Experience Ishigaki IslandActivities

Oritoori - Ishigaki City Official Tourism Information Website

Guide: Celeste Ortelee
Movie: Sakishima Films

Celeste, a Dutch artist living on Ishigaki Island, will guide you through unique experiences only available on Ishigaki Island.

Trekking in Nosoko Marpe

Nosoko Marpe is a popular spot for casual trekking. The short course can be climbed in about 15 minutes. The 360° view from the summit is truly spectacular. You can also enjoy trekking on Mt. Omoto and Mt. Banna.

Cycling on a road bike

Riding at your own pace while enjoying nature amidst a beautiful sunset is the best feeling. Whether you're cycling along the coastline with a view of the horizon or tackling a challenging, hilly course, there are plenty of ways to enjoy cycling.

Going to see manta rays

The "Manta Scramble" spot boasts one of the highest encounter rates with mantas in the world. You can see them swimming leisurely and gracefully up close.

Kayaking in the mangroves

Slowly paddle through the tranquil mangrove forest in a kayak. Listen to the sounds of birds and insects, and the splashes of fish, and enjoy a magical, peaceful time.

Experience the richness of the sea through fishing.

Fishing is a popular pastime for many residents of Ishigaki Island, which is surrounded by the sea. You might even catch fish unique to southern islands, different from those found on the mainland. Tours are available that even beginners can easily enjoy.

The underwater world

A magical underwater world unfolds in the waters around Ishigaki Island. Enjoy the colorful fish and coral reefs in the crystal-clear sea.

Healing through SUP yoga

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a popular marine sport in Ishigaki Island. While it's fun to go out a little further out and ride the waves, SUP yoga offers a supremely relaxing experience where you can become one with the sea and the wind.

Participate in a sports event

Ishigaki Island hosts sporting events throughout the year. Participants come not only from the local community but also from all over Japan and the world. Playing sports amidst the beautiful natural scenery is sure to be a wonderful experience.

Island Home Cooking Class

Every home-cooked meal made with freshly picked island vegetables tastes amazing. Let's learn about the island's unique food culture and try making some simple island dishes.

Classic Yaeyama soba

Yaeyama soba is a staple of Ishigaki Island's local cuisine. Unlike Japanese soba, it's a noodle soup made with wheat flour. Visiting different soba restaurants and finding your favorite is a great way to enjoy the experience.

Shiraho Sunday Market

In Shiraho, a village on Ishigaki Island that still retains the atmosphere of a traditional settlement, a Sunday market is held. You can find freshly picked vegetables, handmade folk crafts, and other items that give you a sense of Ishigaki Island's character.

Craft workshop

This workshop teaches you how to make traditional folk tools that have been used on Ishigaki Island for generations. It's a great opportunity to experience the island's nature, culture, and the wisdom of our ancestors.

Traditional textile: Minsaa weaving

Minsaa weaving is a traditional Yaeyama textile featuring patterns of five and four. It carries the message of love, "May our love last forever."

Island pottery

Ishigaki Island is ideal for pottery making, thanks to its high-quality clay. Many artists draw inspiration from the island's nature to create original works. The Pottery Festival is an event where these artists gather together. We recommend visiting the workshops to find some wonderful pieces.

Making Shisa, the guardian deities of Okinawa

The Okinawan Shisa, guarding homes on red-tiled roofs, are popular souvenirs, but why not try making one yourself?

Going to meet the creators

Ishigaki Island is home to many unique and talented creators. Be sure to look for products such as T-shirts that are designed under the influence of Ishigaki Island's distinctive nature and culture.

Angama, a traditional Obon ritual.

The Angama procession is a ceremony to honor ancestors. Ushmai (grandfather) and Nmi (grandmother) visit houses with their descendants, called Farma, singing and dancing. The humorous question-and-answer sessions with the spectators are also a sight to behold.

Learn about Yaeyama music

The sanshin, played with three strings, has a gentle sound that symbolizes the music of the Yaeyama Islands.

Yaeyama folk dance

This traditional dance has been passed down through generations on the Yaeyama Islands. It is an important cultural practice that expresses gratitude to the gods of nature and shares joy.