Ishigaki Okinawa And The Southwest Islands, Japan Travel Guide
Ishigaki is a main island in the Yaeyama Island group, part of Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. It lies in the East China Sea, positioned southwest of Okinawa's main island and closer to Taiwan than to mainland Japan. The island is a varied topography, featuring flat coastal plains that rise to hills and Mount Omoto, the highest peak in Okinawa. Surrounding waters boast extensive coral reefs.
Ishigaki has a blend of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and quiet relaxation.
Visitors discover beautiful beaches, opportunities for marine sports, and a taste of local Okinawan cuisine. The island balances modern conveniences with preserved natural beauty and traditional island life.
The island has a subtropical climate, bringing warm to hot temperatures and high humidity year-round.
Spring (March-May): Pleasant temperatures, typically between 20-25°C. Humidity stays lower, and rainfall remains moderate. This season holds ideal conditions for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
Summer (June-August): Hot and humid weather, with temperatures ranging from 28-32°C. Frequent heavy showers occur, and the sun feels strong. This is also the high-risk period for typhoons, especially in August and September.
Autumn (September-November): Temperatures stay warm, between 25-29°C. Humidity decreases, offering more comfortable conditions. The risk of typhoons continues until early October. Water temperatures remain high, suitable for swimming.
Winter (December-February): Mild weather, generally 18-22°C. Occasional cooler fronts pass through, but rainfall is less common. Winter still supports diving, though wetsuits are necessary for comfort.
Water feels warmest for swimming and snorkeling. Expect crowds. Prices for flights and accommodation increase. Late summer months bring typhoon risk.
Weather generally remains good, especially in late May and June or during October. Discover fewer crowds and better prices. Early typhoon activity can occur in June. Some facilities might have reduced hours.
This period experiences the fewest tourists and lowest prices. Mild weather suits hiking and land exploration, and seas remain calm for boating. Water temperatures feel cooler for swimming, making a Wetsuit a valuable item. Some seasonal businesses may close.
June to November. Peak activity in August and September. Typhoons can cause flight cancellations, disrupt ferry services. Always monitor local weather forecasts closely.
High humidity persists in Ishigaki, specifically during summer.
Marine Activities (Diving, Snorkeling, Swimming): Plan your marine adventures from May to October for the warmest water. Visibility often appears best outside the peak typhoon season. March and April can feature clear waters with fewer crowds.
Beach Relaxation: June to October presents warm water for beach days. Be aware, this period also brings the highest sun intensity.
Japan maintains clear entry regulations for visitors. Most travelers find the process straightforward.
Visa-Exempt Countries: Citizens of over 60 countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and most European Union nations, enjoy visa exemption for short-term stays. These stays permit tourism, business, or visits to friends and relatives for up to 90 days. IVisa and VisaHQ offer visa application assistance.
Visa Required Countries: If your nationality does not appear on the visa-exempt list, you must obtain a visa in advance. Apply through a Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country. Requirements vary by nationality.
Required Documentation: Passport (valid for duration, some airlines need 6 months beyond travel), Return or Onward Ticket, Proof of Funds.
Immigration Forms: Japan now uses digital data collection via Visit Japan Web, replacing physical arrival/departure cards. Complete entry and customs declarations through this online platform: Visit Japan Web.
Entry Fees and Immigration Procedures: Japan does not impose a general entry fee for tourists. Upon arrival at New Ishigaki Airport (ISG), proceed through standard immigration checks.
Special Permits: No special permits are typically needed for general tourism in Ishigaki.
Health-Related Entry Requirements: As of early 2024, Japan has no specific health-related entry requirements beyond routine immunizations.
Plan your budget for Ishigaki by understanding currency, exchange options, and typical expenses. Costs vary based on your travel style.
Currency: Japan uses the Japanese Yen (JPY, ¥).
Exchange: Exchange major currencies at New Ishigaki Airport, some larger hotels, and post offices. ATMs are widely available at convenience stores (Seven-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson) and post offices. Credit cards find acceptance at most hotels, larger restaurants, and shops. Smaller establishments, local eateries, and some tour operators prefer cash payments.
¥6,000-¥15,000 (approx. US$40-US$100) per person per day.
¥18,000-¥45,000 (approx. US$120-US$300) per person per day.
¥55,000+ (approx. US$370+) per person per day.
Accommodation: Hostels/Guesthouses: ¥3,000-¥6,000 per night (dorm/basic private). Mid-range Hotels/Minshuku: ¥8,000-¥20,000 per night. Resorts/Luxury Hotels: ¥20,000-¥80,000+ per night.
Meals: Casual/Local Eatery (Soba, Set Meal): ¥700-¥1,500 per person. Mid-range Restaurant: ¥2,000-¥5,000 per person. High-end/Ishigaki Beef Specialist: ¥6,000-¥15,000+ per person. Convenience Store Meal: ¥500-¥1,000.
Transportation: Local Bus Fare: ¥200-¥700 per ride (distance dependent). Car Rental: ¥5,000-¥12,000 per day (compact to SUV, excluding insurance/gas). Taxi: Meter starts around ¥500-¥600, then adds per kilometer. Ferry to nearby islands (e.g., Taketomi): ¥600-¥700 one-way.
Attractions: Ishigaki Yaima Village: ¥1,000. Ishigaki Island Limestone Cave: ¥1,300. Glass-bottom boat tour at Kabira Bay: ¥1,200-¥1,500. Snorkeling/Diving Tours: ¥8,000-¥15,000 (half-day), ¥12,000-¥25,000 (full-day).
