Ishigaki Island - Mt. Nosoko (Nosoko Marpei)
Check it out and make a reservation early☆.
⬇︎Tuk-tuks and electric trikes are also rapidly gaining popularity☆
What is Mt. Nosoko (Nosoko Marpe)?
Mt. Nosoko (Nosoko Marpe) isNew Ishigaki AirportIt is a mountain with an elevation of about 284 meters, located about a 25-minute drive from [...].
Because it offers a panoramic view of all the greenery—the mountains, rivers, and mangrove jungles—of Ishigaki Island,Ishigaki Island’s No. 1 Scenic SpotIt is also said that
Mount Nosoko (Nosoko Mape) is home to an ancient love legend.Power spot for loveI hear it's also famous for that☆
During the era of the Ryukyu Kingdom, there was a system called the “Michi-kiri Law” that forced people to relocate, and the story of “Ma-pe,” a tragic heroine who fell victim to this system, is well known.
Because there is a rock at the summit that resembles Mape in prayer, the place has also come to be known as “Nozoko Mape.”
⬇︎ Click here to learn more about the legend of Marpe of Nosoko☆
How to Get to Mt. Nosoko (Nosoko Marpe)
Mt. Nosoko is located in the central-northern part of Ishigaki Island and can be reached in about 45 minutes by car from downtown Ishigaki and about 30 minutes by car from New Ishigaki Airport.
The trailhead, located at an elevation of 200 meters, is reached by taking the Nosoko Forest Road, which is also a popular spot for watching the sunrise.
On the other hand, when traveling along Prefectural Route 79 on the west coast side, you’ll see a sign that reads "Nosoko Marpe Trailhead."
Things to Do at Mt. Nosoko (Nosoko Marpe)
Since Mt. Nosoko isn't very high—at 284 meters—Easy even for beginnersYou can go there and have a great time. Along the way, you might even encounter plants and animals that are usually found only in subtropical regions☆
Mt. Nosoko is designated as a national park, and “100 Selected Islands"…and even though it isn’t particularly high, it’s teeming with nature, so you’re sure to enjoy a satisfying hike here♪"
Also, the breathtaking view from the summit is the best on Ishigaki Island, so be sure to enjoy this scenic spot when you visit Ishigaki Island.
⬇︎ Now happening at Mt. Nosoko! Check out our recommended tours here☆
Details on Mt. Nosoko (Nosoko Marpe)
Mt. Nosoko is a 282-meter-high mountain located in the northern part of Ishigaki Island,The second-highest mountain on Ishigaki IslandIt is.
There are no obstructions at the summit, so you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view.
On a clear day, you can enjoy views of the lush greenery of the surrounding Yaeyama Islands and the crystal-clear, emerald-green sea.
In addition, at the summit stands Marpe Rock, which serves as the symbol of Mt. Nosoko.
Legend has it that this rock is the result of a Mape—a figure from folklore—who turned to stone while praying. It’s a great spot for photos, so be sure to take a souvenir shot! ♪
Recommended Spots Around Mt. Nosoko (Nosoko Marpe)
Inoda Auto Camp Ground
Inoda Auto Campground is located in the Inoda area on the eastern coast of Shima, east of Mt. Nosoko.
Located in the eastern part of the island, it is also famous as a spot to watch the sunrise. The grounds feature not only a beach and a multipurpose plaza, but are also fully equipped with an adventure course, restrooms, hot showers, a kitchen area, and laundry facilities.
Location: Momosato Inoda, Ishigaki City, Okinawa, Japan
Access: 40 minutes by bus from Ishigaki Port
Parking: 10 cars / free of charge
Meals (nearby): Available
Toilet: Yes
Edna Beach
Idona Beach is located southwest of Mt. Nosoko and is a popular spot for watching the sunset.
This beach is located about a 25-minute drive from New Ishigaki Airport and about a 35-minute drive from the Ishigaki Port Remote Islands Terminal. Since the Idona settlement is nearby, it’s a spot frequently visited by locals.
The ocean off the coast is teeming with coral and tropical fish, making it the perfect spot for snorkeling and diving!
Address: Ukimi, Ishigaki City, Okinawa, Japan
Access: 25 minutes by car from Shin-Ishigaki Airport, 35 minutes by car from Ishigaki Port Terminal
Hours of operation: None
Usage fee: Free of charge
Facilities: vending machines available
Toilet: None
Parking : Available
Anti-hub jellyfish net: No
Observer: None
river running between Tokyo-to and Kanagawa Prefecture
The Fukitsugi River, which flows west of Mount Nosoko, is a mangrove-lined river home to dense stands of mangroves—a nationally designated natural monument.
It is also one of the spots where people enjoy activities such as canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding.
Near the upper reaches of the river is Yabiku Falls, also known as the “Matchmaking Falls.” It’s one of the island’s top power spots for love, so be sure to check it out!
Location: Nosoko, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture
Access: 20 minutes by car from Shin-Ishigaki Airport, 35 minutes from Ishigaki Port Terminal
Parking: Free parking available （search at Fuki-tsukibashi Parking Lot)
Meals (nearby): None
Toilet: None
Details on Mt. Nosoko (Nosoko Marpe)
| Location | Nosoko, Ishigaki City, Okinawa, JapanView in MAP) |
| Access | 25 minutes drive from Shin-Ishigaki Airport, 35 minutes from Ishigaki Port Terminal |
| parking lot | Free parking: Available |
| toilet | nashi (Pyrus pyrifolia, esp. var. culta) |
| Business Hours | - |
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