Ishigaki

Ishigaki is the main island of Japan's Yaeyama chain, far south of the mainland and closer to Taiwan. The port is a short shuttle from the city centre, where the pace is noticeably slower than Tokyo or Osaka. The surrounding water is clear turquoise, and Kabira Bay is the signature spot, with glass-bottom boats running over coral gardens, though swimming isn't allowed there. Yonehara Beach is the place for snorkelling, with good coral close to shore. The public market in town sells tropical fruit, fresh seafood, and awamori, the local spirit. A short ferry to Taketomi Island drops you into a village of red-roofed houses and coral-sand paths. Ishigaki beef is the local speciality and worth trying. Buses and taxis cover the island, and rental bikes work well for the flatter areas near town.