Exploring the Natural Wonders of Ishigaki Island

A Promising Start to Our Ishigaki Adventure

After what felt like an eternity of travel, Liam and I finally set foot on Ishigaki Island. I'm so excited to share every detail of our journey with you. Today was all about soaking in the initial impressions – the vibrant atmosphere, the delicious food, and the promise of incredible wildlife encounters to come.

Our day began bright and early with a hearty breakfast at Tofu Higa. Getting there required a bit of a drive, but it was absolutely worth it. The restaurant itself had a rustic charm, and the air was filled with the comforting aroma of freshly made tofu. I opted for their famous homemade tofu soup with a side of soba noodles. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. Liam, ever the adventurous one, tried a local variation with fish floss and miso sauce and declared it a winner.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Tofu Higa in Ishigaki - where fresh ingredients meet traditional flavors in every delicious bite.

With our bellies full, we headed to the Tamatorizaki Observation Platform. The drive itself was stunning, with glimpses of the turquoise ocean peeking through the lush greenery. The observation platform offered a panoramic view of Ibaruma Bay, Mount Hannah, and the Hirakubo Peninsula. The vibrant colors of the coral reefs beneath the clear blue waters were mesmerizing. I could have spent hours simply gazing at the landscape, trying to capture its beauty in my mind and with my camera. October seems to be a great time to visit, with comfortable temperatures and less cloud cover, making the views even more spectacular.


Experience breathtaking views and the serene beauty of Okinawa at the Tamatorizaki Observation Platform, a must-see destination for all travelers.

The beauty of Ishigaki Island lies not just in its landscapes, but in its ability to connect you with nature and local culture in a profound way.

Next on our list was the Ishigaki City Public Market. Located in the heart of Euglena Mall, this bustling market is a treasure trove of local goods and souvenirs. The market was bustling with locals and tourists alike, creating a lively atmosphere. We wandered through the stalls, admiring the colorful displays of fresh seafood, local produce, and handcrafted items. I couldn't resist picking up a few small souvenirs – some Ryukyu glassware and a couple of Shisa pottery figures to remind us of our time here. Liam was fascinated by the local spirits (Awamori), and sampled a few, while I enjoyed some fresh Okinawan doughnuts.


Discover Ishigaki City Public Market, a vibrant hub of local culture, fresh produce, and delicious Okinawan cuisine in the heart of Ishigaki.

For lunch, we decided to try Kabira Tei, a restaurant near Kabira Bay known for its smoked beef dishes. The smoky flavor of the steak was incredible, and the presentation was beautiful. The staff was incredibly friendly and made us feel welcome. Liam and I shared a smoked Ishigaki beef set with pineapple salsa, which was a delightful combination of flavors.


Discover authentic Okinawan flavors at Kabira Tei – a top-rated steakhouse offering exquisite seafood and regional dishes in Ishigaki.

Our afternoon was dedicated to experiencing the Ishigakijima Hoshizora Farm. As a wildlife photographer, I am always seeking out opportunities to connect with nature, even after sunset. Although it is private property and requires joining a tour, the location is ideal for stargazing, far from the city lights. Unfortunately, the Southern Island Star Festival, which includes stargazing parties, already ended in August. Still, I'm thrilled we made it there. The sky was incredibly clear, and the stars seemed to stretch on forever. It was an awe-inspiring experience that reminded me of the vastness and beauty of the universe. Liam and I just sat there for a long time, spotting constellations and making wishes on shooting stars. I even managed to capture some photos, though I'm eager to improve my astrophotography skills during our time here.


Experience the magic of stargazing at Ishigakijima Hoshizora Farm, a serene retreat in Okinawa where the cosmos comes alive.

To cap off our first day, we treated ourselves to dinner at Ishigaki beef MARU. This restaurant is known for sourcing A5 grade or higher beef from local butchers. The interior was vibrant, and the staff was very friendly, explaining the best way to enjoy each cut. We opted for a set menu that included a variety of Ishigaki beef cuts, each cooked to perfection on a yakiniku grill. The melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor of the beef were simply divine. I also tried the local lemon sour, which was incredibly refreshing.


Experience authentic Japanese yakiniku at Ishigaki beef MARU - where premium meat meets unforgettable dining in Okinawa.

As we walked back to our guesthouse, hand in hand, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. Ishigaki Island has already captured my heart with its natural beauty, delicious food, and warm hospitality. I'm excited to see what adventures tomorrow will bring, especially our planned visit to Kabira Bay and the Oganzaki Lighthouse. I’m also keen to visit Island bar CANOPUS.

But for now, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of exploring this beautiful island. I did forget to pack insect repellent and a portable phone charger, so I will need to buy these tomorrow. Good night from Ishigaki!

I will be sure to post again tomorrow!