Ishigaki driving guide: Kabira Bay, Cape Oganzaki and Hirakubozaki routes and map

Ishigaki Island is part of Ishigaki City in Okinawa Prefecture. The town lies in the south, Kabira Bay and Cape Oganzaki are in the west, and Tamatorizaki Observatory and Hirakubozaki Lighthouse are in the north. For a first day, explore the western parks and coast, then leave the north for another day so you have time to walk at each stop. This guide covers two routes, 10 places to visit, parking charges and access from the airport.

Map of the Ishigaki area

The longer line runs from Banna Park through Ishigaki Island Limestone Cave, Cape Oganzaki and Kabira Bay to Yonehara Yaeyama Palm Grove. The shorter line connects Tamatorizaki Observatory with Hirakubozaki Lighthouse. Green numbers mark scenic and nature stops; tap a number to see its name.

Recommended drives

A first day from Banna Park to Kabira Bay and Yonehara

Start at Banna Park's north entrance and visitor center (1), then drive to Ishigaki Island Limestone Cave (2). Continue via Tojinbaka Memorial (3) to Cape Oganzaki (4), Kabira Park and Bay (5), and Sukuji Beach (6), finishing at Yonehara Yaeyama Palm Grove (7).

The route is about 51.9km, with approximately 87 minutes of driving. Distances and times are calculated from map data and do not include traffic. Allow extra time for the park and cave, meals, coastal walks and the drive back to your accommodation.

Section figures are rounded, so they do not add up exactly to the total. Map markers show the attractions, which may be some distance from car park entrances. Yonehara's walking path has many steps and can be slippery, so wear shoes suited to walking. Visit in daylight, as the path has no lighting.

Northern coastal views from Tamatorizaki to Hirakubozaki

Tamatorizaki Observatory (9) to Hirakubozaki Lighthouse (10) is about 16.2km and 19 minutes of driving. Tamatorizaki overlooks the east coast and Hirakubo Peninsula; Hirakubozaki takes you to the island's northernmost point. This distance excludes the journeys to and from the airport or town.

Bring a cashless payment method for Kabira Bay

Kabira Park's car parks accept electronic payments only; cash is not accepted. Parking costs ¥200 for the first hour and ¥100 for each additional hour. Bring a supported credit card, electronic money card or QR-code payment method. Strong currents make swimming in the bay dangerous, so plan this as a stop to enjoy the view from the park.

Roads you can drive

Places to stop

Views and nature

Numbers match the map.

Roadside stations

Ishigaki has no registered michi-no-eki roadside stations. Plan breaks at the parks or viewpoints you intend to visit.

Best seasons and crowds

Sunset in central Ishigaki is at 18:05 on 31 October 2026. Finish walks before dark, and check the sunset time for your travel date if you are visiting on another day.

Busy places and times

Kabira Park's car parks can fill up. You can check the city's live camera before setting out. If a car park is full, change the order of your stops instead of waiting or parking on the road, where stopped vehicles obstruct tour buses and local traffic.

Closures and restrictions as of 27 October

Stay indoors when a typhoon approaches or a storm warning is in effect, and check prefectural and city road and emergency updates. Sukuji Beach closes during typhoon warnings and disasters. Its 2026 swimming season ends on 30 September, so 27 October falls outside the swimming season.

Getting there and fuel

ENEOS Maezato BP service station is at 237-11 Maezato, Ishigaki City. It opens 8:00–20:00 Monday–Saturday and 8:00–19:00 on Sundays and public holidays. Before heading north, check your fuel level and the opening hours of the station you plan to use on your return.

If you don't have a car

Before booking, check the driving documents you need in Japan and the airport car rental pickup guide.

Frequently asked questions

Where should I drive on my first visit to Ishigaki?

Start at Banna Park and visit the limestone cave, Tojinbaka Memorial, Cape Oganzaki, Kabira Bay and Sukuji Beach on the way to Yonehara. The route is about 51.9km and 87 minutes of driving, excluding walks and the return journey. Visiting Tamatorizaki and Hirakubozaki on another day leaves more time at each stop.

Can I pay cash for parking at Kabira Bay?

Kabira Park's car parks accept electronic payments only. The charge is ¥200 for the first hour and ¥100 per hour thereafter. Bring a supported card, electronic money card or QR-code payment method.

Can I swim at Sukuji Beach in autumn?

The 2026 swimming season runs from 14 March to 30 September. As of 27 October it has ended, so do not visit expecting to swim.

How long does it take to reach Hirakubozaki?

From Tamatorizaki Observatory to Hirakubozaki Lighthouse, allow about 19 minutes for the 16.2km drive. From Painushima Ishigaki Airport, the drive to Hirakubozaki is approximately 40 minutes. Allow time to walk to the viewpoints and for the return journey.

Can I refuel during the drive?

Maezato BP is one option. It opens 8:00–20:00 Monday–Saturday and 8:00–19:00 on Sundays and public holidays.

Nearby areas and guides

• Okinawa driving and travel guide