Day trip to remote islands from Ishigaki Island! Introducing 9 recommended islands & model courses!

Day trip from Ishigaki Island to the outlying islands!
Let's go on a tour to enjoy Yaeyama to the fullest!

Ishigaki Island is located further south from the main island of Okinawa and is a popular resort tourist destination.Yaeyama Islands (Okinawa)It is called "the

Ishigaki Island is an access point to various remote islands, and you can easily enjoy a day trip to the islands!

By visiting the remote islands around Ishigaki Island, you will be able to experience the charms of Okinawa and Yaeyama more deeply.

In this article, we will introduce 9 recommended remote islands to visit during your trip to Ishigaki Island and a model course for touring the islands.

Click here to book ferry tickets to the islands

1. Taketomi Island

Taketomi Island is from Ishigaki IslandOnly 10 minutes by ferryThe island is a remote island located at a distance of about 1.5 kilometers from the mainland. It is a small island with a circumference of about 9 km, so you can visit the main spots in half a day.

The area still retains its old-fashioned landscape of red-tiled houses,Rocking on a buffalo cartTouring the villages is like stepping back in time to the old days of Okinawa.

Located in the western part of the islandKondoi Beachis a beautiful, shallow beach with excellent transparency, where small children can play safely.

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 [...].

Access to Taketomi Island

Taketomi Island can be reached by ferry from Ishigaki Port Terminal.

As this is a popular remote island, the ferry counter is very crowded during the on-season, so simply show your reservation QR code to board!Advance purchase recommended.It is!

Click here to book a ferry to Taketomi Island

Recommended ways to spend time on Taketomi Island

Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful old-fashioned Okinawan streets lined with red-tiled roofs. Rental bicycles or buffalo carts are recommended.

andTour that includes snorkeling and diving in Ishigaki Island and sightseeing in Taketomi Islandis also popular. While enjoying the activities in Ishigaki Island, please also try to incorporate sightseeing in Taketomi Island into your itinerary efficiently♪.

Click here for recommended tours including Taketomi Island

Special Winter SALE【Ishigaki Island / 1 Day】Take in 2 remote islands to the fullest! 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 Winter SALE【Ishigaki Island / 1 Day】Sightseeing and Activity Package Plan! Leisurely Taketomi Island Sightseeing + Natural Monument Mangrove SUP or Canoe 《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

2. Iriomote Island

Iriomote Island is the second largest island in Okinawa Prefecture, and itsApproximately 90% is subtropical primary forestIt is covered with

This lush green island is home to 15 species of national monuments, including the Iriomote wildcat and crested serpent eagle, and is still untouched by nature.

In addition, about 40 rivers flow in Iriomote Island, and many estuaries havemangroveThe area is spread out with a wide variety of Not only the greenery, but also the beautiful sea, such as Barasu Island made of coral fragments and Star Sand Beach where star-shaped sands can be seen.

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.

Access to Iriomote Island

It takes about 40 minutes by ferry from Ishigaki Port Terminal to Iriomote Island. There is no airport.

There are two ports, Uehara Port and Ohara Port, with Uehara Port located in the northern part,ActivitiesOften a meeting place for tours.It is.

Ohara Port is often used by hotel guests and locals in the eastern part of Iriomote Island. It is characterized by a low cancellation rate even in winter.

Click here to book a ferry to Iriomote Island.

Recommended ways to spend time in Iriomote Island

Iriomote Island isworld natural heritage siteThe area is registered as a To enjoy its rich natural environment, we recommend taking a tour!

Trekking, canoeing, snorkeling, etc., experience the nature of Iriomote Island firsthand and savor the spectacular scenery.

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8:00-17:30所要時間Approx. 9 hours20,170 yen →19,500yen

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 / 11:00-17:40所要時間Approx. 5 hours14,670 yen →12,400yen

Tours Limited Discount】Iriomotejima⇆Ishigakijima Ferry Ticket Included★Mangrove SUP or Canoe & Canyoning 1 Day Course★Free Photo (No.561)開始時間8:00-17:40所要時間Approx. 9 hours26,870 yen →19,500yen

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

3. Yubujima Island

Yubu Island is a remote island that can be reached via Iriomote Island,It is a small island formed by sand deposits with a circumference of 2 km and an area of 0.15 km.The following is a list of the most common problems with theThe entire island is a subtropical botanical gardenThe company is now in the process of

It takes less than about 30 minutes to go around the island, but you can see colorful plants unique to the subtropical zone, a buffalo pond that is a resting place for buffaloes, and the largest butterfly in the country.tree nymph butterfly (Idea leuconoe)There are many attractions, including a butterfly garden that breeds

Learn more about Yubu Island

How to get to Yubujima (Yubu Island), how to enjoy it, and recommended places! Charm of remote islands crossed by buffalo cartThe island is 2 km in circumference, 1.5 m above sea level, and surrounded by the sea, but if you dig the ground, you will find fresh water.

Access to Yubu Island

To get to Yubu Island, it takes about 20 minutes by car from Uehara Port in Iriomote Island.Visitors can take a buffalo cart from the "Yubu Island Buffalo Cart Boarding Area (Tabijin no Eki).

If you do not plan to rent a car in Iriomote Island or plan to take a day trip from Ishigaki Island to Iriomote Island,Booking a tour is recommended.It is.

If the tour includes a set of activities, you can enjoy both Iriomote Island and Yubu Island in one day without worrying about transportation.

Suggested Spending on Yubu Island

Take your time to observe the subtropical botanical garden, or enjoy Yaeyama soba noodles, peach pineapple, or gelato at a stylish cafe or restaurant.

Buffalo goods only available on Yubu Islandare sold and you can buy them as souvenirs!

Click here for recommended tours including Yubu Island sightseeing

Tours Limited Discount】Iriomotejima⇆Iragakijima Ferry Ticket Included★"Yubu Island" Sightseeing & Iriomotejima Jungle SUP or Canoe Tour by Buffalo Car★Free Photo (No.546)開始時間8:00-17:40所要時間Approx. 9 hours19,170 yen →17,000yen

Tours Limited Discount】Iriomotejima⇆Ishigakijima Ferry Ticket Included★Canyoning & Yubu Island Sightseeing Tour★Free Photo (No.545)開始時間8:00-17:40所要時間Approx. 9 hours17,670 yen →17,000yen

Ishigaki Island Tour】 Nakama River Mangrove Cruise & Yubu Island Sightseeing Tour《One-Day Tour with Happy Lunch》（No.514)開始時間8:30-15:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours14,200 yen

Click here for the popular tour ranking of Yubu Island

4. Kohama Island

Kohama Island is located in the center of the Yaeyama Islands and is a peaceful island of sugar cane fields.Stage for "ChurasanIt also became a

The waters around Kohama Island are called "Ishinishi Reef Coral,Over 400 species of precious coralsThe island is located in the middle of the Yaeyama Sea. This island is recommended for those who want to enjoy the beautiful underwater world of Yaeyama.

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.

Access to Kohama Island

From Ishigaki Island to Kohama IslandApproximately 25 minutes by ferryYou can access it at

Restaurants and bike rental stores are clustered at Kohama Port, and shuttle buses are available for those staying at resort hotels such as Haimurubushi.

Click here to book a ferry to Kohama Island

Suggested Spending on Kohama Island

Kohama Island is a snorkeling and SUPTake a tourAnd so on,Rent a bicycle and explore the islandIt is recommended to do so.

Used as a location for a drama.sugar roadis a one-kilometer stretch of road surrounded by sugar cane fields, and it is refreshing to ride a bicycle on it. On the way, you may see cows in the pasture.

Located in the center of the island, Mt. Odake is the only mountain on Kohama Island at an elevation of 99 meters and is called "the observatory of Yaeyama. From the top of the mountain, you can see all the surrounding islands such as Ishigaki Island, Taketomi Island, Kuroshima, Iriomote Island, and Hatoma Island.

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 Winter SALE 【Choice of Ishigaki Island or Kohama Island】Half-day Ishinoko-Shore Landing + Ishinishi lagoon & Sea turtle snorkeling AM 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

5. Panari Island (Aragusuku Island)

The official name of Panari Island is Aragusuku Island, but it is called "Panari," which means "away" in the Yaeyama dialect, because it consists of two adjacent islands, Kamiji Island and Shimoji Island.

Panari Island is calledpanary blueThe northwestern part of the island is known for its beautiful ocean and white sand beaches, and the northwestern part of the island is one of the best snorkeling spots in Okinawa.

Also, the area around Panari Island isGreat spot for fishingThe area is also popular as a fishing spot for beginners. If you join a fishing tour, a guide who knows Panari's waters well will take you to the best spots to catch fish.

In the Panari Sea, you can catch akajinmibai, a high-end fish known as "the best fish in Okinawa," and you can get a big one.

Learn more about Panari Island

What kind of island is Aragusuku Island (Panari Island)? How to get there, how to play, and recommended tours.Kamiji Island and Shimoji Island of Aragusuku Island are called Panari (separated), and the distance between the two islands is about 400 m. The beauty of the sea with its coral reefs is said to be the best in Yaeyama. There is no regular boat service, so a tour with a local guide is recommended.

Click here for Panari Island Fishing Tours

The legend of mermaid remains in "Panari Island"☆Beginners are welcome! Fishing & Diving Tour ★ Izakaya Cooking Available (No.550)開始時間9:00-16:30所要時間Approx. 7.5 hours18,000 yen

Fishing & Snorkeling Tour with a Mermaid Legend on "Panari Island"★Popular Set! Fishing & Snorkeling Tour ★ Izakaya cooking available (No.549)開始時間9:00-16:30所要時間Approx. 7.5 hours14,000 yen

Access to Panari Island

How to Land on Panari IslandParticipation in the tour is mandatory.We are looking forward to seeing you. Please join a tour and visit the unexplored Panari Island.

Click here for recommended Panari Island tours

Snorkeling tour to "Panari Island" where the legend of mermaids remains, accessible only by tour (from 2 years old, lunch included), guided by an experienced guide (No.547)開始時間9:00-16:30所要時間Approx. 7.5 hours11,000 yen

Ishigaki Island / Aragusuku Island / 1 Day] A special experience at "Panari Island" where the legend of mermaid remains! Experience Diving Tour with Lunch (No.548)開始時間9:00-16:30所要時間Approx. 7.5 hours15,000 yen

A guide from Panari Island (Aragusuku Island) will lead you on a walking & snorkeling tour to "Panari Island" where a mermaid legend remains (No.386)開始時間8:30-16:30所要時間Approx. 8 hours12,500 yen

Suggested Spending on Panari Island

Marine activities such as snorkeling, diving, and fishing are recommended.

Also, there are many sacred Utaki (sacred sites) on Panari Island, some of which are off-limits to visitors. If you join a tour, please ask your guide about ancient legends.

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

6. Hatoma Island

Hatoma Island is a small island with an area of about 1 km² and a population of about 40 people.The setting of "Ruri no Shima" (The Island of Ruri)It is known to have become aBecause the area has not become much of a tourist destination, the original landscape of Okinawa as it was in the past still remains.

Hatoma BlueThe sea, known as "the sea of the Yaeyama Islands," offers one of the most spectacular views of the Yaeyama Islands, and is ideal for enjoying the passage of time while feeling the gentle sea breeze.

Learn more about Hatoma Island

A list of places to go, things to do, and recommendations for Hatoma Island!Hatoma Island, located north of Iriomote Island, has an area of about 1 square kilometer and a population of about 40 people. The lapis lazuli-colored sea, also called Hatoma blue, is one of the clearest in Yaeyama. Enjoy the coral reefs and ancient Okinawan culture on an island that can be explored on foot.

Access to Hatoma Island

Ferries run to Hatoma Island from Ishigaki Island and Iriomote Island. It is also possible to go to Hatoma Island by tour from Iriomote Island.

Click here to book a ferry to Hatoma Island

Recommended ways to spend time on Hatoma Island

Hatoma Island can be circled on foot in one to two hours. Touring the locations where Ruri (Riko Narumi), the heroine of Ruri no Shima, transfers from the mainland to her new school and other locations is also popular.

Also, Hatoma Island has beautiful coral reefs filled with Hatoma blue, so be sure to try snorkeling and other marine activities!Vivid Underwater WorldWe hope that you will enjoy the

Click here for recommended tours including Hatoma Island

Hatoma Island Walk & Miracle Island "Barasu Island" Snorkeling Tour (with round-trip ferry ticket and lunch) (ES-85)開始時間:所要時間:

Iriomote Island + Hatoma Island] 1 Day Charter / Snorkel Plan☆Enjoy Iriomote Island and Hatoma Island with SUP and BBQ, lunch & photo included (No.280)開始時間9:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
*Start time can be requested.所要時間8 hours15,000 yen

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

7. Kuroshima

Kuroshima Island is about a 30-minute ferry ride from Ishigaki Island and is also called "Heart Island" because of its island shape.

Kuroshima has a population of about 210 people and about 2,800 cows, mostly on pasture. The annual FebruaryKuroshima Beef Festivalis a big hit, and the raffle to win a cow is the highlight of the event.

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.

Access to Kuroshima

Kuroshima Island is about 30 minutes by ferry from Ishigaki Island. There are only a few services a day in the morning, noon, and evening, so plan your itinerary carefully.

Click here to book a ferry to Kuroshima

Suggested Spending on Kuroshima

The island's terrain is flat and has few ups and downs, so renting a bicycle is recommended for sightseeing. With bicycles, it takes about 2 hours to go around the island.

The west beach isSea turtle spawning groundsThe Kuroshima Research Institute is a popular spot for families with children, where they can see and touch sea turtles being raised in a breeding room.

Click here for recommended tours including Kuroshima Island

Winter Special SALE [From/to Ishigaki Island] Conquer popular sightseeing spots (Kuroshima, Aragusuku (Panari) Island, Barasu Island, Phantom Island) by chartered boat! Jet Ski Rental & Snorkeling & Marine Sports 1 Day Course《Pickup・Delivery 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

8. Hateruma Island

Hateruma Island issouthernmost tip of Japanand is characterized by extremely clear waters compared to other remote islands. The name of this island is derived from "coral (uruma) at the end of theHateruma BlueThe unique bright blue color, known as "blue," is symbolic of this.

At night, enjoy a natural planetarium with a star-filled sky and enjoy a quiet and magical moment.The following is an example of a product that can be used in this way.

Learn more about Hateruma Island

List of recommended places to visit and things to do in Hateruma Island!Hateruma Island, named after the "coral at the end of the sea," is the southernmost island in Japan. It is famous for its beautiful sea and star-filled sky, and is also known as the Island of Stars. Why don't you come and experience the excitement of the sea and stars?

Access to Hateruma Island

Hateruma Island is about a two-hour ferry ride from Ishigaki Island.

It is a little farther away than the other islands we have introduced so far, and there are fewer flights, but it is one of the islands that you should definitely visit.

Click here to book a ferry to Hateruma Island

Suggested Spending on Hateruma Island

On Hateruma Island, take a leisurely stroll along beautiful beaches such as Nishi Beach and villages with traditional houses.

There are stores on the island that rent bicycles,rent-a-cycleIt is also recommended to go around by

Click here for recommended tours including Hateruma Island.

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

9. Yonaguni Island

Yonaguni Island is located at the westernmost tip of Japan and is the site of the TV dramaLocation of "Dr. Koto ClinicIt is also known as

Around the island's rich natural surroundings are mysteriousUnderwater ruins (submarine landforms) and warship rocksThere is an abundance of spots that inspire exploration, such as

Higashizaki, the southernmost point of Yonaguni Island, offers a great view of the entire island,Jonagneumaare seen grazing leisurely.

From Agari Beach, you can watch the slowest sunset in Japan andIt is the perfect way to end a romantic day.

Learn more about Yonaguni Island

List of recommended places to visit and things to do in Yonaguni Island!Yonaguni Island is full of underwater ruins as well as strange and mysterious rocks. It is also full of fascinating experiences, such as the slowest sunset time in Japan and the sight of Taiwan's island shadows.

Access to Yonaguni Island

From Ishigaki Island to Yonaguni Island,Airplane or FerryAccessible via

By plane, it takes about 30 minutes from Ishigaki Airport to Yonaguni Airport, with about three flights daily.

The ferry runs twice a week from Ishigaki Island and takes about 4 hours. The ferry may be cancelled due to weather conditions, so please check in advance.

Suggested Spending on Yonaguni Island

It is also famous as a diving spot, but we invite you to experience the whole island with its rich nature and unique culture by riding a Yonaguni horse, visiting the DiDi Yonaguni Exchange Center and Dr. Koto Clinic where you can learn about the history and culture of Yonaguni, and more.

Ranking in Popular Tours in Yonaguni Island
(Yonaguni Island specialized site) is here.

Departure from Ishigaki Island! Model Course for Touring Remote Islands

Here is a model course for island hopping on as many islands as possible in three days.

Please refer to this page!

Day 1] To Kohama Island & Taketomi Island
Enjoy the beautiful ocean and the original landscape of Okinawa!

In the morning, head to Kohama Island. You can take a snorkeling tour to and from Kohama Island, or you can explore the island's cafes and spots.

Taketomi Island is the closest from Ishigaki Island and has many ferry services, so it is easy to adjust even if your stay in Kohama Island is a little longer. You can do the popular buffalo cart sightseeing in Taketomi Island, but those who go to Yubu Island can take a buffalo cart to cross to the island, so you can go around by foot or bicycle.

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

Click here for the popular tour ranking of Taketomi Island

Day 2] To Iriomote Island & Yubu Island
More than 90% enjoy untouched nature

On the second day, take a one-day tour to Iriomotejima and Yubujima for sightseeing. Enjoy canoeing and canyoning at a waterfall spot, and relax and enjoy the remote island atmosphere at Yubu Island.

With a tour, you can experience the World Natural Heritage site without having to worry about transportation even in Iriomote Island, the largest island in Yaeyama.One-day tours to/from Ishigaki Islandis also recommended.

Click here for tour ranking of Iriomotejima Tour to/from Ishigaki Island

Day 3] To Iriomote Island & Hatoma Island
Enjoy the underwater world of coral reefs!

On the second day, you will stay at Iriomote Island, and on the third day, you will head for Hatoma Island. It is convenient to take a tour to/from Iriomote Island.Beautiful Hatoma BluePlease experience the "Mere Old Man" with your whole body!

A ferry runs from Hatoma Island to Ishigaki Island, so you can return to Ishigaki Island with it.

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

summary

We have introduced 9 islands around Ishigaki Island, how did you like them? There are many other fascinating islands around Ishigaki Island such as Barasu Island, which is not on the map, and Hamajima Island, which is called "Phantom Island".

Some people may have an image of "remote islands = far away and inconvenient access," but access from Ishigaki Island to the surrounding islands is very good, so it would be a waste to end with just sightseeing in Ishigaki Island♪.

Each remote island has its own unique characteristics, and there are many different ways to enjoy the islands, so be sure to experience the different charms of each island.

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

Ishigaki Island Ferry Congestion Situation and Forecast [The new normal is to book ferry tickets in advance!Table of Contents 1 You must make reservations in advance for the Ishigaki Island ferry! 2 Overview of the ferry connecting Ishigaki Island and the remote islands 2.1 The five remote islands that can be reached from Ishigaki Island 2.2 Operation schedule (timetable) 2.3 Fare 2.4 Ishigaki Island Remote Islands Terminal (Ferry [...]...

20 Popular Remote Islands for Okinawa Travel! Our staff who live in Okinawa thoroughly explains the recommended remote islands!Contents1 What are the remote islands of Okinawa? 2 Okinawa is divided into three main areas2.1 Okinawa Islands 2.2 Yaeyama Islands 2.3 Miyako Islands 2.4 It is difficult to travel between islands in one trip3 Okinawa Islands [...].