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.