Map summary of the Yaeyama Islands! You can find ferry, bus route, and sightseeing in the islands!

Where are the Yaeyama Islands?
Check out the map to see the whole picture!

The Yaeyama Islands are a remote island area located in the southwestern part of Okinawa Prefecture, with beautiful marine blue waters and rich nature.

Map.Closer to Taiwan than the main island of OkinawaThe climate is subtropical, with bright flowers blooming all year round.

We will introduce these islands, which attract many tourists every day as Japan's best "tropical resorts," in their entirety, based on their geography!

Click here to see the ranking of popular Ishigaki Island tours.

Location and overall map of Okinawa Prefecture and the Yaeyama Islands

The Yaeyama Islands are,About 400 km further southwest from the main island of OkinawaIt is located in the heart of the city, not far from Taiwan.

Centered on Ishigaki Island, it consists of inhabited islands such as Iriomote, Taketomi, and Kohama, as well as smaller outlying islands such as Hatoma and Aragusuku (Panari).

Click here to see the ranking of popular Ishigaki Island tours.

What are the main islands included in the Yaeyama Islands?

The Yaeyama Islands are rich in character. Ishigaki Island is the center of the islands. Ishigaki Airport and the ferry terminal for the outlying islands are located there, and most travelers use this as their base.

Taketomi Island isOld-fashioned red-tiled housesIriomote Island is a charming place, and about 90% of its area is covered by jungle,world natural heritage siteThe island is rich in nature and is also registered as a

Kohama Island is popular for its relaxing scenery of sugar cane fields, and Kuroshima Island is known as a heart-shaped island with more cows than people.

Hateruma Island, the southernmost point of Japanand ...,Yonaguni Island, the westernmost point of JapanThe Yaeyama Islands are also included in the Yaeyama archipelago and are a valuable area for travelers to experience the "edge" of the archipelago.

Each island has its own unique culture and attractions that will keep you coming back time and again.

Let's take a ferry from Ishigaki Island to the remote islands!

The charm of the Yaeyama Islands is that you can travel between islands by boat. Several ferries depart from Ishigaki Port every day, making it possible to easily make a day trip.

Click here to book a ferry to an outlying island.

Ishigaki Port is the hub! Ferry to each remote island

Ishigaki Port Terminal is the departure and arrival point for ferries heading to the outlying islands in the Yaeyama Archipelago.

From here, regular flights operate to Taketomi Island, Iriomote Island (Uehara Port and Ohara Port), Kohama Island, Kuroshima Island, and Hateruma Island.

Each ferry company shares a boarding area, and tickets can be purchased on the same day, but they are crowded during peak season,Advance reservation on the web is recommended.The following is a list of the most common problems with the

More about Ishigaki Island Ferry

Latest in 2025! A complete guide to Ishigaki Island ferry timetables and fares! Tours and ways to spend time in each remote island!Contents1 Complete Guide to Ishigaki Island Ferry Timetables and Fares 2 Basic Information on Ferries to/from Ishigaki Island 2.1 Operating companies 2.2 Ishigaki Port Terminal, the gateway to the Yaeyama Islands 2.3 Advance reservations are now required! How to buy ferry tickets [...].

Click here for convenient advance reservations.

Travel time to each island

The ferry from Ishigaki Port to each of the islands takes about 15 minutes to reach Taketomi Island, the nearest island, and about 60 minutes to Hateruma Island.

The Yaeyama Islands are closer than you think. There are many tours that can be enjoyed even on a one-day trip!

From/to Ishigaki Island! Click here for recommended remote island tours.

Autumn Special SALE [From/to Ishigaki Island] Conquer popular sightseeing spots (Kuroshima, Aragusuku (Panari) Island, Barasu Island, and Phantom Island) by chartered boat! Jet Ski Rental & Snorkeling & Marine Sports 1 Day Course《Pick-up・Drop-off OK, Lunch included》（No.577)開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours150,000 yen

Experience Diving & Landing on Phantom Island & Taketomi Island Sightseeing Tour with Lunch (No.366)開始時間9:00-16:30所要時間Approx. 7.5 hours20,000 yen

It can be reached from Ishigaki Island!
Recommended Yaeyama Islands

There are many remote islands that can be visited on a day trip from Ishigaki Island. Here are some popular islands where you can enjoy nature, culture, and activities.

Learn more about touring the remote islands of the Yaeyama Archipelago

Day trip to remote islands from Ishigaki Island! Introducing 9 recommended islands & model courses!Contents1 Day trip from Ishigaki Island to the remote islands! Let's go out to Yaeyama Island for a day trip tour2 1.Taketomi Island2.1 Access to Taketomi Island2.2 Recommended ways to spend your time in Taketomi Island3 2.Iriomotejima Island3.1 Access to Iriomotejima Island [...] 2.2.Iriomote Island (Iriomote Island)

Click here to book a ferry to an outlying island.

Taketomi

Taketomi Island, a 10-minute ferry ride from Ishigaki Port, is an island with beautiful red-tiled houses and white sand roads that retain the traditional Okinawan scenery.

Renting a bicycle and leisurely touring the island is recommended.Star Sand Beach and Kondoi BeachBeautiful beaches such as the following are also highlights.

Since it is a small island, you can visit the main spots in half a day. A leisurely ride in a buffalo cart through the villages is also recommended.

Learn more about Taketomi Island

Taketomi Island, only 10 minutes from Ishigaki Island, is thoroughly explained!Contents1 What is Taketomi Island? 2 How to get to Taketomi Island from Ishigaki Island (Ferry) 3 Ten Sightseeing Spots on Taketomi Island3.1 1) Homes and Villages on Taketomi Island (Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings)3.2) Nagomi no To 3.3) Star Sand Beach (Kaiji Beach)3.4) Kondoi [...].

Click here for recommended tours including Taketomi Island

Special Autumn SALE [Ishigakijima / 1 Day] Enjoy 2 remote islands! Spectacular "Phantom Island" Landing + Snorkeling & Relaxing "Taketomi Island" Sightseeing 《Photo free & Transportation included》（No.459）.開始時間8:00-16:30所要時間Approx. 6 hours19,600 yen →9,800yen

Snorkeling & Landing on Phantom Island & Taketomi Island Sightseeing Tour with Lunch (No.365)開始時間9:00-16:30所要時間Approx. 7.5 hours16,000 yen

Special Autumn SALE [Ishigakijima / 1 Day] Sightseeing and Activity Package Plan! Leisurely Taketomi Island Sightseeing + Natural Monument Mangrove SUP or Canoeing 《with free photo & pick-up & drop-off》（No.574)開始時間The number of employees is limited to the following: 06:00~,09:00~,13:30~,17:00~.所要時間Approx. 7 hours19,600 yen →9,800yen

Click here for the popular tour ranking of Taketomi Island

Iriomote

Iriomote Island, with its pristine nature of jungles, waterfalls, and mangrove forests, is perfect for adventure lovers.

The major ports areUehara Port and Ohara Portand both ports are about an hour's drive apart, so choose the port that best suits your plans!

There are many activities available, such as canoeing and a buffalo cart tour to Yubu Island. Since the island is large, participation in a tour is recommended for a day trip.

Learn more about Iriomote Island

List of recommended places to visit and play in Iriomote Island!Iriomote Island is the second largest island in Okinawa Prefecture. Iriomote Island is home to the Iriomote wildcat, a rare wild animal, and is also called the "Galapagos of the East" because of the large number of rare wild animals that live there.

Click here for recommended tours including Iriomote Island

Tours Limited Discount】Iriomotejima⇆Ishigakijima Ferry Ticket Included★Mangrove SUP or Canoe & "Miracle Island" Barasu Island Snorkeling Tour★Free Photo(No.485)開始時間8:00-17:55所要時間Approx. 9 hours27,470 yen →20,100yen

Tours Limited Discount】Iriomotejima⇆Iragakijima Ferry Ticket Included★Do the standard! Iriomotejima Mangrove SUP or Canoe Half Day Course★Free Photo (No.559)開始時間8:00-15:20 / 11:00-17:55所要時間Approx. 5 hours14,670 yen →13,000yen

Tours Limited Discount】Iriomotejima⇆Ishigakijima Ferry Ticket Included★Mangrove SUP or Canoe & Canyoning 1 Day Course★Free Photo (No.561)開始時間8:00-17:55所要時間Approx. 9 hours27,470 yen →20,100yen

Ranking of popular tours in Iriomote Island
(Iriomote Island specialized site) is here.

Kohama

Kohama Island, with its spectacular view from high above, is about a 30-minute ferry ride away.NHK Drama "ChurasanIt became famous as a location for the

You can rent bicycles to go around the island, and the idyllic meadows and beaches will tickle your travel fancy.

There are also a number of large resort hotels, and whether for a day trip or an overnight stay, you can spend your time as you wish on this remote island.

Learn more about Kohama Island

List of recommended places to visit and things to do in Kohama Island!Kohama Island is a 16-km circumference island in the Yaeyama Islands, but boasts excellent facilities and offers a private atmosphere. Access from Ishigaki Island and the main areas are all listed here.

Click here for recommended tours including Kohama Island.

Kohama Island/3-4 hours] Charter Boat Charter from Afternoon☆One-day trip from Ishigaki Island is OK!開始時間：14:00-19:00
*About 3-4 hours from the above hours所要時間Approx. 3-4 hours7,000 yen

★Special Autumn SALE [Choice of Ishigaki Island or Kohama Island] Landing on Phantom Island + Ishinishi lagoon & Sea turtle snorkeling AM half-day course 《Mermaid experience available & photo gift included》 Beginners and children are welcome☆ (No.590)開始時間9:40-13:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours10,800 yen →9,800yen

Ishigaki Island, Okinawa] You can move around easily and quickly! Electric Kickboard Rental 《Transportable to Kohama Island, Kuroshima Island, Hateruma Island, Iriomote Island》 (No.589)開始時間From 9:00 (last admission at 17:00)所要時間1 day (negotiable)3,000 yen

Popular Tour Ranking in Kohama Island
(Kohama Island's specialized website) click here

Kurushima

The heart-shaped Kuroshima has more cows than population."Cow Island". It is accessible by ferry in about 30 minutes.

Biking and snorkeling can be enjoyed on the quiet island, and visitors can enjoy a relaxing island time.

The Kuroshima Research Institute is a marine biology research center established in 1975. It has a permanent exhibition room where animals and folk artifacts living on Kuroshima are displayed.

You can also experience feeding sharks and sea turtles.

Learn more about Kuroshima

List of places to go, things to do and places to visit in Kuroshima!Kuroshima is also called "Heart Island" because the island's shape looks like a heart. The island is popular among couples, with a population of about 200 people and about 3,000 cows grazing on the island.

Click here for recommended tours including Kuroshima Island

Autumn Special SALE [From/to Ishigaki Island] Conquer popular sightseeing spots (Kuroshima, Aragusuku (Panari) Island, Barasu Island, and Phantom Island) by chartered boat! Jet Ski Rental & Snorkeling & Marine Sports 1 Day Course《Pick-up・Drop-off OK, Lunch included》（No.577)開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours150,000 yen

Ishigaki Island, Okinawa] You can move around easily and quickly! Electric Kickboard Rental 《Transportable to Kohama Island, Kuroshima Island, Hateruma Island, Iriomote Island》 (No.589)開始時間From 9:00 (last admission at 17:00)所要時間1 day (negotiable)3,000 yen

If you want to get around Ishigaki Island efficiently
Car rental is recommended.

Ishigaki Island is a place where the whole island is like a sightseeing spot. If you want to go sightseeing efficiently...Car rental is convenientIt is.

The main attraction is that you can freely visit spots without worrying about time.

Click here for details on Ishigakijima Car Rental

Advance reservations required.

In Ishigaki Island, rental cars fill up quickly during the tourist season. Especially during summer vacation, year-end and New Year holidays, and Golden Week, you may not be able to rent a car without an advance reservation.

We recommend that you make a reservation in advance online so that you can use it as soon as you arrive. The roads are easy to find, so if you are a regular driver, you can use it with ease.

Click here for recommended car rental plans in Ishigaki Island.

Ishigaki Island, Car Rental] Insurance is provided for your peace of mind in case of emergency! Mini Car Class A《Maximum 4 Passengers》(No.r-18)開始時間Pick-up and return hours: 9:00-18:00 (reservations can be made in 30-minute increments)所要時間Negotiable15,000 yen

Ishigaki Island, Car Rental S】Compact class car《Maximum 5 Passengers》Car navigation system standard equipment【Including deductible and wide coverage fee, No need to return full tank of gas】(No.r-13)開始時間8:00-19:00所要時間Negotiable11,600 yen

Ishigaki Island, Car Rental] W3 Class Car《Maximum 7 Passengers》 VELLFIRE 【With Airport Pickup Service】 (No.r-19)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Negotiable19,800 yen

Sightseeing on the island utilizing local buses!

Even if you are not good at driving, it's okay! In Ishigaki Island, buses are also a strong ally for sightseeing. It is a convenient means of transportation to access major spots.

Click here to see the ranking of popular Ishigaki Island tours.

Relationship between bus route map and major sightseeing spots in Ishigaki Island

Bus routes on Ishigaki Island are operated by Higashi Bus. It is easy to find the bus terminal, which is about a 3-minute walk from the remote island terminal, as a base.

There are routes connecting to Kabira Bay, the airport, and Shiraho, providing access to major tourist destinations.

Let's go there by car or bus!
6 recommended spots on Ishigaki Island

Ishigaki Island has many places where you can experience spectacular scenery and local culture. We introduce 6 typical sightseeing spots that can be reached by car or bus!

Click here to see the ranking of popular Ishigaki Island tours.

1) Kabira Bay

The most famous scenic spot in Ishigaki Island. The emerald green sea and white sandy beaches spread out, and short cruises on glass boats are popular.

Swimming is prohibited due to the fast currents, but the view from the observatory is breathtaking. If you visit the island, this is a must-see.

If you take a tour,SUP and canoeingYou can also experience activities such as

Detail of Kabira Bay

Location: Kawahira, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture
Access: 25 minutes by car from Ishigakijima Airport, 30 minutes by car from the remote island terminal

Ishigaki Island - Kabira Bay   About Kabirawan Kabirawan is famous as the most scenic spot in Ishigaki Island. It is one of only 17 places in Japan to receive the highest rating of three stars in the "Michelin Green Guide Japon"! From Kabira Bay, you can see the Kabira Blue [...].

Held at Kabira Bay! Click here for recommended tours

Ishigaki Island/2.5 hours] Same-day reservation OK! Kabira Bay SUP Tour★Michelin Guide Three-Star Tour★Free Photo & Pick-up Service (No.301)開始時間9:00-11:30 / 13:30-16:00所要時間Approx. 2.5 hours14,500 yen →7,900yen

Ishigaki Island / 1 Day] If you are in doubt, this is the one for you☆Let's look for sea turtles! Kabira Bay SUP/Canoe & Blue Cave Snorkeling Tour ★ (No.349)開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours29,000 yen →13,500yen

Ishigaki Island/Half-day] Same-day reservation OK! Kabira Bay" Kayak Tour ★Free Photo & Pick-up & Drop-off (No.302)開始時間9:00-11:30 / 13:30-16:00所要時間Approx. 2.5 hours14,500 yen →7,900yen

Learn more about Kabira Bay

Kabira Bay Tour A must visit when you come to Ishigaki Island! Kabira Bay in Ishigaki Island is rated as a three-star scenic spot worth visiting by the guidebook "Michelin Green Guide Japon". In this issue, we will introduce Kabira Bay's [...]. (34 total) アクティビティの詳細を見る

Shiraho Coast

The Shiraho Coast is rich in coral reefs and fish,Popular snorkeling spotsThe following is a list of the most common problems with the

It is easily accessible, being only a 15-minute drive from the airport. Shiraho village is an area that retains an old Okinawan atmosphere and is dotted with guest houses and cafes.

You can enjoy both playing in the ocean and walking around town.

Details of Shiraho Coast

Location: 2107-2 Shiraho, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture
Access: 5 minutes by car from Ishigaki Airport
Operating period: Year-round
Facilities: Restrooms are available in Shiraho Coral Village

Ishigaki Island-Shiraho Beach   About Shiraho Beach Shiraho Beach is located in the eastern part of the island, about 5 minutes by car from Shin-Ishigaki Airport, on the way from the airport to the city center, and about 20 minutes by car from the city center. The natural white sand beach stretches for about 10 km, and the population [...].

Ishigaki Island-Shiraho Coral Village   Shiraho Coral Village is an exhibition facility located near Shiraho Beach on Ishigaki Island. It works to protect the corals of Shiraho Coast, which Japan is proud of in the world. The Sunday market held at Shiraho Coral Village sells Shiraho and Ishigaki Island's specialties every Sunday, and the sales [...].

Click here for recommended tours related to Shiraho Coast

The largest blue coral colony in the northern hemisphere is impressive☆Spectacular "Shiraho Beach" snorkeling tour (No.560)開始時間8:30-11:30 / 12:30-15:30所要時間Approx. 3 hours9,000 yen

Ishigaki Island] One of the world's largest! Kayak & Snorkeling Tour in the Blue Coral Colony "Shiraho" (No.521)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 13:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours8,000 yen

Ishigaki Island] Dense coral reefs! Ishigaki Island Sea Kayak & Snorkeling 1 Day Course《With Happy Lunch》（No.416)開始時間9:00-16:30所要時間Approx. 7 hours15,000 yen

(iii) Heirakubozaki

Northernmost tip of Ishigaki IslandThis lighthouse spot is located on the The cape overlooks the Pacific Ocean and the East China Sea, providing a sense of openness.

It is also a great place to visit at the end of a road trip. You can enjoy a spectacular view like the end of the world.

Details of Hirakubozaki

Location: Aza-Hirakubo, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture
Access: 50 minutes by car from Ishigaki Airport

Ishigaki Island-Hirakubozaki   Hirakubozaki is located at the northernmost tip of Hirakubo Peninsula in the northeast of Ishigaki Island, and the Hirakubozaki Lighthouse is a popular tourist spot. The view from there is a spectacular view of Ishigaki blue with the Pacific Ocean on the right and the East China Sea on the left [...].

(4) Nosoko Marpei

This 282-meter-high mountain is known for the "legend of Ma Pei," a tragic love story of a man who turned to stone for his lover. Climb to the top.Panoramic view of Ishigaki IslandThe 360-degree panoramic view that can be

A 30-minute light hiking course is available, perfect for those who want to enjoy nature while getting some exercise.

Details of Mt.

Location:Nosoko, Ishigaki City, Okinawa
Access: Approximately 40 minutes by car from the remote island terminal

Ishigaki Island - Mt. Nosoko (Nosoko Marpei)   About Nosoko-dake (Nosoko Maapei) Nosoko-dake (Nosoko Maapei) is a mountain about 284m above sea level located about 25 minutes drive from Shin-Ishigaki Airport. It is the No. 1 scenic spot in Ishigaki Island because you can see all the mountains, rivers, and green mangrove jungle of Ishigaki Island [...].

Click here for Nosoko-dake related activities! ↓ Click here

Ishigaki Island] Easy trekking tour to "Nosoko Marpei," selected as one of the 100 best Shimayama (No.320)開始時間9:30-12:00 / 13:30-16:00 / 17:00-19:30所要時間Approx. 2.5 hours6,900 yen

(5) Sukuji Beach

Sukuji Beach, with its shallow waters and gentle waves, is a popular spot for families. It is also famous for its sunset views, which are spectacular at dusk.

There is a parking lot, showers, and restrooms, perfect for relaxing in the ocean and playing in the sand.

Sokoji Beach Details

Location: 185-1 Kabira, Ishigaki City, Okinawa, Japan
Access:Approximately 20 minutes by car from the remote island terminal
Open: Mid-March to September
Facilities: jellyfish prevention nets, lifeguard, restrooms, changing rooms, showers (fee: 100 yen/day), store, beach goods rental

Ishigaki Island-Sukuji Beach   Sukuji Beach is one of the representative beaches in Ishigaki Island. It is one of the representative beaches in Ishigaki Island. 1km long white sand beach and blue ocean stretches along the green forest of Mokumao! Beyond Sukuji Beach, there is a great location that leads directly to Kabira-ishizaki, a scenic spot in Ishigaki [...].

6) Yaima Village

Some old houses that have been relocated are on display,Experience the traditional culture of YaeyamaTheme park.

This is a spot where visitors can experience the culture of Okinawa, including exhibits that recreate life in the old days.

It is also recommended for visitors with small children, as they can interact with cute squirrel monkeys.

Details of Ishigaki Yamama Village

Location: 967-1, Nagura, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture
Access: 20 minutes by car from the remote island terminal
Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (reception until 5:00 p.m.)
Fee: Adults 1,200 yen / Children 600 yen

Ishigaki Island - Ishigaki Yaima-mura   About Ishigaki Yaima Village Ishigaki Yaima Village is a theme park that recreates the good old Yaeyama houses against the backdrop of rich nature. It is located on the hill overlooking Nagura Bay which is famous for beautiful sunset in Ishigaki Island. It is registered as a national tangible cultural property [...].

summary

The Yaeyama Islands are dotted with remote islands with rich individuality, centering on Ishigaki Island.

Whether you are a first-time visitor or a repeat visitor, you will discover something new every time you go. We hope you will use this article to plan your trip!

Click here to read the article in conjunction with this one.

Round Ishigaki Island! Introducing a recommended driving model course!Driving around Ishigaki Island is recommended! You can go around the island in 3 hours and visit the famous spots in 8 hours, stopping for lunch and sightseeing spots along the way. Enjoy Ishigaki Island with a rental car!

30 Spectacular Beaches in Ishigaki Island! Our local staff introduces you to the best beaches in Ishigaki Island from the hidden places to the popular standard beaches!The emerald green ocean is so beautiful that you will want to swim in it and see what is under the sea. In addition, coral reefs and many tropical fish can be enjoyed just by swimming near the beach.

For beginners! Ishigaki Island Round Trip Model Course & Recommended Sightseeing SpotsContents1 Model Course for Beginners☆ No mistakes even if it is your first time in Ishigaki Island2 Model Course for Ishigaki Island 2.1 【Day 1】Start: New Ishigaki Airport 2.2 ①Tamatorizaki Observation Deck 2.3 ②Hirakubozaki 2.4 ③Fukidukawa 2.5 ④Kabira Bay 2... [...].