Ishigaki Island, Okinawa Japan

Ishigaki-jima is the main island of the Yaeyama Islands and the region's transportation hub. The largest city, Ishigaki City and airport, Ishigaki Airport for the island group are both located on Ishigaki-jima, as well as the area’s most major boat terminal, Ishigaki Port.

Surrounded by coral reefs and small uninhabited islands the wonderful sights and activities on this small piece of paradise are hard to find anywhere else in the world. Picturesque places such as Kabira Bay and other natural beauty in the sea. There are many wonderful places to explore in the mountains or numerous underground caves. Ishigaki Island is also famous for its beautiful beaches offering great snorkeling and SCUBA diving spots for fans of marine activities.

On Ishigaki island there is a thriving culture steeped in ancient traditions alive and well. Like much of Okinawa cultural influences come from a mixture of China, mainland Japan, and the very near by Taiwan as well as other former trading partners in the region dating back to the Ryukyu Kingdom. Regardless of where it comes from the people of Ishigaki are proud of their culture and celebrate it with many festivals and event all throughout the year. Because they are a musical people many of the events feature traditional island songs that can be heard accompanied by the sanshin (traditional Okinawa stringed instrument) even at some of the major sporting events held on Ishigaki like theBG Ishigaki Triathlon World Cup. It is no mystery why Ishigaki Island is one of the most popular destinations for travelers to the Okinawan Islands for visitors.