You know that person, too! Celebrities and famous people from Ishigaki Island

Ishigaki Island is a "treasure house of stars!
What is the reason?

Ishigaki Island is a popular tourist destination as a southern island rich in nature, but in fact, it has produced many famous people who are active in music and sports.A treasure trove of stars".

The island's culture and family-oriented climate provide the soil for nurturing budding talents and encouraging them to spread their wings nationwide.

In this issue, we introduce celebrities and famous people from Ishigaki Island!

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

Shining in the music world!
Artists from Ishigaki Island

Ishigaki Island is so much a part of daily life that it is called the island of music. From folk songs to pop music and idols, many talents beyond genres are spreading their wings to the world.

First, let us introduce some music artists from Ishigaki Island!

Tetsuhiro Daikou
Yaeyama folk song evangelist sings on the world stage

Born in 1948. Studied under Yaeyama folk song master Yuukichi Yamazato, and in 1999, became a member of the Okinawaholder of intangible cultural propertiesThe company was certified by the

He has performed all over the world, contributing to cultural preservation. We are also expanding our classes nationwide, and we are committed to singing the island's songs with care.

He is also actively involved in collaborations with young artists, and is a leading figure in making Okinawan folk music popular among a wide range of ages.

BEGIN
National band known for "Shimanin Nu Takara

BEGIN is an acoustic band formed in 1988 by members from Ishigaki Island, Okinawa.

In 1989, "Yuji Miyake's Ikkasu Band Tengoku" (a.k.a. "Yuji Miyake's Ikkasu Band Tengoku") aired on TBS.squid tentacles) and attracted a great deal of attention.

Representative song "Shimanchin Nu Takarahas become a famous song that conveys the charm of Ishigaki Island and is still loved by people of all ages.

Rimi Natsukawa
Healing diva whose tearful songs touch the heart.

Female singer from Ishigaki Island.Tears for YouThe cover version of the song was a big hit and quickly gained attention.

Costumes from his appearance in the NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen are still on display at the Minsa Kogei Kan.

Families visit "Soba Restaurant Nirai Kanai" in Ishigaki IslandHe runs an Okinawan noodle restaurant calledHis family also runs the "Hanaakari" snack bar, which is also popular.

Kiyama Shoten
A cheerful character on the island who delivers laughter and tears!

A trio of three members, Ryosa, Masto, and Dai-chan, a cousin.Entertainment kinship bandsThe following is a list of the most common problems with the

Named after their grandmother's candy shop, they have gained popularity by performing a wide range of songs from humorous comic songs that include stories about their relatives and Ishigaki Aru Aru, to heartwarming ballads.

The band has been featured in many commercials and is a popular band that no one in Okinawa knows.

Yuho Aoki
Island girl in "The Blue Sky I Wish I Saw"

Official rival group of Nogizaka46."The blue sky I wanted to seeHe debuted in 2023 as a member of the

He received the "Record Award for Best Newcomer" that same year.

Having been a sports girl since elementary school, she is noted as an island girl with a fresh and healthy appeal.

Shining in the world of sports!
Legend and athlete from Ishigaki Island

It is not only music. Ishigaki Island has sent many talents to the world of sports as well. From legendary athletes to active stars, we will introduce you to some of them.

You're a good judge of character
Legendary boxer, hero of Ishigaki Island

Gushiken Yoshitaka is a legendary boxer and former WBA World Light Flyweight Champion.

He made his professional debut in 1974 and won the world title in October 1976 after only nine fights. Since then,Successfully defended the title 13 consecutive times, the most by a Japanese maleWe have set up a

After retiring in 1981, he established a gym with Yoshio Shirai and devoted himself to training younger students.

He has also been active in many areas, including television, speaking engagements, and commercial appearances, and was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Honor in 2015.

He is an eternal legend, still remembered for his brilliant southpaw style and the nickname "crested serpent eagle" during his active career.

Ishigaki Island hasGushiken Youtaka Memorial Halland his feats are on display.

Gushiken Youtaka Memorial Museum Basic Information

Location: 2376-1 Shinkawa, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture
Access: Ishigaki Port Terminal5 minutes by car from
Business hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Ishigaki Island - Gushiken Youtaka Memorial Hall   About Gushiken Yoshitaka Memorial Hall The memorial hall honors the well-known hero of Ishigaki Island, Yoshitaka Gushiken. It is located on Shiyakusho Street heading north from Ishigaki city center. It takes about 20-25 minutes on foot from the city center area. WBA World Jr.

Kaima Taira
A 160-kilogram strong arm from a southern island

Born on November 15, 1999, he is a professional baseball pitcher from Ishigaki, Okinawa. He pitches right-handed and bats left-handed, and joined the Saitama Seibu Lions in the 4th round of the 2017 draft, making his first appearance in the first team on July 19, 2019!The following is a list of the most common problems with the

His fastball, which is delivered from his huge frame of 173 cm in height and 93 kg in weight, exceeds 160 km/h at maximum.

In 2020.Awarded Pacific League Rookie of the YearIn 2021, he won a gold medal as a member of Japan's baseball team for the Tokyo Olympics, and he repeated his laurels.

He will continue to be a core member of the relief corps in the 2025 season and holds the league record with 39 consecutive games without allowing a run!The following is a list of the most common problems with the

5 recommended sightseeing spots in Ishigaki Island

Ishigaki Island has produced many famous people. Here are some of the recommended sightseeing spots on this island full of rich nature.

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

1) Kabira Bay

It is the most scenic spot in Ishigaki Island and is selected as one of the 100 most scenic spots in Japan,Three Michelin starsKabira Bay, which won the

A wide variety of stores and restaurants are available for the experience with same-day reservations.glass boatare also popular and perfect for family vacations.

Swimming is prohibited,SUP and kayakThe standard activity tours such as the following are offered

Detail of Kabira Bay

Location: Kawahira, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture
Access: 25 minutes by car from Shin-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

Kabira Bay" SUP Tour★Michelin Guide 3-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

Special Summer SALE 【Ishigaki Island / 1 Day】If you have any doubts, 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 [...]. (33 total) アクティビティの詳細を見る

(2) Yonehara Coast

It is one of the best snorkeling spots in Ishigaki Island and is equipped with toilets and showers (fee required).

The beach is shallow, with coral reefs extending as far as your feet can reach, and you can see many tropical fish without diving too deep.

Beginners and those with small children are also welcome.It is.

Details of Yonehara Beach

Location: 644 Beikkai, Ishigaki City, Okinawa, Japan
Access: Approximately 40 minutes by car from Shin-Ishigaki Airport
Open: Mid-March to September
Facilities: restrooms, changing rooms, showers, stores, beach goods rental

Ishigaki Island-Yonehara Beach   About Yonehara Beach Yonehara Beach is located in the northern part of Ishigaki Island and is one of the most popular snorkeling spots in Ishigaki Island. You can enjoy the clear water and colorful coral reefs, and the exciting experience of swimming with tropical fishes. It is also recommended for families [...].

Shiraho Coast

A coast rich in nature where colonies of blue coral can be seen. It is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.

Not too crowded, so good for those who want to relax.

Details of Shiraho Coast

Location: 2107-2 Shiraho, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture
Access: 5 minutes by car from Shin-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

4) Ishigaki Island limestone cave

Ishigakijima limestone cave is the southernmost limestone cave in Japan, and about 600m of its 3.2km length is open to the public.

The strata where coral reefs were upliftedEroded over a period of 200,000 yearsThe cave is said to have become a mysterious limestone cave.

Recommended in rainy or hot weather!

Details of Ishigakijima Cave

Location:1666 Ishigaki, Ishigaki City, Okinawa, Japan
Access: 10 minutes by car from the city center
Hours of operation: 9:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Ishigakijima-Ishigakijima limestone cave   What is Ishigaki Island Stalactite Cave? It is the largest limestone cave in Ishigaki Island and a mysterious spot created by nature over 200,000 years. Not to mention the beauty of white shining stalactites, the fantastic glow of stalactite cave illumination, Suikinkutsu (water cave) to enjoy the sound of dripping water, and Toto [...].

(5) Hirakubo Lighthouse

Northernmost tip of Ishigaki IslandThe white lighthouse is located on the beach and offers a spectacular view of the emerald green sea.

You can enjoy a beautiful sunset, especially in the evening. There are parking lots, but they are few in number, so be sure to share them with others.

There are restrooms and vending machines, so stop by when you drive.

Details of Hirakubozaki

Location: Aza-Hirakubo, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture
Access: 50 minutes by car from Shin-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 [...].

Recommended Activities in Ishigaki Island

Not only sightseeing but also hands-on activities are the charm of Ishigaki Island. Let's make a lot of memories by participating in activities that make the most of the great nature!

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

snorkeling

Speaking of Ishigaki Island, you want to enjoy the beautiful ocean. Especially snorkeling.People of all ages can easily enjoy the ocean.It is a popular activity.

Many popular spots such as Kabira Bay and the Blue Cave!

You can see colorful fish and coral reefs up close in the clear waters. Many tours are available for beginners and are popular with families.

Click here for recommended snorkeling tours

Special Summer SALE 【Ishigaki Island / 1 Day】If you have any doubts, 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 / 1 Day] Conquer the ocean and river☆Longest in Ishigaki Island! Miyara River Mangrove SUP/Canoe & Blue Cave Snorkeling Tour★ (No.362)開始時間6:00-11:15 / 9:00-15:45 / 13:30-20:15所要時間Approx. 5 hours29,000 yen →13,500yen

Ishigakijima/Half Day] You may see sea turtles☆Snorkeling & Cave Exploration Tour of the Unexplored "Blue Cave"★Free Photo & Transportation Included (No.304)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 13:30-16:30所要時間Approx. 3 hours13,500 yen →6,900yen

Learn more about snorkeling

Ishigaki Island Snorkeling (Snorkel) Tour Enjoy colorful corals, tropical fish, blue caves, and various other snorkeling attractions on the world-famous Ishigaki Island! (82 total) アクティビティの詳細を見る

marine sports

Have a blast with your friends! Enjoy the exhilarating and thrilling sea pulled by a boat.

The great classic.Banana Boat to Jet SkiThe variety of choices is also a great point of interest, ranging from the

Click here for recommended marine sports tours

Ishigaki Island/Half Day] Landing on Phantom Island & Snorkeling Experience + 2 Selected Marine Sports Package《With free GoPro rental by direct meeting》（No.406開始時間8:20-12:15 / 13:00-16:30所要時間Approx. 3.5 hours12,000 yen

Exhilarating, Exciting, and Smiling 100%☆All-you-can-eat course with more than 10 kinds of marine sports in the beautiful ocean★Free pickup and drop-off (No.551)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 13:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours13,000 yen →12,000yen

Ishigaki Island/1 Day】Participation from 5 years old◎Landing on a mysterious island, snorkeling, and more than 10 kinds of marine sports ★《with free equipment rental and pick-up service》（No.261）.開始時間8:20-16:30所要時間Approx. 7 hours16,800 yen

Learn more about marine sports

Marine sports (banana boat, towing tube, windsurfing) Let's enjoy the ocean of Ishigaki Island with banana boats and jet skis with excellent transparency♪ Let's have fun while screaming with your family or group! (65 total) アクティビティの詳細を見る

SUP

Popular SUP is also a standard activity in Ishigaki Island.

National Monumentspecified in theMangrove of Miyara RiverCruise through the woods and enjoy Kabira Bay.

At first glance, it may seem difficult, but with a little practice, you will be able to sit, stand, and enjoy walking freely on the sea.

Click here for SUP recommended tours

Kabira Bay" SUP Tour★Michelin Guide 3-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

Special Summer SALE 【Ishigaki Island / 1 Day】If you have any doubts, 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/2.5 hours] Same-day reservations OK! Ishigaki Island's longest mangrove SUP tour in the "Miyara River", a national natural treasure ★ (No.329)開始時間6:00 / 9:00 / 13:30 / 17:00所要時間Approx. 2.5 hours14,500 yen →7,900yen

Learn more about SUP

Ishigaki Island SUP Tour Beginners welcome! Let's enjoy SUP in Ishigaki Island! SUP is an abbreviation of "Stand Up Paddle", and it is an activity where you stand on a board and paddle on the sea or river. (52 total) アクティビティの詳細を見る

parasailing

Parasailing is a fun way to enjoy walking in the air in a stable position like sitting on a trapeze.

It is sure to be enjoyed more for its exhilaration than its scares!Height (string length) can be selected.There are many plans to try.

You can also ride with your children.

Click here for parasailing recommendations

Ishigaki Island/1.5 hours] Same-day reservation OK! 100m parasailing tour recommended for beginners, with free rental of waterproof case for smartphone and photo shooting (No.508)開始時間8:00 / 10:00 / 12:00 / 14:00 / 16:00所要時間Approximately 1.5 hours7,000 yen

Ishigaki Island/1.5 hours] Same-day reservation OK!開始時間8:00 / 10:00 / 12:00 / 14:00 / 16:00所要時間Approximately 1.5 hours10,000 yen

Ishigaki Island/1.5 hours】Only 1 couple per day! Seasonal Sunset Parasailing Course☆Photo included (No.563)開始時間Varies depending on the time of sunset所要時間Approx. 1 to 1.5 hours15,000 yen

Learn more about parasailing

Ishigaki Island Parasailing Tour Enjoy the beautiful sea and sky of Ishigaki Island! Parasailing Tour in Ishigaki Island Parasailing is a marine activity where you float high in the sky by wind resistance with a parachute attached and pulled by a boat connected by a rope. It is a marine activity that is similar to snorkeling and da [...]... (10 total) アクティビティの詳細を見る

Night Tour

The night tour is a fun activity for both adults and children to enjoy the night charm of Ishigaki Island.

Observing the full starlit sky, which is not easy to see in Honshu,Coconut crabs and other creatures unique to the subtropicsThe most popular tours are those where you can meet

It is also recommended for children's free research during summer vacation.

Held on Ishigaki Island! Click here for recommended night tours

Ishigaki Island/Night] Same-day reservation OK! Natural planetarium! Starry sky & subtropical jungle night tour♪ Recommended for families with children and group tours (No.316)開始時間7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.所要時間Approx. 2 hours7,900 yen →4,900yen

Ishigaki Island/Night] Starry sky & coconut crab night tour ★《On-day reservation OK, guided by islanders' hunter》is recommended for family trip! (No.275)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Approx. 2 hours8,000 yen

Learn more about Ishigaki Island Night Tours

Ishigaki Island Stargazing & Night Safari Tour You will experience beautiful starry skies and subtropical flora and fauna that you will never experience anywhere else. A night tour is the best way to end the day! (16 total) アクティビティの詳細を見る

summary

Ishigaki Island has produced many stars with its beautiful nature and rich culture.

While enjoying the spectacular scenery and activities, please experience the "star scent" that the island has nurtured.

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

10 popular Izakaya (Japanese style pubs) in Ishigaki Island! From popular restaurants where reservations are essential to hole-in-the-wall restaurants frequented by locals!Contents1 Izakaya in Ishigaki Island has many attractions! 1.1 Attraction 1: Enjoy local cuisine 1.2 Attraction 2: Local beer and Awamori are recommended 1.3 Attraction 3: Let's have fun with live folk songs 2 11 Popular Izakayas in Ishigaki Island 2 [...].

Where to buy souvenirs of Ishigaki Island? Introducing fashionable goods and sweets that can only be bought in Ishigaki Island!Ishigaki Island, famous as a tropical resort, is attractive for its food and souvenirs in addition to activities such as sea and jungle. We introduce not only standard products but also lesser-known ones.

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 [...].