Exploring the Natural Wonders of Ishigaki Island

A Day of Cultural Exploration

Today was a day dedicated to immersing ourselves in the local culture and history of Ishigaki. After several days of focusing on the natural beauty of this island, I felt it was important to understand the stories and traditions that have shaped it. Liam and I set out with open minds and a desire to learn, and Ishigaki certainly didn't disappoint.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Yaeyama katosoba. I opted for the Yaeyama Soba, eager to taste the local flavors. The broth, rich with bonito, was comforting, and the pork topping was tender and flavorful. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. Liam enjoyed the Ebi Soba and we both agreed it was a great start to the day.


Experience authentic Okinawan cuisine at Yaeyama Katosoba - where every bowl tells a story of tradition and flavor.

With our bellies full, we made our way to the Ishigaki Shiritsu Yaeyama Museum. The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history, art, and folk traditions of Ishigaki and the Yaeyama Islands. As someone fascinated by different cultures, I was excited to delve into the past. The museum wasn't very big, but it was packed with interesting artifacts and exhibits. I was particularly drawn to the displays of Yaeyama textiles, ceramics, and other handicrafts. Each piece told a story of the island's unique heritage. Liam, with his keen interest in history, was captivated by the traditional household goods, agricultural implements, and fishing equipment on display. It gave us a glimpse into the daily lives of the islanders throughout history. We spent a couple of hours wandering through the exhibits, reading the descriptions, and trying to absorb as much as we could.


Discover the rich cultural heritage of Ishigaki and the Yaeyama Islands through traditional crafts, artifacts, and historical exhibits.

The best way to understand a place is to walk in the footsteps of those who came before you.

Leaving the museum, we decided to take a leisurely stroll towards the Southern Gate Bridge. The bridge, with its vibrant blue color, is a prominent landmark in Ishigaki. It connects the man-made islands of Minanuhama-cho and Yashima-cho and is easily accessible from the city center. As we walked along the bridge, we were treated to panoramic views of the azure ocean and the lush green hills. I couldn't resist snapping a few photos, trying to capture the beauty of the scenery. The bridge is also a popular spot for sunset viewing, and I can imagine how magical it must be to watch the sun dip below the horizon from here. We noticed several stray cats lounging around the bridge, adding to the charm of the place.


Discover breathtaking views and a serene experience at Southern Gate Bridge, the stunning architectural highlight of Ishigaki Island.

For lunch, we ventured to Pizzeria il Trecorde, a place recommended for its authentic wood-fired pizza. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere. We decided to share a couple of pizzas, one with local Ishigaki ingredients and another with a classic Italian combination. The pizzas were delicious, with a perfectly crispy crust and flavorful toppings. It was a delightful culinary experience that transported us to Southern Italy.


Discover the authentic taste of Italy at Pizzeria il Trecorde in Ishigaki – home to Neapolitan pizzas and Southern Italian delights.

In the afternoon, we decided to do some shopping at Don Quijote Ishigakijima. This discount store is a treasure trove of quirky souvenirs, local products, and everyday essentials. I was on the hunt for some unique gifts to bring back home to our friends and family in Banff. Liam was more interested in browsing the electronics section, always on the lookout for the latest gadgets. We spent hours wandering through the aisles, marveling at the sheer variety of products on offer. I ended up buying some Japanese KitKats in unique flavors like Wasabi and Sake, as well as some Cororo gummies, which are known for their satisfying pop. Liam snagged a cat-shaped USB adapter, unable to resist its quirky charm. It was an entertaining and slightly overwhelming shopping experience, but we left with our bags full of goodies.


Explore the vibrant shopping paradise of Don Quijote Ishigakijima in Okinawa, where unbeatable prices meet a diverse selection of goods.

As evening approached, we made our way to Ishigakiya for dinner, eager to try the famous Ishigaki beef. The restaurant is known for its high-quality beef and traditional Okinawan cuisine. We opted for a set menu that included sirloin steak, tenderloin, and various beef organs, along with shrimp and veggies. The tenderloin was the highlight of the meal, melting in my mouth with its rich flavor. The salad with umibudo sea grapes was also a delightful surprise, a true taste of Okinawa. Liam, a connoisseur of fine food, was equally impressed with the quality of the beef and the skillful preparation. The ambiance of the restaurant, with its wooden walls and pillars, added to the overall dining experience.


Discover the authentic taste of Japanese barbecue at Ishigakiya - where quality meets tradition in every bite.

Reflecting on the day, I felt a deeper connection to Ishigaki Island and its people. Learning about the island's history at the Yaeyama Museum, experiencing the beauty of the Southern Gate Bridge, indulging in local cuisine, and exploring the quirky shops had given me a richer understanding of this unique destination. It was a day well spent, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to have experienced it with Liam by my side.

Tomorrow, we are planning to explore the Ishigaki Stalactite Cave and the Blue Cave [Day 8 Itinerary]. I am particularly excited about the Blue Cave, as I have heard it's a magical place with stunning natural beauty. I'm sure it will be another memorable day on Ishigaki Island!