Exploring the Natural Wonders of Ishigaki Island

Unearthing Island Secrets

Today was all about embracing the subterranean and the subaquatic, a day of exploration that took Liam and me from the depths of the Ishigaki Stalactite Cave to the shimmering waters of the Blue Cave. It’s days like these that remind me why I traded the predictable landscapes of Norway for a life chasing the extraordinary moments that nature offers. And of course, every adventure is made infinitely better with Liam by my side.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Funakura-no-sato. The traditional Okinawan cuisine was the perfect fuel for a day of exploration. I especially enjoyed the chance to try some local specialties, and Liam, ever the adventurous eater, was game for anything. It's wonderful to start the day with a taste of the local culture; it really sets the tone for the adventures ahead.

After breakfast, we set off for the Ishigaki Stalactite Cave. The drive itself was lovely, offering glimpses of the island's lush scenery. As we approached the cave, I felt a familiar thrill of anticipation, the same excitement I get when tracking a rare bird or spotting a elusive mammal. The entrance to the cave was unassuming, but as soon as we stepped inside, we were transported to another world.

The cave is a massive natural cavern adorned with impressive stalactites. The interior was dimly lit, with fluorescent lights illuminating the geological formations. It felt a bit like stepping into a fantasy novel, the air cool and damp against my skin. The formations were incredible, shaped over thousands of years by the slow drip of water. I was particularly fascinated by the delicate, intricate patterns carved into the limestone rock face. I tried to capture the beauty of the cave with my camera, but some things are just too grand to fit into a frame.

As we walked deeper into the cave, I couldn't help but marvel at the natural processes that had created such a breathtaking space. The stalactites and stalagmites seemed to grow before my very eyes, a testament to the power of time and the persistence of nature. It was a humbling experience, a reminder of how small we are in the face of the Earth's ancient history. The cave is about 3km long and is the 7th longest stalactite cave in Japan. The stalactites look even better in real life than on photo. We also saw coconut crab and butterfly womb. Apparently the cave was once under the sea, and rose again, so you can see marine fossils.


Discover a 200,000-year-old subterranean world of stalactites, stalagmites, and marine fossils in Ishigaki Island's natural wonder.

Sometimes, the most profound beauty is hidden just beneath the surface.

After exploring the depths of the Stalactite Cave, we surfaced for lunch at Sabanisen. This restaurant is tucked away in a quiet corner of the island, and it's the kind of place that locals love. The restaurant has a wonderful environment, suitable for meetings with friends and families. The menu was filled with local seafood dishes, and we decided to try a bit of everything. The tempura dumplings were a revelation, light and crispy with a savory filling. Liam raved about the grilled fish, declaring it the freshest he'd ever tasted. It was the perfect midday refuel before our next adventure.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we headed towards the Blue Cave. The anticipation was palpable as we neared the coast, the promise of crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life drawing us in. The Blue Cave is a natural wonder, its entrance facing the sea and accessible mainly by snorkeling or swimming, though you can walk during low tide. As we slipped into our snorkeling gear, I felt a surge of excitement. I love the feeling of weightlessness in the water, the sense of becoming part of the underwater world.

The water was indeed crystal clear, and as we swam into the cave, the blue light reflecting off the water created an ethereal glow. It was like entering another dimension, the silence broken only by the sound of our own breathing. The cave's interior was half-flooded with clear water, creating a serene atmosphere. The underwater world was teeming with life, colorful fish darting among the coral reefs. I spotted a few sea turtles gliding gracefully through the water. It was an incredible experience, witnessing the beauty and diversity of marine life in such a unique setting. I took a few photos, hoping to capture the magic of the moment, but again, the reality was far more stunning than any image could convey.


Discover Ishigaki's magical Blue Cave: Snorkel through crystal waters and witness an enchanting underwater world of vibrant marine life.

Emerging from the Blue Cave, we were both invigorated and humbled by the experience. The ocean's embrace had washed away any lingering fatigue, leaving us feeling refreshed and connected to the natural world. As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we made our way to Steak & Restaurant PAPOIYA for dinner. We decided to treat ourselves to some Ishigaki beef, a local delicacy that's renowned for its marbling and flavor. The steak was cooked to perfection, tender and juicy, and the sashimi was incredibly fresh. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration, savoring the flavors of the island while reminiscing about our adventures.

After dinner, we decided to check out Trueone, a local bar known for its lively atmosphere. We enjoyed a couple of drinks, soaking in the Okinawan spirit and chatting with some locals. It was a great way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. It's those little moments of connection that make traveling so special, the chance to share stories and laughter with people from different walks of life.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've had today. From the depths of the Stalactite Cave to the shimmering waters of the Blue Cave, Ishigaki Island has revealed its hidden wonders to us. Tomorrow, our adventure continues as we plan to visit Ishigaki Yaima Village and Fusaki Beach. I am excited to see what new discoveries await us as we head towards the final day of our trip.

Tonight, as I close my eyes, I'll dream of stalactites and sea turtles, of the cool earth beneath my feet and the warm sun on my skin. And I'll be thankful for the opportunity to explore this incredible island with my amazing husband, Liam. I really am the luckiest woman in the world.