Family Adventure on Ishigaki Island: Exploring Japan's Hidden Gem

Island Time: Kabira Bay and Beyond

Another day, another adventure here on Ishigaki Island! The jet lag is finally starting to wear off, and we're settling into the rhythm of island life. Today was all about experiencing the natural beauty that this place is famous for, with a healthy dose of local flavor thrown in for good measure. It's amazing how quickly you can adapt to a slower pace when surrounded by such stunning scenery.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Re:hellow Beach. It's a charming spot right on the coast, and they whip up some fantastic dishes using local vegetables. Olivia went for a vibrant smoothie, while Ethan, predictably, chose something involving bacon. I opted for a traditional Okinawan breakfast set, eager to dive into the local cuisine. The cafe had a lively atmosphere, and we enjoyed looking at the sea from the counter seats by the window. It's safe to say that starting the day with that view definitely put us in the right frame of mind. It was a great start to the day, and set us up perfectly for our first stop: Kabira Bay.


Explore Kabira Bay: A Scenic Gem in Ishigaki, Okinawa, Featuring Crystal-Clear Waters and Breathtaking Natural Beauty.

Kabira Bay is truly something special. The emerald-green waters are crystal clear, and the contrast with the white sand is simply breathtaking. It's easy to see why it's considered one of Japan's most beautiful landscapes. Sadly, swimming is prohibited in Kabira Bay to protect the black pearls that are cultured here. So, instead, we hopped on a glass-bottom boat tour. It was a fun way to see the coral reefs and the colourful fish. Ethan was particularly fascinated by the clownfish, while Olivia and I just soaked up the beauty of it all. The sun was shining, the water was sparkling, and the whole scene felt like something out of a postcard. Kabira Bay didn't disappoint, and it's a memory I know we'll all cherish.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

After Kabira Bay, we were ready for some beach time, so we headed to Yonehara Beach. This beach is known for its excellent snorkeling, and we were all eager to get in the water. Luckily, I had remembered to pack our snorkeling gear! The water was warm and inviting, and the coral reefs were teeming with life. We spent a good couple of hours exploring the underwater world, spotting all sorts of tropical fish. Ethan, being the adventurous one, even tried to swim out to the deeper parts of the reef, but I quickly put a stop to that – safety first! Olivia was content to float along the surface, taking in the scenery. As for me, I enjoyed trying to identify all the different species of fish we saw. It was a truly magical experience, and I felt incredibly grateful to be sharing it with my family. The beach was quite popular with locals, and there were convenient facilities such as restrooms and showers. The bus access was good too, with a bus stop nearby.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Yonehara Beach in Ishigaki, Okinawa, where white sands meet crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life.

By lunchtime, we had worked up quite an appetite. We decided to try Pulau Sri Lanka, a Sri Lankan restaurant in Ishigaki. It might seem a bit odd to eat Sri Lankan food in Japan, but we'd heard great things about this place, and I am always keen to try something new. And I must say, it was a fantastic choice! The restaurant is beautifully decorated, and the owner was incredibly friendly, taking the time to explain all the dishes to us. We opted for a selection of curries and rice dishes, and everything was bursting with flavour. Olivia particularly enjoyed the veg/dhal set, while Ethan devoured the chicken curry. I was impressed with the vegan options available, and the fact that the owner took such pride in the ingredients and inspiration behind each dish. It was a truly unique and memorable dining experience.


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

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we found ourselves drawn to the Ishigakijima Beer Studio Co.. As a brewery tour guide myself, I couldn't resist the opportunity to sample some local craft beers. The brewery had a laid-back vibe, and we sat outside, enjoying the warm evening air. I tried a couple of different brews, both of which were excellent. Olivia, not being a beer drinker, opted for a refreshing juice, while Ethan was happy to try some local snacks. It was the perfect way to unwind after a busy day of exploring. I always find it interesting to see how different cultures approach the art of brewing, and this brewery certainly had its own unique style.


Discover the unique flavors of Okinawa at Ishigakijima Beer Studio Co., where craft beer meets island culture.

For dinner, we decided to try Vagabundo, a Mexican bar and restaurant. I know, I know – Mexican food in Japan? But we'd read some good reviews, and Ethan was craving something other than Japanese cuisine. And I have to admit, it was surprisingly good! The atmosphere was lively, and the decor was really fun. We ordered a selection of tacos and burritos, and everything was fresh and flavorful. Olivia was pleased to find plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, and Ethan declared the al pastor tacos to be the best he'd ever had. I enjoyed the traditional Mexican beers they had on offer. It was a great way to end the day, and it just goes to show that you can find delicious food in the most unexpected places.


Discover authentic Mexican cuisine at Vagabundo in Ishigaki - where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality.

As we walked back to our guesthouse under the starlit sky, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today had been a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and delicious food. Ishigaki Island is slowly but surely working its magic on us. I am also excited for tomorrow's adventure where we are planning to visit the Oganzaki Lighthouse and Ishigaki Astronomical Observatory. I have heard the Southern Island Star Festival is amazing and I am looking forward to stargazing. The sky is the limit!

I must remember to buy some sunglasses and a portable phone charger, as I forgot them! I will try Don Quijote Ishigakijima tomorrow [TripDetails: TripEssentialsForgotten].

I'm looking forward to sharing more of our adventures with you all soon.