Ishigaki Yaima Village | Review by wendy

Ishigaki Yaima Village

The southernmost and westernmost theme park in Japan, where visitors can experience and enjoy the nature and culture of Ishigaki Island.

7 Sep 2026 See More

If you're visiting Ishigaki Island and want to experience Okinawan traditional culture and natural scenery all in one place, consider stopping by Ishigaki Yaima Village. The grounds aren't very large and can be explored in about an hour. There are several preserved traditional buildings, Ryukyu traditional clothing you can try on for a fee, and traditional performances at scheduled times, giving the place a strong Yaeyama atmosphere.

Overall, the grounds are relaxing and easy to explore. If you want to experience the local culture, wear Ryukyu clothing, or watch traditional performances, it's worth adding as a stop along the way. You can also compare ticket prices on Trip.com or KLOOK beforehand, since buying online is sometimes cheaper than purchasing tickets on-site!

Other Reviews by wendy

Ishigaki Island Limestone Cave

Carved into the southern part of Ishigaki Island in the Yaeyama Islands, the Ishigaki Island Limestone Cave is the southernmost tourist-accessible limestone cave in Japan. Formed over 200,000 years, this natural masterpiece spans 3.2 km, making it the largest cave on Ishigaki Island.
- Miyako, Yaeyama (Ishigaki Island), Kume Islands
- Nature Spots
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Walking into Ishigaki Island's largest limestone cave feels like instantly entering a fantasy world created by nature. Admission is about JPY 1,200, and it takes around 20–30 minutes to walk through the cave. Some sections are fairly narrow, and the cave is dim with damp ground in places, so keep a close eye on children. It's also not very suitable for strollers.

Along the way, you can admire natural formations such as stalactites and stalagmites. The farther you go, the more spectacular it feels, and you can't help but marvel at nature's craftsmanship.

Although the visit isn't very long, it's well worth fitting into your itinerary. Walk into the underground world yourself and experience a different side of Ishigaki Island's natural beauty!
Ishigaki City Public Market

Located in the heart of Ishigaki Island’s bustling Euglena Mall, the Ishigaki City Public Market is a three-story hub that serves both locals and visitors as the island’s go-to spot for fresh goods and souvenirs. For locals, it’s a daily marketplace akin to their kitchen; for tourists, it’s the perfect place to find authentic local products.
- Miyako, Yaeyama (Ishigaki Island), Kume Islands
- Shopping Streets
7 Sep 2026 See More

When visiting Ishigaki Island, of course you should explore this historic "island kitchen." The market has all kinds of Ishigaki Island specialties, souvenirs, and local ingredients. It's a good place to walk around if you want to experience the atmosphere of local life.

I came on a weekday morning, and the entire market was fairly quiet. Most shops didn't start opening until around 11, with only a few preparing to open. The market is especially peaceful in the morning, so you can browse at your own pace without the crowds.

If you want to buy some Ishigaki Island specialties or experience the atmosphere of a local market, it's worth stopping by. However, I recommend coming closer to noon, when more shops will be open!
HOSHINOYA Taketomi Island

A stay-style resort on Taketomi Island, a remote island in Okinawa Prefecture. Designed to blend in with the culture and scenery of Taketomi Island, where part of the island is designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, the guest rooms are villa-style. Guests can enjoy a setting unique to Taketomi Island, with Ryukyu red-tile roofs and white sand paths.
- Miyako, Yaeyama (Ishigaki Island), Kume Islands
- Hotels
7 Sep 2026 See More

If Taketomi Island is a place that makes you slow down, then HOSHINOYA Taketomi Island carries that sense of relaxation throughout the entire stay.

The whole resort was designed around the concept of a traditional Taketomi Island village, with red-tiled roofs, stone walls, and greenery woven together. It looked beautiful at first sight. The surroundings are very quiet and far from the hustle and bustle of the city, so staying here really feels like an escape from the rest of the world.

The staff are all attentive and polite, though at times the service feels a bit formulaic and lacks some of the easygoing atmosphere you'd expect at a resort.

Overall, this is a truly beautiful and distinctive place. If you enjoy peace and quiet and nature, and want to experience the atmosphere of a traditional Taketomi Island village, it's still well worth staying for a night to experience the island's slow pace of life for yourself.