Area Overview
The Yaeyama Islands are located approximately 400km southwest of the Okinawa main island, centered around Ishigaki Island with distinctive islands including Iriomote, Taketomi, Kohama, Kuroshima, Hateruma, and Yonaguni scattered throughout. Ishigaki Island is world-famous as a "Manta Ray Sanctuary," with Kabira Ishizaki Manta Scramble offering high-probability manta encounters. Iriomote Island, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, has 90% of its surface covered in subtropical jungle with a unique ecosystem. Taketomi Island charms visitors with its traditional Okinawan village and Kondoi Beach. Thanks to the warm climate, diving in Yaeyama waters is enjoyable year-round.
Available Activities
Manta Ray Diving
Kabira Ishizaki Manta Scramble on Ishigaki Island is one of the world's premier manta points. August to November has peak encounter rates, with multiple mantas appearing simultaneously.
Coral Reef Diving
Yaeyama waters are home to over 400 species of coral. Sekisei Lagoon is Japan's largest coral reef area.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling in the shallows around Taketomi and Kuroshima islands. Enjoy colorful tropical fish and coral gardens.
Mangrove Kayaking
Mangrove kayaking on the Nakama and Urauchi rivers of Iriomote Island. An adventure exploring Japan's largest mangrove forest.
Island Hopping
Use Ishigaki Island as your base to explore the surrounding islands. Each offers its own unique seascape and culture.
Popular Spots
Kabira Bay (Ishigaki Island)
A three-star Michelin Green Guide scenic wonder. Observe beautiful coral reefs by glass-bottom boat. Swimming is prohibited, but the beauty is overwhelming.
Manta Scramble (Ishigaki Island)
One of the world's premier manta points off Kabira Ishizaki. Divers wait on the seabed as mantas glide overhead in dramatic fashion.
Iriomote Island
UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. Snorkeling at Barasu Island (made entirely of coral fragments) and mangrove kayaking are popular activities.
Taketomi Island
About 10 minutes by high-speed boat from Ishigaki. Kondoi Beach has shallow, crystal-clear water, and Kaiji Beach is famous for star-shaped sand.
Kuroshima (Black Island)
Nicknamed "Heart Island" for its shape. Surrounding waters are sea turtle nesting grounds with high dive encounter rates.
Access Information
New Ishigaki Airport (Painushima Ishigaki Airport) has direct flights from Naha (approximately 1 hour), Tokyo Haneda/Narita (approximately 3.5 hours), and Osaka Kansai (approximately 2.5 hours). From the airport to the town center is about 30 minutes by car. From Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal: Taketomi Island is about 10 minutes by high-speed boat, Iriomote Island (Ohara Port) about 40 minutes, and Kohama Island about 25 minutes. Multiple daily high-speed boat services run to each island. A rental car is convenient for getting around Ishigaki Island.
Seasonal Guide
| Season | Conditions | Recommended Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar-May) | Water temp 24-27°C, calm conditions | Coral reef diving, Island hopping |
| Summer (Jun-Sep) | Water temp 28-30°C, manta season begins | Manta diving, All activities |
| Autumn (Oct-Nov) | Water temp 26-28°C, peak manta season | Manta diving, Snorkeling |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | Water temp 22-24°C, lower manta encounters | Macro diving, Mangrove kayaking |
Safety Notes
- At manta points, do not touch or chase the manta rays. Follow observation rules and guidelines.
- Waters around Iriomote Island can have strong currents. Always dive with an experienced guide.
- Habu snakes inhabit the Yaeyama Islands. Be especially careful of tall grass on Iriomote Island.
- Medical facilities on the remote islands are limited. Diving insurance is strongly recommended.
- Never touch or step on coral in Sekisei Lagoon - it is an internationally precious natural heritage.
- Summer UV radiation is several times stronger than the mainland. Use reef-safe sunscreen.
Find Marine Shops in the Yaeyama Islands
Find OperatorsIshigaki Island Car Rental
Rent a car for Kabira Bay and dive points on Ishigaki Island.