Okinawa & Ishigaki Beach Break, Japan Tours

Okinawa - Zamami Island - Ishigaki Island

Tour Highlights

Visit the island’s markets, sample local specialities and enjoy the quiet rhythms of Okinawa’s smaller towns
Travel to Ishigaki, one of the Yaeyama islands, where miles of tropical beaches and clear waters wait to be explored
Opt for a snorkelling or scuba diving excursion to see schools of manta rays and other exotic marine life
Embark on a boat trip to one of the smaller Yaeyama Islands then visit Taketomi Island, preserved Ryukyu Village and Iriomote Island

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Itinerary in detail

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DAY 01: TOKYO / OSAKA – ISHIGAKI ISLAND

Okinawa is Japan’s southernmost prefecture, which consists of a chain of islands stretching halfway between Japan and Taiwan for over 1,000 km. During its long history, Okinawa has been both an independent country and a territorial land under the Chinese and U.S. rule, giving it a colourful culture that can be found nowhere else in Japan. The main island of Okinawa, Okinawa-Honto, is very much developed towards domestic tourism, whereas the smaller islands to the west are less frequented by visitors, making it the perfect getaway for an unexpected beach break in Japan.

The destination today is one of these western islands, ISHIGAKI ISLAND. Part of the chain of Yaeyama Islands, Ishigaki is famous for its clear waters, undiscovered beaches, forested interior, and charming local character. Upon arrival, our local guide and driver will be awaiting to transfer you directly to the chosen accommodation. Spend the rest of the day at own leisure.

Overnight in Ishigaki Island.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Vessel Hotel Ishigaki Island
Art Hotel Ishigakijima

DAY 02: ISHIGAKI ISLAND

Follow your guide on this first day in Ishigaki Island, soaking up the local culture and experiencing what the Okinawan vibe is all about. Ishigaki City is the commercial center of the island and can easily be explored on foot.

Wander through the local shopping streets and try some of the local specialties, such as Yaeyama soba (the Ishigaki variety of the popular noodles dish) or Ishigaki beef, known to be very tender and on level to compete with the famous Kobe beef. In the afternoon, it is your free time to explore the beautiful beaches on the west of the island.

Overnight in Ishigaki Island.

MEALS

Breakfast, Lunch

ACCOMMODATIONS

Vessel Hotel Ishigaki Island
Art Hotel Ishigakijima

DAY 03: ISHIGAKI ISLAND – YAEYAMA ISLANDS

Today, embark on a boat trip to one of the smaller YAEYAMA ISLANDS. Taketomi Island, only 10 minutes by boat (at own expense), has a population of just 300 and boasts a perfectly preserved Ryukyu Village. Slightly further away, Iriomote Island is one of Japan’s last true wildernesses, with great hiking in the national park.

Overnight in Ishigaki Island.

MEALS

Breakfast

ACCOMMODATIONS

Vessel Hotel Ishigaki Island
Art Hotel Ishigakijima

DAY 04: ISHIGAKI ISLAND RELAXATION

Spend this day to relax and explore the island independently. The Ishigaki Island is famous for its beaches, seas and the large schools of manta rays that cover the area. The island also offer many diving possibilities.

OPTIONAL: Diving excursions with the manta rays can be organized, especially during the peak season of June to October, where manta sightings can almost be guaranteed (additional cost).

Overnight in Ishigaki Island.

MEALS

Breakfast

ACCOMMODATIONS

Vessel Hotel Ishigaki Island
Art Hotel Ishigakijima

DAY 05: DEPARTURE

Spend the day at leisure until the scheduled private transfer to Ishigaki airport. If you are continuing traveling in Japan or wish to connect one of the tours to China, North Korea, Vietnam or Cambodia, please let your Japan Travel Specialists know.

MEALS

Breakfast

Tour Price Includes

04 hotel night accommodation
Local English speaking guide
Meals as mentioned
Private transportation
Some local transport (e.g. boat fare to/from Yaeyama Island, etc.)
All sightseeing as specified and entrance fees included
Bottled drinking water per touring days

Tour Price Excludes

International and domestic flights (quoted separately)
Travel and medical insurances
Meals other than mentioned above
Personal expenses (e.g. drinks, laundry, telephone, and other expenditures of a personal nature)
Tips for local guides and drivers

When to Go

See estimated monthly temperature and rainfall for this itinerary

JAN	FEB	MAR	APR	MAY	JUN	JUL	AUG	SEP	OCT	NOV	DEC

Place

Daily Max Temperature

Monthly Rainfall

Okinawa

27ºC

142mm

Zamami Island

27ºC

159mm

Ishigaki Island

27ºC

187mm

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