Understand

Ishigaki Island, located in the Yaeyama Islands of Japan, serves as the political, economic, and transport hub of the region. With a population of around 45,000, most of the island's inhabitants reside in central Ishigaki, commonly referred to as "shigaichi" or "town area" in Japanese. Central Ishigaki is made up of districts such as Kawa, Ishigaki, Tonoshiro, and Misakich, with main roads like Sanbashi-dori, Shiyakusho-dori, and Yui Road leading the way. However, the island is not limited to its central area. Other smaller population centers, such as Kabira and Shiraho, can be found on the northwest and southeast coasts respectively. While central Ishigaki buzzes with activity, much of the island, particularly the central mountains and the scenic northeastern peninsula, retains its natural beauty and remains sparsely settled. Experience the vibrant energy of central Ishigaki and be captivated by the untouched landscapes that await you on this enchanting island!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing