Oritori Ishigaki City Official Tourism Information Site
If you'd like to take this opportunity to visit not only Ishigaki Island but also other islands in the Yaeyama Islands, we'd like to introduce you to the Euglena Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal, which connects Ishigaki Island with the other Yaeyama Islands.
Euglena Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal is located in the center of the city, in a very convenient location within walking distance of Euglena Mall, where many souvenir shops are located, Misakicho, the island's downtown area, the bus terminal, etc. There are two large parking lots in front and right next to it.
There is also a direct bus that takes about 30 minutes from Painushima Ishigaki Airport, the gateway to the island, so those who want to go straight to the remote island terminal after getting off at the airport, or those who want to go straight to the airport after returning from a remote island, can easily get there.
Don't worry, there is a taxi stand right in front of the main entrance of the remote island terminal.
Euglena Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal
1 Misakicho, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture, 907-0012
Terminal building business hours: 7:00-21:00
(*Stores and ferry company counters close at 6:00 PM. Rental spaces such as conference rooms are open until 9:00 PM.)
Ishigaki City HP Euglena Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal
Rooftop observation area
2nd floor: Ishigaki City Senkaku Islands Information Center
1st floor: Boat/tour company counter, boat dock, shop, pharmacy, planetarium, conference room
From the Euglena Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal, regular high-speed ferries operate to seven islands: Iriomote Island (Uehara/Ohara), Taketomi Island, Kohama Island, Kuroshima Island, Hatoma Island, Hateruma Island, and Yonaguni Island.
Here are the approximate boarding times to each island:
Taketomi Island: about 10-15 minutes
Kohama Island: about 25-30 minutes
Kuroshima: Approximately 25-30 minutes (approximately 45 minutes via Taketomi Island)
Ohara, Iriomote Island: Approximately 40-45 minutes (the route via Taketomi Island is approximately 90 minutes, the route via Kuroshima is approximately 55 minutes)
Uehara, Iriomote Island: approx. 45-50 minutes
Hatoma Island: approx. 45-50 minutes
Hateruma Island: Approximately 60-80 minutes
There is not just one, but several shipping companies that operate regular high-speed ferries, and each has different operating times. You can check departure times, cancellation information, and purchase tickets in advance on each shipping company's website.
Until now, passengers had to purchase a boarding ticket in advance at the ticket counter before boarding, but from March 2024, all shipping companies will be able to make contactless payments, eliminating the need to purchase a boarding ticket. Payment is accepted with various card brands (credit, debit, and prepaid) such as Visa, JCB, American Express, and UnionPay.
Additionally, shipping companies and travel agencies offer a variety of island-hopping tours. While some can be booked on the day, it's best to make a reservation in advance. Many people travel alone when touring the Yaeyama Islands, so don't worry, there are plenty of tours available for solo travelers.
[Important points to note when boarding]
The other islands that can be reached by boat from Ishigaki Island do not have the large supermarkets or convenience stores that Ishigaki Island has. Therefore, the remote island terminal is home to a variety of shops, including souvenir shops, pharmacies, marine leisure shops, and accessory shops, so that you can stock up on various items before heading to the island.
There is a tour desk selling outdoor equipment and limited edition products, so it might be fun to just drop by for some shopping. As it is a remote island terminal, it is also notable for having a large selection of souvenirs related to the Yaeyama Islands.
Fill your stomach before setting sail. At the remote island terminal, you can enjoy a wide variety of meals, including Yaeyama soba, tuna rice bowls, and taco rice. Although there aren't any large restaurants, the shops all have the atmosphere of small eateries and are run by locals. Feeling the island vibe will make you even more excited for your voyage. You can also enjoy cold, sweet desserts such as shakes and ice cream. (Please note that ice cream cannot be brought on board!)
Amazingly, inside the remote island terminal, there are spots where you can not only shop and eat, but also learn and have fun.
Enter the remote island terminal and head to the far right to find the "Churaboshi Gate Ishigaki Island Hoshinoumi Planetarium." Yaeyama offers beautiful starry skies year-round, with 84 of the 88 constellations visible. Located within the remote island terminal that connects the Yaeyama Islands, the planetarium is Japan's southernmost planetarium, boasting a compact, dome-shaped structure with only 46 seats. Five to six different programs are screened daily, with the content changing slightly with the seasons. Many of the programs are related to the Yaeyama starry sky, so after learning a little about the Yaeyama starry sky at the planetarium, seeing the starry sky for yourself will be an even more refined and moving experience.
Climbing the spiral staircase near the planetarium is the Ishigaki City Senkaku Islands Information Center. You can learn about the nature and history of the Senkaku Islands through exhibits and videos, and you can even see a 3D model up close. This is a must-visit spot for anyone interested not only in the rich nature and culture of the Yaeyama Islands, but also in the history and local culture of the region.
There are plenty of chairs in the lobby, so you can relax and wait for your ship to depart.
If you climb the slope next to the Senkaku Islands Information Center, you will reach the rooftop of the terminal building. From the large observation plaza, you can get a panoramic view of the blue ocean and watch the ships arriving and departing to each island. On a sunny day, this might be a good place to have a picnic.
Former WBA World Light Flyweight Champion and professional boxer Yoko Gushiken is from Ishigaki Island, and the bronze statue erected in his honor has become a popular photo spot.
There is a cute postbox right next to the front entrance.
As you enter through the main entrance, you will find JA Bank and Seven Bank ATMs on your immediate right.
You can pick up an information pamphlet about the Yaeyama Islands.
If you have any luggage you do not need during your stay on the remote island, you can use the coin lockers or luggage storage service in the terminal.
Euglena Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal is connected to many fascinating islands. It's packed with various things to keep you entertained while you wait for your ferry or after disembarking. Even if you don't have plans to board a ferry, why not drop by and have a look around?
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