Guided in Japanese: Best of Ishigaki

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

What you will visit:
Tamatorizaki Observatory
Situated in the northern part of the city, where the Pacific Ocean meets the East China Sea, the Tamatorizaki Observatory provides spectacular views all the way to Ibaruma Bay and Hirakubozaki on clear days. The pathway from the entrance to the observation deck is planted with an abundance of gorgeous hibiscus flowers that bloom year round. Set against the stunning seascape, the lush hills of the Hirakubo Peninsula offer views that are truly breathtaking and ever changing.

Yaeyama Palm Tree Grove
Tucked at the feet of Mount Omoto on the northern coast of Ishigaki, the Yaeyama Palm Tree Grove, designated as a national natural monument, is dedicated to the Yaeyama palm, a rare, large palm that grows wild only in the Yaeyama Islands. The remarkable trees can reach a height of up to 10 meters (32 feet) tall, giving a magical, jungle-like quality to this serene area. At the start of the boardwalk that traverses the forest-like grove are some charming shops selling refreshments, snacks and shaved ice.

Kabira Bay
Sparkling along the north coast of Ishigaki Island, the gorgeous Kabira Bay forms part of the Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park. Renowned for its powder-white sands, crystal waters and dense vegetation, it has been designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty and was awarded three stars by the Michelin Guide in 2009. Kabira Bay is considered the most beautiful spot on the island and is certainly one of the most photographed. The turquoise waters, while unsuitable for swimming, are also famous for the cultivation of black pearls.

Emerald Sea Observatory
Emerald Sea Observatory at banna Park is located at the apex of Banna Park, a nature reserve that envelops Banna Dake Mountain. The park is home to over 2,500 different species of tropical plants as well numerous butterfly and firefly species. Enjoy excellent views of Ishigaki city and nearby Taketomi Island. Ishigaki has far less pollution than most cities in Japan and is one of the few places in the country where you can view the Southern Cross in the night sky.

What you will see along the way:
Ishigaki Island is the second largest in the Yaeyama Island group, lying a mere 300 kilometers off the coast of Taiwan and enjoying a comfortable semitropical climate. The modest port town serves as the transportation hub for the area and is filled with markets and charming restaurants, but the island's claim to fame is its beautiful beaches, including the oft-photographed Kabira Bay, as well as its rugged, scalable mountain peaks and spectacular coastline vistas.

Lunch:
Dine on a variety of regional specialties at a lovely local restaurant.

Special Notes:

-Call to Ishigaki from December 2020 onward, Yoneko-yaki Pottery will substitute the stop at Yaeyama Palm Tree Grove due to operational reasons. Seesah Garden at the pottery gives you a great photo opportunity with colorful shisa, Ryuku island's cultural artifacts.
-Wear low-heeled, comfortable walking shoes. This tour is not recommended for those passengers with walking difficulties due to the number of steps.
-Please bring local currency. Some shops don't accept credit cards.
-Visiting order may vary.