Islands You Can Visit by Ferry from Ishigaki｜Guide to Iriomote, Taketomi, Kohama, Kuroshima & Hatoma
About Island Hopping from Ishigaki
Just a short ferry ride away, and suddenly a whole new island landscape unfolds before you.
Some islands are home to traditional red-tile roof villages, others are blanketed in untouched jungle, and some are pastoral with cows grazing peacefully in open fields.
No matter which island you choose, the pace of life is slow and relaxing, helping you leave behind the rush of everyday life.
In just a few days you can visit multiple islands, each with its own unique charm.
That’s the magic of island hopping starting from Ishigaki.
By the way, a ferry route to Taiwan is also set to launch soon. Check out this artile
👉 For an official overview of ferry routes and travel tips, see the Ishigaki City Tourist Ship Leaflet (English, PDF).
Main Islands You Can Reach from Ishigaki
Each island offers something different—whether it’s untouched nature, traditional culture, simple island life, or modern resorts.
Iriomote Island
The largest island in the Yaeyama chain. It’s covered with jungle and mangrove forests, making it one of Japan’s last great wildernesses.
It’s perfect for adventure seekers: canoeing, jungle trekking, and tours to Pinaisara Falls are popular.
Taketomi Island
The closest island to Ishigaki Port. Famous for its preserved red-tile villages and white sand lanes where you can still feel Okinawa’s traditional culture.
Enjoy a leisurely water buffalo cart ride, or circle the island by bicycle.
When you’re tired, relax by the beach and take in the crystal-clear waters.
See Taketomi’s water buffalo rides here
Kohama Island
Located roughly in the center of the Yaeyama islands, Kohama is small but known for its panoramic views from hilltops.
Resort hotels are also available on the island, making it an excellent base for travelers.
Where to stay on Kohama: luxury resorts & family-friendly stays
Kuroshima
Nicknamed “Island of Cows,” Kuroshima has more cattle than people.
The island’s wide pastures make it ideal for a slow cycling tour. It’s quiet, undeveloped, and perfect for travelers who want to escape the crowds.
Hatoma Island
The smallest inhabited island in the Yaeyama group. With only a few dozen residents, it’s surrounded by dazzlingly clear waters and coral reefs.
Easy to visit on a day trip.
Uehara Port (Iriomote) ⇔ Hatoma
From Iriomote’s Uehara Port, you can reach Hatoma quickly. Combining the two makes for a well-balanced island trip: wilderness adventures on Iriomote, followed by the peace and seclusion of Hatoma.
Ferry Fares, Times & Frequency from Ishigaki
| Destination | Fare (one-way, adult) | Travel Time | Daily Frequency (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taketomi | ¥790 | 10–15 min | 10+ trips per day |
| Kohama | ¥1,190 | 25–30 min | 6–8 trips |
| Kuroshima | ¥1,240 | 25–30 min | 4–6 trips |
| Iriomote (Ohara) | ¥1,760 | 35–40 min | 6–8 trips |
| Iriomote (Uehara) | ¥2,030 | 45–50 min | 4–6 trips |
| Hatoma | ¥2,500 | 45–50 min | 2–4 trips |
For the latest schedules, check the Yaeyama Kanko Ferry operation status.
Their official site provides real-time updates, timetables, and sailing calendars.
Model Itineraries for Island Hopping from Ishigaki
Half-Day Trip (Taketomi)
Just 10 minutes by ferry, Taketomi is ideal for a short half-day trip.
Start with a water buffalo cart ride through the traditional village, then rent a bicycle to explore Kondoi Beach and Kaiji Beach.
In the afternoon, return to Ishigaki for shopping and local cuisine.
- Recommended spot: Kondoi Beach
2-Day Trip (Iriomote + Taketomi)
Day 1: Head to Iriomote for mangrove canoeing or trekking to Pinaisara Falls. Stay overnight and stargaze under one of Japan’s clearest skies.
Day 2: On your way back, stop by Taketomi to explore its red-tile village and water buffalo rides, before returning to Ishigaki.
A perfect mix of “nature” and “culture.”
- Recommended spot: Pinaisara Falls
3-Day Trip (Iriomote + Hatoma)
Day 1: Adventure on Iriomote with jungle trekking and mangrove exploration.
Day 2: Take the ferry to Hatoma, enjoy snorkeling in crystal-clear waters or simply relax on the quiet beaches.
Day 3: Spend a peaceful morning on the island before heading back to Ishigaki.
This itinerary balances the active and relaxed sides of island life.
- Recommended spot: Hoshizuna Beach (Star Sand Beach)
Ishigaki is truly the hub for island hopping in the Yaeyama archipelago.
From the wilderness of Iriomote to the cultural heritage of Taketomi, and the quiet charm of Kohama, Kuroshima, and Hatoma—each island offers a distinct experience.
Just a short ferry ride transports you to a completely different world.
Whether it’s a half-day trip, an overnight stay, or a multi-island journey, Ishigaki makes it easy to tailor your trip to your own style.
Make Ishigaki your base, and enjoy an island-hopping adventure.
You’ll discover moments and memories you can’t find anywhere else.
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