The southern island of Ishigaki is famous for its clear emerald-green water and beautiful white sandy beaches.
Browse & Book hotels in Okinawa
1. Kabira Bay
One of the most famous spots in Ishigaki – and one of the Top 100 Landscapes of Japan – Kabira Bay is truly picture perfect.
The colors of the ocean are said to change with the tides, turning from shades of turquoise to emerald.The popular glass-bottomed boats reveal a pristine underwater world below, where black pearls are cultivated. Though swimming is not allowed due to strong currents, visitors can still enjoy the beach and the gorgeous views.
Kabira Park Observation Deck
Kabira Park, Kabira, Ishigaki City, Okinawa 907-0453, Japan
Book Now ▶ Okinawa Glass Boat Tour at Kabira Bay and Snorkeling Tour at Fantom Island
2. Scuba & Snorkeling
The warm tropical waters around the islands of Okinawa make it Japan's diving paradise.
It is estimated that about 200 of the world’s 800 coral species flourish in the reefs of this region, making it a perfect home for colorful fish, turtles, and migrating humpback whales.Whether snorkeling at the top or diving deep, you're sure to see lots of local marine life. Some islands are famous for a high concentration of certain animals, such as manta rays in Ishigaki, and hammerhead sharks in Yonaguni, attracting dive enthusiasts from Japan and around the world.
Book Now ▶ Try an Introduction Diving Course in English – in Ishigaki Island
Book Now ▶ Ishigaki Blue Cave & Hamajima Snorkeling Tour in Okinawa
3. Tamatorizaki Observatory
Located at the east coast of Ishigaki, the Tamatorizaki Observatory offers stunning panoramic views of Ibaruma Bay and the Hirakubo Peninsula.
If you happen to be visiting for New Year's, this is a great spot to watch the first sunrise of the year.
Tamatorizaki Observatory
Ibaruma, Ishigaki, Okinawa 907-0332
4. Ishigaki Yaima Village
Step back in time at Ishigaki Yaima Mura, where 100-year-old traditional village houses of Yaeyama have been carefully restored.
Designated as a tangible cultural heritage of Japan, this traditional architecture is an icon of the islands. Visitors can also enjoy folk music performances, visit a mangrove forest, and play with curious Squirrel Monkeys.Try your hand at local arts and crafts, such as shisa painting, or dress up in classy Ryukyu-style kimono. On-site is the Amparu cafeteria, serving up delicious Ishigaki cuisine, with fantastic views of Nagura Bay.
Ishigaki Yaima Village
967-1 Nagura, Ishigaki, Okinawa 907-0021
5. Ishigaki Sunset Beach
Get ready for lots of fun watersports at this stunning remote beach on the north-west coast.
Banana boats, wakeboards and jet skis will be a thrill for the whole family, or you can try a one-hour Stand Up Paddle (SUP) trip to an untouched snorkeling spot. Enjoy some fun in the sun!
Ishigaki Island Sunset Beach
234 Hirakubo, Ishigaki, Okinawa 907-0331
6. Sukuji Bathing Beach
This family-friendly beach is wide and shallow with gentle waves, and its white sand stretches for nearly a kilometer.
The picturesque scenery reaches all the way to forested Cape Kabiraishi, whose dark green color contrasts beautifully with the turquoise ocean.
Sukuji Bathing Beach
Kabira, 907-0453
7. Fusaki Beach
Part of the…
