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Varied Landscapes from Lush Green Mountains to Coral Reefs

The observatory is located at the isthmus of Hirakubo Peninsula, at the eastern foot of Mount Kimbudake, from which you can enjoy a panoramic view of Cape Nobaruzaki and Cape Hirakubozaki, from the south to the northernmost point of Ishigaki Island. Hibiscus trees are planted in the vicinity, and the promenade leading to the observatory is only a 10-minute walk.
It has been long known as a scenic spot where you can fully enjoy the varied landscapes of Hirakubo Peninsula’s layers of lush green hills and the sparkling coral reefs of the east coast.

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The Northern Tip of Ishigaki Island, where Cows graze peacefully with the Blue Sea in the background

This is a cape at the northern tip of Ishigaki Island. The gently curved plateau serves as a grazing ground for cattle. The white Hirakubo Lighthouse stands against the blue sea at the cape’s tip. On a clear day, you can see as far as Tarama Island. The area around Ufujishi-panari, an inhabited shore reef island located north of the cape, is known as a habitat for the erabu sea snakes.

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The One Plant Community which Stands Out in the Forest’s Canopy

Yaeyama Palm is a monospecific palm genus that grows only on the islands of Ishigaki Island and Iriomote Island. The largest of these trees can grow to be about 30cm thick and 25m tall. It is thought that the palm once grew wild in various parts of Yaeyama, but today, the largest native growth area on Ishigaki Island is the community spreading out around the foot of Mt. Fukai Omotodake beyond the Yonehara Village, a post-war settlement. In addition to the Yaeyama Palm, other plants including Ficus variegata, Turpinia ternata, Diospyros maritima, and Ficus virgata spread within the area creating a unique subtropical landscape.
It is designated as a national natural monument.

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Ishigaki Island’s Most Scenic Spot, known for its Black Pearl Cultivation

An inlet on the northwest coast where nine islets are scattered around the mouth of the bay. The scenery created by the clear blue sea, white sandy beach, and green islets is said to be the most beautiful in Ishigaki Island. Swimming is prohibited in the bay due to the fast tidal current, but you can enjoy the underwater scenery from glass boats. Black pearls have been cultivated in the bay since the Taisho era.

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The White Lighthouse, the Blue Sea, the Cliffs and Strangely Shaped Rocks create a Beautiful Landscape

The cape is located at the northern end of Yarabu Peninsula which extends from the west coast of Ishigaki Island. A white lighthouse sits at the top of a sheer cliff along the coastline. Beach morning glory flowers grow naturally in the area around the cape, and the white flowers of Easter lilies bloom in spring. The offshore area of Cape Oganzaki is a popular diving spot.