Get active!

On the Yaeyama Islands, you can choose the leisure pursuit that suits you best

The Yaeyama Archipelago is a paradise of greens and blues, with activities to satisfy any visitor. Whether you’re searching for calm and serenity or craving outdoor fun and adventure, each island of the Yaeyama chain has what you are looking for.

Nitta Tourism
Perhaps the most famous sightseeing activity on Taketomi Island is the water buffalo cart ride. Climbing aboard a cart pulled by these easygoing beasts and letting yourself be swung around the village streets—moments of pure relaxation and joy. During the excursion, the guide will add to the magic of the moment by playing the sanshin and singing the famous folk song “Asato-ya Yunta,” which has its origin in Taketomi Island.

Information available at www.nitta-k.net. Phone: 0980-85-2103 Fax: 0980-85-2209.

Tourist Information Center
After reaching Ishigaki, the first place to go for information is the newly opened V Annai Spot. Located within Hirata Tourism Company in the port terminal and fully English-capable, this JNTO-certified information center will guide and help you find what you are looking for. These are some of the most popular and sought-after activities:

Snorkeling and scuba diving on Ishigaki, Diving with manta rays on Ishigaki, Sightseeing tours of 1-3 islands, Jungle adventures and trekking on Iriomote, Water buffalo cart ride on Taketomi or Yubu, Golfing on Kohama, Canoeing and sea kayaking on Iriomote, Eco tours, River cruising on Iriomote, Cycling and walking on Taketomi, Beach leisure time, Sunset cruising and fishing

Information available at www.hirata-group.co.jp.

Angama masks
A symbol of Yaeyama’s unique Obon parade, Angama masks represent spirits returning to earth in the form of a grandmother and grandfather—and they’re among the most sought-after souvenirs in the islands. Locals are especially fond of the masks, as they are said to have special powers.

Shisa (lion dogs)
Usually bought in pairs, shisa are the symbol of Okinawa. These good luck charms range from serious to fun, traditional to modern, so search for the ones that suit your own style!

Shimazori
In Okinawa, shima is a term of affection added to many words. These straw sandals will definitely give you the look of a local, with all the comfort that comes with it.

Good food, good spirits
Okinawa boasts its own distinctive rice liquor known as awamori. The Yaeyama Islands are home to ten distilleries producing exquisite spirits to be enjoyed straight, on the rocks or in cocktails. But check the label first—alcohol content ranges from 25-60 percent!

Ishigaki Salt
Pumped up from some 20m (60 feet) below the surface, ocean water is crystallized into salt through a patented low temperature misting process. Cholesterol-free, Ishigaki salt has an unusually high level of calcium.

Brown sugar
Also called kurozato—literally, “black sugar”—this sweetener comes in so many different forms, it’s just fun tasting it as you travel. Tip: kurozato goes great with Japanese tea.

break time

Eat and shop to your heart’s content

Funakura no Sato
Spreading out over 9,900m2 in a seaside location that resembles a traditional park, the Funakura no Sato complex houses a classic Japanese-style restaurant, teahouse, gift shop and even an outdoor stage. Surrounded year-round by bright vegetation and vivid flowers, guests can enjoy a menu of local cuisine prepared with the finest Okinawan ingredients, including fresh Ishigaki Island seafood. Each day at 12:30pm and 6:30pm, a two-hour sanshin concert fills the air with music of the islands for comfortable times, the Yaeyama way…

Information available at www.funakuranosato.com. Phone: 0980-82-8108. Email: info@funakuranosato.com.

Ishigakijima Shopping Plaza
When it comes to Ishigaki-themed souvenirs, Ishigakijima Shopping Plaza is a retail paradise. From original goods and pottery to sweets, ice cream and awamori liquor, everyone is certain to find a gift that suits their tastes. Located three minutes from the airport and equipped with a huge parking lot, Ishigakijima Shopping Plaza welcomes visitors by bus, taxi or rental car. For those without transportation, the plaza offers a shuttle bus serving the port terminal and local hotels. There’s also an office where you can stow your luggage, because “travel is always better enjoyed light!”

Information available at www.ishigakijima.co.jp. Phone: 0980-82-5938. Fax: 0980-82-1432. Email: info@ishigakijima.co.jp. Various credit cards and Edy accepted.