Ishigaki Island: A Paradise Getaway Just 2 Hours Away

Dubbed the "Maldives of Japan," Ishigaki Island is now more accessible than ever. No need to transfer via Okinawa's main island—just a 2-hour flight and you're instantly in vacation mode! Already planning your itinerary? From breathtaking ocean views and mouthwatering Ishigaki beef to hopping over to nearby Taketomi Island for a chill day, here's a guide to help you dive into the island's charm and make the most of your time.

Day 1｜
• Arrive at New Ishigaki Airport, pick up your rental car (advance booking recommended), and start your journey.
• Head to scenic spots overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the Yaeyama Islands, and Funauki.
• For lunch, try Ishigaki beef curry at #ArakakiShokudo or the popular pork rib Okinawa soba at #AkashiShokudo.
• In the afternoon, visit the northernmost point of Ishigaki Island, #HirakuboLighthouse.
• Stop by ocean-view cafes or small bars along the way for a relaxing break.
• Check into a villa-style accommodation or camper van in the central area, and explore local cuisine for dinner.

Day 2｜
• Visit a Michelin Green Guide three-star attraction and take a glass-bottom boat ride to admire tropical fish and coral reefs.
• For lunch, enjoy Okinawa spare rib noodles, Yaeyama noodles, or Okinawa stir-fry with bitter melon and island tofu—a nostalgic Okinawan flavor.
• Stop by #FusakiAngelPier, a dreamy white pier extending from the beach into the blue sea, perfect for photos.
• Explore unique natural landscapes and listen to the soothing sounds of a suikinkutsu (water harp cave) during a 30-minute visit.
• Check into your accommodation.
• Head to the city for dinner. Recommended spots: #IshigakiBeefMARU, Ishigaki Beef Burger Specialty Shop #HeartLand.
• Enjoy a night stroll in Ishigaki City.

Day 3｜
• After breakfast, visit #YaeyamaFarmersMarket (Yurateiku Market) to explore local produce.
• Stop by #GenkiMilkShop Ishigaki Misaki Main Store, known for its boy logo, to enjoy fresh milk and yogurt from Ishigaki Island farms.
• Take a 10-minute ferry ride from Ishigaki Port to Taketomi Island.
• Check into #HoshinoyaTaketomiIsland.
• Experience a leisurely walk through white sand streets and traditional red-tile-roofed houses, and visit #StarSandBeach.
• Savor French cuisine infused with local island ingredients at Hoshinoya.
• End the day stargazing under a romantic night sky.

Day 4｜
• Enjoy a Hoshinoya breakfast, followed by a garden stroll, swimming, or relaxing on the beach.
• Take a ferry back to Ishigaki Island.
• For lunch, try the signature fluffy and soft tamagoyaki at #ShunBANCHAN.
• Spend the afternoon at #ShirahoBeach, wading in the waves, listening to the ocean, or simply daydreaming.
• Accommodation recommendations: ANA InterContinental Ishigaki Resort, Seven x Seven Ishigaki.

*Note: Taiwan/Hong Kong and Ishigaki Island have a 1-hour time difference.