Map
Kabira Bay is an inlet on the northwest coast of Ishigaki Island, a scenic spot selected among the 100 Landscapes of Japan, with emerald green sea, white sand and scattered small islands. A wide variety of corals form colonies in the bay, and it was designated a Place of Scenic Beauty in 1997 and a Class 1 Special Zone of Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park in 2007.
Nature Info
- Type
- Bay and coral reef
- Elevation
- Sea level 0m (coast and bay)
- Access
- About 30 minutes by car from the Ishigaki Port Ritou Terminal on Ishigaki Island. By local bus, get off at the "Kabira Resort Mae" bus stop and it is right there.
History & Origins
Kabira Bay was once known as the birthplace of black pearl cultivation, where Ryukyu Pearl succeeded in Japan's first black pearl cultivation. It has long been used as a rich fishing ground by local people, and together with the surrounding villages it has nurtured a distinct Ryukyu culture.
Highlights
In the bay, visitors can enjoy underwater sightseeing by glass-bottom boat, observing coral reefs and tropical fish up close through the glass-bottomed hull. However, swimming is prohibited because of the strong currents, so the main ways to enjoy the bay are viewing from the shore and boat rides. The color of the sea changes from moment to moment with the tides.
Visitor Guide
Glass-bottom boats are operated by several companies, and the ride takes about 30 minutes. Panoramic photos from the hilltop viewpoint overlooking the bay are also recommended. In the crowded summer season, early morning is relatively quiet. Kabira Park and a parking lot are available nearby.
Best Season
March to June and October to December, when the sea is highly transparent, are especially recommended. Summer can overlap with typhoon season, so check the weather forecast.
Related Spots
All →Shikoku / Kochi
Ryugado Cave
Ryugado is one of Japan's Three Great Limestone Caves, in Kami, Kochi Prefecture…
Hokuriku / Fukui
Tojinbo
Tojinbo is a sea cliff facing the Sea of Japan in Ajima, Mikuni-cho, Sakai, Fuku…
Tohoku / Miyagi
Naruko Gorge
Naruko Gorge is a gorge formed by the Otani River in the Naruko Onsen area of Os…
Koshinetsu / Nagano
Jigokudani Monkey Park
Jigokudani Monkey Park, in Yamanouchi, Shimotakai District, Nagano Prefecture, i…