Adventurous Getaway to Ishigaki Island with Friends

Exploring Ishigaki: Lighthouses, Parks, and Culinary Gems

Today was a day of contrasts, from the rugged coastline crowned with a lighthouse to the serene, expansive greenery of a local park. It was a day to fully immerse ourselves in the natural beauty and local flavors of Ishigaki. The blend of exploration and relaxation was exactly what Maximilian, my friends and I needed. Astrid would have loved the park, I will have to bring her next time we come here.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at AZZURRA. I opted for a classic Italian breakfast, while my friends tried some of the local specialties. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, a perfect start to a day full of exploration. It’s always interesting to see how different cultures interpret breakfast, and AZZURRA offered a delightful blend of Italian and Okinawan influences. After breakfast, we set off for Hirakubozaki Lighthouse, located at the northernmost tip of Ishigaki Island. The drive itself was an adventure, with winding roads offering glimpses of the stunning coastline. As we approached the lighthouse, the landscape transformed into a dramatic vista of rocky cliffs and turquoise waters. The lighthouse itself, while not particularly large, stood proudly against the skyline. The wind was strong as we walked around the area, adding to the sense of adventure. The panoramic views were breathtaking, stretching out over the Pacific Ocean and the East China Sea. I could see why this spot is so popular for photographers; the contrast between the white lighthouse, the blue sea, and the green hills was simply stunning. We spent a good hour there, taking photos and simply soaking in the scenery. Maximilian, ever the history buff, was fascinated by the lighthouse's history, while the rest of us were content to just enjoy the view.


Discover Ishigaki's northernmost point: breathtaking panoramic ocean views, a charming white lighthouse, and tranquil island scenery.

Next on our itinerary was Banna Park, a vast nature park located near downtown Ishigaki. After the windswept cliffs of the lighthouse, the park offered a welcome change of pace. The park is huge, encompassing various zones, from forest trails to observation decks. We decided to explore a few of the trails, enjoying the shade of the subtropical trees and the sounds of nature. We made our way to several observation decks, each offering unique views of the island and the surrounding ocean. The Emerald Sea Observation Deck was particularly impressive, providing unobstructed views of Nagura Bay and the Yarabe Peninsula. From another deck, we spotted a crested serpent eagle soaring over the bay, a truly magnificent sight. I made a mental note to bring Astrid here next time; she would absolutely love the Fureai Children's Square with its large slide and other attractions.


Discover Ishigaki's natural beauty at Banna Park: panoramic views, diverse flora & fauna, and recreational activities await in this expansive oasis.

For lunch, we headed to Pulau Sri Lanka, a charming restaurant in Ishigaki known for its Sri Lankan cuisine. I was intrigued by the reviews praising the veg/dhal set and vegan options, so I decided to give it a try. The restaurant's decor was beautiful, reminiscent of Sri Lanka, and the owner was incredibly welcoming, explaining the dishes and their ingredients with evident pride. The food was delicious, flavorful, and filling – a perfect midday treat. Maximilian, always up for trying new cuisines, thoroughly enjoyed the spicy chicken curry.


Experience authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at Pulau Sri Lanka in Ishigaki, Okinawa—where every meal is a delightful journey into flavor.

In the afternoon, we indulged in a bit of shopping at Mirumiru Honpo Main Store. This store is famous for its gelato, made with locally produced milk, and its juicy burgers. We sampled several gelato flavors, including the local favorite, salt & black sugar, and the Ishigaki fruit ice cream. The gelato was creamy and delicious, a perfect way to cool off on a warm day. I also couldn't resist trying Mr. Kiyota's signature burger, which lived up to its reputation.

Ice cream tastes so good here.

What struck me most about Mirumiru Honpo was the friendly atmosphere and the beautiful views from the second floor. We could see Taketomi Island in the distance, and the surrounding landscape was simply breathtaking. It was a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the local flavors.


Experience the exquisite flavors of Okinawa at Mirumiru Honpo Main Store, renowned for its artisanal ice creams and delightful desserts.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Yaeyama Zenfu Kokkara for dinner. This restaurant is known for its authentic Okinawan cuisine, offering rare dishes exclusive to the Yaeyama Islands. The ambiance was warm and inviting, reflecting traditional Ryukyu culture. We sampled a variety of local specialties, savoring the unique flavors and textures of Okinawan cuisine. It was a fitting end to a day of exploration, offering a taste of the island's rich culinary heritage.


Experience authentic Okinawan cuisine at Yaeyama Zenfu Kokkara in Ishigaki – a true gem for food lovers seeking local flavors.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, I am excited about visiting Ishigaki Island Sunset Beach and exploring the Ishigaki Stalactite Cave. And of course, we will end the day at THE STAR BAR [if we still have any energy left]. Today was a perfect blend of natural beauty and local culture, a reminder of why I love to travel. The stunning views from Hirakubozaki Lighthouse and Banna Park, combined with the delicious flavors of Ishigaki's cuisine, made for an unforgettable day. I am already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures.