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57 Available Tour Excursions in Ishigaki
Snorkeling with sea turtles by a fluent English-speaking guide. 97% turtle sightings! Free pickup, photos and videos. -97% chance to see turtles! Our guides have 10 years of experience in Ishigaki island as a scuba diving and snorkeling instructors and knows all the best spots in the area, which makes this sea turtle snorkeling tour possible! -Guided tour in fluent English made for international guests. No Japanglish! This tour will be held in only English. We don't mix Japanese or other languages in our tour. -See more than turtles! Up to 2 hours in the water with turtles, coral reefs, reef sharks, and tropical fish. -We care! Eco-friendly, marine-responsible tours. We never touch or disturb marine life. -Half day tour (~4h) Real snorkeling with up to 2 hours in the water. Every tour is different! -Beach snorkeling (NOT BY BOAT) Easy beach entry – great for beginners. -Early bird gets the turtle Morning tour (7:30am) = better chance for turtles and fewer crowds. -Small groups
Price: $70.33
Duration: 4 hours
★ Exclusively for cruise ship guests ★ Pickup times are adjusted to match your cruise ship’s arrival and departure schedule. Morning and afternoon arrivals welcome. ★ All-inclusive experience including drinks, Japanese snacks, towels, sunscreen, lunch, and more ★ English-speaking guide with local and international perspective ★ 5–6-hour guided tour covering Ishigaki Island’s highlights ★ Designed for cruise visitors with limited time ashore ★ Scenic nature walks and local stories ★ Learn about Ishigaki’s history, geology, culture, and native plants ★ Educational videos and on-site guiding ★ Small-group tour (maximum 8 guests) ★ Comfortable air-conditioned van ★ Minimum 3 guests required
Price: $121.48
Duration: 5-6 hours
Explore Ishigaki's vibrant reefs, colorful fish, and coral. We snorkel about 1-2 hr, of course if you want to stay longer and if the time allows us we definitely stay longer!
Price: $62.66
Duration: 4 hours
Experience the magical Yaeyama Himebotaru Firefly Viewing PRIVATE Tour on Ishigaki Island, Japan’s first Dark Sky Reserve. Watch thousands of rare Yaeyama fireflies glow in perfect harmony, visible only from April to June. After the firefly show, enjoy stargazing in an open area with an official Ishigaki City guide, using a laser pointer to explore constellations. Includes round-trip transportation. Discover Ishigaki’s untouched nature and breathtaking night sky on this unforgettable tour! Minimum number of participants: 2
Price: $38.36
Duration: 2 hours
(This tour needs Minimum 2 guests) A photographer with Starry Sky Sommelier® certification will photograph you against the perfect starry sky backdrop while explaining the constellations. A first-rate therapeutic experience under the stars. In 2018, Ishigaki Island was designated as Japan’s first International Dark Sky Place. Compared to the main island of Okinawa, there is much less light pollution. In addition to the 84 constellations, you can see the Southern Cross and many shooting stars.
Price: $76.73
Duration: 1 hours
Discover Ishigaki Island with a English speaking local guide on a private full-day tour designed entirely around your preferences. Spend 7–8 relaxed hours exploring the island while a professional photographer captures natural moments throughout your journey, allowing you to fully enjoy your time on the island. The itinerary is flexible and can be customized based on what you would like to see and experience. From famous spots like Kabira Bay to local cafés and scenic viewpoints, you can spend your time in Ishigaki exactly the way you wish. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families looking for a more personal island experience. Please note that the tour does not include all the locations listed; destinations can be selected according to your interests. Round-trip transfers from your hotel, the airport, or the port are included for a stress-free experience. For groups of 4 to 6 people, a vehicle arrangement is required. Please contact us in advance.
Price: $185.42
Duration: 7-8 hours
We are located in the best area of the island, nearby renown spots like Blue Cave and Yonehara Palm Forest. There are some pottery ateliers, herbalists, famous cane juice stands, local restaurants within walking distance. We will provide you "Original Guide Map" of this bohemian area so that you can spend a memorable day. Everything is within walking distance. We are 5 minutes walk from the Blue Cave.
Price: $95.91
Duration: 2 hours
Hey, we are a husband and wife photography team living life in Ishigaki. We specialise in wedding photos for Japanese and foreign couples visiting this tropical paradise. We value capturing natural expressions that convey your unique qualities and genuine emotions. The style allows you to chat and laugh, making it feel like you're spending time with friends. We have photographed over 500 couples, and every moment is special for us! We will deliver photos that will bring back warm memories of Ishigaki Island every time you look at them. We look forward to meeting you! On the day, we will either pick you up or meet at a discussed meeting point, then the fun begins, we will spend roughly 1.5 hours and visit at least two locations, taking photos of you in beautiful locations. If you have anything you want to bring along to add some of your own personality, please do so, we love having fun on your shoots! :) * Price does not include dress/tux, This can be included at an extra cost.
Price: $319.69
Duration: 2 hours
Experience Ishigaki Island through a relaxed, immersive, and thoughtfully guided private day designed for travelers seeking more than typical sightseeing. Discover scenic coastal landscapes, subtropical nature, island culture, local stories, and hidden perspectives at a comfortable and unhurried pace while exploring some of Ishigaki’s most beautiful locations. Enhanced by immersive onboard videos, cultural and nature guiding, and thoughtful preparation throughout the day, this experience is designed to help guests deeply enjoy the atmosphere, beauty, and character of Ishigaki Island. Drinks, popular Japanese snacks, towels, sunscreen, lunch, and many other comfort essentials are carefully prepared so you can simply relax and enjoy the journey. Travel in a clean, air-conditioned private van with a flexible itinerary fully adjusted to your pace, interests, and preferred atmosphere.
Price: $159.85
Duration: 5-6 hours
・Please understand that depending on sea conditions, the tour may take place at a different location than originally planned. ・Meeting and finishing times may vary depending on the season and conditions on the day. ・Participation under the influence of alcohol is prohibited. ・There are no changing rooms or restrooms at the tour site, so please change clothes and use the restroom beforehand. ・Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. ・If you have a history of respiratory, circulatory, internal organ, neurological, spinal, or ENT conditions or surgeries (including asthma, epilepsy, hyperventilation), please consult us in advance. ・If you have a disability, please contact us before booking. What to bring: There are no facilities for assistance or changing at the site, so please come dressed in clothes that can get wet. Please bring your own towel, drinks, hat, sunscreen, etc. Prohibited items: Large luggage such as suitcases and alcoholic beverages are not allowed.
Price: $51.15
Duration: 3 hours
Free pick up and drop off. Contact us with your preferred location and time. Extension is +1500 yen per hour. Running on 100% electricity instead of gasoline, it is a quiet, sustainability-conscious vehicle that is friendly to people, nature, and the island. Even if you do not have a motorcycle license, trikes are the only vehicles that can be easily ridden with a regular driver's license. The three-wheeled trike is stable and there is no risk of tipping over. Since helmets are not required to be worn, the main theme of EVOL RIDE is to feel the air and wind and the magnificent nature of Ishigaki Island.
Price: $44.76
Duration: 2 hours
No license required.Novices welcome Halelea's dive tours are fully reserved, so you don't have to worry about your surroundings and can enjoy yourself at your own pace. They are guided by experienced and friendly instructors. We will give you a detailed lecture on how to use the equipment and how to breathe before entering the sea, so even if you are not a good swimmer or have concerns, you can participate with peace of mind. Under the sea, the scenery is as if you had jumped into an aquarium. If the conditions are right for the day, you'll see sea turtles and manta rays! We will provide you with a plan of your choice (I want to ride jet skis too!)I also want to do SUP!!!etc.） Even if it's a small thing, please!Please feel free to contact us. You can also do different activities in your group!! Lunch is included, so enjoy a picnic on the sea! Diving experience Why not enjoy your own diving experience with a guide who knows the charm of the ocean?
Price: $959.08
Duration: 6 hours
【I'm sure you'll be impressed!Private Snorkeling】 "Nemo and Coral Want to Take a Photo!"I want to see sea turtles!"And so on. We will suggest a snorkeling spot that suits your needs! ・Safety first tour management! In addition to careful advance explanation, the Guides are familiar with the area and always consider changes in the weather and currents.We will guide you according to your physical strength and level on a reasonable schedule!Even Novices can enjoy it with confidence! ・Fully small group & charter system Don't worry about other people and enjoy the ocean leisurely and freely. · Leave photos and videos to us Our staff know exactly what makes it look great, and we’ll capture the best moments on camera! · Boat snorkeling is also possible upon request. You may be with other guests until the point because you will ride together. ( Manta snorkeling is only available for boat snorkeling.) "I'm glad I came."We will bring you a tour that you can feel.Make your own snorkeling memories in the waters of Ishigaki Island!
Price: $95.91
Duration: 2 hours
A special experience that can only be experienced on Ishigaki Island Join us to share the experience of diving in the world's most transparent waters of Ishigaki Island, surrounded by colorful fish and coral. No license is required, so even beginners can participate with confidence. The highlight is diving to see natural hot springs gushing from the seabed! You can enjoy the special feeling of hot springs gushing from the cold sea! Of course, you can also choose other points! -—It's even more fun because it's just the two of us! You can join with friends and partners, so it's perfect for creating special memories.You can experience a new world together while holding hands in the sea. Feel free to join us empty-handed! All necessary equipment and fuel are included in the price.You can easily experience diving! Small group system for peace of mind The small number of people allows you to relax and enjoy yourself without being crowded. Experienced riders can take on the challenge for the first time without worry as the instructors will support them well!
Price: $246.16
Duration: 3 hours
While it's possible to explore Ishigaki Island by rental car, having a local guide and an English-speaking guide can really enhance the experience. It sounds like it would make the trip so much more fun and enriching! The schedule is just an example. If there is any specific place you'd like to visit or any activities you'd like to do, please feel free to consult with us in advance. Additionally, depending on the weather or circumstances of the day, there may be changes to part of the itinerary. Thank you for your understanding in advance.
Price: $361.25
Duration: 5 hours
Mangrove Tour Enjoy the serene quiet of kayaking through the mangrove forest. Taketomi Island Exploration Explore the traditional streets and beautiful beaches of Taketomi Island. Eco-Friendly Tour Enjoy a sustainable, eco-friendly tour designed with nature in mind. Vehicle Choice On your mangrove cruise, you can choose between a stand-up paddleboard or a canoe.
Price: $62.66
Duration: 3 hours
We are located in the best area of the island, nearby renown spots like Blue Cave and Yonehara Palm Forest. There are some pottery ateliers and local restaurants within walking distance. We will provide you "Original Guide Map" of this bohemian area so that you can spend memorable day. Everything is within walking distance. We are 5 minutes walk from the Blue Cave.
Price: $95.91
Duration: 2 hours
Let's ride a jet ski together!!! Sit back as the staff operate the jet ski.Enjoy the beautiful sea and scenery.We land on the island.It's called "Illusion Island."And we go snorkeling with just jet skis.There are sea turtles and various species of fish. Let's go jet skiing in the sea of Ishigaki Island! Those with a license can drive on their own (Only [Special small craft license] issued in Japan is valid.) Those without a licence will be asked to ride behind staff You can land on the so-called "Phantom Island", run through the beautiful sea and view, and even snorkel! Let's go and see sea turtles and lots of fish! We may be with other guests during busy periods. Please contact us if you would like to keep it completely private.
Price: $159.85
Duration: 3-4 hours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: JPY
- Languages: Japanese, Okinawan dialects, English (commonly spoken by tourists)
- Climate: Subtropical
- Timezone: Asia/Tokyo
- Population: Approximately 48,000 residents
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is spring and autumn to avoid the rainy and typhoon seasons.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from many countries, including the US, EU, and UK, can enter Japan visa-free for short stays (usually up to 90 days) for tourism. Others may require a visa in advance. Japan does not generally offer visa on arrival or e-visa for most tourists. Travelers should check the latest requirements before travel.
About Ishigaki
Ishigaki is a stunning island located in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. It is the gateway to the Yaeyama Islands and offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Visitors are drawn to Ishigaki for its relaxed island atmosphere, excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities, and unique local traditions. The island’s subtropical climate allows for year-round outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Ishigaki’s charming town center features local markets, traditional crafts, and delicious cuisine that reflects the island’s Ryukyu heritage. Whether exploring the lush mangroves, hiking scenic trails, or enjoying water sports, Ishigaki provides a memorable escape from the bustle of mainland Japan.
Ishigaki Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Okinawa
- Duration Range: Custom Durations
- Group Size: Intimate Groups
- Difficulty Level: Beginner to Advanced
- Recommended For: The best time to visit is spring and autumn to avoid the rainy and typhoon seasons. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, swimwear, sun protection, and insect repellent. Respect local customs such as removing shoes indoors and polite greetings. Ishigaki is generally safe, but travelers should stay hydrated and be cautious in the sun. Cash is preferred in many places; ATMs are available but not everywhere accepts credit cards. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases is helpful.
Average Tour Price: $75
Lowest Price Tour: $50
Highest Price Tour: $220
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Top Attractions
1. Kabira Bay – Famous for its breathtaking emerald waters and white sand beaches, perfect for glass-bottom boat tours. 2. Ishigaki Yaima Village – A cultural theme park showcasing traditional Okinawan houses, crafts, and performances. 3. Tamatorizaki Observatory – Offers panoramic views of the island’s coastline and lush landscapes. 4. Banna Park – A large natural park with hiking trails, picnic spots, and scenic viewpoints. 5. Yonehara Beach – Renowned for excellent snorkeling with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
Popular Activities
Ishigaki offers a variety of activities including snorkeling and scuba diving in its coral reefs, kayaking through mangrove forests, and hiking in Banna Park. Visitors can also enjoy fishing trips, glass-bottom boat tours, and cycling around the island. Cultural experiences include visiting traditional villages, attending local festivals, and sampling Okinawan crafts. For adventure seekers, Ishigaki provides opportunities for paddleboarding and boat excursions to nearby islands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
The local cuisine of Ishigaki features Okinawan specialties such as Ishigaki beef, a prized Wagyu variety known for its tenderness and flavor. Other must-try dishes include goya champuru (bitter melon stir-fry), sata andagi (Okinawan doughnuts), and fresh seafood like sashimi and grilled fish. Dining customs emphasize fresh, seasonal ingredients and simple preparations. Noteworthy restaurants include local izakayas and specialty steakhouses serving Ishigaki beef, as well as seaside cafes offering tropical fruit desserts.
Getting Around
Ishigaki is accessible by air via New Ishigaki Airport, with flights from Tokyo, Osaka, and Okinawa’s main island. Local transportation includes buses, taxis, and rental cars. Bicycles and scooters are popular for short distances. Taxi fares can be relatively high, so renting a car is often recommended for flexibility. The island’s road network is well-maintained but narrow in places, so cautious driving is advised.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is spring and autumn to avoid the rainy and typhoon seasons. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, swimwear, sun protection, and insect repellent. Respect local customs such as removing shoes indoors and polite greetings. Ishigaki is generally safe, but travelers should stay hydrated and be cautious in the sun. Cash is preferred in many places; ATMs are available but not everywhere accepts credit cards. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases is helpful.
Culture & Customs
Ishigaki’s culture is deeply influenced by Ryukyu traditions, emphasizing respect, hospitality, and community. Social customs include bowing as a greeting and modest dress when visiting temples or homes. Important festivals include the Ishigaki Island Festival featuring traditional music and dance. Visitors should be mindful of quiet hours and environmental preservation, especially around natural sites. Gift-giving and polite exchanges are appreciated in local interactions.
About The Author
Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.
Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.
Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..