Ishigaki
Ishigaki, Japan, is a captivating island in the Okinawa Prefecture, a subtropical paradise that feels a world away from mainland Japan. As the main island of the Yaeyama Islands, it's a place of stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush mangrove forests. For a cruiser, Ishigaki offers a perfect blend of a relaxing beach day and an opportunity to immerse yourself in a unique, laid-back island culture.
⛵ Port Introduction
Your cruise ship will likely dock at the Okidate Wharf, which is conveniently located in the heart of Aomori City. This is a huge advantage, as you can walk right off the ship and onto a pier that leads to the city's waterfront promenade. The downtown area and many of the main attractions are just a short walk from where the ships dock, so shuttle buses are often not necessary.
⚓ Terminal Information
The Ishigaki New Port Cruise Ship Terminal is a permanent building with a variety of amenities to enhance your travel experience. You'll find comfortable waiting areas and access to local transportation options. The walk from the ship to the city is a short, 10-minute trip.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
The terminal has restrooms, a small cafe, and a few shops selling souvenirs and snacks. You'll also find a tourist information desk with friendly staff who can provide maps and directions. Free Wi-Fi is available in the terminal building, and a taxi stand is located just outside the pier.
🗣️ Language
The local language is Japanese. While you will find that English is spoken in the main tourist areas and at the cruise terminal, it is not as universally spoken as in some other countries. It is highly recommended to have a few basic Japanese phrases on hand.
A few useful phrases:
Konnichiwa (kon-ni-chi-wa) - Hello
Arigatou (a-ri-ga-to) - Thank you
Sumimasen (su-mi-ma-sen) - Excuse me
Eigo o hanasemasu ka? (ei-go o ha-na-se-ma-su ka) - Do you speak English?
💰 Money
The official currency is the Japanese Yen (¥). While major credit cards are widely accepted at larger stores, restaurants, and at the cruise terminal, it is highly recommended to carry some cash for smaller shops, food stalls, and local markets. ATMs that accept international cards can be found at post offices and convenience stores like 7-Eleven. Be aware that currency exchange machines can be hard to find and may be out of service.
🚗 Transportation
Ishigaki's downtown is very walkable, but to get to the main attractions of the island, you will need transportation.
Walking: The best way to explore downtown is on foot. The historic streets, shops, and restaurants are all within easy walking distance of the cruise docks.
Bus: The public bus system is an excellent and affordable way to get to other parts of the island. The main bus terminal is a 10-minute walk from the cruise port, and from there you can get a bus to places like Kabira Bay.
Taxis: Taxis are available at the cruise terminal, but they can be expensive for longer trips. It is a good idea to confirm the price with the driver before you get in.
Rental Cars: Renting a car is a popular way to explore the island on your own. You will need a valid international driving permit to rent a car in Japan.
♿ Accessibility
Ishigaki has an accessibility rating of 3 out of 10. The cruise pier and the downtown area are generally flat and easy to navigate. However, the island's famous beaches and natural attractions have uneven surfaces and rugged terrain that can be challenging to navigate. The city has made some efforts to improve accessibility, and some tour operators offer accessible tours.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
The best way to get to the downtown area from the cruise port is to simply walk. It's a short, 10-minute stroll. To get to attractions outside the city, the public bus is a great, affordable option.
🚽 Toilet
Public restrooms are generally available and clean in Ishigaki, especially at major tourist attractions, bus terminals, and shopping centers. They are free to use.
💊 Drugstore
Drug Eleven Ishigaki Shop: Maezato, Ishigaki, Okinawa 907-0002.
Tsuruha Drug: This is a major drugstore chain that you can find in many cities in Japan.
✨ Authentic Experience
Walk the Euglena Mall and Dine on Local Yaeyama Soba: For a taste of the city's unique culture, take a walk through Euglena Mall, a shopping arcade in the downtown area. From there, you can find a local restaurant and try a bowl of Yaeyama soba, a local noodle dish that is different from the soba you'll find on mainland Japan.
Take a Glass-Bottom Boat Tour of Kabira Bay: For a truly unique experience, take a bus or a taxi to Kabira Bay, which is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise water and stunning coral reefs. You can take a glass-bottom boat tour to see the colorful fish and coral without having to get in the water.
Visit a Local Pottery Studio: Ishigaki is known for its pottery, which is distinguished by its mesmerizing blue-green color patterns and dark glaze. You can visit a local pottery studio to see the artists at work and buy a unique souvenir.
