There are many beautiful sights on Ishigaki Island but only one has earned the coveted three-star rating in the Michelin guidebook. Visitors make the trek to the northwestern coast of Ishigaki to marvel at the turquoise-colored waters here, framed by Ishigaki's jungle-green mountains. While you can't swim in the clear waters, you can enjoy a glass-bottom boat tour to get a close-up look at the ocean's inhabitants. There is a small shrine on the hillside above the beach and a few food and souvenir stalls near the parking lot.
- 1 min read
Kabira Bay
Is this the most beautiful beach in Japan?

By Mandy Bartok
Community writer

Boats anchor in a cove of Ishigaki's Kabira Bay

The bay has earned the coveted three star rating in the Michelin guidebook

While the ocean here looks inviting, swimming is prohibited

You can, however, build sand castles on the beach or take a ride in a glass-bottom boat

There is a cement path (both steps and a ramp) that lead along the edge of the bay

A shrine at the top of the cliff
Join the discussion
Kim Bergström
3 years ago
An absolute dream of a destination!
Daniel Vesey
10 years ago
Looks like a very tropical place!
Olga
10 years ago
Looks like paradise!
3 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
Asakusa GYUUNA Yadoki: Premium Eel & Wagyu Beef in Asakusa
Tokyo -
2
Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 Japan Car Tour: Cars, Culture & The Open Road
Chiba -
3
Ghibli Museum: How To Get Tickets (2025 Guide)
Culture -
4
Explore Kujukuri, Chiba and Beyond
Chiba - Sponsored -
5
I’m Donut?: Japan’s Viral Donut Sensation
Culture -
6
Miyoko Schinner: Japan Vegan Tour 2026
Food -
7
Azumino, Japan’s Peaceful Highland Getaway
Nagano - Sponsored -
8
Tokyo Named As World's Top Breakup Vacation Spot
Tokyo -
9
Japan Pottery Tour: Hands-On Workshops & Artisan Encounters
Culture -
10
One Full Day in Kamogawa From Kamenoi Hotel Kamogawa
Chiba - Sponsored
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
Edogawa Fireworks Festival
Tokyo -
3
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
4
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
5
Yodogawa Fireworks Festival
Osaka -
6
Summer Comiket
Tokyo -
7
September Grand Sumo Tournament (Tokyo)
Tokyo -
8
Gion Matsuri
Kyoto -
9
Nara Tokae Lantern Festival
Nara -
10
Ghibli 3D Sculpture Exhibition
Tokyo