Island stories

Tag: <span>whattodoiriomote</span>

Hounensai harvest festival Ishigaki

Don’t miss the traditional Hounensai harvest festival if you’re visiting Ishigaki, Iriomote, or one of the other Yaeyama Islands. The festival is held to thank the gods for the year’s harvest and to pray for abundance in the coming season. Each village organizes its own festivities. Many events are open to visitors, while some ceremonies […]

Cycling in Ishigaki, Iriomote and Taketomi

Cycling is one of the best ways to explore the Yaeyama Islands. Each island has its own character: Ishigaki is mountainous, Iriomote feels remote and wild, while Taketomi, Kuroshima and Kohama are compact enough for a relaxed ride. Choose your bike and route carefully, because distances, heat and hills can be more demanding than expected. […]