What is the population density of Ishigaki Island? An in-depth look at the realities of livability and living on the island
Table of Contents
- 1 What is the population of Ishigaki Island now?
- 2 What is Ishigaki Island like?
- 3 Population and Households on Ishigaki Island
- 4 How easy is it to live on Ishigaki Island?
- 5 This is a popular area for immigrants!
- 6 Discover the best of Ishigaki Island! Recommended Sightseeing Spots
- 7 About the population of Ishigaki Island Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 8 summary
What is the population of Ishigaki Island now?
Ishigaki Island is a representative of domestic resorts with blue skies, emerald green seas, and white sand beaches.
Many of you may have thought, "I'd like to live there at least once."
This time,Current Population of Ishigaki IslandWe will answer your simple questions about living in Japan, such as how easy it is to live in Japan and how comfortable it is to live in Japan.
◆If you are concerned about the livability of Ishigaki Island
◆If you are considering moving to Ishigaki Island
Click here to see the ranking of popular Ishigaki Island plans.
What is Ishigaki Island like?
Ishigaki Island, located in the center of the Yaeyama Islands in Okinawa Prefecture, is an attractive island with beautiful sea, nature, and mild climate. It is popular for tourism and immigration.
Location and access to Ishigaki Island
Ishigaki Island is located approximately 410 km southwest of the main island of Okinawa and is close to Taiwan.
It takes about one hour by plane from Naha,Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, FukuokaThere are also direct flights from major cities such as Tokyo and Osaka, and with LCCs, airfare can be less than 20,000 yen round-trip.
It is also the gateway for boats to the Yaeyama Islands and is convenient for sightseeing in the surrounding islands.
Climate and Natural Attractions of Ishigaki Island
Ishigaki Island issubtropical oceanic climateand the temperature is mild throughout the year. Summer temperatures often exceed 30°C (86°F), but even in winter, the average temperature is about 18°C (64°F).
Precipitation is high, and the area is rich in lush green nature. The clarity of the sea is especially high, and the area is dotted with excellent diving and snorkeling spots.
Note that July through October is typhoon season.
Learn more about typhoons in Ishigaki Island
Population and Households on Ishigaki Island
The population of Ishigaki Island (Ishigaki City) is49,428 as of June 2025(26,524 households).
In July 2023, the population will exceed 50,000 for the first time in Ishigaki City,Around 50,000 people every yearThe market has remained steady at
Increasing? Decreasing? Population Changes Explained
The population of Ishigaki City was approximately 48,258 in 2010, so it can be said to be slowly increasing.
As mentioned above, for a time, due in part to the GSDF garrison that opened in 2023.Over 50,000was recorded in some years, but is currently in a slight decline again.
This is due to natural attrition (more deaths than births) and social attrition (more people moving out than moving in).
How easy is it to live on Ishigaki Island?
If you were to actually live there, you might be wondering what kind of life you could expect. What kind of houses are there? How easy is it to live in? Let's take a closer look.
Click here to read the article in conjunction with this one.
What kind of houses? Change in the number of households
There are approximately 26,500-26,600 households on Ishigaki Island. The number of people per household is small, with many people living alone or in small families.
There are many single households, and some people are temporarily relocating to the area for resort work.
Comfort of living in terms of population density and increase in travelers.
The population density of Ishigaki Island is approximately 208 people/km². This is surprisingly low compared to the 23 wards of Tokyo with approximately 15,742 inhabitants/km², and the island time is peaceful.
However, the concentration of residential areas in the southern part of the island and the increasing number of tourists each year make it an issue that buses and ferries, which are also important means of transportation for island residents, become crowded.
Balancing the comfort of islanders' lives to avoid "overtourism" has been raised as a challenge for the island.
Convenience of living such as hospitals, schools, transportation, etc.
Medical facilities are available at hospitals and clinics, but the Corona disaster caused problems with the fragile medical system.
Schools are available from kindergarten to high school, making it a reliable environment for families with children, but there are no vocational schools or universities, so if you want to further your education, you must leave Ishigaki Island at the age of 18.
This has also caused young people to leave the islands.
Nevertheless, an elementary school with a beautiful view of the ocean, an environment full of nature, and the experience of being involved in important local festivals from a young age will be an irreplaceable experience for children.
Trend of workcations and dual-location living
I live and work elsewhere."A base for two-location living and workcationsMore and more people are choosing Ishigaki Island for their
Some people work remotely on Ishigaki Island for a few weeks, enjoy nature and activities, and return to the base city....
After the "work style reform" policy, several coworking spaces opened on Ishigaki Island and are still being used conveniently.
For more information about coworking spaces on Ishigaki Island, click here↓.
This is a popular area for immigrants!
Here is a quick look at some of the areas that are actually popular with immigrants!
For more information about downtown Ishigaki Island, click here↓.
Maesato area (near the old airport)
Maesato is an area near the old airport where hotels and condominiums have been increasing in recent years.
Ishigaki City Hall, Yaeyama HospitalThe area is a perfect place to start your life after moving to the area, with restaurants, supermarkets, and bus stops all around.
Heitoku Area
Hirae (Hirae) is a relatively quiet residential area, although close to Maesato, and is recommended for those looking for an environment that is not too busy.
There is also a bus stop, which provides convenient access to the remote island terminal and airport even without a car.
Shinkawa Area
Arakawa (Arakawa) is close to the city center and is a safe area for households raising children, with schools, hospitals, and supermarkets all in one place.
I have the impression that it is often chosen for its convenience of living, especially for family living.
Discover the best of Ishigaki Island! Recommended Sightseeing Spots
I'll also introduce popular sightseeing spots in Ishigaki Island that will make you feel like "I want to live here! We will also introduce popular sightseeing spots on Ishigaki Island that will make you say, "I want to live here!
Click here to see the ranking of popular Ishigaki Island plans.
Kabira Bay
One of the famous scenic spots in Ishigaki Island,Awarded three Green Michelin stars.Kabira Bay, which was
The white sandy beaches, crystal clear ocean, underwater corals and fishes are so beautiful that the scenery looks like a picture postcard.
PopularSUP and canoe activity toursThe Kabira Bay is also the site of many other events. You can enjoy the spectacular view only at Kabira Bay.
Access: 25 minutes by car from Shin-Ishigakijima Airport, 30 minutes by car from the remote island terminal
Held at Kabira Bay! Click here for recommended tours
Learn more about Kabira Bay
Japanese harbor porcelain (Phyllostachys nigra var. japonica)
Hirakubozaki is a spectacular spot at the northernmost tip of Ishigaki Island. The scenery of wide ocean and cliffs is dramatic and looks like the end of the earth.
If you want to experience quiet excitement, this is the place to be.
There are restrooms and vending machines.So, it is a perfect place to finish the drive.
The parking lot is small, so be sure to share it with others.
Access: 50 minutes by car from Ishigaki Airport
Sukuji Beach
On-season.Surveillance and jellyfish prevention netsSukuji Beach is recommended for families with small children.
It is a favorite haunt of the locals.
In the summer of 20205, a famous artist from Ishigaki Island35th anniversary of BIGIN's debutA limited-time beach house was opened to commemorate the event, and free live performances were also held!
Access:Approximately 20 minutes by car from the remote island terminal
Open: Mid-March to September
Facilities: jellyfish prevention nets, lifeguard, toilets, changing rooms, showers (fee: 100 yen), store, beach goods rental
Ishigakijima limestone cave
Ishigaki Island limestone caves are the perfect sightseeing spot for rainy or hot days. The inside of the cave is cool and you can experience the power of the terrain and the mystery of nature.
The strata where coral reefs were uplifted200,000 yearsThe mysterious limestone caves were formed as a result of erosion over a long period of time.
Illumination, water fountain, Totoro stalactite, fossilized giant clamThere are many sights to see, such as the following, and you will never get tired of them.
Access: 30 minutes by car from Shin-Ishigaki Airport
Taketomi
About 15 minutes by ferry from Ishigaki Island, Taketomi Island (Taketomi Island) preserves the traditional Okinawan scenery.
Sweeped by islanders every morningWhite sand roads and traditional red-tiled housesThe villages lined with "huts" are simple, yet movingly beautiful.
Ride on a buffalo cart through the villageBuffalo Car Sightseeingand touring the island by renting a bicycle are popular.
Access: 15 minutes by ferry from Ishigaki Port Terminal
Number of ferry services: about 1 per hour
Approximate fee: about 800 yen one way
Learn more about Taketomi Island
Click here for recommended tours including Taketomi Island
Click here for the popular tour ranking of Taketomi Island
about the population of Ishigaki Island.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Ishigaki City is pursuing plans to further increase its population through the enhancement of airport and port functions, the use of ICT technology, and the supply of safe residential land.
Ishigaki Island is home to fast food restaurants such as McDonald's, Misdo, and Kentucky, as well as Don Quijote, Nitori, home centers, and other stores useful for daily life.
First-time visitors usually feel "It is more urban than I imagined...! It seems that first-time visitors feel that the city is "more urban than I had imagined...!
The island's "great nature" is supposed to be a tourist resource, but development is gradually progressing, and environmental preservation and livability, as well as how to make the island a tourist destination, are issues for the future.
Currently, there seems to be a shortage of available rental properties. It is recommended to consult with a real estate agency in Ishigaki City and keep in touch with them frequently.
Many companies provide dormitories for resort workers.
summary
Ishigaki Island may have a strong image as a tourist destination, but it is also a fascinating place of nature and ease of living.
How about the information on sightseeing spots and the area?
If you have a chance to chat with the islanders when you visit on your trip, please do so.
Click here to read the article in conjunction with this one.
