Ishigaki Airport Guide: Transportation, Dining, Souvenirs, and Things to Do While You Wait

Ishigaki Airport Guide: Transportation, Dining, Souvenirs, and Things to Do While You Wait

Last update :
Written by :  GOOD LUCK TRIP Editors

Ishigaki Airport is the gateway connecting Ishigaki Island with the Yaeyama Islands.
In addition to major cities on Japan’s main islands, including Tokyo and Osaka, the airport offers flights to other islands in Okinawa Prefecture, as well as South Korea and Taiwan. It also has shops selling local food and souvenirs, plus facilities where travelers can pass the time.
This article provides an overview of Ishigaki Airport, transportation to downtown Ishigaki and the surrounding islands, and useful services to know about before your trip. The information is presented clearly for first-time visitors and can help you plan your journey.

Basic Information About Ishigaki Airport

Located in Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture, Ishigaki Airport is the air gateway to the Yaeyama Islands.
It began operations as New Ishigaki Airport on March 7, 2013, and its official name was changed to Ishigaki Airport on August 7, 2025. Its nickname is Painushima Ishigaki Airport. “Pai” means “south” in the language of the Yaeyama region. The airport has both domestic and international passenger terminals, with flights connecting it to Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and other cities on Japan’s main islands, as well as islands within Okinawa Prefecture and destinations in Asia.
Travelers can also take ferries from the Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal to nearby islands.

Ishigaki Airport International Terminal
Ishigaki Airport International Terminal

Major Routes and Airlines

The routes and airlines serving Ishigaki Airport are listed below.
The number of domestic flights to and from Japan’s main islands varies by route and is relatively limited. Haneda Airport has four flights per day, while Kansai International Airport has several, so travelers should check flight schedules in advance.
For international flights, in addition to the Seoul (Incheon) route, Tigerair Taiwan launched its Taipei (Taoyuan) route in July 2025 and its Kaohsiung route in September 2026. As of November 2026, service is scheduled to operate one round trip per day to Seoul, four round trips per week to Taipei, and two round trips per week to Kaohsiung. Service to Hong Kong has yet to be determined.

Category Major Destinations Major Airlines
Domestic Tokyo (Haneda and Narita), Nagoya (Chubu), Fukuoka, Okinawa (Naha), Miyako, Yonaguni, and others ANA, JAL, Japan Transocean Air, Ryukyu Air Commuter, Solaseed Air, Peach, First Flying, and others
International Seoul (Incheon), Taiwan (Taipei–Taoyuan and Kaohsiung), Hong Kong, and others Jin Air, Tigerair Taiwan, HK Express, and others

Flight destinations and operating airlines may vary depending on the season and timetable.

Flights connect Ishigaki Island with cities in Japan and overseas
Flights connect Ishigaki Island with cities in Japan and overseas

Floor Guide: Facilities and Services on Each Floor

The Ishigaki Airport passenger terminal consists of the first floor, second floor, and rooftop.
For first-time visitors, an easy way to remember the layout is that the first floor is the arrivals level and the second floor is the departures level. The terminal is divided into domestic and international sections, each with its own check-in counters and departure and arrival areas.

Floor Guide

Rooftop
Observation deck
Second Floor
Departure lobby, boarding lounge, souvenir shops, rest area, marshalling experience area, and send-off deck
First Floor
Check-in lobby, arrival lobby, information counter, restaurants, shops, ATMs and foreign-currency exchange machine, temporary baggage storage, convenience store, taxi stand, and rental-car shuttle pickup area

Only major facilities are listed. Locations are subject to change.

Boarding gates at Ishigaki Airport
Boarding gates at Ishigaki Airport

Getting from Ishigaki Airport to Downtown Ishigaki

Ishigaki Airport is located on the eastern side of the island, approximately 10.6 miles from downtown Ishigaki.
There are no trains or monorails on the island, so travelers generally use public buses, rental cars, or taxis. It is therefore best to decide how you will travel from the airport before you arrive. The main options, along with estimated fares and travel times, are introduced below.

Local and Direct Buses

Buses are an affordable and convenient option. Azuma Bus operates local services from Ishigaki Airport to downtown Ishigaki and the Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal, while Karry Kanko operates a direct bus.
Azuma Bus has several routes, allowing passengers to get on and off at stops along the way. Route 10, which stops at major hotels, is particularly useful for travelers who want to get off near their accommodations.
The direct bus, meanwhile, runs nonstop to the Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal, making it a convenient option for travelers heading to the surrounding islands.
The bus stops are on the left after exiting through the central entrance of the Domestic Terminal. Azuma Bus uses stops A and B, while Karry Kanko uses stop C. Buses may be full or delayed during peak travel seasons and busy times, so allow plenty of time in your schedule.

Operator and Route Major Stops and Features Estimated Travel Time and One-Way Fare
Azuma Bus Route 4 Travels via Hirae, Ohama, and Shiraho toward downtown Ishigaki and the Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal Approximately 30–45 minutes; ¥550
Azuma Bus Route 10 Travels via Art Hotel Ishigakijima and ANA InterContinental Ishigaki Resort Approximately 30–45 minutes; ¥550
Karry Kanko Route 55 Nonstop service connecting Ishigaki Airport and the Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal Approximately 30 minutes; ¥550

Taxis

Taxis provide direct transportation to your destination and are a convenient option for travelers with a lot of luggage, families with young children, and groups. They also allow you to travel smoothly in a private space without being tied to a bus schedule. The taxi stand is on the right after exiting through the central entrance of the Domestic Terminal.
However, taxis are relatively expensive and may not suit travelers who want to keep transportation costs low.

Destination Estimated Travel Time Estimated Fare
Ishigaki City Hall (downtown Ishigaki) Approximately 20 minutes Approximately ¥2,800
Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal Approximately 25 minutes Approximately ¥3,500
Kabira Park Approximately 40 minutes Approximately ¥5,600
Fusaki Beach Resort Approximately 30 minutes Approximately ¥4,300
ANA InterContinental Ishigaki Resort Approximately 20 minutes Approximately ¥2,900

Travel times and fares vary depending on the route, traffic conditions, and time of day.

Rental Cars and Hotel Shuttles

A rental car is a convenient option for exploring the island at your own pace.
Ishigaki Airport has a pickup area for rental-car company shuttles, which take customers to their respective offices. The pickup area is in the public parking lot in front of the Domestic Terminal, across the crosswalk from the central entrance. After arriving, follow the instructions provided by the staff of the company you booked with and complete the rental procedure at its office. In addition to the rental fee, you will need to pay for gas and parking. Driving may also be stressful for those who are not accustomed to it.
Depending on where you are staying, you may be able to use a shuttle service connecting the hotel with the airport’s bus parking area, located in the bus pool beside the public parking lot. Schedules and conditions vary by hotel, so check when making your reservation.

Getting from Ishigaki Airport to the Surrounding Islands

The two main ways to travel from Ishigaki Airport to nearby islands are by plane and by boat.
Flights are available to Yonaguni Island, Tarama Island, and Hateruma Island. However, operating days and the number of flights are limited on some routes, so check the timetable in advance.
To reach Taketomi Island, Kohama Island, Kuroshima Island, Iriomote Island, and other destinations, travel to the Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal and transfer to a high-speed boat or ferry. As noted above, the terminal is approximately 25 minutes away by taxi or 45 minutes by local bus. If traveling directly to the terminal after arriving at the airport, allow about two hours for baggage claim, transportation, and boarding procedures.
Iriomote Island has two gateways, Ohara Port and Uehara Port. Choose the port that best suits the area of the island you plan to visit.

Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal, the sea gateway connecting travelers with the Yaeyama Islands
Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal, the sea gateway connecting travelers with the Yaeyama Islands

Places to Eat at Ishigaki Airport

Ishigaki Airport has the following five dining establishments, all located on the first floor of the Domestic Terminal. Although the selection is not extensive, it covers a broad range of options, from Ishigaki Island cuisine to cafés and sweets.

SKY CAFE Ishinagiya
The airport location of Ishinagiya, a restaurant specializing in Ishigaki beef. The company manages every stage from cattle breeding to sales and dining, and serves dishes made with carefully selected Ishigaki beef. Menu options include steak, beef bowls, and curry.
Yaimamura
A restaurant specializing in Yaeyama soba. This self-service restaurant offers local dishes including classic Yaima soba, soki soba topped with stewed pork ribs, and sea-grape soba.
Seafood and Island Cuisine Gen
Ishigaki Airport’s first restaurant specializing in seafood and island cuisine. Its island-style sushi dishes include nigiri made exclusively with ingredients from Ishigaki Island and tuna patties prepared with Pacific bluefin tuna.
Ishigakijima Mirumiru Honpo
Known for its rich gelato made with freshly produced milk from Isamori Farm and locally grown fruit ripened under the Ishigaki Island sun. It is a good choice for dessert after a meal or a short break.
Starbucks Coffee
A global coffee chain founded in Seattle, United States. It offers an extensive menu, including aromatic coffee.

Check opening hours and scheduled closing days in advance.

Yaeyama soba, a local comfort food to try when visiting Ishigaki Island
Photo for illustrative purposes only Yaeyama soba, a local comfort food to try when visiting Ishigaki Island

3 Major Shops to Visit at Ishigaki Airport

The shops at Ishigaki Airport are divided between the check-in and arrival lobby areas on the first floor and the boarding lounge on the second floor. Each shop has a different selection and atmosphere, so understanding the overall layout in advance will make it easier to plan your shopping. Here are three recommended shops to visit at the end of your trip.

1. Ishigaki City Specialty Products Sales Center

The Ishigaki City Specialty Products Sales Center is a carefully curated souvenir shop operated directly by 37 manufacturers based on Ishigaki Island. Located on the north side of the first floor of the Domestic Terminal, it allows visitors to purchase a broad selection of the island’s specialty products in one place. The shelves are lined with products reflecting the region’s culinary culture, including sweets, island seasonings, awamori liquor, Yaeyama kamaboko fish cakes, mozuku seaweed, and sea grapes.
The store also carries Yaeyama minsa textiles, shisa guardian figures, black pearls, crafts, and traditional household items, making it a good choice for travelers seeking nonfood souvenirs. It is open from 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., making it convenient for last-minute shopping before departure.

Shisa figures with charming expressions, a classic Okinawan souvenir
Photo for illustrative purposes only Shisa figures with charming expressions, a classic Okinawan souvenir

2. ANA FESTA Ishigaki Gate Store

ANA FESTA Ishigaki Gate Store is located inside the boarding lounge on the second floor of the Domestic Terminal, after the security checkpoint. It carries a wide selection of products, including sweets, food, and alcoholic beverages from Ishigaki Island and Okinawa, as well as original ANA merchandise. Classic souvenirs are also available, making the store convenient for last-minute purchases or buying several gifts before your flight.
It also sells boxed meals, snacks, and beverages for passengers to purchase before boarding. The store is scheduled to reopen with a newly renovated interior on November 27, 2026.

Okinawan seasonings that reflect the island’s culinary culture
Photo for illustrative purposes only Okinawan seasonings that reflect the island’s culinary culture

3. OKINAWA POP.JP Rakuen AIRPORT

OKINAWA POP.JP Rakuen AIRPORT is an apparel shop on the north side of the first floor of the Domestic Terminal.
It carries playfully designed products inspired by famous characters enjoying a trip to Okinawa, including Doraemon, Snoopy, and Hello Kitty. Its T-shirts, bags, and other items depict the characters relaxing during their stay in Okinawa. They are a good choice for travelers seeking something different from the specialty products typically associated with Ishigaki Island. The store also carries distinctive items available only here, suitable both as keepsakes for yourself and as gifts for friends.

Searching for a favorite new outfit can be part of the travel experience
Photo for illustrative purposes only Searching for a favorite new outfit can be part of the travel experience

3 Recommended Souvenirs to Buy at Ishigaki Airport

Ishigaki Airport offers a selection of souvenirs that let travelers take home memories of their trip. The airport is convenient both for visitors who missed the opportunity to shop while sightseeing around the island and those who prefer to purchase all their souvenirs before their return flight. Here are three products that reflect the character of Ishigaki Island and also make thoughtful gifts for family and friends.

1. ROYCE’ Ishigakijima “Potatochip Chocolate [Ishigaki no Shio]”

ROYCE’ Ishigakijima “Potatochip Chocolate [Ishigaki no Shio]” is a limited-edition sweet created when Hokkaido chocolate manufacturer ROYCE’ encountered Okinawa’s abundant natural environment.
One side of each potato chip, seasoned with Ishigaki no Shio salt made from Ishigaki Island seawater, is coated with ROYCE’s signature high-quality chocolate. The saltiness and sweetness are finely balanced: the mellow, full-bodied salt enhances the chips’ crisp texture and pairs smoothly with the chocolate’s gentle sweetness.

The combination of sweet chocolate and a touch of salt makes them hard to resist
The combination of sweet chocolate and a touch of salt makes them hard to resist
Name in Japanese
ロイズ石垣島「ポテトチップチョコレート[石垣の塩]」
Manufacturer
ROYCE' Confect Co.,Ltd.
Price
1,188yen(tax included) ※Prices may change.
Sales Locations
Souvenir shops across Okinawa
Airport souvenir shops within Okinawa
Best Before
1 month
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)

2. Yaeyama Nanpudo “Okinawa Murasaki Beni-imo Tart”

Yaeyama Nanpudo’s “Okinawa Murasaki Beni-imo Tart” is a baked sweet made with Okinawa Murasaki purple sweet potatoes harvested on Ishigaki Island. Distinguished by its vivid purple color and the characteristic flavor of Okinawa Murasaki, it offers the taste of purple sweet potato with a gentle sweetness. Its eye-catching packaging has also made it a popular souvenir that conveys the character of Ishigaki Island.
It is available in packages of six or 12. Each tart is individually wrapped, making them suitable for sharing with coworkers and friends. They can be purchased at locations including the ANA FESTA Ishigaki Gate Store introduced above.

Yaeyama Nanpudo’s purple sweet potato tart, filled with vivid purple sweet potato paste
Photo for illustrative purposes only Yaeyama Nanpudo’s purple sweet potato tart, filled with vivid purple sweet potato paste

3. Ishigakijima SUN Farm “Pineapple Langue de Chat”

This baked confection consists of chocolate made with rare Tida Pine pineapples grown by Ishigakijima SUN Farm, sandwiched between light and crisp langue de chat cookies. With each bite, the pineapple’s refreshing aroma and subtle tartness spread across the palate, creating a distinctly tropical flavor. It offers an easy way to experience the taste of pineapples grown under the island sun.
This Okinawa-exclusive product is available in packages of 10, 20, or 30 cookies. It can also be purchased at locations including the ANA FESTA Ishigaki Gate Store.

Pineapple Langue de Chat from Ishigaki Island, offering a taste of the tropics
Pineapple Langue de Chat from Ishigaki Island, offering a taste of the tropics

Places to Visit While Waiting at Ishigaki Airport

Ishigaki Airport has six places where travelers can spend time before boarding. Five of them are free, with the game area being the only exception, so they are convenient places to stop between dining and shopping.

Attraction Location Features
Indoor Garden Domestic Terminal, First Floor See the tree nymph butterfly, the official butterfly of Ishigaki City, up close
Aquarium Center of the Domestic Terminal, First Floor A small aquarium filled with colorful fish
Game Area Center of the Second Floor Play claw machines and use Okinawa-exclusive photo sticker booths
Marshalling Experience Area North Side of the Second Floor Try aircraft marshalling, the process of guiding an aircraft to its stopping position
Observation Deck South Side of the Domestic Terminal Rooftop Take in 360-degree views of the runway, the sea around the airport, and the mountains of Ishigaki Island
Send-Off Deck Second Floor Watch arriving and departing aircraft and airport service vehicles up close
The spacious observation deck overlooks the blue sea and surrounding mountains
The spacious observation deck overlooks the blue sea and surrounding mountains

Useful Services Available at Ishigaki Airport

The main services and facilities available to travelers at Ishigaki Airport are listed below. The information counter in the center of the first floor of the Domestic Terminal also provides guidance on airport facilities and accepts reports regarding lost or forgotten items. Stop by if you need assistance.

Coin Lockers
Small A, Small B, Medium, and Large lockers are available on the first floors of the Domestic and International Terminals. Cash-only and cashless-only lockers are provided.
Temporary Baggage Storage
RedCaps, located in the center of the first floor of the Domestic Terminal, provides temporary baggage storage and delivery between the airport and hotels, as well as between the airport and the Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal.
Foreign-Currency Exchange and ATMs
An ATM and a Bank of Okinawa automated foreign-currency exchange machine, which only exchanges foreign currency into Japanese yen, are located in the center of the first floor of the Domestic Terminal. An E-net ATM is available on the first floor of the International Terminal.
Free Wi-Fi
Available throughout the terminals. Use “Be.Okinawa_Free_Wi-Fi” in the Domestic Terminal and “Ishigaki-Airport-Wi-Fi” in the International Terminal.
Nursing Rooms
Located near the central entrance on the first floor of the Domestic Terminal and inside the boarding lounges on the second floors of the Domestic and International Terminals.

Locations and conditions of use are subject to change.

The Ishigaki Airport terminal supports travelers from the beginning of their sightseeing journey through their return trip
The Ishigaki Airport terminal supports travelers from the beginning of their sightseeing journey through their return trip

Preparing for Cancellations and Delays Due to Typhoons or Severe Weather

Ishigaki Island is susceptible to typhoons from summer through fall. Flights and boats to the surrounding islands may be canceled not only during a direct hit, but also after a typhoon has passed if waves remain high. Building extra time into your itinerary can provide peace of mind.
In principle, local buses and direct airport buses stop operating when a storm warning is issued for the Yaeyama region. Check typhoon updates from the Japan Meteorological Agency and information on the airport’s official website before your trip, and prepare for changing weather conditions. Refund and rebooking policies for cancellations and delays vary by airline.

During typhoon season on Ishigaki Island, checking the weather before departure is essential
During typhoon season on Ishigaki Island, checking the weather before departure is essential

Frequently Asked Questions About Ishigaki Airport

Q

What is the difference between Ishigaki Airport and New Ishigaki Airport?

A

The current Ishigaki Airport is the same airport that opened as New Ishigaki Airport in 2013. Its name was changed to Ishigaki Airport on August 7, 2025. The former Ishigaki Airport has closed, and there is now only one airport.

Q

Does Ishigaki Airport have a lounge?

A

No. The airport has neither airline lounges nor credit card lounges. Before boarding, use one of the airport’s restaurants or rest areas.

Q

How long does it take to travel from Ishigaki Airport to downtown Ishigaki?

A

The bus terminal in central Ishigaki is approximately 30 minutes away by direct bus, 35–45 minutes by local bus, or 20 minutes by taxi. Travel times vary depending on road conditions, so allow extra time.

Summary

This article has covered basic information about Ishigaki Airport, transportation to the surrounding islands, recommended souvenirs, and more. Ishigaki Airport is the gateway marking both the beginning and end of an island journey. By making use of its restaurants, shops, and convenient services, travelers can also spend the time before boarding comfortably. Check the airport’s facilities and transportation options in advance, and make the most of your journey through Ishigaki Island and the Yaeyama Islands.
For more information to help plan your trip, including popular attractions and accommodations on Ishigaki Island, see the article below.


Prices in this article are current as of November 2026.

GOOD LUCK TRIP Editors

Author

Writers & Editors

GOOD LUCK TRIP Editors

Sharing lesser-known ways to experience Japan with the world!

Hokkaido Tohoku Kanto Chubu Hokuriku Kansai Chugoku Shikoku Kyushu Okinawa