If you’re dreaming of beautiful beaches and relaxing island vibes, Ishigaki Island in Okinawa, Japan is the perfect getaway 🐠✨
Here are some scenic, soul-healing spots that totally refreshed me 💡
- My Ishigaki Wedding Dream That Got Canceled by COVID
- Kabira Bay – Ishigaki’s Most Famous Scenic Spot
- Yaima Village – Feed Adorable Squirrel Monkeys!
- Ishigaki’s Local Favorite: Yaeyama Soba 🍜
- Treat Yourself to Tropical Sweets in Ishigaki! 🍍🍦
- Try Sea Kayaking in Ishigaki!
- Stargazing Time!
- Yaeyama Genki Dairy
- Ishigaki Island Q&A
My Ishigaki Wedding Dream That Got Canceled by COVID
I was all set to take my wedding photos in Ishigaki Island—makeup artist, photographer, dress, everything ready to go.I was so hyped, I even hit the gym 4 times a week and went to bridal beauty treatments.But back then, I didn’t really know how to diet properly…So on gym days, I only had protein shakes for dinner.Way too hardcore! 😅Then, the day before the trip…I came down with a fever—and yep, I tested positive for COVID.I had to cancel everything while crying my eyes out.
But now, finally—
I made it to Ishigaki! This trip was all about sweet, sweet revenge 😌✨
Kabira Bay – Ishigaki’s Most Famous Scenic Spot
Kabira Bay is probably the most iconic place in all of Ishigaki Island.
You’ll find stunning white sand beaches and insanely clear blue water—it’s seriously postcard-level pretty.
But! Because of the strong currents and busy boat traffic, swimming isn’t allowed here.No worries though—you can still enjoy the ocean on a glass-bottom boat!
You don’t need to book in advance—same-day tickets are usually fine.
There’s a paid parking lot nearby with plenty of spaces, so driving there is super convenient.
Yaima Village – Feed Adorable Squirrel Monkeys!
At Yaima Village, you can feed super cute squirrel monkeys—yes, like, actual monkeys climbing on you.Before entering the monkey area, you’ll need to store your bags and belongings (except valuables) in a locker.Also, be sure to take off any shiny jewelry like necklaces or earrings—they seem to love sparkly stuff!
The staff puts some food into a bowl you hold, and you can take a fun photo while feeding the monkeys!
You’ll be surprised—squirrel monkeys come jumping at you from all directions! 😂
Just a heads-up: there’s a chance you’ll get an unexpected 💩 souvenir too, so be prepared! 😂
※No worries though—it came off just fine after a good wash!
Ishigaki’s Local Favorite: Yaeyama Soba 🍜
When in Ishigaki, you’ve gotta try Yaeyama soba—a local noodle dish you’ll find all over the island.The soup is made from a mix of pork bone and seafood broth, giving it a rich yet light flavor.The noodles are round and chewy, and it’s usually topped with sliced fish cake (kamaboko) and tender stewed pork belly (rafute).
Treat Yourself to Tropical Sweets in Ishigaki! 🍍🍦
At Ishigaki Fruit Land, you can enjoy tropical sweets made with fresh local fruits.
They offer several kinds of mango gelato—and I mean several.To be honest, I’m usually not a big fan of mango…But I gave it a try—and it was so good!
Each type has a different flavor, so try a few and find your favorite one 😊
Try Sea Kayaking in Ishigaki!
One of the best ways to enjoy Ishigaki’s stunning ocean is by sea kayak!
At Sukuji Beach, you can join a sea kayaking tour—even a sunset one where you can watch the sun go down right from your kayak.The guide we had was super skilled at taking photos—he took so many great shots for us! 📸✨
Some tours even let you land on a nearby uninhabited island!
Not all tours include a landing though, so be sure to double-check when booking!
There’s parking, showers, and separate changing rooms for men and women. Everything was super clean and comfortable!
Stargazing Time!
If you’re staying overnight in Ishigaki Island, stargazing is a must!
Just head out to a spot away from the city lights and… wow.
You can see an incredible starry sky like this!One of the best spots is Sukiji Beach, which I mentioned earlier.Just be careful—it gets really dark at night!
Yaeyama Genki Dairy
This is the southernmost dairy company in Japan.
They sell not just milk, but also shakes and other drinks.
Their mascot, Genki-kun, is super cute—and they’ve got merch too!There’s a shop at the airport too, but each location has its own limited items,
so make sure to check out the different stores if you’re around!
Ishigaki Island Q&A
You can usually enjoy swimming from mid-March to the end of October.I went on April 30th, and it was already over 30°C (86°F)!
No chills at all—just perfect beach weather.
Yes, it’s super hot! 🥵
Humidity is high too, so don’t forget sunblock and hydration!
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