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Kabira Bay: Ishigaki Island's Emerald Jewel

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kabira Bay in Ishigaki, Okinawa – emerald waters, white sands, and vibrant marine life await!

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Kabira Bay, located on Ishigaki Island in Okinawa, Japan, is celebrated for its stunning emerald-green waters, white sandy beaches, and lush subtropical vegetation. While swimming is prohibited due to strong currents and black pearl cultivation, visitors can enjoy the bay's beauty through glass-bottom boat tours and scenic viewpoints.

A brief summary to Kabira Bay

Local tips

  • Visit during the morning or early afternoon on a sunny day to witness the most vibrant colors of the emerald-green sea.
  • Take a glass-bottom boat tour for an up-close view of the coral reefs and tropical fish without getting wet.
  • Explore Kabira Park's observation deck for panoramic views of the bay and surrounding islands.
  • Visit the Kabira Kannon Temple to learn about the local history and legends of the area.
  • Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the intense Ishigaki sun.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Ishigaki Airport, take the Kabira Resort Line bus to Kabira Bay. The direct bus departs twice a day, at 12:15 PM and 3:00 PM, and the journey takes approximately 40 minutes. The one-way bus fare is ¥860. Alternatively, take a bus from the Ishigaki Bus Terminal to Kabira Bay. Route 9 is recommended for its scenic seaside views. Buses depart approximately once every hour, and the fare is ¥770. Get off at the Kabira Park bus stop, a 2-minute walk from the observation point.

  • Car

    Kabira Bay is approximately a 30-minute drive from Ishigaki City and 40 minutes from Ishigaki Airport. Follow Prefectural Road 280 north, then turn right onto Road 79, and continue straight until you reach Kabira Bay. Parking is available at Kabira Park for a fee of ¥300 per day. Free parking may be available near R's cafe.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Ishigaki City to Kabira Bay costs approximately ¥3500 and takes around 30 minutes. Taxis are readily available at the airport and in the city center.

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Discover more about Kabira Bay

Kabira Bay, situated on the north coast of Ishigaki Island, Okinawa, is a breathtaking scenic spot renowned for its natural beauty and tranquility. The bay is part of the Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park and is celebrated as one of Japan's 100 most beautiful landscapes. Its emerald-green waters, often referred to as "Kabira Blue," contrast with the pristine white sandy beaches and the vibrant greenery of the surrounding vegetation, creating a mesmerizing view. Swimming is not allowed in Kabira Bay due to strong currents and the cultivation of black pearls. However, numerous glass-bottom boat tours offer visitors a chance to observe the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, including tropical fish and sea turtles, without getting wet. These tours typically last about 30 minutes and depart frequently from the bay. The bay's history dates back to the Ryukyu Kingdom era (1429–1879), when wooden trading ships used it as a stopover. During World War II, it served as a base for kamikaze boats. In 2009, the Michelin Green Guide Japan awarded Kabira Bay the prestigious three-star rating, signifying it as a place “worth a special journey”. Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of the bay from the observation deck in Kabira Park. Nearby, the Kabira Kannon Temple, built in the 17th century, offers a glimpse into the area's cultural heritage. Various shops and restaurants around the parking area provide souvenirs, local cuisine, and refreshments.

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