What Are the Yaeyama Islands? A Map Guide to Their Location | Easy-to-Understand Explanations of Ferry Routes from Ishigaki Island to the Other Islands, Plus Tourist Information
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!
◆To know the difference between Miyako Island and Miyako Island on a map.
◆For those who want to know the location of the Yaeyama Islands on a map.
◆Those who want to plan a sightseeing route with a map of the Yaeyama Islands.
Click here to see the ranking of popular Ishigaki Island tours.
What are the Yaeyama Islands?
Map showing location with Okinawa and Miyako Island
The Yaeyama Islands are located in the southwesternmost part of Okinawa Prefecture,Ishigaki Islandinterpoint (interword separation)Iriomoteinterpoint (interword separation)Several remote islands such as Taketomi IslandThis tourist area consists of
Located more than 400 km away from the main island of Okinawa, about an hour's flight from Naha, it is known as one of the best tropical resorts in Japan.
furthermoreStraight line distance from Miyako Island is about 120-150 kmThey are far apart, and knowing their location on a map greatly enhances the accuracy of travel plans.
Should I go to the Yaeyama Islands or Miyako Island?
Miyako Island is attractive for its emerald green sea and beautiful beaches, and the islands are connected to each other by bridges such as the Irabu Bridge.Easy to rent a car for transportation.It is.
On the other hand, the Yaeyama Islands are based on Ishigaki Island.Enjoy touring the islands by ferrystyle, you can enjoy a variety of experiences such as the mangroves of Iriomote Island and the traditional villages of Taketomi Island.
Transportation: Take a ferry from Ishigaki Port to various outlying islands (Taketomi, Iriomote, Kohama, etc.). The islands are connected by bridges, so you can get around by rental car. Major tourist attractions include Kabira Bay, Iriomote Island, Taketomi Island, Kohama Island, Kuro Island; Yonaha Maehama Beach; Irabu Bridge; Shimoji Island; Kurima Island. Natural Environment: Abundant unspoiled nature, including jungles and mangroves. The landscape is characterized by white-sand beaches and coral reef-filled seas. Distance from Okinawa Main Island: Over 400 km (about 1 hour by plane) Approx. 300 km (approx. 50 minutes to 1 hour by plane) Distance from Miyako Island: Approx. 120–150 km (Ishigaki Island to Miyako Island) Approx. 120–150 km (toward the Yaeyama Islands) Travel between areas: There are no regular ferry services between Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island; travel is by plane only
| (data) item | Yaeyama Islands (Ishigaki Island and vicinity) | Miyako Island Area |
|---|---|---|
| Main Features | There are many island hopping and nature experiences. Visitors can enjoy a variety of sightseeing such as the mangroves of Iriomote Island and the traditional villages of Taketomi Island. | Clear beaches and spectacular drives are the attraction. It has a strong resort feel and is ideal for a relaxing stay. |
There are no regular ferries between Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island, and travel is by air only, so it is important to consider separate areas when planning a trip.
↓Click here to read the article.
Ishigaki Port is the base!
Ferry route map and time required to each remote island
When accessing the remote islands of the Yaeyama Islands from Ishigaki Island, you can use the Ishigaki Port Remote Islands Terminal as a base.Ferry useis the basis.
Regular boats operate to each island, making it possible to get to each island in a short time, making it suitable for day-trip sightseeing.
By knowing the route and time required in advance, a lean and efficient tour of the islands can be realized.
↓For more information about ferries from Ishigaki Island to the islands, please click here.
Click here to see the ranking of popular Ishigaki Island tours.
List of major ferry routes and the time required to reach each remote island
From Ishigaki Port, ferries operate to Taketomi Island (10-15 minutes), Kohama Island and Kuroshima Island (25-30 minutes), and Iriomote Island (Ohara Port and Uehara Port: 40-50 minutes).
All of these islands are located relatively close to each other, so you can visit more than one island.Island hopping also availableIt is.
Since the travel time may vary slightly depending on the type of boat and sea conditions, it's important to plan your schedule with plenty of time to spare!
↓ From/to Ishigaki Island! Click here for recommended tours to remote islands.
Easy boarding with just one phone!
Click here for convenient advance reservations.
Ferry Timetable, Sailing Schedule and Notes
Ferry schedules vary depending on the season and day of the week,Cancellation of flights due to typhoons and strong windsIt is important to confirm in advance!
In particular, the route to Uehara Port in Iriomote Island is easily affected by waves, and there are cases in which the route is changed to Ohara Port.
Because the rooms may be fully booked during peak season,Early ticket purchase and round-trip reservationsand make sure you have enough time to spare.
Flight Schedule: March 1, 2026 – September 30, 2026
| destination | Main departure times (from Ishigaki) | the time required |
|---|---|---|
| Taketomi | 7:30 / 8:30 / 9:30 / 10:30 / 11:30 / 13:30 / 14:30 / 15:30 / 16:00 / 17:30 | Approx. 10-15 min. |
| Kohama | 7:30 / 9:00 / 10:15 / 14:00 / 16:00 / 17:20 | Approx. 25 to 30 min. |
| Kurushima | 8:30 / 11:35 / 16:30 | Approx. 25 to 30 min. |
| Iriomote Island (Ohara Port) | 7:30 / 9:00 / 10:30 / 14:00 / 15:30 / 16:40 | Approx. 40-45 min. |
| Iriomote Island (Uehara Port) | 8:00 / 11:00 / 13:30 / 15:45 | Approx. 45-50 min. |
| Hatoma | 8:00 / 15:45 | Approx. 45-50 min. |
*These times are approximate as of September 2026.
Ferry schedules are subject to change depending on the season, day of the week, and sea conditions, so please check the official website of each shipping company for the latest information.
For the latest ferry service information
Check here!
All of the islands that belong to the Yaeyama Islands
An Overview of Islands (Inhabited Islands)
From Ishigaki Island, several remote islands can be reached by day trip.island hopping"Circuit tours" are all the rage!
Although each island is close in distance, the nature, culture, and activities differ greatly, so the key to satisfaction is to choose a destination that meets your objectives.
Here.Characteristics of All Inhabited Islands in the Yaeyama Islandsto organize and find the right sightseeing style for you.
Learn more about touring the remote Yaeyama Islands ↓↓.
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.
Time required: approx. 10 to 15 minutes
Number of services: about 1 per hour
Approximate fare: about 800 yen one-way
↓Click here for recommended tours including Taketomi Island.
Click here for the popular tour ranking of Taketomi Island
↓Click here to read the article.
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.
Travel time: Uehara Port/approx. 45 to 55 minutes, Ohara Port/approx. 40 to 50 minutes
Number of services: 4 to 6 per day
Approximate one-way fare: 2,000 yen to 3,000 yen
↓Click here for recommended tours including Iriomote Island.
Ranking of popular tours in Iriomote Island
(Iriomote Island specialized site) is here.
↓Click here to read the article.
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.
Time required: approximately 25 to 30 minutes
Number of services: approximately 6 per day
Approximate fare: 1,500 yen (one way)
↓Click here for recommended tours including Kohama Island.
Popular Tour Ranking in Kohama Island
(Kohama Island's specialized website) click here
↓Click here to read the article.
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.
Time required: approximately 25 to 30 minutes
Number of services: approximately 6 per day
Approximate fare: 1,500 yen (one way)
↓Click here for recommended tours that include Kuroshima.
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours to Kuroshima.
Hateruma Island
It takes about 70 to 90 minutes by high-speed ferry from Ishigaki Port; as an inhabited island,southernmost (tip, extremity, etc.) of JapanHateruma Island, located in .
The sea stretching out from “Nishi Beach,” known for its exceptional clarity, is “Hateruma Blue”It is known as “...” and is also famous as the island in Japan closest to the starry sky.
Since this route crosses the open ocean and is prone to rough seas and frequent cancellations, it’s better than a day tripPlans that Include Overnight StaysWe recommend this option. The service is operated exclusively by An'ei Kanko.
○ Travel time: Large high-speed ferry: approx. 80–90 minutes / Small high-speed ferry: approx. 60–70 minutes
○ Number of trips: 1–4 per day (varies by season)
○ Estimated fare: Around 4,000 yen one way
↓Click here for recommended tours that include Hateruma Island↓
Yonaguni Island
Yonaguni Island, located at the westernmost point of Japan, is about 110 km from Taiwan. On clear days, you can sometimes see the outline of Taiwan.
Since the ferry takes about 4 hours one way and runs only about twice a week,Flight from Ishigaki Airport (about 30 minutes)It is common to use [...].
The island is home to a unique culture, including the traditional craft of “Yonaguni weaving” and the native “Yonaguni horse,” and is a popular year-round destination for diving.
○ Travel Time: By plane: approx. 30 minutes (departing from Ishigaki Airport) / By ferry: approx. 4 to 4.5 hours (about 2 trips per week)
○ Number of departures: Several flights per day; ferries operate only on Tuesdays and Fridays
○ Estimated Fares: Airfare: About 12,000 yen one-way / Ferry: About 3,600 yen one-way
Hatoma
The small island of Hatoma, with a circumference of about 4 km, is about a 45-minute ferry ride from Ishigaki Port and about a 15-minute ride from Uehara Port on Iriomote Island.
Known as the birthplace of the folk song “Hatoma-bushi,” the island charms visitors with its rustic villages and crystal-clear waters.
A Tour That Combines Iriomote Island with Other DestinationsThis is the standard itinerary, and it’s convenient to take the round-trip route from Ishigaki Island to Iriomote Island to Hatoma Island and back to Ishigaki Island.
○ Travel time: Approximately 45 minutes from Ishigaki Port (may include a stop at Uehara Port on Iriomote Island)
○ Number of sailings: Several per day (Yaeyama Kanko Ferry, An'ei Kanko)
○ Estimated fare: Around 2,500 yen one way
↓Click here for recommended tours that include Hatoma Island↓
Yubu Island (Hiroshima-Nagoya Island)
Across the shallow waters between Iriomote Island andWater Buffalo Cart (approx. 15 minutes)A small island surrounded by a subtropical botanical garden, accessible by ferry.
There are no ferries that go directly from Ishigaki Island to Yubu Island, andVia Iriomote Island (Uehara Port or Ohara Port)Access will be available there.
With its tropical landscapes—including the Butterfly Garden and the Bougainvillea Garden—it’s a popular stop for visitors touring Iriomote Island.
○ Travel time: About 40–50 minutes from Ishigaki Island to Iriomote Island, plus about 15 minutes by water buffalo cart
○ Frequency: Water buffalo carts run every 30 minutes from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
○ Estimated Cost: Admission fee (including water buffalo cart ride) is approximately 1,700 yen for adults
↓Click here for recommended tours that include Yufu Island↓
Shinjo Islands (Ueji Island and Shimoji Island)
Shinjo Island—also known as “Panari,” a dialect word meaning “outlying islet”—consists of two islands, Kamiji Island and Shimoji Island, and is home to a total of several dozen residents.
From Ishigaki PortThere are no scheduled ferry services,, to reach the island, take a ferry from Kuroshima or Iriomote IslandCharter Boats and Toursis required.
Because its ancient festivals and beliefs are still deeply rooted there, it is also known as the “Mysterious Island,” and visitors can enjoy its unique scenery, such as villages lined with coral stone walls.
○ Access: No regular ferry service (use charter boats or tours departing from Kuroshima or Iriomote Island)
○ Travel time: Varies depending on the departure and arrival locations (approximately 30 minutes)
○ Note: Independent visits by individuals may be restricted.
↓Click here for recommended tours that include Panali Island↓
Kayashima Island
Located off the northeastern coast of Kohama Island, Kama Island has one of the smallest populations among inhabited islands and retains a tranquility that makes it almost like a deserted island.
From Ishigaki Port and Kohama IslandThere are no regular ferry services, and...You can only visit it by taking a snorkeling tour departing from Kohama Island or by chartered boat.
The sea, with its pristine coral reefs, stretches out, andA Hidden Gem Among the Remote IslandsIt's a hidden gem that's featured on some tours.
○ Access: No regular ferry service (use tour boats or chartered boats departing from Kohama Island)
○ Travel time: About 10–15 minutes by boat from Kohama Island (depending on the tour)
○ Note: As a general rule, individuals are not permitted to disembark.
Getting around Ishigaki Island is by rental car or local bus!
Traffic Map and Major Spots
The use of a rental car is the most common way of sightseeing in Ishigaki Island,Kabira Bayand ... andTamatorizaki Observatory, ,Hirakubozaki LighthouseYou can efficiently visit major spots such as
Local buses are also available, but their limited frequency somewhat restricts their ability to freely visit tourist attractions.
By understanding the location of tourist spots on the map and using rental cars and buses according to the length of stay and purpose of your trip, you can make your trip more comfortable and fulfilling.
↓Click here for popular car rentals on Ishigaki Island.
Popular Ishigaki Island Car Rental Plans
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
Access: 25 minutes by car from Ishigakijima Airport, 30 minutes by car from the remote island terminal
↓ Kabira Bay is held in Kabira Bay! Click here for recommended tours
![★Fall Special SALE [Ishigaki Island / Approx. 2.5 hours] Same-day reservations accepted! SUP Tour at “Kabira Bay,” a world-renowned popular spot ★ Awarded three stars by the Michelin Guide ♪ Free photos & transportation included](https://ishigaki-tours.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_9631-825x510.jpg)
![★Winter Special SALE [Ishigaki Island / Half-Day] Same-Day Reservations Accepted! Awarded Three Stars in the Michelin Guide! Kayak Tour of “Kabira Bay,” a World-Renowned Popular Spot★Free Photos & Transportation Included](https://ishigaki-tours.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_9637-825x510.jpg)
Click here for popular Kabira Bay Tour plans
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.
Access: 5 minutes by car from Ishigaki Airport
Operating period: Year-round
Facilities: Restrooms are available in Shiraho Coral Village
↓Click here for recommended tours related to Shiraho Coast
![[Okinawa, Ishigaki Island] Lush Coral Reefs! Ishigaki Island Sea Kayaking & Snorkeling 1-Day Tour (Includes a Delicious Lunch) (No. 416)](https://ishigaki-tours.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/DSC08046-825x510.jpg)
(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.
Access: 50 minutes by car from Ishigaki Airport
(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.
Access: Approximately 40 minutes by car from the remote island terminal
↓Click here for Nosoko-dake related activities! ↓↓Activities related to Mt.
![[Okinawa, Ishigaki Island] Stunning 360-Degree Panoramic Views! An Easy Hiking Tour to “Nosoko Mape,” Selected as One of Japan’s Top 100 Island Mountains (No. 320)](https://ishigaki-tours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/2018_04_22_55-825x510.jpg)
(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.
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
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.
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
Map of the Yaeyama Islands
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
summary
The Yaeyama Islands include Ishigaki Island andRemote islands rich in characterare scattered throughout the area.
By checking the location of each island on a map, it is easy to grasp the charm and distance of each island, making for a more fulfilling trip.
Whether you are a first-time visitor or a repeat visitor, please enjoy your trip to Yaeyama, where you will encounter new discoveries, by referring to this article!
↓Click here to read the article.
![[Ishigaki Island / Approx. 2.5 hours] Same-day reservations accepted! SUP tour to the mystical “Blue Cave”★ A new experience in crystal-clear waters♪ Free photos](https://ishigaki-tours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/DB89F99F-C338-4E76-BC19-CEC4FDDE95AC-1-825x510.jpeg)
