Pineapple farmer Masaya Omine
Masaya, the third generation of a pineapple farmer in the lush green village of Kawahara, sells the pineapples he grows under the name "Ma-bo's Pineapple." He's currently raising three children and is busy with both work and childcare. Here are his favorite places to relax.
There are six pineapple fields in and around Kawahara, and this one is right near his home. Pineapples take two years to mature and are a fruit that requires constant care. He says that the simple words "delicious" from people who eat them motivate him to keep going. Located along Prefectural Route 209, south of Kawahara village.
The peak harvest season is from May to July every year.
Approximately 5 minutes by car
This is my favorite spot while running, as the view of the beautiful ocean at the end of the slope is beautiful. "Beyond the greenery, the view of the beautiful ocean is so soothing!"
Approximately 15 minutes by car
In 2020, Egao no Hata, where vegetables and herbs are naturally cultivated, opened a cafe. They serve smoothies made with fruits and herbs grown in the spacious garden, as well as Yaeyama soba noodles and set meals for lunch. Masaya says, "This is my favorite soba on the island," and comes here about twice a week.
Cafe Smile Field
11:00-15:00 / Irregular holidays / 2115-6 Ohama, Ishigaki City (near Kawahara village)/090-6630-2054
Approximately 20 minutes by car
Masaya started playing baseball in junior high school and still plays on a corporate baseball team, and he loves baseball. He comes here when he wants to think, and stares blankly at the stadium. "It's a place that's filled with memories from my youth, and I love it. Please feel free to stop by when a corporate game is being played."
Born in Ishigaki Island in 1994, he joined his family's pineapple production business in 2020 and currently grows pineapples with his parents. In addition to production, he also sells pineapple smoothies from a food truck during the harvest season (May to July).