Ishizaki,
Ishizaki is a charming coastal town in Japan, known for its scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and lush green landscapes. The town is famous for its fresh seafood, particularly its delicious sushi and sashimi dishes. Visitors can explore historic temples and shrines, as well as enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and beachcombing.
Ishizaki is a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature.
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとう" - Thank you
- "おはよう" - Good morning
- "こんばんは" - Good evening
- "さようなら" - Goodbye
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Nature
morning:Start your day with a visit to Ishizaki Ryokuchi Park. Take a serene walk around the garden and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Don't miss out on the delicious matcha-flavored treats at the park's teahouse!
afternoon:Head to Kabira Bay for a relaxing afternoon. Take a glass-bottom boat tour to observe the colorful marine life or try some fresh and exquisite seafood at the beachside restaurants.
evening:For a memorable night-out, visit the Fusaki Beach area. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and a delicious Okinawan dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants.
Cultural Immersion
morning:Start your day with a visit to Yonehara Beach and indulge in some beach yoga for a refreshing morning. Afterward, head to a local café to savor a traditional Okinawan breakfast.
afternoon:Explore the Ishigaki Yaima Mura village and gain insights into the traditional Okinawan lifestyle. Don't miss the chance to indulge in a sumptuous lunch at the village's cozy restaurant.
evening:Visit the vibrant area of Misaki-cho for an evening full of entertainment and delicious local cuisines. You'll find a variety of bars and izakayas to choose from for a fun night-out experience.
Island Adventure
morning:Start your day with an exciting snorkeling adventure at the beautiful Kabira Bay. Explore the underwater world and catch a glimpse of colorful marine creatures. Before leaving the bay, grab some tasty seafood at a local restaurant.
afternoon:Drive to Banna Park and spend the afternoon exploring its lush greenery and diverse botanical gardens. Enjoy a delightful lunch at one of the park's picturesque picnic spots.
evening:Head to the Tamatorizaki Observatory for a breathtaking sunset view, followed by a delightful dinner at a nearby seaside restaurant offering scenic views of the coastline.
Urban Delights
morning:Kick-start your day by exploring the vibrant Ishigaki Public Market. Try some delectable local treats and grab a quick breakfast here. Don't forget to pick up some fresh tropical fruits for later.
afternoon:Visit the Ishigaki City Yaeyama Museum and enrich your afternoon with a deep dive into the local history and culture. Afterward, treat yourself to a delightful lunch at a nearby traditional Okinawan restaurant.
evening:Explore the bustling area of Misakicho for a lively evening. Enjoy the vivacious nightlife, and make sure to find a cozy bar to savor some local spirits and create unforgettable memories.
Ishizaki Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Takoyaki
Takoyaki, or octopus balls, are a beloved snack in Ishizaki. These savory, batter-based balls are filled with diced octopus, tempura scraps, green onions, and pickled ginger, then cooked in a special molded pan. They are typically topped with takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, seaweed, and bonito flakes. A must-try dish, best enjoyed at street food stalls or specialty takoyaki shops like Takoyaki Yama-chan.
Must-Try!
Ishizaki Ramen
Ishizaki Ramen is a local variation of the popular Japanese noodle soup dish. The broth is known for its richness and depth of flavor, often made with pork and chicken bones. Served with thin, straight noodles and topped with slices of tender chashu pork and a perfectly soft-boiled egg. One of the best places to savor this dish is at Ramen Shop Ishizaki-Tei, known for its dedication to the art of ramen making.
Sakura Ebi Rice Bowl
The Sakura Ebi Rice Bowl showcases the bounty of the sea. This delectable dish features tiny, flavorful dried shrimp caught from Suruga Bay, served over a bowl of steaming hot, freshly cooked rice. For an authentic experience, head to Surugawan Fish Market where you can enjoy this dish while overlooking the bustling fish market and harbor.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Surugawan Fish Market
Surugawan Fish Market is a vibrant hub of culinary activity, offering a wide array of freshly caught seafood and local food specialties. In addition to the bustling market stalls, the market's perimeter is lined with street food vendors offering an assortment of delectable treats from grilled fish skewers to freshly steamed dumplings.
Sunpu Soba Alley
Nestled in the heart of Ishizaki, Sunpu Soba Alley is a charming alleyway dotted with small, traditional soba noodle shops. Here, you can savor the simple yet delicious flavors of handmade soba noodles and indulge in local soba dishes prepared with care by the skilled artisans.
Pet sitters in Ishizaki
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!