Any trip to Ishigaki, in the Yaeyama island
group, is not complete unless time is spent
exploring the coral reefs and sub-tropical
jungle.
There's no need to venture too far from the island to experience the best snorkeling in Japan. What was originally a natural land bridge connecting most of the islands in Yaeyama about 500,ooo years ago, is now a coral reef that extends from Ishigaki to Iriomote island. Its a short sail or kayak trip to snorkel points along the leeward side of the reef.
To prevent further damage to eco-sensitive areas on the mountainous central and northern parts of the island a large portion of Ishigaki has been declared part of the Iriomote National Forest and is off limits to developement.
group, is not complete unless time is spent
exploring the coral reefs and sub-tropical
jungle.
There's no need to venture too far from the island to experience the best snorkeling in Japan. What was originally a natural land bridge connecting most of the islands in Yaeyama about 500,ooo years ago, is now a coral reef that extends from Ishigaki to Iriomote island. Its a short sail or kayak trip to snorkel points along the leeward side of the reef.
To prevent further damage to eco-sensitive areas on the mountainous central and northern parts of the island a large portion of Ishigaki has been declared part of the Iriomote National Forest and is off limits to developement.
