Family Adventure on Ishigaki Island

A Day of Exploration and Culinary Delights

Today was a delightful mix of cultural exploration and natural beauty here on Ishigaki Island. It’s days like these that remind me why we chose this destination for our family adventure. We dove headfirst into the local culture and savored the unique flavors of this beautiful island.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Yaeyama Zenfu Kokkara. The restaurant was a charming introduction to authentic Okinawan cuisine. I savored every bite, thinking about how different this was from our usual Berlin breakfasts. Astrid, of course, was more interested in the novelty of the new flavors than the cultural significance, but Maximilian and I truly appreciated the experience. It's wonderful to expose Astrid to such diverse culinary traditions so early in her life.


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

Next on our itinerary was a visit to the Yoko Gushiken Monument. It was erected to honor Yoko Gushiken, a local boxing legend. The monument stands proudly, capturing Gushiken in a dynamic pose. It was a great way to learn about a figure who is clearly a source of pride for the island. Astrid was fascinated by the statue, asking lots of questions about boxing and whether I could beat Maximilian in a fight. I had to laugh, explaining that my fighting days are long behind me.


Explore the Yoko Gushiken Monument in Ishigaki, Okinawa, a stunning tribute to boxing legend Yoko Gushiken, surrounded by local culture and beauty.

Sometimes, the most enriching experiences are found in the simple moments of exploration and cultural immersion.

After paying our respects to the boxing champ, we headed to Banna Park Insect Museum. The museum is nestled within Banna Park, a sprawling natural park named after Mt. Banna. Astrid was in her element here, marveling at the displays of various insect species. I must admit, even I found it quite fascinating to see these creatures up close, learning about their roles in the ecosystem. Maximilian, ever the pragmatist, was impressed by the museum's dedication to education and conservation. The park itself was beautiful, offering panoramic views of the island from its various observation points.


Explore the fascinating world of insects at Banna Park Insect Museum, an educational gem in Ishigaki, Okinawa, perfect for families and nature enthusiasts alike.

For lunch, we decided to try Ishigakiya, a restaurant celebrated for its authentic yakiniku experience. The atmosphere was lively and inviting. We grilled premium cuts of Ishigaki beef right at our table. The beef nigiri was particularly outstanding, and all cuts of meat were mouthwateringly delicious. The attentive staff recommended signature dipping sauces and seasonal specials, enhancing our dining experience. Maximilian was particularly impressed with the quality of the beef, declaring it the best yakiniku he’s ever had. Astrid enjoyed grilling her own little pieces of meat, feeling very grown-up and independent.


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

Our afternoon adventure led us to Arakawa Falls. The hike to the falls was a bit challenging but incredibly rewarding. The path was surrounded by lush tropical foliage. The falls themselves were stunning, cascading down rocky ledges into clear pools. We spent some time simply soaking in the peaceful ambiance. Astrid loved splashing in the shallow pools, while Maximilian and I enjoyed the tranquility of the natural surroundings. I felt a sense of serenity wash over me as I listened to the gentle rush of the water. It was a perfect moment of connection with nature, a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.


Explore the tranquil beauty of Arakawa Falls in Ishigaki, Okinawa - a stunning natural attraction perfect for relaxation and adventure.

As the day wound down, we decided to experience some of Ishigaki's nightlife. We stopped by Chaka Chaka, a reggae bar known for its laid-back vibe. Tucked away in the Misakicho bar district, it felt like a hidden gem. The atmosphere was mellow, and the island tunes were perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Maximilian and I enjoyed a couple of local beers while Astrid amused herself with some coloring books we brought along. It was a relaxed and enjoyable way to end the day, soaking in the local culture and enjoying each other’s company.


Experience the lively atmosphere and local flavors at Chaka Chaka, a top bar destination in Ishigaki, Okinawa.

For dinner, we indulged in Sumibi Yakiniku Takesantei. The restaurant is known for its premium dining experience and high-quality Ishigaki beef. The quality of the meat made it worth every penny. The atmosphere was pleasant, making our first taste of Ishigaki beef an almost heavenly dining experience. I savored every bite, appreciating the unique flavors and textures of the local cuisine. Astrid, predictably, made a beeline for the ice cream on the dessert menu, but even she admitted that the beef was delicious.


Discover the authentic taste of Japanese grilled meat at Sumibi Yakiniku Takesantei in Ishigaki, Okinawa - where quality meets tradition.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we have plans to visit the Southern Gate Bridge, Hideki Ranch, and Miyaradunchi. I’m particularly excited about Hideki Ranch, as I’ve heard wonderful things about their local dairy products. We’ll also be dining at AMURITANO NIWA SOSHITE ONGAKU for breakfast, Ohanabatake Ishigaki for lunch, and Yaeyama katosoba for dinner. And, of course, a visit to Mahsuya Ishigaki for some shopping is on the agenda.

Today was a reminder of why we embarked on this journey in the first place: to create lasting memories with my family, immerse ourselves in new cultures, and discover the hidden gems of this beautiful world. Ishigaki Island continues to surprise and delight us at every turn, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.

I am so glad we decided to come to Ishigaki Island. It is truly a special place, and I am grateful for every moment we get to spend here together. I am also grateful that Maximilian is such a wonderful travel partner. He is always up for anything, and he makes every trip more enjoyable. I am also grateful for Astrid, who is always so curious and enthusiastic about everything we do. She makes traveling with a child so much fun.

As I reflect on today, I’m filled with a sense of contentment and gratitude. This trip has been a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with my family, explore new horizons, and create memories that will last a lifetime. And as much as I miss my quiet life in Berlin, I know that these experiences are shaping us in ways we can’t even imagine yet. It’s a beautiful thing to watch my family grow and learn together, and I’m excited for all the adventures that lie ahead.

As the sun sets over Ishigaki Island, I raise a glass to new experiences, cherished moments, and the joy of traveling with family. Until tomorrow, auf wiedersehen!