Oritori Ishigaki City Official Tourism Information Site
Guide: Celeste Ortelee
Movie: Sakishima Films
Celeste, a Dutch artist living on Ishigaki Island, will guide you through an experience unique to Ishigaki Island.
Nosoko Mape is a popular trekking spot. The short course can be climbed in about 15 minutes. The 360-degree view from the summit is truly spectacular. You can also enjoy trekking on Mt. Omoto and Mt. Banna.
It feels great to ride at your own pace while enjoying the beautiful sunset and taking in the nature. You can ride along the coastline while looking out at the horizon, or take on an undulating course. There are many ways to enjoy cycling.
This spot known as "Manta Scramble" is one of the most popular spots in the world for encountering these creatures. You can see them swimming leisurely and gracefully up close.
Kayaking slowly through the tranquil mangrove forest, you will experience a magical moment of silence, listening to the sounds of birds, insects and fish leaping.
Fishing is one of the pleasures enjoyed by many residents of Ishigaki Island, which is surrounded by the sea. You may be able to catch fish that are unique to the southern islands and different from those on the mainland. Tours are easy to enjoy, even for beginners.
The waters off Ishigaki Island are home to a magical underwater world. Enjoy the colorful fish and coral in the crystal clear waters.
Stand-up paddle surfing (SUP) is a popular marine sport on Ishigaki Island. While it's fun to go a little further out to sea and ride the waves, SUP yoga is a relaxing and superbly soothing experience that allows you to become one with the sea and the wind.
Sporting events are held on Ishigaki Island throughout the year, attracting many participants from all over Japan and the world, as well as local residents. Taking part in sports in a beautiful natural setting that is different from your usual surroundings is sure to be a wonderful experience.
All of the home-cooked meals made with freshly picked island vegetables taste amazing. Learn about the island's unique food culture and try making some simple island cuisine.
Yaeyama soba is a staple local dish on Ishigaki Island. Unlike Japanese soba, it is a noodle dish made with wheat flour in a soup. One way to enjoy it is to visit soba restaurants and find the one that is best for you.
Shiraho, which still retains the atmosphere of an old Ishigaki Island village, hosts a Sunday market where you can find a variety of products that are unique to Ishigaki Island, such as freshly picked vegetables and handmade folk tools.
This workshop will teach you how to make traditional 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 its ancestors.
Minsa weaving is a traditional Yaeyama fabric with a five- and four-digit pattern. It contains the message of love, "forever and ever."
Ishigaki Island is an ideal island for making pottery, thanks to its high-quality clay. Many pottery artists are inspired by the island's nature and create original works. The Pottery Festival is an event that brings together all these artists. We also recommend touring the workshops in search of beautiful pottery.
Okinawan shisa guard the home on a red tiled roof. They are popular souvenirs, but why not try making one yourself?
Ishigaki Island is home to many unique creators. Be sure to look for T-shirts and other products that have been designed with influences from the unique nature and culture of Ishigaki Island.
The Angama procession is an event to honor ancestors. Ushumai (grandfather) and Nmi (grandmother) visit houses with their descendants, called farmers, singing and dancing. The unusual dialogue with the audience is also a sight to behold.
The sanshin is a three-stringed instrument with a gentle tone that symbolizes the music of Yaeyama.
Folk dance has been passed down on the Yaeyama Islands. It is an important part of the culture, expressing gratitude to the gods of nature and sharing joy.