Adventurous Getaway to Ishigaki Island with Friends

A Day of Aquatic Adventures and Culinary Delights

Today was an absolute dream come true, a perfect blend of exhilarating adventure and serene relaxation here on Ishigaki Island. I woke up with a sense of excitement, knowing that today's itinerary promised unforgettable experiences. It's days like these that remind me why I love traveling so much – the chance to immerse myself in new cultures, witness incredible sights, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at A&W Ishigaki. I know, I know, it might seem a bit unusual to start our day with American fast food while in Japan, but I was curious. Plus, I remember Astrid mentioning how much she loves root beer floats, so I figured it would be a fun treat for her, even though she isn't here with me. It definitely brought back some childhood memories. I opted for the A&W burger set, which came with their signature root beer and crispy curly fries. It was a surprisingly satisfying start to the day, and the root beer definitely had that nostalgic kick.

After breakfast, we made our way to Dolphin Fantasy Ishigaki Island. I've always been fascinated by dolphins, their intelligence and playful nature, so I was really looking forward to this experience. The facility is located about a 30-minute drive from Ishigaki Airport, making it easily accessible. Upon arrival, we were greeted by friendly staff who gave us a brief introduction to the facility and the dolphins. We learned about their history, their individual personalities, and the importance of marine conservation.


Experience the magic of swimming with dolphins at Dolphin Fantasy Ishigaki Island, a thrilling marine attraction nestled in Okinawa's stunning seascape.

I decided to participate in the Dolphin Swim course, which allowed me to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. Donning a wetsuit, I entered the enclosure and was immediately greeted by a playful dolphin named Kai. The trainers guided me through various interactions, from feeding Kai to giving him signals for shaking hands and jumping. It was an incredible feeling to connect with such an intelligent and gentle animal. Swimming alongside Kai, I felt a sense of joy and wonder that I'll never forget.

The ocean stirs the heart, inspires the imagination and brings eternal joy to the soul.

After the dolphin experience, we were ready for some relaxation, so we headed to Fusaki Beach. Known for its pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters, Fusaki Beach is a true tropical paradise. The beach is part of the Fusaki Beach Resort Hotel & Villas, but it's open to the public. We found a nice spot under a palm tree and laid out our towels. The sun was warm, the breeze was gentle, and the sound of the waves was incredibly soothing.


Experience Ishigaki's serene beauty at Fusaki Beach: Sunset views, safe swimming, and family-friendly fun await!

I couldn't resist taking a dip in the ocean. The water was so clear and refreshing, perfect for a leisurely swim. I even tried some snorkeling, hoping to catch a glimpse of the colorful coral reefs that Ishigaki Island is famous for. While I didn't see as many fish as I had hoped, the underwater scenery was still beautiful. The swimming area is netted to protect swimmers from jellyfish, which was definitely a plus.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to explore the area around Fusaki Beach. We took a stroll along the Fusaki Angel Pier, a picturesque walkway that extends out into the ocean. The views from the pier were stunning, with panoramic vistas of the coastline and the turquoise waters. I can only imagine how beautiful the sunset looks from here; I'll have to come back another evening to witness it.

For lunch, we opted for Ishigakiya, a local restaurant known for its Ishigaki beef. Being in Ishigaki, trying the local beef is a must. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a traditional Japanese atmosphere. We ordered a selection of grilled Ishigaki beef, which came with various side dishes like rice, seaweed soup, and fresh local vegetables. The beef was incredibly tender and flavorful, melting in my mouth with each bite. It was definitely one of the best beef dishes I've ever had.


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

In the evening, we decided to check out Latin bar Revolucion, a hidden gem known for its excellent cocktails and laid-back atmosphere. I'm always up for trying new and unique bars, and this one definitely caught my attention. The bar had a cool, eclectic vibe, with colorful decor and Latin music playing in the background. The owner was incredibly friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home. I ordered a piña colada, which was expertly crafted and absolutely delicious. Maximilian would have loved this place, with its unique spirits and cozy atmosphere. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of adventure.


Discover the lively spirit of Latin Bar Revolucion in Ishigaki, Okinawa, where vibrant music, delicious cocktails, and unforgettable nights await you.

For dinner, we ventured to Ichigyoichie, a seafood restaurant that had been recommended to us by a local. The restaurant is known for its fresh, locally sourced seafood and its authentic Japanese cuisine. We ordered a variety of dishes, including sashimi, grilled fish, and seafood tempura. Everything was incredibly fresh and flavorful, showcasing the best of Ishigaki's culinary scene. The sashimi was particularly outstanding, with delicate slices of fish that melted in my mouth.


Discover the flavors of Okinawa at Ichigyoichie – an exquisite Japanese regional restaurant with live music in Ishigaki.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to explore this beautiful island. From swimming with dolphins to relaxing on pristine beaches and savoring local flavors, today was a perfect representation of what makes Ishigaki Island so special. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings, with plans to visit the Oganzaki Lighthouse and the Ishigakijima Astronomical Observatory. I think I'll pick up something at Mahsuya Ishigaki before heading back to the guesthouse after dinner at Kerala Kitchen. Good night from Ishigaki!

It's moments like these that make me appreciate the beauty and diversity of our world, and I'm so grateful to be able to share these experiences with you all. I hope my stories inspire you to embark on your own adventures and discover the wonders that await you.

Tomorrow, I'm planning to visit the Oganzaki Lighthouse for some panoramic views and then explore the Ishigakijima Astronomical Observatory. I am also planning to do some shopping at Mahsuya Ishigaki.