Ishigaki Okinawa And The Southwest Islands, Japan Travel Guide
No specific vaccinations are required for entry into Japan. Ensure your routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, Polio, Flu) are current.
Hepatitis A and B are generally suggested for most travelers. Japanese Encephalitis is suggested for long-term travelers or those spending significant time in rural areas during transmission season, although risks in Ishigaki remain low. Consult a travel doctor prior to your departure for personalized advice.
Ishigaki maintains modern medical facilities. Yaeyama Hospital (総合病院八重山病院) and Ishigaki Daiichi Hospital (石垣第一病院) provide emergency services and general medical care. Pharmacies are available, but specific foreign prescription medications may not be stocked.
Bring adequate supplies of your personal medications. Emergency Numbers: Police: 110. Fire and Ambulance: 119. English assistance might be limited when calling.
Very Low Crime Rate
Ishigaki maintains a very low crime rate. It generally is a safe destination. Petty crime, like bicycle theft, occurs rarely but remains possible.
No specific neighborhoods are identified as unsafe.
Be Prepared
Peak typhoon season occurs between August and September. Monitor weather forecasts closely. Follow local advisories for sheltering or evacuation.
Though rare, Japan sits in an earthquake-prone zone. Coastal areas are susceptible to tsunamis. Tsunami warning systems are active. Heed all warnings and evacuate immediately if advised.
Highly Suggested
Comprehensive travel insurance is highly suggested. Your policy should cover medical emergencies, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation or interruption, and lost or stolen luggage.
Ensure your insurance covers any planned activities, like diving. Consider World Nomads or SafetyWing for options.
Police: 110. Fire/Ambulance: 119. Ishigaki City Hall (Emergency Management): +81-980-82-9911. Keep your country's Embassy/Consulate in Japan contact details readily available.
Yaeyama Hospital (八重山病院): +81-980-83-2525. Ishigaki Daiichi Hospital (石垣第一病院): +81-980-82-3211.
In an emergency, dial 110 for police or 119 for fire and ambulance.
State your location clearly.
If a language barrier occurs, request an interpreter or have a local assist you.
For flight disruptions, AirHelp assists passengers with compensation claims.
Always carry sufficient water, especially during outdoor activities.