With spectacular natural scenery, rich culture and gourmet offerings, Okinawa is a travel destination like no other. Highly accessible, there are direct flights from Hong Kong to Okinawa’s main island, Miyako Island and Ishigaki Island.
A 2-hour flight from Hong Kong, Ishigaki Island boasts cobalt blue sea, tropical mountains, and a night sky full of sparkling stars. As the gateway to the Yaeyama region, Ishigaki can serve as a handy base for nearby island-hopping.
A wealth of attractions
Kabira Bay, Ishigaki Island’s iconic scenic spot, has garnered the Michelin Green Guide of Three stars. Snap as many photos you want against the white sand, turquoise water and lush green hills, or watch the colorful tropical fish swimming from a glass-bottom boat!
There are many shining diving spots around Ishigaki Island, among which is a place called Manta Scramble where you will have a high chance of seeing the graceful manta rays.
Ishigaki is one of the best places in the world to star gaze with 84 constellations visible on a clear night. Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park, part of Ishigaki Island and Taketomi town, has been designated as an International Dark Sky Park in 2018.
Culinary and crafty indulgence
Ishigaki Island is famed for Ishigaki wagyu beef, the succulent high-grade brand of beef that has been famously born and bred on Yaeyama Islands. Other lip-smacking, fresh food such as mango, pineapple, tuna and more are also available.
One can experience on the island Yaeyama Minsa weaving, the traditional Okinawan craft. Besides appreciating beautiful textiles on display, you can even learn to weave the traditional handicraft yourself at Minsa Kogei Kan.
Taketomi Island
Taketomi Island, an island only about 15 minutes ferry ride away from Ishigaki Island, is home to beautiful scenery. The Village of Red Roof Tiles, the townscape of Taketomi Island, has been designated by the national government as a preservation district for its important traditional buildings.
At Nishi Pier, you can view your surroundings as if standing on the sea when you stand at the tip of the jetty stretching above the sea. Taketomi offers several pristine beaches, including Kondoi Beach, one of the island’s signature beaches; and Kaiji Beach, known for containing sand grains shaped like stars.
Visit https://www.visitokinawa.jp/ for more information about Okinawa.
