Ishigaki Island

**Overview** Ishigaki is a good place to sleep if you want to see several sides of the Yaeyama Islands without changing hotels every night. Use one day to see Kabira Bay by glass-bottom boat, and another for a ferry from the city to Taketomi or Iriomote. The airport and the remote-islands ferry terminal are separate stops. Downtown lodging makes early boats easier, while a stay near the coast puts more of the island’s scenery at your door. **Key metrics** - Naha flight: About 60 min - Taketomi ferry: About 15 min - Iriomote Ohara ferry: About 40 min - Iriomote Uehara ferry: About 50 min **Pros** - The city has a broad selection of accommodations. - Short crossings make Taketomi and Iriomote possible as day trips. - Kabira Bay boat trips work for groups with non-swimmers. **Cons** - Airport and ferry terminal require a separate transfer. - Kabira Bay prohibits beach swimming and snorkeling. - Combining a flight with a same-day ferry leaves less room for delays. **Best for** First-time Yaeyama visitors who want several island outings from a single base. **Things to watch out for** Keep a night on Ishigaki between a remote-island ferry and a hard-to-change flight if your schedule allows.