Sailor Kohei Makuta and housewife Mirai
Kohei Makuta, captain of the passenger ferry "Southern Eagle" operated by Yaeyama Kanko Ferry, travels back and forth between the Yaeyama Islands every day. He has been a flag bearer in Shinkawa since high school and actively participates in local events such as the Harvest Festival. He introduced us to the places he and his wife, Mirai, always go to with their family on their days off.
This is one of my favorite beaches, especially in the summer when there are hardly any people around. The water is shallow, making it easy for children to play at the water's edge. To get there, drive for two or three minutes past Sakieda Elementary School, then take the farm road towards the sea, and turn right at the end of the road to reach the beach.
Approximately 15 minutes by car
You can see this waterfall as soon as you park your car, so it's an easy place to go, and it's one of my favorite spots to relax in, surrounded by waterfalls and forest. Apparently, they had been coming here together since before they got married. Kohei even came here by bicycle from the city with friends when he was in high school.
Approximately 20 minutes by car
The children's playground at Banna Park is a popular spot for kids. It has a large slide, play equipment for younger children aged one or two, and offers great views of the sea and mountains. "It gets quite crowded on weekends, so we always come on weekdays."
Approximately 10 minutes by car
This is Kohei's workplace. Two-year-old Yuto loves ships, and Mirai and the children often visit while out for a walk, sometimes to see Kohei off as he sets sail. "It's not very well known, but the view from the rooftop is great too."
Approximately 15 minutes by car
It's the park I frequent the most because it's close to my house. It's spacious, has a relaxing lawn, and is recommended for families with small children. It's also the park where Kohei used to run around almost every day when he was a child.
Born in Shinkawa, Ishigaki City. After graduating from a commercial and industrial high school, he studied at a vocational school on Okinawa Island before returning to the island. He has been working for Yaeyama Kanko Ferry since he was 20 years old. He is a member of the Shinkawa Youth Association.
Makuta Mirai
Originally from Osaka, she moved to Osaka after working a resort job, where she met Kohei and they got married. She works in hotel service and is currently on maternity leave.