Family Adventure on Ishigaki Island

Island Explorations: Parks, Beaches, and History

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the diverse offerings of Ishigaki Island. From lush greenery and stunning ocean views to poignant historical sites, it was a day filled with exploration and reflection. Astrid was particularly excited about the prospect of seeing butterflies, while Max was keen to explore the historical aspects of the island. I was just happy to be spending quality time with my family in such a beautiful place.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Pulau Sri Lanka. The mix of Sri Lankan and local flavors was a delightful way to start the day, and it gave us the energy we needed for our adventures. Astrid enjoyed the tropical fruit platter, while Max and I savored the spicy curry.

Banna Park: A Green Escape

Our first stop was Banna Park. This sprawling park, located on Mt. Banna, offered a welcome escape into nature. The air was fresh and clean, a stark contrast to the bustling city life we left behind in Berlin. We spent a good chunk of the morning exploring the park's various zones. Astrid was thrilled to spot numerous butterflies in the Butterfly Garden, her little eyes wide with wonder. Max and I enjoyed the panoramic views from the Emerald Sea Observation Deck, gazing out at the crystal-clear waters surrounding Ishigaki Island.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and recreational activities at Banna Park, a must-visit destination in Ishigaki, Okinawa.
We considered taking a Segway tour, but Astrid was too young, and we didn't want to leave her behind. Instead, we opted for a leisurely walk along the forest trails, enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. I couldn't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to reconnect with nature and with each other. It reminded me of our hikes in the Brandenburg countryside, a familiar comfort amidst the exotic landscape of Ishigaki. I made a mental note to buy some insect repellent at Don Quijote Ishigakijima later, remembering we had forgotten it at home.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

Yonehara Beach: Sun, Sand, and Snorkeling

Next on our itinerary was Yonehara Beach, known for its beautiful coral reefs and clear waters. As we arrived, the sight of the turquoise ocean stretching out before us was simply breathtaking. The beach was lively with both tourists and locals enjoying the summer sun. We found a spot on the white sand and set up our little camp for the afternoon.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Yonehara Beach in Ishigaki, Okinawa, where white sands meet crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life.
The main activity for the afternoon was snorkeling. The water was inviting, and Astrid was eager to try out her new snorkeling gear. Max and I took turns watching her as we explored the underwater world. The coral reefs were vibrant with color, and we spotted numerous tropical fish darting in and out of the coral. It was an incredible experience, even for someone like me who's more accustomed to the colder waters of Norway. I was relieved we brought our snorkeling gear as it saved us the hassle of renting it.

While snorkeling, I was reminded of a time when Max and I tried diving in the fjords of Norway. The visibility was poor, and the water was freezing. This was a completely different experience – warm, clear, and teeming with life. I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore such a diverse range of underwater environments.

We were careful to stay close to the shore, as Yonehara Beach is known for its strong currents. Safety is always our top priority, especially when traveling with Astrid. After a few hours of swimming and snorkeling, we were all feeling pleasantly tired. We packed up our things and headed to our next destination.

Toujin Tomb: A Moment of Reflection

Our final stop for the day was the Toujin Tomb, a Chinese-style monument built to commemorate the lives of Chinese laborers who died on Ishigaki Island in the 19th century. The story behind the tomb is a tragic one. The laborers were being transported from Amoy to California when their ship ran aground off the coast of Ishigaki. They were given shelter by the islanders, but many died due to disease or were killed by American and British pursuers.


Discover the ancient secrets of Toujin Tomb in Ishigaki, Okinawa, and immerse yourself in the region's rich archaeological heritage.
The tomb itself is a beautiful structure, with intricate carvings and vibrant colors. As we stood there, reading the inscriptions on the stone monument, I felt a deep sense of sadness and respect for those who lost their lives. It was a stark reminder of the human cost of greed and exploitation. Max and I explained the story to Astrid in simple terms, trying to convey the importance of empathy and compassion.

Visiting the Toujin Tomb was a sobering experience, but it was also an important one. It reminded us of the importance of understanding history and learning from the mistakes of the past. It also highlighted the kindness and generosity of the Ishigaki islanders, who offered refuge to the stranded laborers.

Culinary Delights and Evening Shopping

After a day of exploration, we were all hungry. We headed to Hibiscat for lunch, where we enjoyed some delicious Okinawan cuisine. The flavors were unique and satisfying, a perfect complement to the day's adventures. Astrid particularly enjoyed the Okinawan soba, while Max and I savored the local seafood.


Experience the perfect fusion of Spanish flavors and local bakery delights at Hibiscat in Ishigaki, Okinawa.
In the evening, we treated ourselves to a delicious dinner at Yaeyama Zenfu Kokkara. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service made it a memorable dining experience. We tried some local specialties and enjoyed the lively ambiance of the restaurant.


Experience authentic Okinawan cuisine at Yaeyama Zenfu Kokkara in Ishigaki – a true gem for food lovers seeking local flavors.
Before heading back to our accommodation, we made a stop at Don Quijote Ishigakijima. This discount store is a treasure trove of goods, from snacks and souvenirs to electronics and household items. I picked up some much-needed insect repellent and a few local snacks to take back to Berlin. Astrid was delighted to find a Hello Kitty toy, a perfect memento of our trip.


Explore the vibrant shopping paradise of Don Quijote Ishigakijima in Okinawa, where unbeatable prices meet a diverse selection of goods.
As we walked back to our accommodation, I reflected on the day's events. We had explored the natural beauty of Ishigaki Island, learned about its history, and indulged in its culinary delights. It was a day filled with adventure, reflection, and connection. I felt grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Ishigakijima Astronomical Observatory, Shiraho Beach, and Hirakubozaki Lighthouse. I'm particularly excited about the observatory, as I've always been fascinated by the stars. Astrid is looking forward to playing on Shiraho Beach, and Max is eager to see the Hirakubozaki Lighthouse. It promises to be another day filled with exploration and discovery.

The Southern Island Star Festival is also taking place in early to mid-August, so we might check that out if we have time. It sounds like a wonderful celebration of the island's night skies, with stargazing parties and guided tours of the observatory.