Excursion Enjoy ishigaki beef lunch with yaeyama dance tour at Ishigaki

Depart the pier for the approximately 20-minute drive to Banna Park (Emerald Sea Observation Point). From this viewpoint, you will admire (weather dependent) sweeping views of Ishigaki City and nearby Taketomi Island.

Next, re-board your coach for the short drive to lunch venue. Here you will have a chance to experience the famous a local Ishigaki Beef Lunch. Most of the cattle raised to produce the world renown wagyu beef, such as Kobe and Matsuzaka, have been brought in from Ishigaki so Ishigaki beef is the roots of the Wagyu beef in Japan. Ishigaki beef is a brand Japanese black cow produced in Yaeyama district which includes Ishigaki city. It becomes very famous thought out Japan because it was served during the Okinawa summit in 2000. Some of the producers only sell this beef in Ishigaki Island to keep this local production for local consumption. But people say it is worth visiting Ishigaki to eat Ishigaki beef. It is a beautiful beef with pink meat and white fat. As soon as meat reaches the tongue, sweet fat melt on your tough. During the lunch you will also enjoy "Yaeyama Dance". It danced as a dedication dance from thanksgiving and prayers thought as one of agricultural rituals.

Your final destination is Minsa Textile Gallery. The Yaeyama Minsa fabric is a traditional craft in Ishigaki, expressing the wish of women "love me forever". About 400 years ago, people started to grow cotton in Okinawa, this is the time when ladies started to weave the Yaeyama Minsa. Ladies would give Minsa products to men to reply to their proposal.

After the visit to the textile gallery commence the approximately 20-minute drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Ishigaki City, Ishigaki Beef Lunch, Yaeyama Dance, Banna Park, Taketomi Island, Minsa Textile Gallery

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount (approximately 0.5km or 0.3miles) of walking, with around 50 steps at the various sites. This tour is not suitable for guests with guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. The tour sequence may vary. Although credit cards are mainly accepted, Japanese yen is required for any purchases: guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior to the cruise. Due to the popularity of sights visited, some crowding may be anticipated. This excursion will operate in all weather conditions. Local Tour Guides tend to have a strong accent therefore we urge flexibility.