaki's northernmost point where Hirakubo lighthouse is located. The lighthouse is set against a beautiful backdrop of crystal clear waters which surround a small offshore island. Gazing to the east of the lighthouse, views of the imposing rocky hillside which leads down to the beach below can be enjoyed. This sightseeing spot comes highly recommended, particularly to those who enjoy photography, and those who make the trip on a clear day are unlikely to be disappointed...

Kabira Bay

The view over Kabira Bay is perhaps the most photographed scene on Ishigaki island. Positioned on the north west coast of the island, Kabira attracts thousands of tourists every year, all of whom are keen to see if the waters are truly as turquoise as guide books and advertisements promise. The good news is that people are rarely disappointed and you'll often hear exclamations of 'sugoi' (amazing) and 'kirei' (beautiful) from Japanese tourists who are enjoying the view from the observation point, which is situated just above the bay...

Kannonzaki Viewpoint

Kannonzaki viewpoint is positioned on the south west coast of ishigaki island, just across the road from the Toujin grave. The observation point is set in a small park equipped with shaded picnic tables which provide a welcome escape from Yaeyama's fierce sunlight. Although the location itself isn't of special interest the view which it offers is impressive, and is a great place to watch the sun setting over the...

Tamatorizaki Viewpoint

Positioned on the north east coast of Ishigaki island, the Tamatorizaki viewpoint represents a key destination for sightseers. A short pathway guides visitors from the car park to the sheltered observation point which offers outstanding views of the Hirakubo peninsula that extends further northwards. Sightseers can also enjoy views of two oceans from this viewpoint...

Toujin Grave

Toujin grave, which has been designed with unmistakable Chinese influence, is intricately decorated with figurines of dragons and horse riders and is positioned in attractive grounds amongst other large gravestones and monuments. The site is positioned right across the road from the Kannonzaki viewpoint, and Fusaki beach lies just a kilometer further up the road, hence, a stop-off at this site would fit perfectly into any schedule involving the south west side of the island...

Uganzaki Lighthouse

The view from Ishigaki's western cape is one of the most stunning to be had on the island. This is a fantastic place to enjoy a sunset and excellent beaches lie within a few minutes drive of the lighthouse.

In terms of views Uganzaki is probably my favorite location on Ishigaki island. If you have access to personal transport it would be a great shame to visit Ishigaki without heading out to this beautiful spot.

Yaeyama Palm Tree Grove

Stop off at this spot on Ishigaki's north coast to view 10 meter high palm trees which grow from the base of Mt. Omoto.

A visit to the Yaeyama palm tree grove is likely to take in the region of 20 minutes and would fit well into an itinerary which includes other locations on the north of the island.