Family Adventure on Ishigaki Island

Island Bridges and Historical Delights

Today was a day of exploration, diving deeper into the heart of Ishigaki Island. We ventured beyond the beaches to discover cultural landmarks, serene ranches, and architectural marvels. It’s amazing how much this island has to offer beyond its stunning coastline, and I’m excited to share our experiences.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at AMURITANO NIWA SOSHITE ONGAKU. This charming spot is known for its healthy and delicious food, with a focus on vegetarian and vegan options. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of sightseeing. I enjoyed a traditional Okinawan breakfast set, while Maximilian opted for a hearty burger. Astrid, of course, chose pancakes, which she devoured with gusto. It’s always a pleasure to find a place that caters to all our tastes.

First on our itinerary was the Southern Gate Bridge. This striking blue bridge connects Yashima Town and Nannuhama Town and offers stunning panoramic views. We parked nearby and walked up the stairs to the top of the bridge, taking in the vista of the surrounding waters. The bridge is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, and it’s easy to see why. The gentle sea breeze and the beautiful scenery made for a perfect start to our day. Astrid was fascinated by the boats passing underneath, and Maximilian, ever the engineer, admired the bridge's construction.


Discover breathtaking views and a serene experience at Southern Gate Bridge, the stunning architectural highlight of Ishigaki Island.

Sometimes, the most memorable moments are found in the unexpected corners of a destination.

Next, we headed to Hideki Ranch, a hidden gem in the Kabira area. The ranch offers a unique opportunity to experience local agriculture firsthand. Although we didn't participate in any formal activities, we enjoyed walking through the lush green fields and learning about the farming processes. Astrid was particularly thrilled to see the cows and horses, and she even got to pet a few of them. The ranch is a peaceful escape from the more crowded tourist spots, and it was a refreshing change of pace.


Discover the serenity of Hideki Ranch in Ishigaki, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking the charm of Okinawa's countryside.

Lunch was at Ohanabatake Ishigaki, a must-visit sandwich spot. This modern oasis has a cool, beachy vibe and a menu full of delicious sandwiches made with fresh, quality ingredients. I opted for a classic BLT, while Maximilian tried a local specialty with Ishigaki beef. Astrid, predictably, chose a simple cheese sandwich, but she also enjoyed some of the fresh-cut fries. The owners are a sweet local couple who clearly put a lot of love into their food, making it a truly special experience.


Discover Ohanabatake Ishigaki: where delicious sandwiches meet exquisite desserts in the heart of Okinawa.

After lunch, we visited Miyaradunchi, a historical residence that dates back to around 1819. This well-preserved complex is an Important Cultural Property and offers a glimpse into the architecture of the Yaeyama Islands. We wandered through the traditional Ryukyu buildings, admiring the red tile roofs and wooden structures. The gardens are also beautiful, providing a tranquil setting for reflection. Astrid enjoyed running around the courtyards, while Maximilian and I appreciated the historical significance of the site.


Explore Miyaradunchi, a historical landmark in Ishigaki, Okinawa, where culture and tradition come alive in stunning architectural beauty.

Before dinner, I managed to squeeze in a bit of shopping at Mahsuya Ishigaki. This unique store offers a wide variety of salts from all over Japan, including flavored options. I picked up a few different kinds to bring back to Berlin as gifts. They also have Yukisio soft ice cream, which features the distinctive taste of Ishigaki sea salt. It was the perfect sweet and salty treat to end the afternoon. Astrid, of course, insisted on trying it, and she declared it delicious.


Discover the charm of Ishigaki at Mahsuya Ishigaki, where unique souvenirs meet delightful desserts and refreshing ice cream.

Dinner was at Yaeyama katosoba, a popular soba noodle restaurant. We all enjoyed the delicious shrimp soba and Yaeyama soba. Astrid loved slurping up the noodles, and Maximilian appreciated the flavorful broth. It was a comforting and satisfying end to a busy day.


Experience authentic Okinawan cuisine at Yaeyama Katosoba - where every bowl tells a story of tradition and flavor.

As the day comes to a close, I’m struck by how much Ishigaki Island has to offer beyond its beaches. The cultural landmarks, serene ranches, and delicious food have provided a rich and rewarding experience. It’s these unexpected discoveries that make travel so worthwhile.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Jusandi, Ishigaki Island Sunset Beach, and Gongendo Shrine. I'm particularly excited about Sunset Beach, as I've heard it's a perfect spot to watch the sunset. We're also planning to have dinner at Steak & Restaurant PAPOIYA, which I've heard serves some of the best Ishigaki beef on the island. I am looking forward to sharing those experiences with you all!

Reflecting on today, I realize that travel is not just about seeing famous sights, but also about immersing ourselves in the local culture and discovering hidden gems. Ishigaki Island has certainly delivered on that front, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to explore its many facets with my family. It reminds me a bit of growing up in Fyresdal, where the beauty was in the everyday simplicity and the connection to nature. Perhaps that's why I feel so at home here.

I am also happy that we chose not to book a hotel in advance, which gave us the flexibility to explore local accommodations. We ended up staying in a cozy guesthouse run by a lovely Okinawan family. It’s these interactions with locals that truly enrich our travel experiences. As I prepare for tomorrow's adventures, I'm filled with anticipation for what new discoveries await us on this beautiful island.

This trip to Ishigaki is proving to be more than just a vacation; it’s a journey of discovery, connection, and appreciation for the simple joys of life. And as we continue our adventure, I'm excited to share more of these moments with you, my readers. Perhaps it will inspire you to seek out your own hidden gems, wherever your travels may take you.