Adventurous Getaway to Ishigaki Island with Friends

Finding Peace and Palate Pleasures in Ishigaki

Today was a beautiful blend of cultural exploration and culinary indulgence here on Ishigaki Island. As our trip nears its end, I wanted to soak in as much of the local charm as possible. It was a day filled with tranquil moments, delightful discoveries, and, of course, delicious food shared with great company.

The day started with a hearty breakfast at SALTIDA | サルティーダ. The restaurant had a spacious dining room and offered Okinawa-style breakfast. The chef uses fresh, local ingredients for both the 'LAND' and 'SEA' live kitchens. I savored every bite, knowing that Maximilian and Astrid would have loved the fresh fruit and pastries. It's moments like these that make me appreciate the simple joys of travel, even when my family isn't here to share them directly.

Gongendo Shrine: A Step Back in Time

Our first stop was Gongendo Shrine. The shrine was established in 1614. Gongendo Shrine is a Shinto shrine on Ishigaki Island in Okinawa Prefecture. It's considered the first Shinto shrine on the island. The Ryukyu Kingdom controlled Ishigaki in the 15th Century. In 1609, the Japanese Satsuma Clan invaded the Ryukyus and established military domination. Gongendo Shrine was built in 1614. Stepping onto the grounds felt like entering a different era. The air was still and quiet, a welcome contrast to the bustling town we had just left behind. The intricate details of the architecture, the peaceful gardens, and the sense of history all around us were truly captivating. The shrine was destroyed by a tsunami in 1771 and rebuilt in 1786. It was a reminder of the enduring spirit of this island and its people.


Discover Gongendo Shrine in Ishigaki: A historic Shinto sanctuary blending cultural influences and offering a serene spiritual experience.

“Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quiet corners of the world, where history whispers and nature soothes the soul.”

Painuhamacho Ryokuchi Park: Nature's Embrace

Next, we ventured to Painuhamacho Ryokuchi Park. The park has vast green spaces and features a variety of native flora and fauna. The park is well-maintained, allowing visitors to stroll along its winding paths, enjoy picnics, or simply sit back and absorb the serene surroundings. The park is near Ishigaki Port. Painuhamacho Ryokuchi Park is a natural sanctuary on Ishigaki. It's a great place to escape the urban hustle and immerse in nature. The park offers opportunities for walking, jogging, and cycling. As we strolled through the park, we were greeted by the sight of vibrant flowers, adding splashes of color to the already lush landscape. The gentle sounds of nature served as a soothing backdrop, making it easy to unwind and connect with our surroundings. I couldn't help but imagine Astrid running around, chasing butterflies and giggling with delight. It's these simple, natural spaces that I know she would adore. The park is known for having a large population of cats that roam freely. Local visitors often come to enjoy BBQs while taking in the sunset.


Explore the lush landscapes and serene beauty of Painuhamacho Ryokuchi Park in Ishigaki, Okinawa – a perfect escape for nature lovers.

Lunch at Pulau Sri Lanka: A Taste of the Exotic

For lunch, we decided to try Pulau Sri Lanka. The restaurant is located in Ishigaki and offers delicious and filling meals at an affordable price. The veg/dhal set and vegan set are highly recommended, with the option for takeaway. The menu includes well-seasoned dishes, such as chicken curry and vegetable curry. The owner takes pride in explaining the ingredients and inspiration behind each dish. The restaurant has a cozy ambiance, adorned with beautiful decorations. The owner provides detailed explanations of the dishes, creating a great dining experience. The restaurant has a limited but tasty menu with spicy chicken curry options. Visitors appreciated the beautiful decor reminiscent of Sri Lanka and loved the banana leaf plates. The ambiance is unique and friendly staff add to the overall positive experience. Nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Ishigaki, Okinawa, Pulau Sri Lanka stands out as a culinary oasis that transports visitors to the heart of Sri Lankan flavors. From aromatic curries to tantalizing rice dishes, each plate is crafted to deliver an unforgettable dining experience. The warm and inviting decor created a relaxing environment where guests could unwind while savoring their meals. I opted for the vegan set, and it was an explosion of flavors. The spices were perfectly balanced, and the presentation was beautiful. It was a delightful culinary journey that transported me back to my travels in Southeast Asia. Sharing this meal with my friends made it even more special, as we laughed and reminisced about past adventures.


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

Shopping at Coralway: Bringing Home a Piece of Ishigaki

In the afternoon, we did some shopping at Coralway. I wanted to find some unique souvenirs to bring back home to Maximilian and Astrid. The shop has a rich selection of Okinawan souvenirs. In particular, pineapples, mangoes, dragon fruits, and other Okinawan tropical fruits are popular. The shop offers famous Okinawan confectionary and awamori (strong Okinawan liquor). Coralway offers Okinawa's “best products” to enrich daily life. It’s a place to encounter the island's blessings and discover the newest Okinawan trends where tradition and modernity harmonize. I ended up buying some local sweets and a beautiful handcrafted item that I know Astrid will adore. It's always a joy to find little treasures that capture the essence of a place and bring a smile to my loved ones' faces.


Discover unique gifts and local snacks at Coralway in Ishigaki Airport, your gateway to Okinawa's vibrant culture.

Funakura-no-sato: A Culinary and Cultural Finale

As the day drew to a close, we headed to Funakura-no-sato for dinner. The traditional restaurant sits on the edge of a flower-filled complex near the outskirts of Ishigaki city on the island's western coast. The eatery is open for both lunch and dinner, offering set menus featuring Ishigaki specialties. Funakura no Sato serves Okinawan cuisine, providing people with an opportunity to experience the cultural traditions of Okinawa and the Yaeyama Islands. They have recreated the good old days of the Yaeyama Islands by relocating and reconstructing traditional Okinawan houses in wide-open spaces. The food is prepared mainly using local ingredients and served on traditional tableware made of Ryukyuan pottery (Yachimun) and glass. Visitors can enjoy Okinawan folk songs with Sanshin musical instrument along with dining. One unique dish that was included in our course was a type of jimami-dofu (a really creamy peanut-based tofu) that had been soaked for quite some time in the local awamori liquor. It packed quite a punch ! Each set meal is also accompanied by soup and a bowl of rice mixed with vegetables, as well as the usual plate of pickles. While lunchtime provides a cheaper dining experience, it's fun to drop in to Funakura no Sato for dinner, when live music is performed nightly between 6:30 pm and 8:30 pm. On the evening we went, we were treated to several ballads sung by the sanshin player as well as a few traditional dances. The dancing is very inclusive and diners are encouraged to take part. The restaurant serves Okinawan local cuisine based on the concept of people wanting to experience the culture of Okinawa and the Yaeyama Islands. The atmosphere was magical. The restaurant is set in a traditional Okinawan house, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. We savored local delicacies while enjoying a captivating performance of traditional Okinawan music and dance. It was the perfect way to end our day, immersed in the rich culture of this beautiful island.


Discover authentic Okinawan cuisine at Funakura-no-sato—where traditional flavors meet modern izakaya style in the heart of Ishigaki.

Tomorrow marks the last day of our trip, and we plan to make the most of it. We're heading to Yonehara Beach for some relaxation and Taketomi Island for a final dose of island charm. Dinner at Ishigaki beef MARU is also on the cards – a perfect way to celebrate the end of our adventure.

As I reflect on today’s experiences, I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunity to explore this enchanting island. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of our busy lives, it’s important to take time to appreciate the beauty and tranquility that the world has to offer. And to share it, if not physically, then through stories and photographs with those we love.

Until tomorrow,
Elin